Pocket Diary (Journal) 1838-1881 (DAR 158)

Charles Darwin's Pocket Diary (DAR 158)—or his 'Journal'—was an invaluable tool for dating the progress of his scientific career and follows the course of his life. Starting in September 1838, he wrote or copied his notes into it in what may have been one continuous effort, from his birth in 1809 up to September 6, 1838. Thereafter, and until his the last entry in December 1881, he added to the Journal regularly.