Charles Benjamin Norton (1825–1891) was an American publisher, archivist, and historian who dedicated much of his career to the preservation of early American history. Operating as a dealer in rare books, Norton made significant efforts to collect and preserve historical manuscripts, diaries, letters, and books that documented the nation's early years, ensuring their survival through publication. He was among a select group of individuals in his era who recognized the critical importance of safeguarding these primary sources for future generations, actively working to prevent the loss of valuable historical records.\n\nIn 1857, Norton founded Norton's Literary Letter, which served as a notable numismatic and literary journal. Beyond his archival and publishing endeavors, he served as a Lieutenant-Colonel on the staff of General Fitz John Porter during the American Civil War. Following the war, Norton turned his attention to technological advancements, keeping abreast of post-war American inventions. He authored and edited several works that detailed these developments, particularly in the fields of ordnance and munitions, documenting the rapid evolution of military technology in the late nineteenth century.
