MacKay, John, 1805-1849 to Eliza Anne Mackay
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07376 Author/Creator: MacKay, John, 1805-1849 Place Written: Fort Mitchell, Alabama Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 October 1830 Pagination: 3 p. : address ; Height: 25.4 cm, Width: 20.4 cm Order a Copy
Mentions an upcoming camp meeting in Georgia and sending money to his tailor. Discusses protecting Cherokee lands from white intruders, mentioning the capture of "200 gold diggers." In reference to the Indian Removal Act of 1830, he speculates that "The Indians have not yet been informed of the Presidents decision towards them" and mentions petitioning that might change Jackson's mind. Relates a story from an Indian about James McQueen, a Scotsman who married a Tallassee woman, and discusses interacial kinship ties (John's mother's maiden name was McQueen). Also contains family related news. In a postscript, he ponders growing some whiskers, mentioning his sisters disparaging remarks about those of his friend and former West Point classmate, "Mr. Lee," referring to Robert E. Lee. Written at Fort Mitchell to his mother.
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