MEMOIR OF ISAIAH THOMAS. XXIX merous annual files of American newspapers, bound in regu- lar series. Nearly all the papers printed before the revolution are to be found among them. The residue of the library in- cludes history, theology, and general literature. One room is appropriated for a cabinet of curiosities, illustrating the manners of the fathers, as well as the aborigines of North America. The Institution enumerates a long list of benefactors, from whom have been received many valuable donations of books and other articles ; but for whatever of character, energy, and living principle it possesses, it is indebted to the untiring gener- osity of its founder. In his last will, he has provided for its exigencies to an extent unequalled in the history of any simi- lar society in this country. Benevolence was a prominent trait in the character of Mr. Thomas, and several other institutions shared largely in his bounty, under the provisions of his will. The community, in which he resided, will long cherish his memory as a public benefactor. To almost all the objects of public enterprise and philanthropy, which mark our age, he was a generous contributor, and without discrimination of party or sect. The unfortunate children of want around him, in the gloom of sickness and distress, will remember him as a never- failing friend ; for to them his charities were abundant and seasonable. He died at his residence in Worcester, April 4th, 1831, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. Neither the ordinary pursuits of business, nor the regular studies of a man of science, furnish much variety of incident. The life of Mr. Thomas was useful to his country, both for the services he rendered it, and for the example he exhibited, so full of encouragement to young men, of successful industry in acquiring knowledge, and of well-directed labor in gaining property, of invincible resolution in overcoming difficulties, and of discriminating liberality in applying his acquisitions to the wants of individuals and of society. In his social intercourse, he was affable, obliging, and friendly. Young men, just enter- ing into active life, and engaging in the untried and perplexing
