Reverend James Maury

Much nearer home a competent classicist was awaiting him, and he probably became aware of the limitations of the Reverend William Douglas after he had begun to study under the Reverend James Maury.

Early in 1758, when he was fourteen, he began to attend Maury's little school. The clergyman was then forty years old and for six years had been officiating in Fredericksville Parish, which how included the part of Albemarle lying north and west of the Rivanna.

• Jefferson the Virginian
  • p. 40 (Easton Press, 1993)

From his first notable teacher, Jefferson gained none of his characteristic political principles or religious ideas. He was indebted to him, however, more than to any other man, for his training in the classics. After two years in this school he was able to read Greek and Roman authors in the original, and this he continued to do throughout his long life.

• Jefferson the Virginian
  • p. 44 (Easton Press, 1993)

It is said that while he was still at Maury's his favorite indoor amusement was playing on the violin, and that he was already proficient for his years.

• Jefferson the Virginian
  • p. 47 (Easton Press, 1993)