Courtesy Statements

In the 18th and 19th Centuries, Courtesy and Manner books became standard in America. These five statements stood out to me after reading through the chapters of Refinement in America. 

1. "Gentility required handwriting, speech, and posture all be properly composed." (Bushman pg. 63) After reading this statement I really wanted to improve my handwriting. I don't think mine is bad right now, but I think that it could use some work. For about 2 days after reading about handwriting, I decided to start writing in cursive again. Well, that didn't last long and I think it looked a lot worse than my print. I guess I'm not very genteel in that area.
2. "To achieve artistic control of one's physical being, a primary rule was to remain erect, to keep the line from the base of the spine through the neck to the back of the head as straight as possible." (pg. 64) This phrase really stood out to me. I know that I have poor posture and my mom has always told me to straighten up. So, I have been trying to do better, but it is such a habit that I have to be consciously thinking about it.
3. "Dress signaled rank and character as surely as posture did [...] the feel, the color, the cut, and the expense of clothing was clear enough to have been earlier codified in law." (pg. 70) I thought about clothes today and how colors have nothing to do with rank. I may just be in a class or in a culture (BYU-Idaho) that doesn't care about clothes. I do know that brands have a lot more to do with rank and status. I think that brands may be the equivalent of the colors, feel, and the cut of clothing.
4. "Genteel aesthetic principles thus took over the process of dining in its entirety, and refined and exalted it." (pg. 76) Another lost art: eating with manners. I know that manners still exist, but for the most part, eating is just a way to get food into the stomach. It is definitely not looked upon as something grand or artistic. 
5. "Conduct  becomes so highly structured that life approaches art: the courtier is himself a work of art, his appearance a portrait, his experience a narrative." (pg.35) To be a work of art, a beautiful masterpiece, was the goal and objective of a genteel life. I think that this has some truth to it, but not in the outward appearance. We are on this earth to become the best people we can. We are here to become refined in our thoughts, deeds, and actions. They just misunderstood the part that had to be refined. I am grateful for the gospel!

Monticello (See image below blog title)

The exterior of Thomas Jefferson's house is simply breathtaking! After recently studying Greek and Roman art and architecture, I can see the features that are very common in the various styles and periods. The columns are a characteristic of architecture that began way back in ancient Greece. Many of the pagan temples erected in Greece began using columns of the Doric order. It slowly transformed into the Ionic order and soon enough, the Corinthian order. Thomas Jefferson used columns on his front porch, a feature of Roman architecture. The dome on the top of his house can be seen in the House of Nero and the Pantheon. The Pantheon is the most well known dome building and it is amazing that they were able to accomplish the amazing building with all so little technology. Just today we watched a video on the Parthenon and the dome they were able to build back then. They said that today, we would not be able to build such a grand dome without using a computer and modern technology. It is easy to see that Thomas Jefferson knew very well the techniques and features of the Classical Greek and Roman era's. The features used show that Jefferson is a very refined and educated man. I am sure that was what he was going for!

Reading Wish List

Low	Medium	High
Tuesday’s Morie- Mitch Albom	Alliance- Gerald N. Lund	Jane Eyre- Charlotte Bronte
The Hunger Game- Suzanne Collins	Count of Monte Cristo- Jacques Peuchet	To The Rescue-Heidi S. Swinton
Picture of Dorian Gray- Oscar Wilde	Following Christ- Stephen Robsinson	Peacegiver- James L. Ferrell
The 5 Love Languages- Gary Chapman	Cupidity- Kimberly Gardner	David O. McKay, A Beloved Prophet- Mary Jane Wodger
How Do You Know When You’re Really in Love- Robert K. McIntosh	Jesus The Christ- James E. Talmage	Miracle of Forgiveness- Spencer W. Kimball
Anatomy of Peace- Arbinger Institute	Unbroken- Laura Hillenbrand	Seven Habits of Highly Effective People- Steven R. Covey

Old House

Home of John and Abigail Adams.I like this house a lot because it is simple yet beautiful in style. I really like the angle of this picture because it shows the gardens. Gardens were a big part of the house for the Adams and for pretty much all of the Founding Fathers. Gardens became an art form and a way of expressing the personality of the inhabitants of the house. In The Refinement of America, Bushman writes, "From 1750 on, a garden became requisite for every mansion."

Gardens became an extension of the parlor where people could walk and converse in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bushman goes on to say that beside entertaining guests, "the plantings functioned just as pictures, ceramics, or books did --that is, as subjects for conversation." Gardens were more of an artwork during this time period than just for providing a nice place to walk around. I don't think gardens are like this anymore even though I wish that gardens were focused on a little more. It would be nice if people worked a little harder to make their yards look nice. My parents front yard, for example, needs a lot of work. There are really old bushes surrounding the yard. I used to love these bushes but now they are becoming old fashioned and crowding the yard. Maybe some day we will get rid of them.

Ashlawn-Highland Kitchen

John and Abigail Adams seem to have the least fancy house of all the Founding Fathers. It is sort of refreshing because maybe they didn't focus so much on appearances. I can't make a very educated claim on this couple, I haven't read much about them and they're views on materialistic things. I do know that John and Abigail had an amazing relationship. They loved each other very much and always supported each other. I chose to talk about their kitchen. John Adams referred to it as the cellar and never the kitchen. From the way it was presented, he seemed to almost be ashamed of it. I am not sure that is the case though. I like this picture and I like their kitchen. It shows that a lot of hard work and many hours of cooking took place in this kitchen. The cellar was below ground so that things would be kept cool and it wouldn't get too hot during the cooking day. 

Out of all the homes and kitchens we toured, this one seemed more realistic. The other ones were so perfect that it is hard to imagine they cooked and baked and worked hard in there. It may be the restoration efforts and workers. I guess I would want the house to look very neat and fashionable. I guess this house has a natural and worked-in feel to it. 

The Grange

Alexander Hamilton commissioned this house to be built in 1800 and it was finished by 1802. At the time, the house was in an open area of Manhattan, New York City, with no houses around it. The house had a beautiful view of the Hudson river. Although this was Hamilton's house for only 2 years (he was shot in a duel with Aaron Burr), his family lived here for several decades after he passed away. As a Federalist Style home, it stood out as one of the biggest mansions in the area. Alexander called the making of this house his "sweet project" and was very involved in the planning and designing of it. This house has an interesting and very unique history though. In 1889, the Greenwich Village parish of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church bought the land that The Grange was on and wanted to move the house. Yes, they moved the entire house! Well everything except the barn and the old kitchen, those things got left behind. In 2008, the National Park Service decided that the house should be put back into an area that is more like the original context. I think it is so interesting that they moved the entire house! And now they have moved it to a park where it's in an open space. A lot of effort is being put into restoring the house. I think it will be wonderful to look at this house how it might have looked for the two short years while Hamilton lived in it. 

Thomas Jefferson's Bedroom

When the presenters of Thomas Jefferson's house showed his bedroom, I seriously fell in love with it! Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved beds, staircases, windows, etc. that seemed to be in a tucked away and somewhat enclosed space. Jefferson's bed was out of the way and was conveniently placed in the wall so that he could get out of bed on either side of it. One side was his study where he wrote may letters and manuscripts. The furniture and set up of his room really fit the overall function and purpose of it. Today, beds seem to be the main focal point in the bedroom. For the most part, we spend time sleeping while in our rooms so I can see why that is usually the case. Although I do find it fascinating and genius that his bed is out of the way and connects two of Jefferson's most important rooms. I also really like the lighting in this room. There are a lot of windows to allow the sunlight in. On his chair, which I think you can see through the whole above the bed, were two candlesticks, one on each handle. I thought this really showed his dedication to writing. He must have done it many times late at night when there was no more sunlight. This room in Jefferson's house (along with many others) show his creativity and his determination to living a purposeful life. 

John Adams Favorite Dessert

"Apple Pan Dowdy
Apples, like molasses, were a standby in New England Desserts. John Adams showed his preference for Apple Pan Dowdy by having it on Independence Day...
Flour
Salt
Shortening
Ice water
Melted butter
Sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Apples
Molasses
To make the pastry: Sift 1 1/2 cups flour with a dash of salt. Blend in 1/2 cup shortening until the mixture is mealy. Sprinkle a little ice water over the mixture, just enough to hold the dough together. Roll the pastry out, brush with 1/4 cup melted butter, and cut pastry in half. Place the halves on top of each other and cut again. Repeat until you have 16 separate but equal pieces of pastry piled on top of each other, then chill them a full hour. Roll the pastry once again, cut in half, and line the bottom of the baking dish with one half. Save the other half for the top. Keep both on ice while making the filling.To make the filling: Mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Peel and core 10 large apples. Cut then into thin slices. Mix the apples with sugar-spice mixture and place in pastry-lined dish. Combine 1/2 cup molasses (or maple syrup) with 3 tablespoons melted butter and 1/4 cup water. Pour this over the apples. Cover with the top pastry layer and seal. Place in a preheated hot (400 degree F.) oven for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to low (325 degrees F.). After reducing the heat, "dowdy" the dish by cutting the crust into the apples with a sharp knife. Return dish to oven and bake a full hour. Serve hot with vanilla ice cream or with heavy cream or whipped cream. Serves 6."
---Presidents' Cookbook (p. 51-52)

So, maybe I didn't need to put the whole recipe on here, but who knows! Maybe someone that reads this will want to make it. I chose this recipe for a few reasons. One, a couple of nights ago, Jill and I made Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings. We had a colonial feast and it was really great! Although our dumplings took a couple of hours to prepare and bake, they didn't turn out too bad at all. So when I saw this recipe, I appreciated all of the work that it took to make these things. The recipe seems very similar to our apple dumplings, although this is more of a casserole form. Or I guess it would be more of an apple crisp. I looked up the definition of "dowdy" because I didn't know what it meant. In the recipe it says "dowdy" the dish by cutting the crust into the apples. In the Oxford English Dictionary it defines dowdy as "(of a person, especially a woman, or their clothes) unfashionable and unstylish in appearance". I guess cutting the crust down into the apples would make it look unfashionable and messy. I think a lot of the Colonial dishes seem to make things more complicated than necessary. I think today we wouldn't cut the crust down into the apples, and most of our recipes do not call for us to lower the temperature after ten minutes like this one and our apple dumpling recipe.

Martha's Great Cake

Take 40 eggs and divide the whites from the yolks and beat them to a froth. Then work 4 pounds of butter to a cream and put the whites of eggs to it a Spoon full at a time till it is well work'd. Then put 4 pounds of sugar finely powdered to it in the same manner then put in the Yolks of eggs and 5 pounds of flour and 5 pounds of fruit. 2 hours will bake it. Add to it half an ounce of mace and nutmeg half a pint of wine and some fresh brandy.

This huge cake and original recipe is so amazing! 40 eggs is so many and I can't imagine how hard it would have been to stir such a mixture! I can't tell by this picture, but on the Mount Vernon website it said that the cake is now split into two 14 layer cakes, but in Martha's day it would have been one giant layer! I can't help but wonder if she only had this made when they had a lot of house guests or a party. Maybe she loved cake and had it made on any given day, then I wonder how long it would last before going bad. With all this wondering, I can't help but be grateful for the modern conveniences we have today: Fridge, hot water, spices, electric stove, mixing appliances, Broulims! For class today, Jill and I made Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings. It took us about 3 hours, with a modern recipe! I loved Jill's reaction after tasting one fresh out of the oven, "All that work and it tastes so bland!" After they sat in the fridge over night, they tasted really good today. Not too bland. I think as hard as the women of the Colonial Period to make food every day, it's sad they didn't have all the spices and flavors that we do. I love food and the amazing flavors, and I am glad that I live in a day where we can taste foods from all over the world.

Mount Vernon

I love Mount Vernon. I went there when I was 17, just after graduating high school. I wish I had those pictures still but I have no idea where they are. Wow I just found them on my iPod. I was more concerned with the water and plants rather than the actual house itself. I must admit, I remember wanting to leave and feeling a bit bored after a few hours. Now, I want to go back so bad! I would look at everything and take it all in. Now that I have studied much more about Martha and George Washington, I know I would appreciate the house a lot more. There are so many artifacts in the house and the museum that I had the opportunity to see. Yeah, I didn't even think twice. In a way that is how life goes. We learn more and come to appreciate our past experiences. I especially love Mount Vernon because it is a symbol of hard work and love. George first had the house renovated just before he and Martha were married. Throughout their life together, he continued to expand and beautify the house until it became what is now seen at Mount Vernon.

10.

Harpsichord 

George Washington ordered this harpsichord fro London for his step-granddaughter Nelly Custis. I really love that George took in his step-granddaughter and raised her like she were his own. Nelly was frequently called upon to entertain guests in the parlor. Nelly and Wash were the children of Jacky and Eleanor Calvert. Four of their seven children survived through infancy. Once Jacky died, the two youngest were sent to live with George and Martha because Eleanor was struggling to take care of them all on her own. Martha gladly received her grandchildren and George surely happily received them as well. Although George and Martha were never able to have children of their own, they were privileged to raise four children. When they were first married, the couple cared for Patsy and Jack, the two surviving children from Martha and Daniel Custis' marriage. The two children made it to young adulthood at best before passing away. Martha and George were well acquainted with grief. I can't imagine how hard that must have been, but at least they had each other. Martha survived longer than most everyone in her immediate family, including George. Life should be cherished and I am sure that Martha did her best to do so.

9.

John Adams Portrait, by Mather Brown 1788

John Adams is one of the Founding Fathers that I do not know a lot about. However, Mather Brown gives me a better idea through this portrait. The colors in this painting really stood out to me. I think it might be because of the deep red color of the drapery and chair. I also think his face is really fascinating, He almost seems to be perfectly capturing the idea of ambivalence. Humble yet so proud his accomplishments. I am not sure how he pulls off such contradicting emotions, but something of his character can be taken from him . Whether the personality portrayed isn't accurate, we still have a beautiful likeness of him. The photo used to hang in the parlor room where friends would gather. I like the signs of refinement in the portrait. The books, the paper, and how he is sitting all indicate his level of gentility and refinement. Mather Brown studied under Benjamin West. It so cool that most of the early American painter are related by teachers, mentors, and subjects. John Adams' bright hair and forehead seem to really draw the attention the light in his eyes. I like this portrait because there is a certain natural rawness to it. Mather Brown didn't try to cover up or fix any imperfections.

8. Thomas Jefferson's House

Monticello has always fascinated me and I definitely want to go there some day soon. This picture reveals a lot about Thomas Jefferson's life and interests. Just like the chapters we have been reading about houses and gardens, the way a house was decorated and furnished was very important. It becomes a work of art or literature. The possessions that people are most proud of are usually out in the open. Rooms for gathering and conversing were very popular and even essential at this time period. The fine portraits and sculptures in this room show how Jefferson  was a genteel man that appreciated fine art. The small fireplace denotes an upper-class status and close attention is paid to the warmth of the room. Draftiness was also a problem in these Colonial style houses so they often were cold, but a room like this was probably very comfortable. The crown molding, wood floors, and large windows are meticulously placed. It is very gorgeous and it became an icon for American homes and mansions. The last thing I really notice and enjoy about this room is the lighting. I am pretty sure that all the light in this room is natural and coming from the windows. Most homes at this time were still adjusting window sizes to allow adequate light to come through without allowing the cold air in. Light was also an indicator of wealth and gentility. 

7.

Martha Washington's Rings

The ring on top with the blue background is a mourning ring with a lock of the lost one's hair. Yes, it does have a lock of hair in the middle! As I was reading a book on Martha's life, it mentioned that when her two infant children died during her first marriage, she ordered rings similar to this one. This one is actually believed to have been from her nephew George Augustine Washington who died in 1793. These rings were a common way for the wealthy to mourn the loss of a dear one. Surely death was a frequent visitor during the Colonial times. I often think that life seemed a lot shorter and things were not taken for granted so easily. Life is so temporary and I have really been trying to live in each moment and enjoy what comes in to my life. It reminds me of President Hinckley's words, "Life is to be enjoyed not just endured." This advice seems so simple , but in practice it is not easily done.The second ring is one of Martha's that she probably wore during the time of George's presidency. It is a perfect example of the beautiful yet simple accessories Martha wore. The Mount Vernon eMuseum beautifully explains this ring as portraying, "the restrained elegance of the ring bespoke a republican virtue that distinguished her character from the perceived ostentation of European royalty." Martha did not try to dress and act like someone in the British courts of the time. She was classy and influential at the same time.

6.

Instead of talking about more clothing, I found this recently and I knew I couldn't pass up the opportunity to write about it and share it with you.

These are George Washington's dentures! I was so surprised to find out these still survive. I found them on the Mount Vernon website. These are so gross yet amazing at the same time! The description given said that contrary to popular belief the dentures were not made out of wood. The materials used were human teeth, cow teeth, elephant ivory, brass wires and steel springs. It sounds so uncomfortable. George supposedly took good care of his teeth but this didn't prevent them from falling out. By the time he was 57, and the first president of the US, he had no real teeth left. He used this full set of dentures and they often had to be sent in for repairs. His dentist lived in New York so I can imagine that they would take a while to be repaired and then sent back to George. Since George was very conscious of style and his appearance, I can't imagine how uncomfortable and frustrating it would have been to be continually losing teeth. It just reminds me of how grateful we are now. If I were to lose a tooth they could fill it in very easily and no one would even notice, it would feel natural. I am grateful that I would never have to wear dentures like that.

5.

George Washington's Suit

The Mount Vernon collections are all online. It is amazing to look through all of the memorabilia and possessions that remain from George and Martha's life. There are a few more suits that remain from George's life but this one was particularly interesting to me. The information listed under the Suit description reads, "This suit may be the one made of Hartford-manufactured wool worn by George Washington to his first inauguration as President of the United States on April 30, 1789."  It is amazing to think that this may be the very suit that President Washington wore when he became president. Imagine President Obama or President Bush wearing this brown suit! It would be quite ridiculous. The standards of dress have drastically changed throughout the centuries. The description on the website also mentioned that this type of suit "would be considered dressy daytime apparel." This suit was made in Connecticut and he proudly wore it as a symbol of hope for American manufacturers. I love looking at this and imagining George walking around, writing letters, and talking to Martha. It really brings George to life and put's the whole situation into context.

4.

Waistcoat of George Washington

First of all, it is so great that we have some of the original clothing that George and Martha wore. This vest is made of silk, linen, wood, and iron. According to the description given on Mount Vernon's website, George took a "keen interest" in fashion. This was considered the height of fashion in the 1780's and George was probably proudly wearing it. I like the finely embroidered flowers on the vest. I never would have thought that flowers would have been acceptable for a man to wear. If a man wore a silk vest with flowers on it, people would probably think he was really weird. But, this shows how different the culture was and how important dressing nicely was. It is fun to imagine one of the paintings of George Washington coming to life wearing this waistcoat, talking to Martha and getting ready to take a carriage ride. Seeing this waistcoat brings George to life a little more than a painting, This waistcoat is thought to be made in either France or England. The Washington's ordered a lot of things from overseas. Martha started to wear clothes that were made only in America in order to support the local business and her husband's political beliefs.

3.

Bust of George Washington by Jean-Antoine Houdon 

I have never studied sculpture very in-depth until this semester. One of my classes is Greek and Roman Art History and, along with architecture and painting, sculpture is one of the main things we have been studying. I am so impressed and in awe of sculpture. The contours in the marble, the way the sculptor can make it look so real. The beauty of the shadows and light on the figures face is absolutely amazing. Houdon was a French sculptor who sculpted many prominent figures throughout the 17-1800's. It brings George Washington more to life by making him 3-D. The pose that Houdon chose to place him in is not formal and impersonal. It seems that George has been thinking long and hard about something and that has weighed on his mind. Despite this, his head his high, looking forward and prepared to meet whatever may come his way. The hair, skin, and face look so real. Houdon had a unique way of carving the eyes to make them look as if they were filled with light. He could even distinguish between dark and light eyes based on how he carved them. This bust of George Washington is one of my favorite because, as far as what I've read, it does a good job of capturing his personality.

2.

George and Martha's Bed 

This bed was in Mount Vernon throughout George and Martha's marriage. This bed remains at Mount Vernon and visitors can go see it. I went to Mount Vernon about 3 1/2 years ago and I did not know very much about George Washington at the time. I wish I could go back now. Anyways, I chose this picture for a couple reasons. One, it shows the simple, yet elegant style of Martha. Since her first marriage when she was 19, she became wealthy, but she never let that wealth over power her frugality and practicality. Second, on December 14, 1799 George passed away in this very bed. Martha followed the custom of the day to stay in another room after her husband's death. The bed, as far as I know, hasn't been slept in since then. This beds show a very personal and close side of George and Martha's marriage. Since I have been reading a lot about Martha, I find it fascinating that she wanted their relationship to be kept private. Yet, there are things that have been left behind that show what a great love these two had for each other. George worked hard to prepare Mount Vernon for him and his new bride and this bed was a lovely edition to this house.

1.

The Family of George Washington by Edward Savage 


This portrait called. "The Family of George Washington" was painted by Edward Savage from 1789-1796. Many things in this portrait can give us a glimpse into the family life of George Washington. The black man standing in the back right is said to be one of the family’s slaves, William Lee. This portrait was replicated many times, and he was often left out, probably because of the racism and prejudices of the time period. I am reading many books and researching Martha’s life in-depth and there is a lot of evidence that they treated their servants very well. I like this painting because it shows how important education was. There is a map spread on the table and a globe close by. I can imagine George and Martha teaching their grandchildren not to be narrow-minded and ignorant. Martha’s headdress makes her the same height as Washington although he was 15 inches taller than her.  This supports the claim that Martha was definitely George’s equal in all ways. The two complemented each other and were very fond of each other. Edward Savage was not one of the most skilled or well-known painters of this time, but his portrayal of the Washington family has a certain raw and natural beauty to it. I like how the awkwardness of some of the body proportions is made up by the beauty of the fabric on Martha’s gown, and other intricate details.

Message from John Adams

To the Officers of the First Brigade of the Third Division of the Militia of Massacusetts 

October 11, 1798

Gentleman,

While our country remains untainted with the principles and manners which are now producing desolation in so many parts of the world; while she continues sincere, and incapable of insidious and impious policy, we shall have the strongest reason to rejoice in the local destination assigned us by Providence. But should the people of America once become capable of that deep simulation towards one another, and towards foreign nations, which assumes the language of justice and moderation while it is practising iniquity and extravagance, and displays I have received from Major-General Hull and Brigadier, General Walker your unanimous address from Lexington, animated with a martial spirit, and expressed with a military dignity becoming your character and the memorable plains on which it was adopted. in the most captivating manner the charming pictures of candor, frankness, and sincerity, while it is rioting in rapine and insolence, this country will be the most miserable habitation in the world; because we have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.


Significance
He begins by saying that it is by the will of Providence that they are sent to their next area. I imagine if someone of high military standing were to refer to God or Providence. I know that it would not be well received and that many people would probably be very angry by it. It is crazy how much things have changed from the original intent of the Founding Fathers. While none of the Founding Fathers believed that one God should be worshiped, they strongly believed that religion was crucial. Adams uses the word "simulation" to describe an awful behavior that must be avoided. I love his description here of what would happen if the people of America became fake in their actions and words. We must not act or feel one way while portraying another way to others. Honesty and integrity are the main principles he is trying to promote to the soldiers. He speaks strongly against the dishonesty and false behavior that can be shown to others and foreign countries. This is a beautiful speech he gives, and it shows that the Constitution and the American law system is based on the virtues of honesty and goodness. Romans 12: 17 states, "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men." Paul gives similar advice and counsel as he tells the Saints to be honest to all men. John Adams was not shy about telling others the correct way to act. He knew that sometimes correction was needed to uphold good values. I think more people should be like John Adams was. 

Letter from Thomas Jefferson to John Adams

 April 11, 1823.

Dear Sir, — The wishes expressed, in your last favor, that I may continue in life and health until I become a Calvinist, at least in his exclamation of `mon Dieu! jusque à quand'! would make me immortal. I can never join Calvin in addressing his god. He was indeed an Atheist, which I can never be; or rather his religion was Dæmonism. If ever man worshipped a false god, he did. The being described in his 5. points is not the God whom you and I acknowledge and adore, the Creator and benevolent governor of the world; but a dæmon of malignant spirit. It would be more pardonable to believe in no god at all, than to blaspheme him by the atrocious attributes of Calvin. Indeed I think that every Christian sect gives a great handle to Atheism by their general dogma that, without a revelation, there would not be sufficient proof of the being of a god. Now one sixth of mankind only are supposed to be Christians: the other five sixths then, who do not believe in the Jewish and Christian revelation, are without a knowledge of the existence of a god! This gives completely a gain de cause to the disciples of Ocellus, Timaeus, Spinosa, Diderot and D'Holbach. The argument which they rest on as triumphant and unanswerable is that, in every hypothesis of Cosmogony you must admit an eternal pre-existence of something; and according to the rule of sound philosophy, you are never to employ two principles to solve a difficulty when one will suffice. They say then that it is more simple to believe at once in the eternal pre-existence of the world, as it is now going on, and may for ever go on by the principle of reproduction which we see and witness, than to believe in the eternal pre-existence of an ulterior cause, or Creator of the world, a being whom we see not, and know not, of whose form substance and mode or place of existence, or of action no sense informs us, no power of the mind enables us to delineate or comprehend. On the contrary I hold (without appeal to revelation) that when we take a view of the Universe, in it's parts general or particular, it is impossible for the human mind not to perceive and feel a conviction of design, consummate skill, and indefinite power in every atom of it's composition. The movements of the heavenly bodies, so exactly held in their course by the balance of centrifugal and centripetal forces, the structure of our earth itself, with it's distribution of lands, waters and atmosphere, animal and vegetable bodies, examined in all their minutest particles, insects mere atoms of life, yet as perfectly organized as man or mammoth, the mineral substances, their generation and uses, it is impossible, I say, for the human mind not to believe that there is, in all this, design, cause and effect, up to an ultimate cause, a fabricator of all things from matter and motion, their preserver and regulator while permitted to exist in their present forms, and their regenerator into new and other forms. We see, too, evident proofs of the necessity of a superintending power to maintain the Universe in it's course and order. Stars, well known, have disappeared, new ones have come into view, comets, in their incalculable courses, may run foul of suns and planets and require renovation under other laws; certain races of animals are become extinct; and, were there no restoring power, all existences might extinguish successively, one by one, until all should be reduced to a shapeless chaos. So irresistible are these evidences of an intelligent and powerful Agent that, of the infinite numbers of men who have existed thro' all time, they have believed, in the proportion of a million at least to Unit, in the hypothesis of an eternal pre-existence of a creator, rather than in that of a self-existent Universe. Surely this unanimous sentiment renders this more probable than that of the few in the other hypothesis. Some early Christians indeed have believed in the coeternal pre-existence of both the Creator and the world, without changing their relation of cause and effect. That this was the opinion of St. Thomas, we are informed by Cardinal Toleto, in these words `Deus ab æterno fuit jam omnipotens, sicut cum produxit mundum. Ab aeterno potuit producere mundum. — Si sol ab aeterno esset, lumen ab aeterno esset; et si pes, similiter vestigium. At lumen et vestigium effectus sunt efficientis solis et pedis; potuit ergo cum causa aeterna effectus coaeterna esse. Cujus sententiae est S. Thomas Theologorum primus' Cardinal Toleta.
Of the nature of this being we know nothing. Jesus tells us that `God is a spirit.' 4. John 24. but without defining what a spirit is . Down to the 3d. century we know that it was still deemed material; but of a lighter subtler matter than our gross bodies. So says Origen. `Deus igitur, cui anima similis est, juxta Originem, reapte corporalis est; sed graviorum tantum ratione corporum incorporeus.' These are the words of Huet in his commentary on Origen. Origen himself says `appelatio  apud nostros scriptores est inusitata et incognita.' So also Tertullian `quis autem negabit Deum esse corpus, etsi deus spiritus? Spiritus etiam corporis sui generis, in sua effigie.' Tertullian. These two fathers were of the 3d. century. Calvin's character of this supreme being seems chiefly copied from that of the Jews. But the reformation of these blasphemous attributes, and substitution of those more worthy, pure and sublime, seems to have been the chief object of Jesus in his discourses to the Jews: and his doctrine of the Cosmogony of the world is very clearly laid down in the 3 first verses of the 1st. chapter of John, in these words:

Which truly translated means `in the beginning God existed, and reason (or mind) was with God, and that mind was God. This was in the beginning with God. All things were created by it, and without it was made not one thing which was made'. Yet this text, so plainly declaring the doctrine of Jesus that the world was created by the supreme, intelligent being, has been perverted by modern Christians to build up a second person of their tritheism by a mistranslation of the word . One of it's legitimate meanings indeed is `a word.' But, in that sense, it makes an unmeaning jargon: while the other meaning `reason', equally legitimate, explains rationally the eternal preexistence of God, and his creation of the world. Knowing how incomprehensible it was that `a word,' the mere action or articulation of the voice and organs of speech could create a world, they undertake to make of this articulation a second preexisting being, and ascribe to him, and not to God, the creation of the universe. The Atheist here plumes himself on the uselessness of such a God, and the simpler hypothesis of a self-existent universe. The truth is that the greatest enemies to the doctrines of Jesus are those calling themselves the expositors of them, who have perverted them for the structure of a system of fancy absolutely incomprehensible, and without any foundation in his genuine words. And the day will come when the mystical generation of Jesus, by the supreme being as his father in the womb of a virgin will be classed with the fable of the generation of Minerva in the brain of Jupiter. But we may hope that the dawn of reason and freedom of thought in these United States will do away with all this artificial scaffolding, and restore to us the primitive and genuine doctrines of this the most venerated reformer of human errors.
So much for your quotation of Calvin's `mon dieu! jusqu'a quand' in which, when addressed to the God of Jesus, and our God, I join you cordially, and await his time and will with more readiness than reluctance. May we meet there again, in Congress, with our ancient Colleagues, and receive with them the seal of approbation `Well done, good and faithful servants.'

Significance
I really like this letter because it is an in-depth look on Jefferson's thoughts. He dissects specific passages of scripture, even using the Hebrew translation. This shows how well-educated, inquisitive, and curious he was. I was surprised to find a letter that so completely shows his thoughts and reasoning. His arguments can be clearly seen and followed, which makes this letter really unique and valuable. I love the paragraph that I highlighted because he is saying how he can't understand how someone can look at the stars or think of the universe and not believe that there is order to it. There must be a God, he argues, if we ponder on all the stars, galaxies, mammals, man, and complexities that exist in the world. This is very similar to the argument that Alma uses in Alma 30:44. "The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator." Their arguments are so similar that it is almost unbelievable. The light of Christ was definitely an influence in Thomas Jefferson's life, as exhibited by the truth he spoke in this letter. I love seeing this personal and faithful side of Jefferson.

Letter from James Madison to William Bradford

Virginia, Orange County, April 1, 1774.

My Worthy Friend,—

I have another favor to acknowledge in the receipt of your kind letter of March the 4th. I did not intend to have written again to you before I obtained a nearer communication with you; but you have too much interest in my inclinations ever to be denied a request.

Mr. Brackenridge’s illness gives me great uneasiness; I think he would be a loss to America. His merit is rated so high by me that I confess, if he were gone, I could almost say with the poet, that his country could furnish such a pomp for death no more. But I solace myself from Finley’s ludicrous descriptions as you do.

Our Assembly is to meet the first of May, when it is expected something will be done in behalf of the dissenters. Petitions, I hear, are already forming among the persecuted Baptists, and I fancy it is in the thoughts of the Presbyterians also, to intercede for greater liberty in matters of religion. For my own part, I cannot help being very doubtful of their succeeding in the attempt. The affair was on the carpet during the last session; but such incredible and extravagant stories were told in the House of the monstrous effects of the enthusiasm prevalent among the sectaries, and so greedily swallowed by their enemies, that I believe they lost footing by it. And the bad name they still have with those who pretend too much contempt to examine into their principles and conduct, and are too much devoted to the ecclesiastical establishment to hear of the toleration of dissentients, I am apprehensive, will be again made a pretext for rejecting their request.

The sentiments of our people of fortune and fashion on this subject are vastly different from what you have been used to. That liberal, catholic, and equitable way of thinking, as to the rights of conscience, which is one of the characteristics of a free people, and so strongly marks the people of your province, is but little known among the zealous adherents to our hierarchy. We have, it is true, some persons in the Legislature of generous principles both in Religion and Politics; but number, not merit, you know, is necessary to carry points there. Besides, the clergy are a numerous and powerful body, have great influence at home by reason of their connection with and dependence on the Bishops and Crown, and will naturally employ all their art and interest to depress their rising adversaries; for such they must consider dissenters who rob them of the good will of the people, and may, in time, endanger their livings and security.

You are happy in dwelling in a land where those inestimable privileges are fully enjoyed; and the public has long felt the good effects of this religious as well as civil liberty. Foreigners have been encouraged to settle among you. Industry and virtue have been promoted by mutual emulation and mutual inspection; commerce and the arts have flourished; and I cannot help attributing those continual exertions of genius which appear among you to the inspiration of liberty, and that love of fame and knowledge which always accompany it. Religious bondage shackles and debilitates the mind, and unfits it for every noble enterprise, every expanded prospect. How far this is the case with Virginia will more clearly appear when the ensuing trial is made.

I am making all haste in preparing for my journey. It appears as if it would be the first of May before I can start, which I can more patiently bear, because I may possibly get no company before that time; and it will answer so exactly with the meeting of the synod. George Luckey talks of joining me if I can wait till then. I am resolutely determined to come if it is in my power. If anything hinders me, it will be most likely the indisposition of my mother, who is in a very low state of health; and if she should grow worse, I am afraid she will be more unwilling to part with my brother, as she will be less able to bear the separation. If it should unfortunately happen that I should be forced off or give out coming, Luckey on his return to Virginia will bring me whatever publications you think worth sending, and among others [Caspapini’s?] letters.

But whether I come or not, be assured I retain the most ardent affection and esteem for you, and the most cordial gratitude for your many generous kindnesses. It gives me real pleasure when I write to you that I can talk in this language without the least affectation, and without the suspicion of it, and that if I should omit expressing my love for you, your friendship can supply the omission; or if I make use of the most extravagant expressions of it, your corresponding affection can believe them to be sincere. This is a satisfaction and delight unknown to all who correspond for business and conveniency, but richly enjoyed by all who make pleasure and improvement the business of their communications.

Farewell,

J. M.

P. S. You need no longer direct to the care of Mr. Maury 
Significance

I can't say that I completely understand what James Madison is trying to say here, but I know that he makes some very good points. A lot of people now believe that James Madison was an atheist. This is very far from being true. While he didn't believe in the Christian God, he did believe in a Creator and Master of the Universe. Despite the fact that he wasn't very religious, he maintained high moral values. He says here that "religious bondage shackles and debilitates the mind and unfits it for every noble enterprise". This can be interpreted in many different ways. I believe he is referring to the clergy and how they have such a strong power hold in some areas. A lot of people would believe anything that the clergy said, and it would often times be contrary to logical sense. The Unitarian Creed is one example of how confusing some of the doctrine can be. James Madison was not someone who wanted to be deceived and I am sure he was very careful to only believe things that were logical and made sense. 

Letter from John Adams to F.A. Vanderkemp

Philadelphia, 13 July, 1815.

I have read D’Argens’ Ocellus, Timæus, and Julian. Instead of being sincere, he appears to me to be a consummate hypocrite, in the beginning, the middle, and the end; the most frank, candid, impudent, and sincere liar I ever read. It is plain that he believed neither Old Testament nor New, neither Moses nor Jesus. He labors to destroy the credibility of the whole Bible, and all the evidence of a future state, and all this for the sake of establishing the infallibility of the Pope and the church, the necessity of forbidding the Bible to the people, and placing all religion in grace, and its offspring, faith. Among all the disciples of Loyola, I never read a more perfect Jesuit. He is a complete exemplification of Condorcet’s “precious confessions,” as you called them. You speak of his “superficial reflections.” I have not found them. They are all deep, and aiming at the same end, a complete system of Antichristianity. No epic poem, no dramatic romance, not even Don Quixote himself, ever amused me more. Call him not superficial; his Greek and his Latin are remarkably correct, his reading is immense, his system pursued with undeviating uniformity.

I thank you for your letters to Mr. Everett, who, I believe, will not disgrace you or me. Frederic’s works are in my library over the way. But I have lost my George, who alone could look them up, and I am too indolent to go in search of them. Indeed, I have no great veneration for the hero,—not more than for Napoleon. He was more “superficial” than D’Argens.

You ask, “What! have you more grandchildren about you?” Yes, I have four pretty little creatures, who, though they disarrange my writing-table, give me much of my enjoyment. Why, you seem to know nothing about me. I have grandchildren and great grandchildren, multiplying like the seed of Abraham. You have no idea of the prolific quality of the New England Adamses. Why, we have contributed more to the population of North America, and cut down more trees, than any other race; and I hope will furnish hereafter, if they should be wanted, more soldiers and sailors for the defence of their country.

If, as our friend De Gyselaer says, “it were lawful to envy,” I should envy Mrs. Vanderkemp, her children and grandchildren, their delicious meeting. It must be as delightful as any thing we find in this pleasant world, as I call it. I cannot call it “a vale of tears.” This is false philosophy and false Christianity. If it is at any time a vale of tears, we make it such.

My friend, what opportunities have I had to do good things, and how few have I done! I am ashamed, I grieve, I am mortified and humiliated, at the recollection of what I have been and where I have been. Yet, I have done nothing to reproach myself with. I have done all in my power to do, and have been overwhelmed by a dispensation, uncontrollable by any talents or virtues I possessed.

My friend, again! the question before mankind is,—how shall I state it? It is, whether authority is from nature and reason, or from miraculous revelation; from the revelation from God, by the human understanding, or from the revelation to Moses and to Constantine, and the Council of Nice. Whether it resides in men or in offices. Whether offices, spiritual and temporal, are instituted by men, or whether they are self-created and instituted themselves. Whether they were or were not brought down from Heaven in a phial of holy oil, sent by the Holy Ghost, by an angel incarnated in a dove, to anoint the head of Clovis, a more cruel tyrant than Frederic or Napoleon. Are the original principles of authority in human nature, or in stars, garters, crosses, golden fleeces, crowns, sceptres, and thrones? These profound and important questions have been agitated and discussed, before that vast democratical congregation, mankind, for more than five hundred years. How many crusades, how many Hussite wars, how many powder plots, St. Bartholomew’s days, Irish massacres, Albigensian massacres, and battles of Marengo have intervened! Sub judice lis est. Will Zinzendorf, Swedenborg, Whitefield, or Wesley prevail? Or will St. Ignatius Loyola inquisitionize and jesuitize them all? Alas, poor human nature! Thou art responsible to thy Maker and to thyself for an impartial verdict and judgment.

“Monroe’s treaty!” I care no more about it than about the mote that floats in the sunbeams before my eyes. The British minister acted the part of a horse-jockey. He annexed a rider that annihilated the whole treaty.

You are “a dissenter from me in politics and religion.” So you say. I cannot say that I am a dissenter from you in either, because I know not your sentiments in either. Tell me plainly your opinions in both, and I will tell you, as plainly, mine. I hate polemical politics and polemical divinity as cordially as you do, yet my mind has been involved in them sixty-five years at least. For this whole period I have searched after truth by every means and by every opportunity in my power, and with a sincerity and impartiality, for which I can appeal to God, my adored Maker. My religion is founded on the love of God and my neighbor; on the hope of pardon for my offences; upon contrition; upon the duty as well as necessity of supporting with patience the inevitable evils of life; in the duty of doing no wrong, but all the good I can, to the creation, of which I am but an infinitesimal part. Are you a dissenter from this religion? I believe, too, in a future state of rewards and punishments, but not eternal.

You have again read Tacitus. What do you think of his religion, his philosophy, his morality? When Nero wished he could cut off the heads of the whole Roman empire with one stroke of his falchion, was this sentiment dictated by tyranny or philosophy, or humanity? And if any man should wish he could cut off the head of every Frenchman, Englishman, or Russian, at one blow, would he not be as wise, as benevolent, and philosophical? And those who wish they could decapitate Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe, are they wiser or better?

As I did not expect to hear again from that manly character, my respected and beloved friend, De Gyselaer, your communication has been very delightful. Tell him, that although the affairs of my country have been administered in many respects very differently from my system, yet they have not been upon the whole so ill conducted as I fear he has been taught to believe. We have made advances, we have acquired glory, we have gained confidence in our Union, our Constitution, and our administration.

If I had good eyes and fingers, I could write you sheets, if not volumes; but I must soon cease to write at all, even the name of

John Adams

Significance

David Holmes, In "The Faiths of the Founding Fathers" writes that John adams, above all, "opposed religious oppression and narrow-mindedness". This sums up his tolerance for all religions and his openness for discussing religious matters. Many letters can be found regarding Adams' religious beliefs. However, this paragraph seems to correctly and swiftly, describe his outlook on religion. His religion was founded on the love of God and of his neighbor. This is remarkable, he describes perfectly the light of Christ and charity. Charity is a state of being, more than the practicing of a certain religion. Without even realizing that he was doing it, Adams pretty much quotes the Book of Mormon and the doctrine of the Gospel. In this phrase more than almost any other, the goodness of John Adams' character shines through with perfect clarity. I love cross-referencing the words of the Founding Fathers with the words of the scriptures because the parallels are absolutely amazing.  Ether 12: 34 "And now I know that this love which thou hast had for the children of men is charity; wherefore, except men shall have charity they cannot inherit that place which thou hast prepared in the mansions of thy Father" 

Letter from Benjamin Franklin to Joseph Huey

Sir, Philada. June 6. 1753

I received your kind Letter of the 2d Inst. and am glad to hear that you increase in Strength; I hope you will continue mending till you recover your former Health and Firmness. Let me know whether you still use the cold Bath, and what Effect it has.

As to the Kindness you mention, I wish it could have been of more Service to you. But if it had, the only Thanks I should desire is, that you would always be equally ready to serve any other Person that may need your Assistance, and so let good Offices go round, for Mankind are all of a Family.

For my own Part, when I am employed in serving others, I do not look upon my self as conferring Favours, but as paying Debts. In my Travels and since my Settlement I have received much Kindness from Men, to whom I shall never have any Opportunity of making the least direct Return. And numberless Mercies from God, who is infinitely above being benefited by our Services. These Kindnesses from Men I can therefore only return on their Fellow-Men; and I can only show my Gratitude for those Mercies from God, by a Readiness to help his other Children and my Brethren. For I do not think that Thanks, and Compliments, tho' repeated Weekly, can discharge our real Obligations to each other, and much less those to our Creator.

You will see in this my Notion of Good Works, that I am far from expecting (as you suppose) that I shall merit Heaven by them. By Heaven we understand, a State of Happiness, infinite in Degree, and eternal in Duration: I can do nothing to deserve such Reward: He that for giving a Draught of Water to a thirsty Person should expect to be paid with a good Plantation, would be modest in his Demands, compar'd with those who think they deserve Heaven for the little Good they do on Earth. Even the mix'd imperfect Pleasures we enjoy in this World are rather from God's Goodness than our Merit; how much more such Happiness of Heaven. For my own part, I have not the Vanity to think I deserve it, the Folly to expect it, nor the Ambition to desire it; but content myself in submitting to the Will and Disposal of that God who made me, who has hitherto preserv'd and bless'd me, and in whose fatherly Goodness I may well confide, that he will never make me miserable, and that even the Afflictions I may at any time suffer shall tend to my Benefit.

The Faith you mention has doubtless its use in the World; I do not desire to see it diminished, nor would I endeavour to lessen it in any Man. But I wish it were more productive of Good Works than I have generally seen it: I mean real good Works, Works of Kindness, Charity, Mercy, and Publick Spirit; not Holiday-keeping, Sermon-Reading or Hearing, performing Church Ceremonies, or making long Prayers, fill'd with Flatteries and Compliments, despis'd even by wise Men, and much less capable of pleasing the Deity. The Worship of God is a Duty, the hearing and reading of Sermons may be useful; but if Men rest in Hearing and Praying, as too many do, it is as if a Tree should value itself on being water'd and putting forth Leaves, tho' it never produc'd any Fruit.

Your great Master tho't much less of these outward Appearances and Professions than many of his modern Disciples. He prefer'd the Doers of the Word to the meer Hearers; the Son that seemingly refus'd to obey his Father and yet perform'd his Commands, to him that profess'd his Readiness but neglected the Works; the heretical but charitable Samaritan, to the uncharitable tho' orthodox Priest and sanctified Levite: and those who gave Food to the hungry, Drink to the Thirsty, Raiment to the Naked, Entertainment to the Stranger, and Relief to the Sick, &c. tho' they never heard of his Name, he declares shall in the last Day be accepted, when those who cry Lord, Lord; who value themselves on their Faith tho' great enough to perform Miracles but have neglected good Works shall be rejected. He profess'd that he came not to call the Righteous but Sinners to Repentance; which imply'd his modest Opinion that there were some in his Time so good that they need not hear even him for Improvement; but now a days we have scarce a little Parson, that does not think it the Duty of every Man within his Reach to sit under his petty Ministrations, and that whoever omits them offends God. I wish to such more Humility, and to you Health and Happiness, being Your Friend and Servant

Significance

While reading through Franklin's very sincere and eloquent words, I was reminded of King Benjamin's address in the Book of Mormon. Mosiah chapter 2 verse 17 reads, "And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." I think that Benjamin Franklin would have completely agreed with King Benjamin's words. Franklin states that he doesn't think that "Thanks, and Compliments, tho' repeated Weekly, can discharge our real Obligations to each other, and much less those to our Creator". In other words, while we can say "thank you" all we want, we need to go out and serve others. One of my goals for the semester is to serve others whenever and however I can. If I see a need that needs filled, I will fill it. By serving people around us, we are showing God how truly grateful we are for everything that He has given us. Franklin goes on to explain that nothing we ever do can qualify us for heaven, but the little, consistent acts of service will show that we desire such a gift. I think serving others is a lot more than taking out their trash or any number of helpful acts. Serving others is an attitude that takes time and persistence to gain. It takes diligent work, and if that is true, than there is no room for laziness or slacking off! This has reminded me of the importance of always being willing to help. 

Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography

I couldn't copy the whole book(so here is a picture of it on Google Books). The following quote really stood out to me:

"And now I speak of thanking God, I desire with all humility to acknowledge that I owe the mentioned happiness of my past life to His kind providence, which lead me to the means I used and gave them success. My belief of this induces me to hope, though I must not presume, that the same goodness will still be exercised toward me, in continuing that happiness, or enabling me to bear a fatal reverse, which I may experience as others have done; the complexion of my future fortune being known to Him only in whose power it is to bless to us even our afflictions." (Pg. 2)


Significance
Through this quote, I can truly tell that Benjamin Franklin was a humble and appreciative person. He shows a great deal amount of trust and respect for God. While none of the Founding Fathers were Christian, many of their words denote a strong belief in God. The strong optimism and hope conveyed by Franklin in this passage is truly admirable. I want faith like his, I want to trust in God so firmly that I can face whatever challenges may come with an assurance that everything will be okay in the end. The beginning of this paragraph shows how committed Franklin was in expressing gratitude. "Now I speak of thanking God.." This section comes on page 2 and this shows that no matter how many other things were on his mind, God was one of the first. This reminds me of how we are expected to pray. First, we address God and then we express thanks and gratitude. Franklin seems to know exactly where his success is coming from, and that it can be taken away as easily as it has come. Life is never certain and while we do all that is in our power to ensure that good things come our way, we are not the ones in charge. Only God can be completely in charge of our lives, and Franklin seems to be keenly aware of this fact.