Sargent, Winthrop (1753-1820) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.03937 Author/Creator: Sargent, Winthrop (1753-1820) Place Written: Muskingum County, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 July 1788 Pagination: 2 p. : docket 32.3 x 20.7 cm. Order a Copy
Sargent writes, "the adoption of the Constitution by Virginia & New Hamshire [sic] is a Circumstance of very high Gratification to all your Friends in this Western World- I am unhappy that you should seem to suspect me of Inattention to you since my Arrival here-" Notes that he has been unable to use his right hand, thus writes with his left. Encloses a letter to [Richard] Platt (not included), asking Knox to inspect it. Discusses the Ohio land interests of a Mrs. Colden and the retention of settlers to Northwest Territory lands. Hopes to accommodate "those Settlers who are every day presenting themselves & for want of proper Encouragement leaving us & passing down to the Kentucky Country- I would propose that half, or some Part of the Lots as they may be drawn, should be sold in the free sample to Persons that will immediately cultivate & improve them..." Asks Knox to present his regards to Samuel Ogden and family. Written at Muskingum, possibly present-day Muskingum County, Ohio. Contains a slight tear.
Sargent was Secretary of the Northwest Territory. He was appointed in 1787 and served until 1798.
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