Samuel F.B. Morse : his letters and journals

The American inventor Samuel Morse (1791-1872) spent decades fighting to be recognised for his key role in devising the electromagnetic telegraph.

While he will always be remembered in the history of telecommunications, and for co-developing the code which bears his name, Morse started out as a painter and also involved himself in matters of politics over the course of his career.

Published in 1914, this two-volume collection of personal papers was edited by his son, who provides helpful commentary throughout, illuminating the struggles and successes of a remarkable life.

Volume 1 includes observations made in Europe while Morse studied painting.

During this time he met Turner, 'the best landscape painter living'.

Volume 2 gives much personal background to the development of the electric telegraph and particularly to Morse's efforts to gain the recognition he believed he deserved.