J. Jay (John Jay) Smith Audiobooks

J. Jay (John Jay) Smith

1798–1881

A lively 19th-century editor, librarian, and horticultural writer, this Philadelphia man of letters moved easily between books, gardens, and local history. His work ranged from practical gardening guides to collections of historical curiosities, reflecting a wide curiosity about American life and culture.

About the author

Born in Burlington County, New Jersey, in 1798, John Jay Smith became a well-known figure in Philadelphia literary and civic life. He worked first as a pharmacist, then moved into publishing and librarianship, and served as librarian of the Library Company of Philadelphia from 1829 to 1851.

Smith wrote and edited across a striking range of subjects. He is especially remembered for gardening and horticultural works, including The American Gardener’s Calendar, but he also published books on history, genealogy, and notable legal cases. That breadth helps explain why his writing still feels tied to the energetic, self-improving culture of 19th-century America.

He also played an important part in shaping Philadelphia beyond the page. Sources credit him as a planner and founder associated with Laurel Hill Cemetery, one of the city’s landmark rural cemeteries. Smith died in 1881, leaving behind a body of work that connects practical knowledge, historical curiosity, and civic engagement.

J. Jay (John Jay) Smith

23 Audiobooks

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 12. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 20

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 08

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 19. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 22. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 10

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 13. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 17. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 02

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 03

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 18. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 21. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 16. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 11. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 14. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 04

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 15. Second Series

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 09

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 01

American Historical and Literary Curiosities: Second Series, Complete

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 05

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 06

American Historical and Literary Curiosities, Part 07

About the author