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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.

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809 to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04699 Author/Creator: Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809 Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 August 1790 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 24.2 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy

Jackson acknowledges Secretary of War Knox's letter of 15 August 1790. Mentions that he and "the Colonel" are making their way to Portland. Describes the journey, his sea sickness, and the help they received during the trip. Says a Mr. Gregory "has a high idea of the value of the Patent, and considers it a source of immence wealth." Mentions paying a visit to Captain [Thomas] Vose whose farm had "some of the best butter and Cheese" they have eaten this year. Reports that Vose will be disappointed if Knox does not pay him a visit. Suggests Knox come on 15 September 1790 when the legislature will be in session. Says a Captain Mitchel from Ireland had arrived with news that impressment of seamen has almost stopped and "the appearances of a War was nearly at an end." He then states, "I am sorry for it." Also discusses Knox's recently negotiated treaty with the Creeks: "Your Treaty with the Indians has given great satisfaction to all Class's of People in this quarter, particularly to your friends - for my own part I am highly delighted & gratified that you had the Sole conducting of this business."

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

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