Notes on Diptera
Content Description
This small notebook, only about one-quarter full, contains handwritten notes on various genus within the order Diptera (flies). The names of individual genus are in Latin with physical/anatomical notes and descriptions. Types are organized by family, with Randall covering 14 different families, with genus and species notes within each family. The rest of the pages in the notebook are blank. However, the final section of the notebook has visibly been ripped out with the remnants of pages having obvious but illegible writing.
Dates
- Majority of material found within Date of acquisition by the BSNH is after creator's death. Dates of creation are inferred to be before his death.
Conditions Governing Access
This collection is open for use. Some of the papers and images are fragile and require special care instructions.
Conditions Governing Use
Dated materials are in the public domain. The researcher assumes all responsibility for identifying copyright holders and attaining permission for reproduction.
Biographical / Historical
John Witt Randall (1813-1892) was a doctor, poet, zoologist, and art collector in Massachusetts. He was the great-grandson of the revolutionary Samuel Adams. Never practicing as a doctor, his publications focused on natural science, art, and literature. He is now perhaps best known for his large collections of prints and drawings, including those by Dürer and Rembrandt, which was left to Harvard after his death by his sister Belinda Lull Randall.
Extent
1 Volumes ; 9.5 by 16 cm.
Language of Materials
English
Latin
Arrangement
Volume kept intact with nothing removed, presumed to be how it was made.
Custodial History
Gifted from the John Witt Randall estate on February 14, 1894 (written BSNH book plate inside the cover). Inscription in top left of first page also indicates February 14, 1894.
Accruals
None are expected.
Processing Information
Emily Buff (Archives Management Graduate Intern)
- Title
- Notes on Diptera Finding Aid
- Status
- Completed
- Author
- Emily Buff (Archives Management Graduate Intern)
- Date
- February 2025
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
Repository Details
Part of the Museum of Science, Boston Archives Repository