Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Davis, Jefferson (1808-1889) to James Whitfield

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01962 Author/Creator: Davis, Jefferson (1808-1889) Place Written: Richmond, Virginia Type: Letter signed Date: 8 May 1863 Pagination: 6 p. 24.1 x 19.8 cm Order a Copy

Along with Mississippi Governor Whitfield, the letter is addressed to Bishop Robert Paine, James T. Harrison, and Dr. Sykes. Davis responds to their letter regarding the defense of Columbus, Mississippi. He assures them that he is concerned for the city (and northeastern Mississippi), and that he is engaging in activities to ensure the regions safety. He also expresses his sympathy for the sufferings of their people.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources