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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.

Cook, Gustave, 1835-1897 to Eliza Cook

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02570.64 Author/Creator: Cook, Gustave, 1835-1897 Place Written: West bank, Savanna River Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 December 1864 Pagination: 6 p. : Order a Copy

Discusses camp news. Feels that the war is more than half over. Interested in how the children are doing and what they are learning. Wants daughter Ida to continue her education away from home but doesn't think she would do well in the presence of complete strangers. He suggests she come stay with him where he can better support her. Says he hasn't sent money because he learned that Confederate money is of no value in Texas. Offers to send home the "hands" he brought with him to war. Suggests moving out to the country and growing the food she needs and being self-sufficient. Discusses the care package he received from his sister and family. Post-script mentions the possible capture of a family friend.

Cooke, Gustave, fl. 1861-1865

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