2 April 1828

Key, Francis Scott, 1779-1843

Autograph letter signed

Title: to John H. B. Latrobe

Concerning an American Colonization Society legal settlement arising from the transportation of cargo and colonists. Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and member of the society, brainstorms ideas for diminishing their liability. Latrobe was also a lawyer. 1 black and white bust engraving of Key included. Written in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

GLC07100

19 September 1823

Key, Francis Scott, 1779-1843

Autograph letter signed

Title: to unknown

Written by Key, the penman of the Star Spangled Banner and a founding member of the American Colonization Society, as an attorney to an unknown reverend. Says he would like to join him on the 30th, but cannot because court will be in session. Appears to write on efforts to assist the American Colonization Society. Hopes his correspondent can help supply missionaries. Comments that a Mr. Ayres is making preparations for a school modeled after "the plan of Mr. Johnson at Regents Town" that will keep African captives and boys together. Says they will be put under the charge of Lott Carey, a…

GLC07483.02

12 October 1836

Key, Francis Scott, 1779-1843

Autograph letter signed

Title: to unknown

Apparently written to a clergyman friend who refused to baptize the child of unbelieving parents. Key dwells at length on the sponsors' obligations in baptism, supporting his friend's decision. He gives specific advice on how he would have proceeded. He also expresses sympathy for the child who would grow up unbaptized, but sees more danger from "profanation of a Sacrament." Key also mentions other options such as baptizing the child with religious sponsors (acceptable) or without sponsors (unacceptable).

GLC05508.007

26 November 1819

Key, Francis Scott, 1779-1843

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Maynadier

Written from Georgetown. Key writes to his uncle about depressed stock prices. He also discusses colonizing 12 captured Africans who are in Baltimore (he does not explain how they came to be there), in reference to his efforts through the American Colonization Society.

GLC02379