Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

This collection consists of a manuscript schoolbook that belonged to Abraham P. Sherril in the mid-1810s and 4 daybooks that Sherril kept between 1837 and 1850. The schoolbook contains rules and example problems in subjects such as mathematics, business finance, and surveying, as well as examples of a daybook and double-entry ledger. The daybooks concern sales of foodstuffs, cloth, and other items in Pike, New York, from the 1830s-1850s.

This collection consists of a manuscript schoolbook and 4 daybooks. The Schoolbook (145 pages) contains 118 pages of notes and example problems concerning mathematics, business finance, and surveying, dated at East Hampton, New York, from March 1815-March 1818. Many of the geometrical and surveying problems are illustrated, and financial problems pertain to subjects such as European currencies and calculation of interest. The schoolbook also includes a copied poem. The final 27 pages provide examples of a daybook (January 1, 1819-January 31, 1819, 11 pages) and double-entry ledger (January 1, 1819-May 29, 1819, 16 pages). The same accounts are represented in each of these sections, and most pertain to sales of foodstuffs and fabrics. The 4 Daybooks (June 22, 1837-May 29, 1850, 765 pages) record Sherril's accounts with customers in Pike, New York. He sold foodstuffs such as butter, spices, and tea; household goods such as brooms and nails; clothing and fabrics such as calico; and other items, such as tobacco and soap.

This volume contains an introduction to land surveying and its underlying mathematical principles. Included are practical problems, illustrated examples, and reference tables.

This volume (174 pages) contains an introduction to land surveying and its underlying mathematical principles. Included are practical problems, illustrated examples, and reference tables.

The book, entitled "Land Surveying," opens with an introduction to geometry and trigonometry then focuses on practical surveying applications (around p. 49). Definitions, theorems, and problems are illustrated with diagrams and example problems. The remainder of the volume (pp. 142-174) pertains to surveying measurements, methodology, and tools. The author explained different measurements, such as Scottish units, English units, and the "chain," and applied mathematical principles to surveyors' practices. Many problems include ink-and-watercolor pictures of irregularly shaped lakes or fields, and several concern locations referred to as "Broom Park," "Mire Park," "Farm Park," and "Hill Side Farm." Additional subjects of study are land division and measuring levelness. The volume also contains tables of measurements. Decorative geometric drawings, done in ink with the occasional addition of watercolors, are interspersed throughout the book.

This cypher book, by Theophilus Norris of Epping, New Hampshire, contains mathematical rules, examples, and exercises. Entries also relate to practical uses, including surveying, weights and measures, and compound interest. Several handwriting exercises are also present, as well as brief genealogical notes relating to Elizabeth Brier and Elizabeth Norris.

The William Yardley Mathematics and Surveying Exercise Book contains solved geometric, trigonometric, and surveying exercises, including practical problems and illustrated examples that feature drawings of buildings, animals, and landscape elements.

The William Yardley Mathematics and Surveying Exercise Book contains solved geometric, trigonometric, and surveying exercises, including practical problems and illustrated examples that feature drawings of buildings, animals, and landscape elements. Calligraphic lettering appears throughout.

One letter written by Harry [Crockett?] to his mother, Mrs. L. F. Crockett, from Portland, Maine, on October 8, 1903, is laid into the volume. Written on John W. Perkins Company, Wholesale Druggists, illustrated stationery, the letter comments on family matters, business, and deaths of acquaintances, including one gentleman who was killed by an electric car.