Uploaded September 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Long before becoming one of the most celebrated figures in the history of science, Sir Isaac Newton (1642–1727) kept this pocket-sized memorandum book, filling it with notes distilled from his reading. The small, vellum-bound manuscript bears some of Newton’s earliest writing, dating to the end of his grammar school days and start of his university career at Trinity College, Cambridge, long before he would become one of the greatest scientists of the 17th century during the Scientific Revolution The notebook offers a precious window into Newton’s early life and mind. Philip Palmer, Robert H. Taylor Curator and Department Head, Literary and Historical Manuscripts, takes a close look at this testament to Newton's intellectual curiosity.
Newton’s pocket memorandum book is part of The Morgan Library & Museum’s permanent collection in New York City.
Long before becoming one of the most celebrated figures in the history of science, Sir Isaac Newton (1642–1727) kept this pocket-sized memorandum book, filling it with notes distilled from his reading. The small, vellum-bound manuscript bears some of Newton’s earliest writing, dating to the end of his grammar school days and start of his university career at Trinity College, Cambridge, long before he would become one of the greatest scientists of the 17th century during the Scientific Revolution The notebook offers a precious window into Newton’s early life and mind. Philip Palmer, Robert H. Taylor Curator and Department Head, Literary and Historical Manuscripts, takes a close look at this testament to Newton's intellectual curiosity.
Newton’s pocket memorandum book is part of The Morgan Library & Museum’s permanent collection in New York City.
