I have successfully used Thunderbird to download all the e-mail from several old addresses that I have long wanted to close (but only if I could save the e-mails). Thanks to everyone who told me.

I just keep wondering if, as it appears, I can set up only one e-mail address at a time for access. All the settings I enter--server information, the e-mail address, etc.: I can find only one place to enter them (the name above the inbox, where you right-click and select Settings), and the only way to enter a new e-mail address settings is to change what you have already entered.

If I can access only one at a time, fine--it works this way. I just find it easier to make a careless mistake this way: entering a new e-mail address but forgetting to change the server settings, or vice versa.

If this seems like something I should already know because Thunderbird operates the same way in principle as other out-of-browser e-mail clients, well, I haven't used any of those in many years--only web-based e-mail--until now.

I like Thunderbird. (Think my dad's been using it for years, but I never paid attention.) It's very simple and obvious, and doesn't depend on the services of some company I may not want to patronize. I'll have to get out of the habit of browser-based e-mail.

You’re talking about what Thunderbird calls "Identities"
View Settings. Button called "Manage Identities" Add From addresses for that account there.

Then, when you compose an email, the From will have a drop-down list that will allow you to select the From address for that email. There will also be a "Customize" selection that will allow you to type any address you want.

Also, the add-on "Folder Account" will let you select a default From for each folder, if that will help.

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If I understand the question, no. There is no limit to the number of accounts. Just add a new account using its incoming mail information.