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.

Gerry, James T. (1797-1854) to Elbridge T. Gerry

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09099.13 Author/Creator: Gerry, James T. (1797-1854) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 May 1854 Pagination: 4 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Very pleased with praise he has received from the government for his recent actions as a Navy captain. The Navy Department has "sent me a highly complimentary letter approving most fully my official acts during my last cruise, many of which were exceedingly important, involving great responsibility, and requiring prompt decision, and firmness in execution." Says he is having trouble getting his ship fixed, but will sail again as soon as it is ready. Advises his nephew on how best to preserve his health as a young man.

James T. Gerry was a United States Naval Captain. He was the son of Elbridge Gerry, the fifth Vice President of the United States.
Elbridge T. Gerry founded the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, and worked on various other humanitarian causes. He was the grandson of Elbridge Gerry, the fifth Vice President of the United States.

Gerry, James Thompson, 1797-1854
Gerry, Elbridge Thomas, 1837-1927

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