The Man, The Myth, The Library

George Washington isn't just a name plastered on dollar bills and history books; he’s a cultural icon with layers and a personal library that would make any bookworm drool. His collection, which now resides in the Boston Athenaeum, consists of about 230 books. But let’s be real, these aren’t your average college textbooks. No, these are the tomes that shaped the very fabric of the nation—ideas that sparked revolutions, debates, and perhaps a few late-night arguments over a bottle of whiskey.

In the Trustees’ Room of the Athenaeum, you can find these literary gems displayed like prized possessions. And let’s be honest, if there’s a place where historical nerds can geek out, it’s here—staring at the ghost of Washington’s intellectual prowess. This library journey wasn’t straight and narrow; it took quite a winding path before landing in Boston. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right?

Justice, Mercy, and Micah 6:8

Now, let’s talk about Washington’s penchant for quoting scripture. In his 'Circular Letter to the States,' he drops a truth bomb from Micah 6:8—“to do justice, to love mercy.” Sounds like a solid motto for any leader, don’t you think? It’s like he knew that ruling a nation isn’t just about power; it’s about responsibility and a dash of compassion.

Washington’s words echo through time, reminding us that leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about making the right ones. So, if you think being a leader is all about flexing power, think again. It’s about balancing the scales of justice while making sure the scales don’t tip over and crush the little guy.

Why Washington Still Matters

So, what’s the takeaway from all this historical deep dive? Washington’s legacy is more than just a collection of books or well-quoted scripture. It’s a reminder that the values of justice and mercy are timeless. In a world that often feels like it’s spinning off its axis, perhaps we could use a little more of that Washington wisdom.

Next time you think of the Founding Fathers, remember that they were more than just names in a textbook. They were thinkers, dreamers, and, yes, they had libraries that could rival any modern-day intellectual haven. So, if you haven’t already, go check out Washington’s personal library in Boston, and maybe take a moment to reflect on what it means to lead with heart and mind.

Read More

Want to dig deeper into the life and times of George Washington? Check out these articles:

• George Washington's personal library took a winding path before landing in Boston
• When George Washington Quoted Micah 6:8