Thoreau's Maternal Grandfather Asa Dunbar: Fragments From His Diary and Common- Place Book.

The article discusses a diary written by lawyer and clergyman Asa Dunbar which reflects his familial role as grandfather to author Henry David Thoreau. The author comments on whether Thoreau and Dunbar's relationship suggests that writing and communication skills are hereditary. Dunbar's participation and chronicling of a student rebellion at Harvard University are noted. Entries in the diary discuss Dunbar's service as a clergyman in Salem, the birth of his daughter and the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Drafts of public prayers, information on Dunbar's health problems due to colic and an oration from his membership in the Freemasons are also contained in the journal.