Papers, circa 1810s-1830s, of Gustavus Depp and Elmore Depp of Powhatan and Chesterfield Counties, Virginia. The collection includes two commonplace books and two ledgers.  The commonplace books are both collections of different principles and rules of higher mathematics including geometry, trigonometry, calculating interest, among others.  The commonplace book belonging to Gustavus Depp focuses much more heavily on geometry than the one owned by Elmore Depp.  Both books contain inscriptions on the first page citing the date of acquisition as February 2, 1818.  The common book belonging to Gustavus Depp also includes a number of other instances of his name throughout the book including the inscription which reads, "Gustavus Depp commenced going to Jordan Marten to learn mathematick 5th April 1824.  Then you may see my hand & name whene I am dead."  The end of the volume contains ledgers as well as "A Delicious Apple Pudding" recipe.

The ledgers span the period of 1825  to 1848.  The first ledger is mostly accounts received and spans the period from 1825 to 1832.  The second ledger spans the period from 1831 to 1848.  It includes records of purchasing slaves as well as hiring slaves owned by others.  Also included in the ledger, are records relating to milk purchases at Huguenot Academy, which was established for educating the youth of  Powhatan County Virginia.  Gustavus Depp was on the Board of Trustees for the school.  There are also instances of the name Mary Hannah Depp, daughter of Gustavus Depp, copied a number of times in succession, possibly where the child was practicing her penmanship.