It is unknown where Benjamin Weld (fl. 1770-1772) resided, but it is possible that this Benjamin Weld is the proprietor of Weld, Maine, purchased in 1816. If this is the correct Benjamin Weld then he is related to a long and well established line of Welds from Boston and Ireland.
This collection is comprised of a spelling book, created by Benjamin Weld and dated 1770, holding about ten pages of spelling words written in sounded-out syllables. This book also contains a list of men’s and women’s names to assist smaller children in learning to write. The last few pages of the book are prayers for use in school and by children, to be said morning and evening. On the cover of this book is written, “Benjamin Weld his Spelling Book, April 18 Anno Domini 1770, for Words.” The back cover appears as if it has been used as scrap paper to solve math equations.
Also included is one page of what appears to be an assignment. The title of the assignment is “an epitaph found in a country church yard.” The bottom of this letter is signed and dated by Benjamin Weld, June 29, 1772.
This collection is owned by the Redwood Library and Athenaeum. Permission to publish materials must be obtained in writing from the Special Collections Librarian of the Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
Access is open to members and researchers at the Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
Benjamin Weld spelling book, RLC.Ms.577, Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
This collection is arranged in chronological order.
Acquisition information is unknown.
Processed by Chelsea Ordner in 2014 according to current archival standards.