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.

Blanchard, Ira (b. 1835) to Mary (Wright) Kellogg

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.31.15 Author/Creator: Blanchard, Ira (b. 1835) Place Written: Jackson,Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 June 1862 Pagination: 4 p. ; 19.6 x 23.6 cm. Order a Copy

Blanchard writes to Mary Wright from Jackson, Tennessee, "...one of the most delightful cities I ever saw." Says the aristocracy of the south resides there. Mentions many slaves escaped to their lines and rewards of two-hundred dollars were being offered for their return. Informs they are called "bluebelied yankees." Upon the occupation of the city, "about 600 negroe girls elegantly dresed in their silks and satins came out to meet us each caring a rose in their black hands..." Reports going to church with "darkies" and being impressed with the sermon. Letter is faded and has an emblem.

Blanchard enlisted 13 June 1861 in Illinois as a Sargeant. He mustered into "H" Co., Illinois, Infantry.

Blanchard, Ira, 1835-?
Kellogg, Mary Wright, 1844-1912

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