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.

Jackson, Henry (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 #: GLC02437.05317 Author/Creator: Jackson, Henry (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 February 1792 Pagination: 7 p. : docket ; 22.9 x 18.4 cm. Order a Copy

Provides an update on the Committee's debates regarding the Waldo patent lands. Comments on Knox's request that he purchase the portion of the town of Trenton belonging to Colonel Jones. Reports his happiness at seeing the reasons for the Indian War published. Discusses the reenlistment of soldiers in the army; many soldiers who served during the Revolutionary War will not reenlist unless they are promoted. Explains that Major Jack Tyler, who served 1777-1779, would like to serve again, but only as a major. Describes Tyler's virtues and his current circumstances. Requests appointments for several other officers. Mentions his disappointment at Knox's unwillingness to "bring forward the business of the Canal," and recounts discussions he has had with Colonel Ben[jamin Hichborn] and others on the subject. Argues strongly for proceeding with the canal project, and hopes to put Knox's name at the top of all applications and business plans for the endeavor.

"Major Jack Tyler" may be John Steel Tyler, who served under Henry Jackson during 1777-1779.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809
Tyler, John Steele, 1752-1813
Hichborn, Benjamin, 1746-1817

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources