Catalog of Manuscript Collections

Creator: Daniel Read (1757-1836) Extent: 1 ft., 10.5 in. (45 items, including 30 vols.) Description: To supplement his income as a musician, Read maintained a typical general store in New Haven where he also sold his tunebooks. In 1785 Read published The American Singing Book, followed by The Columbian Harmonist No. 1 in 1793, and later by No. 2 and No. 3. All of these had several editions and printings. Together with Simeon Jocelyn he compiled and edited The New Haven Collection of Sacred Music in 1818. The collection has Read's letterbooks, journal (1796-1812), manuscript music books, hymn lists, and books used by him, including manuscript music books by A.E. Lines and Lucretia (Champion) Bacon. Read's correspondence refers to his music as well as to social customs, politics, local history, and public health. Partially microfilmed. Research Topics: History of music in the U.S. and New Haven; late 18th and early 19th century social customs, politics, public health, and local history in New Haven