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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.

Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03242 Author/Creator: Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 February 1786 Pagination: 4 p. ; 23.3 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy

Writes a friendly letter on a variety of topics. First, mentions that [Samuel] Shaw has set sail for the East and wishes him God's blessing. Hopes that he return safely to his friends and is richly rewarded; hopes that a Mr. S. does not disturb Shaw with his "overbearing temper." Goes on to discuss some business concerns, including a visit to Mr. [possibly Joshua] Loring. Wishes Knox and his family will, as promised, come to visit in the spring. Says that the Winslows are excited for the visit. Explains that he is "so tired of this world," and if Knox and his family were to move to the country, he "will quit every thing & follow you, in you I have a firm & sincere friend & I am unhappy at our separation. I wish for nothing more in this Life, than to be your nearest neighbour. I am here in a large round of acquaintance, & every one suppose's I am perfectly & completely happy, but they are all mistaken." Wishes he could retire, or be a soldier again. Mentions that Governor [John] Hancock is recovered and will set out to New York soon. Reports on the General Court and local taxes. Mentions that all Knox's friends are well and asks that Lucy Knox writes to Mrs. Swan in regards to an apron Mrs. Swan sent. Sends love to Lucy, Knox's brother William, and the children.

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824
Knox, William, 1756-1795
Loring, Joshua, 1744-1789
Shaw, Samuel, 1754-1794

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