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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.

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1862-1863 ca.

Ransom, Robert, 1828-1892

Photograph

Title: Salt print 1/2 length portrait, in Confederate uniform

Lacks upper part of photograph above head. Portrait appears to have been scratched. 2 stars visible. Ink inscription on mount: "R. Ranson, NC."

GLC05786.19

January 11, 1861

Ransom, Robert, 1828-1892

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Lawrence O'Bryan Branch

Captain Ransom writes to Branch, a United States Representative from North Carolina, Ransom's home state. Reports that there has been no mail for two months, but the previous day, received shocking news (possibly referring to secession of several southern states): "The news which has reached us startles the most lethargic. Before what are we standing? I dare not answer it to myself... Let me now add that should our state need my services, I beg you will offer them, to be used by her in whatever way may to her seem best." Written at Fort Wise.

GLC02459.27

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