Ellery, William (1727-1820) to George Wanton Ellery
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02300.18 Author/Creator: Ellery, William (1727-1820) Place Written: Newport, Rhode Island Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 March 1806 Pagination: 2 p. 21 x 17 cm Order a Copy
Written to his son at Captain Barney's School in Wickford, Rhode Island. Discusses general subjects of study in mathematics, astronomy and geography. Also makes reference to the re-election of President Thomas Jefferson and related celebrations. He remarks: "Public days are not celebrated with such animation as they formerly were..." Asks George to ask Mr. Updike to look out for a servant for Ellery. He would like "a black boy about 14 years old, who is good tempered, active, and tractable, who knows how to take care of a horse or cow, and how to milk, and who is faithful and honest. I want such a one very much." A Member of the Continental Congress from 1776 until 1785, William Ellery was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was Collector of the Port of Newport from 1790 until 1820.
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