Scope and Content Note
The family papers of John James Beckley (1757-1807) span the years 1789-1918 and consist of papers of John James Beckley and his son Alfred Beckley. The material in John James Beckley's papers dates from 1789 to 1829 and that of his son from 1829 to 1918. John James Beckley was the first clerk of the House of Representatives and the first Librarian of Congress. His papers include a memorandum book containing notes on events in the House of Representatives with commentaries on the development of parliamentary procedures in the House. His correspondence discusses political issues and personal financial activities, in particular his extensive land speculation. The addition contains books signed by Beckley that were part of his library.
Alfred Beckley moved to Fayette County, Virginia (now Raleigh County, West Virginia), in 1837 with his wife Amelia Craig. His papers include family correspondence, memorandum books and journals, an autobiography, scrapbook, and a newspaper clipping relating his Civil War reminiscences.