“Knowledge of books is the basis upon which all other knowledge rests.”
— Attributed to George Washington
George Washington’s life demonstrates a deep respect for reading and self-education. Though not a formally trained scholar, he built a wide personal library and relied on books to guide his thinking on agriculture, military strategy, Enlightenment philosophy, and governance.
His belief that knowledge must precede leadership reflects the intellectual spirit of the early Republic.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Washington’s insight feels especially timely. The Revolution was shaped not only by the willingness to fight, but by the exchange of ideas — spread through pamphlets, newspapers, letters, broadsides, and books.
Collectors today still seek these early printings because they offer something extraordinary: a direct link to the world the Founders knew.
This is the heart of the Florida Antiquarian Book Fair. Each year, we gather to celebrate the printed materials that shaped history, preserved ideas, and continue to inspire curiosity.
You’ll be seeing George Washington again soon as part of our Let Freedom Read campaign — in several unexpected situations, in fact.
Stay with us as we explore more Founding Voices in the weeks ahead.
And plan to join us at the Florida Antiquarian Book Fair, March 7-8, 2026 at The Coliseum in downtown St. Petersburg.
