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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.

McSherry, Anna (b. 1833) to Henry F. McSherry

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.21.37 Author/Creator: McSherry, Anna (b. 1833) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter Date: 21 January 1865 Pagination: 3 p. ; 19.9 x 12.3 cm. Order a Copy

Written by Anna to her brother Henry. Not signed, but handwriting matches previous signed letters by Anna. Refeneces receiving Henry's previous letter. Thought the danger he was in was over, but then they heard about the attack on Fort Fisher and they started to worry again. Hopes to hear he is alright. Tells him of the death of what appears to be a neighbor. Updates him on many friends and family members. Says she read reports of the stormy weather by him. Tells him "I think it is wonderful the fleet ships will not suffer more. I expect the loss of life was very great. I know you will do all you can for those who are stil living and suffering, poor wounded men." Goes on to say "I can see you have just as much of the command in your department saving life as any admiral that causes the destruction of it." Stains and fading from what appears to be water.

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