John Bannister Tabb Papers

Collection

Identifier: GTM-791030

Request

Scope and Contents

The John Bannister Tabb Papers consist of more than 40 letters, manuscripts, and cards sent from Fr. Tabb to Dr. Thomas R. Price and Price's family. The letters touch on Fr. Tabb's poetry and publishing matters. A few poems by Fr. Tabb are found among the documents. Most of the letters were sent by Fr. Tabb from St. Charles College in Ellicott City, Maryland. Several prnted items about Fr. Tabb are also retained.

Dates

Creation: 1882 - 1909

Conditions Governing Access

Most manuscripts collections at the Georgetown University Booth Family Center for Special Collections are open to researchers; however, restrictions may apply to some collections. Collections stored off site require a minimum of three days for retrieval. For use of all manuscripts collections, researchers are advised to contact the Booth Family Center for Special Collections in advance of any visit.

Biographical Note

John Bannister Tabb (1845-1909) was an American professor, poet, and Roman Catholic priest. Born near Richmond, Virginia, Tabb studied under private tutors. From an early age, he suffered from poor eyesight. During the American Civil War, Tabb served in the Confederate Navy. On June 4, 1864, he was captured by Northern troops. After the Civil War, Tabb embarked on a career in music. Later, he taught at St. Paul's School in Baltimore. He converted to Catholicism in 1872 and taught English and Greek at St. Charles College in Ellicott City, Maryland. In 1884,Tabb was ordained a Catholic priest. His poetry was widely acclaimed. John Bannister Tabb died in Ellicott City, Maryland in 1909.

[Source: Duggan, Thomas. "John Bannister Tabb" in "The Catholic Encyclopedia." Vol. 14 (New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1912)].