Letter
Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, March 29, 1780
Soho Square March 29 1780 Sir By the hands of Mr. Paradise I have receivd a copy of the instructions for the Protection of Captn. Cooke which you circulated among…
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Letters from Joseph Banks
6 lettersLetter
Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, November 7, 1783
Soho Square Nov. 7. 1783 Dear Sir Yesterday Evening I opend the Session of the Royal Society by reading to them your two Communications upon the subject of the Aerostatique…
Letter
Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, November 28, 1783
Joseph Banks writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing gratitude for a report on the Montgolfier brothers' balloon experiment, noting the significant progress from trivial soap-bubble-like balloons to manned flights covering over five miles. He also describes a recent local experiment with a small taffeta balloon filled with inflammable air, which traveled about 48 miles before landing. Banks speculates that Franklin may have influenced these advancements in aeronautics.
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Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, December 9, 1783
Joseph Banks thanks Benjamin Franklin for promptly sharing news about advancements in flying technology in America and expresses admiration for Charles's successful experiment. Banks acknowledges American progress in practical flight but asserts British claim to theoretical flight, referencing Bishop Wilkins and Mr. Cavendish's earlier ideas. He anticipates future scientific endeavors that will combine theory and celestial observations to advance knowledge.
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Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, March 23, 1784
Joseph Banks reports to Benjamin Franklin on recent discussions within the Royal Society, noting a lull in scientific innovation after intense debate. He summarizes Dr. Blagden's observations linking meteors to the magnetic meridian and Mr. Herschel's studies of Mars' polar ice caps, suggesting parallels to Earth's climate. Banks also mentions the stagnation of aerostat advancements in France.
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Joseph Banks to Benjamin Franklin, August 13, 1784
Joseph Banks informs Benjamin Franklin that the Royal Society awards him a gold medal honoring Captain Cook, recognizing Franklin's directive to American cruisers to avoid interfering with Cook's voyages. Banks also congratulates Franklin on receiving a copy of Cook's voyage from the British Crown, acknowledging the respect and liberal conduct Franklin has shown.