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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.

Sargent, Winthrop (1753-1820) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03394 Author/Creator: Sargent, Winthrop (1753-1820) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 December 1786 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 33.1 x 20.8 cm. Order a Copy

Delivered to the governor a note that Knox wrote in his favor. Would like very much to be in the army, but if there is no possibility of that, will "in good Earnest set about making my arrangements for evacuating altogether this Country in Favor of the Western World, while there are so many disposed to accompany me." Also mentions joining the Engineers to the Artillery Department. Believes he has "some claims to an honorable Appointment." Relates that the Court in Springfield was prevented from doing business this week by 300 insurgents who took possession of the Court House and presented a petition demanding that the Court disperse and do no business during the term. The Court members complied because they had no protection at the time. Says Shays refuses to allow the court to meet at Worcester next month. Mentions that the Governor and also General [Benjamin] Lincoln are discussing marching troops very soon. Discusses perhaps joining Lincoln's force. Presents his compliments to Knox's family, as well as Knox's brother [William] and Miss Gorham (likely the daughter of Nathaniel Gorham).

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Sargent, Winthrop, 1753-1820
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824
Knox, William, 1756-1795
Lincoln, Benjamin, 1733-1810

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