Mathematical Treasure: Davies' Geometry and Trigonometry

This is the title page of Elements of Geometry and Trigonometry, revised and adapted from the work of Adrien-Marie Legendre and published for the cadets at the United States Military Academy at West Point by Charles Davies. At this time, Davies, a Mathematics Professor at West Point, was a prolific author of adaptations of French texts for use in American schools. This was his most popular book, going through 33 editions.

In the “Preface,” above, Davies explained his objectives.

Pages 110-111 and 116-117, above, allow for an appreciation of the style and format used in this book.

The images above are supplied through the courtesy of the Rare Books and Manuscripts Collection of the Pennsylvania State University Library and the assistance of Dr. Sandra Stelts, Curator of the Collection.