John Burroughs, Jr., kept a diary largely between the ages of 13 and 23, from 1840 to 1850, as well as two notebooks containing diary entries, notes, and scrapbook-style content into the mid-1860s. His 1840-1850 diary is filled with details about his hobbies, interests, and other aspects of his life in and around Philadelphia. Burroughs wrote frequently about rabbits, which he kept as pets; education at Yale; and politics.
John Burroughs wrote frequently about the rabbits he kept as pets, holding a great deal of affection for them. Other topics include his education (Yale attendance and discussion about dropping out), politics (particularly the 1840 U.S. Presidential election), and everyday life and social activities.
A few illustrations are peppered throughout the volumes, including a pencil portrait of Mrs. Margaret Burroughs and a log cabin that accompanies entries about the 1840 election. Burroughs appears to have supported Harrison and Tyler, and he wrote about Harrison's funeral. Burroughs pasted in items such as rewards of merit and funeral invitations. He also referenced the Scots Thistle Society.
Two of the three volumes have J. Burroughs' or John Henry Burroughs' nameplates in them; one plate is printed and the other calligraphic. At least one of the volumes was presented to him by his father.
John Burroughs, Jr., was born in 1827. He married Elizabeth F. and the couple had at least three children, including John Henry, Mary S., and Laura M. Burroughs. According to U.S. Census records, they had real estate valued at $20,000 and personal estate at $20,000. and died April 25, 1871, and is buried in Laurel Hill Cemetery.
