Historically, the Mercantile Library had several bound volumes of "Baptist Pamphlets" which were initially part of John Mason Peck's library but catalogued together under one call number. These volumes have been disbound and each pamphlet put in a separate, non-acidic enclosure. A number has been added to an alphabetical arrangement. The list is roughly arranged alphabetically by the first important word of the Church, benevolent Society, or other organization's title or name concerned.
Created by Thomas Hart Benton (1782-1858); early senator from Missouri who served six terms equaling thirty years in office.
Included are the handwritten lecture, "Progress of the Age," delivered at the St. Louis Mercantile Library Association, 1850; 1 letter from 1829; and 2 letters from 1858, one from J.B. Brant concerning Benton's health. Senator Benton was among the first of many illustrious figures to speak at the St. Louis Mercantile Library on November 14, 1850. This particular speech, presented to the Library by Senator Benton, himself, and several letters make up the Mercantile's small collection of primary materials by or concerning Thomas Hart Benton