Our Collection

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.

Gadsden, James, 1788-1858 to John Cripps

Order a pdf of this item here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03587.07 Author/Creator: Gadsden, James, 1788-1858 Place Written: Washington, District of Columbia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 January 1854 Pagination: 4 p. : address ; Height: 25.4 cm, Width: 20 cm Order a Copy

Writes to his Secretary regarding an upcoming reception at which he does not want to be present. Forwards a letter from J.B. Crocket of San Francisco (not included) who he wants Cripps to assist in deciphering a grant. Is still awaiting the notes from a conference Cripps was to send and explains that he may need to "make war" with Ward, using the notes as leverage. Mentions an upcoming interview with President Pierce and is concerned about his silence on the breach of trust, the center of which Gadsden believes is Ward and his cohorts. Promises that he and his treaty "will stand erect" throughout this ordeal. Wax seal intact. Postmarked 5 February, Washington, D.C. Imprint in upper left corner depicts a capitol building.

Cripps, John S., fl. 1820-1875
Gadsden, James, 1788-1858

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources