This collection contains approximately 10,000 documents by and/or relating to Sir Joseph Banks. These items document the immense scope of Banks' activities in the world of science, exploration, and the growth of the British Empire's trade and commerce.

The Sutro Library houses one of the largest concentrations of documents by and relating to Sir Joseph Banks (1743-1820), a man who had a profound influence on the nature and momentum of British exploration, science, and discovery during the latter part of the eighteenth century. In fact, Banks may, by virtue of his tireless commitment to its promotion, be rightly considered the first Minister of Science in Britain.

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Property rights reside with the repository. Any applicable literary rights would reside with the creators of the documents or their heirs. To obtain permission to publish or reproduce, please email sutro@library.ca.gov .

The collection is open for research. Please page materials three business days in advance of your visit by email: sutro@library.ca.gov .