Project::Noah is about making the first American dictionary accessible. To accomplish this, three specific visions need to be executed: Vision::Reprint, will attempt to make a modern printing of the first dictionary of the American language available to the public for under $25; Vision::Redesign, will improve the current online accessibility to the 1828 dictionary; Vision::Recapture will tie the importance of Noah Webster into our American Heritage and create a commissioned painting. All in all, Project::Noah is striving to capture our American Heritage in several ways and make it available to those interested.

The first vision, Vision::Reprint, has an intent to make a modern printing of the first dictionary of the American language available to the public for under $25. To accomplish this, several tasks are being considered. The first task, Task::Access, involves the digitizing of the original 1828 dictionary. The dictionary is available in microfilm (American Culture Series, Reel 335.6-336.1, Michigan University Microfilms) at many universities. To digitize the microfilm as a batch process requires a special scanner.

The second vision, Vision::Redesign, has an intent to improve the current online accessibility to the 1828 dictionary. The current database, http://1828.mshaffer.com/, has mistakes, omissions of etymology, etc. For this reason the most important tasks, Task::XML, will be an online editing of the current words and definitions to include important missing information. An administrative tool has been built to make this possible [http://1828d.mshaffer.com/] and will be accessible to the community to help in the editing process once the microfilm scan occurs.

The third vision, Vision::Recapture, has an intent to evoke the importance of Noah Webster in our American Heritage. This vision will manifest itself in a commissioned painting of Noah Webster. The process involved will require the input from concerned Americans. The final commission painting will be derived from initial sketches and digital compositions. Feedback from the community is essential for this vision’s success throughout the process.

The sketches to Re-capture the Spirit of Noah Webster are finished. Thanks to Dave McClellan for all of his hard work. These sketches are a starting point for a discussion. The current poll gives you a chance to vote on a particular sketch. Elements can each sketch can be implemented into a final composition. The final composition will be digital composition in full color. Please participate with us as we proceed with this process. We are in the process of learning from the Noah Webster House more historic details about his office, his desk, etc.