Capen, Nahum papers, 1783-1885 (inclusive), 1826-1885 (bulk). B MS c23

Capen, Nahum papers, 1783-1885 (inclusive), 1826-1885 (bulk). B MS c23

Capen, born in Canton, Mass., began to study medicine at age 18; however, ill health prevented completion of his apprenticeship and in 1825 he entered into partnership in the publishing firm of Marsh, Capen, and Lyon. He wrote papers, articles, and books on history and politics, and was an advocate of free trade, federal copyright laws, popular education, and various social welfare reforms. He was postmaster of Boston from 1857 to 1861, and is credited with working out the free delivery system. He also organized the Boston Phrenologicl Society, served as its secretary, and wrote an account of its early activities.
Includes mostly letters adressed to Capen and to the firm of Marsh, Capen, and Lyon requesting information on or discussing phrenology; concerning establishment and meetings of phrenological societies in Boston and other places; and other professional matters. Also includes social invitations, letters of transmittal and recommendation, documents from phrenological societies, and Capen's collection of autograph letters.