Charles Darwin: A Life in Letters

Charles Darwin: A Life in Letters – An Exhibition

Through August 5, 2023

New York Public Library – Stephen A. Schwarzman Building 

Charles Darwin by Julia Margaret Cameron, 1868

Charles Darwin (1809–1882), author of On the Origin of Species and The Descent of Man, is one of the most famous names in science. Darwin’s explanation of how all living things evolved from a single shared ancestor laid the groundwork for evolutionary biology. His works influence the way scientists look at the world today. Through his letters, everyone can meet and explore the life and work of a man whose ideas and indefatigable research launched a scientific revolution.

Throughout his life—whether as a raw young adventurer, a family man, or a gray-bearded celebrity—Darwin had an infectious curiosity about the world around him. His letters, often warm, witty, and engaging, mix science and gossip. Darwin counted many scientists, amateur and professional, as friends. While many he never met, his network of correspondents encompassed the scientific world. Correspondents included women and men from all walks of life, from working-class pigeon breeders to aristocratic orchid collectors. The letters open a window onto their lives, too.

The Darwin Correspondence Project published its first printed volume in 1985. It has now completed the 30th and final volume of The Correspondence of Charles Darwin in 2023. As new letters are found, they continue to be added to the online edition. Anyone can read the complete texts of all known letters Darwin wrote and received. They total more than 15,000.

Charles Darwin: A Life in Letters is presented in partnership with Cambridge University Library. It  celebrates the completion of the Darwin Correspondence Project. This project is a 45-year endeavor to publish all of Charles Darwin’s letters.  Research is at the exhibition’s heart. This is the rarest of chances to be with Darwin as he was, in his own words.