William Nathan Sage papers

Collection

Identifier: A.S12

Staff Only

Biographical / Historical note

William Nathan Sage (1819-1890) was born in Ballston Spa, New York, but moved to Rochester at an early age. He graduated from Brown University in 1840, and then established a book publishing company in Rochester with his brother Nelson Sage. In 1847 he was elected county clerk and held this office for three years. In 1860 he joined the firm originally founded by his father Oren Sage, Pancost, Sage, & Morse. He later helped organize the Sage Deposit Company and was also a founder and director of Monroe County Savings Bank. When the University of Rochester was founded in 1850, William N. Sage became the secretary of the Board of Trustees. In 1851 he also became the Board's treasurer. He held both offices until his death in 1890. His work did much to contribute to the success of the University.

Scope and Contents

The papers include Mr. Sage's correspondence, manuscripts dealing with the founding of the University of Rochester, and early University financial and legal papers. The correspondence of Oren Sage, John N. Wilder, and Smith Sheldon are also contained in the collection.

Creator

Sage, William Nathan, 1819-1890 (Person)

Dates

Creation: 1847-1901

Language of Materials

English

Extent

6 box(es) (6 boxes and 16 volumes)

Access

The William Nathan Sage Papers is open for research use. Researchers are advised to contact the Rare Books, Special Collections & Preservation Department prior to visiting. Upon arrival, researchers will also be asked to fill out a registration form and provide photo identification.

Use

In consultation with a curator, reproductions may be made upon request. Permission to publish materials from the collection must be requested from a curator. Researchers are responsible for determining any copyright questions.

Preferred Citation

[Item title, item date], William Nathan Sage Papers, A.S12, Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation, River Campus Libraries, University of Rochester