Our Collection

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.

Breck, Samuel (1747-1809) to Henry Knox

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04089 Author/Creator: Breck, Samuel (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 January 1789 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 22.5 x 18.4 cm. Order a Copy

Writes that he had delayed writing in hopes that some more events worth mentioning would occur, but they have not, and he cannot justify delaying any longer. Assumes that their mutual friend [Henry] Jackson has acquainted him with the federal elections in Massachusetts, the results of which are very pleasing. Writes, "no Anties yet nor will there be more than one & his influence very small! The Governor is his Message urges amendments, but the Committee of the two Houses will not echo this sentiment." Mentions that General [Benjamin] Lincoln has just been offered a salary to serve as Lieutenant Governor, but his appointment (and the salary) will meet with opposition. Discusses a House committee which is debating the separation of the eastern Massachusetts counties into a separate state. He and Mrs. Breck send their respects to Mrs. Knox, Knox's brother William, and the Knox children.

Breck, Samuel, 1747-1809
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Lincoln, Benjamin, 1733-1810
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824
Knox, William, 1756-1795

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources