Selected Special Collections

John Davis Batchelder Collection

Books manuscripts, and other materials.

During years of foreign study and travel, John Davis Batchelder, (1872-1958) collected books, manuscripts, bindings, prints, maps, and coins which he felt illustrated the history of Western culture. His collection, given to the Library in 1936, is housed for the most part in the Rare Book and Specials Collections Division. The 1,499 volumes include children's books, early America publications, incunabula, and such significant literary works as the 1599 quarto edition of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and the first folio edition of his plays (1623). Many book and non-book items were acquired because of their connection with famous people.

Supporting Resources

• PDF Bibliography: The Library of Congress Exhibit of Books, Manuscripts, Bindings, Illustrations and Broadsides Selected from the Collection of John Davis Batchedler, Esquire for a detailed listing of some of the more notable items in this collection.
• LibGuide: John Davis Batchelder Collection at the LIbrary of Congress
• Digitized Materials From the John Davis Batchelder Collection