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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.

Smith, William Stephens, 1755-1816 to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05251 Author/Creator: Smith, William Stephens, 1755-1816 Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 3 December 1791 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; Height: 22.5 cm, Width: 18.5 cm Order a Copy

Has tried to acquire the items Knox asked for, but has been unable to as yet. Relates how he is about to depart for Europe, unhappily, to settle family accounts and protect his family from misfortune. Describes arrangements he is making to prepare for his departure, including making sure that the President is not displeased with him for leaving. Also refers to Mrs. Smith [his wife], Mrs. [Abigail] Adams (who was his mother-in-law), and Mr. [Rufus] King. Sends his respects to Knox's wife.

Smith, William Stephens, 1755-1816
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824
King, Rufus, 1755-1827
Adams, Abigail, 1744-1818
Washington, George, 1732-1799

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