Benjamin H. Cook commonplace book

Collection — Box: Multi-Collection Box

Identifier: 089-02

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

A commonplace book is a compendium of knowledge, often copied from other sources, collected by an individual based upon their own particular interests. Benjamin H. Cook’s commonplace book includes poems, hymns, Scripture, sermon topics, and a recipe. Regular themes include maritime life, mourning, pride and frugality. Additionally included are transcriptions of gravestone inscriptions, listings of the family members of the Augustus Durfee family of Wakefield, R.I. and the George W. Esten family of Laurel Ridge, Burrillville, R.I. Also included is a “List of drafted men in Burrillville, July 1863”.

Dates

1854 - 1866

Creator

Cook, Benjamin Handy, 1817-1896 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Materials are open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

PPL believes this collection is in the public domain. Users of this item are responsible for determining copyright restrictions.

Biographical / Historical

This volume was likely created by Benjamin Handy Cook (1817-1896) from Burrillville, Rhode Island. Cook's first wife was Sylvia Esten (d.1847). His second wife was Angelina Esten, Sylvia's sister.

Cook was a farmer, but also served in various town roles including as a member of Burrillville town council and school committee and teacher in the district school.