BABBAGE, Charles, letters, autographs, documents, manuscripts


Home | Archive | Facsimiles | Forgeries | Back
Unless otherwise indicated the image is of the most significant part of the object

BABBAGE, Charles (1791-1871). Mathematician and computer pioneer.
Autograph Letter Signed to the Secretary of the Statistical Society, 1 page 8vo, no place, 15 June 1835. Asking him to forward the Rules and printed papers to Mr Baker.

'I forward the enclosed letter. I have replied to Mr Baker that I have sent in his letter to the Sec. of the Statistical Soc of London and that you will forward the rules and any printed papers which may be of use. I believe the Council have in several instances given permission and will I have no doubt in the present case.'

An eccentric and brilliant mathematician, Babbage was influential in founding the Statistical Society (later Royal Statistical Society) just one year earlier, in March 1834. His Difference Engine and later Analytical Engine were the earliest prototypes of what would become the modern computer. Despite his many achievements, the failure to complete the construction of his calculating machines, and the failure of the government to support his work, left him in his later years a disappointed and embittered man.
[No: 26286]

This is the archived description of an item that has already been sold. Please contact me by email if you would like any further information.