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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.

Gorham, Nathaniel (1738-1796) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03689 Author/Creator: Gorham, Nathaniel (1738-1796) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 October 1787 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 31.6 x 20.3 cm. Order a Copy

Discusses the ratification of the Constitution and states that "[t]hings look pretty well. Though there is an opposition preparing - but I do not think it will be sufficient to answer the intention of some." Lists opponents and supporters of Constitution in Massachusetts, "Gov. Hancock [Mr.] Bowdoin & Parson Stillman will be of the convention from Boston - the choice of the latter will undoubtedly be attended with good consiquences in attaching the Baptists." Encloses a letter to Benjamin Franklin (not present) in which he asks for a copy of a speech Franklin made to the constitutional convention in order to publish it.

Signer of the U.S. Constitution.

Signer of the U.S. Constitution.

[draft]
Boston Oct 30t 1787
Dr Sir
Things look pretty well, though there is an opposition preparing- but I do not think it will be sufficient to answer the intention of some.
Mr A has not declared himself Gl W. is undoubtedly against it - in Essex I hear of none except Mr Killam - in Middlesex the two Prescots & James Winthrop are the only persons of note who are decided against it - Gov Hancock Mr Bowdoin & Parson Stillman will be of the convention from Boston - the choice of the latter will undoubtedly be attended with good consiquences [sic] in attaching the Baptists -
Inclosed is a Letter for Doctor Franklin in which I have requested a copy of a Speach [sic] he made in the convention in order to publish it. I will thank you to for ward the Letter to him - & to send the answer to me if he incloses one to you for me. Remember me to Mrs. Knox & believe me to
Sincerely yours N Gorham

[docket]
[illegible] N Gorham
Octr 30th 1787

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Gorham, Nathaniel, 1738-1796

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