Benjamin Banneker astronomical journal
Description
The astronomical journal of mathematician and astronomer Benjamin Banneker (1731-1806), one of the first African Americans to be recognized for his scientific achievements. He was also a successful farmer, surveyor, and almanac author. Born in Baltimore County, Maryland, Banneker was largely self-taught. The journal contains a wide variety of content about Banneker's everyday life, such as interactions with neighbors and friends, encounters with armed intruders on his property, and details of his dreams and nightmares. Other notable pages include descriptions of a 1749 brood of 17-year cicada, a copy of his correspondence with President Thomas Jefferson, graphic projections for solar and lunar eclipses, and practical descriptions of how he obtained his data about the planets, the movement of stars, and the different quarters of the moon.
To view a digital version of the complete astronomical journal, click "View: PDF of item" underneath the digital image.
Creator
Date
1790-1802