One of the books I have referenced while writing my novel about the Declaration is American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence by Pauline Maier. Fairly early into my research I found her book, and when I still had a question or two I e-mailed her. Within a day, she responded.
This wonderful, insightful historian died this week, at age 75, and rather than take up space here with my words, I instead urge you to read the New York Times article by Douglas Martin, Pauline Maier, Historian Who Described Jefferson as ‘Overrated,’ Dies at 75.
Her enthusiasm will be missed. In her book, she writes of being able to see the Declaration in Washington for the first time. “Curiosity more than anything sent me rushing through the hot summer air across the mall to the National Archives.”
Me, too, Pauline. Me, too.