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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.

Painter, Heber, 1841-1900 to sister Ella

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02016.003 Author/Creator: Painter, Heber, 1841-1900 Place Written: Washington, District of Columbia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 January 1861 Pagination: 3 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

States that there is a growing number of disunionists in the city: "the disease is evidently beyond the control of mortal man." Fears that Washington City will be stormed if Virginia and Maryland secede. Reports that the ship "The Brooklyn" has left for Charleston and is one of the most effective ships in the service. Expresses his dislike for a speech given by Senator William H. Seward which Painter attended. Despite his personal opinion, the speech was well received by the public. Writes that Jefferson Davis is to be the commander of the Southern Army and Senator Hunter, president. Mentions Senator Crittenden (possibly John J. Crittenden of Kentucky) and his admiration for him. States that the Treasury is bankrupt and no employees of the office are able to get paid.

Painter, Heber, 1841-1900
Painter, Ella, fl. 1844-1870

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