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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 #: GLC02437.03371 Author/Creator: Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 December 1786 Pagination: 4 p. ; 32.1 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy

Writes that he is having difficulties with the "subscription," apparently being unable to raise even one shilling since writing his last letter. Complains about the carelessness with which the subscription paper is left around, and mentions that several "Rich men" still have not paid. Provides a list of the people who paid, and the amount they paid. Suggests that Knox asks some of their associates, such as Mr. [Samuel] Higginson and Mr. [Samuel] Breck, to lobby for subscriptions where they live. Writes that if he had known Knox was too short of funds to help his recruiting efforts, he would not have recruited so many troops so quickly. Says he could procure supplies if he was guaranteed money within a couple of months. Asks for information on rations. Mentions the heavy snow they have received in Boston. Discusses the taxes due at the Falmouth lands, and how the snow is collecting on the property. Has received the arms and accoutrements from Mr. [Samuel] Hodgdon. Mentions a letter providing news about Shays' Rebellion.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Higginson, Stephen, 1743-1828
Breck, Samuel, 1747-1809
Hodgdon, Samuel, 1745-1824

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