Trust Deed Creating a Trust for the Benefit of the Carnegie Institution of Washington

What it is

This is the trust deed written by Andrew Carnegie, printed in Popular Science Monthly in 1902. In it, Carnegie transfers a large sum in bonds to a group of trustees, including high government officials, to fund the Carnegie Institution of Washington.

Why it matters

This document is a direct record of Carnegie's philanthropy in action. It shows how he saw his wealth as something held in trust for the benefit of society, meant to fund scientific research. The list of trustees, including the President of the United States, shows how closely Carnegie's philanthropic projects were tied to public institutions.

Look closer

• Why might Carnegie have chosen government officials as trustees of his institution?
• What does Carnegie mean when he calls himself a "Trustee" of his own wealth?
• What does this document suggest about Carnegie's view of the responsibilities of the wealthy?