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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 #: GLC02437.05678 Author/Creator: Sargent, Winthrop (1753-1820) Place Written: Cincinnati, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 29 October 1792 Pagination: 4 p. ; 22.8 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy

Writes a letter of introduction for the bearer, Captain Mayette writing: "for if he is not for us he will be decidedly against us - and his Influence is very considerable amongst the Indians... The British and Spaniards I have no Doubt would purchase him at a considerable price and but for the flattering distinctions we have paid him he probably would have struck up a Bargain." Discusses another Native American who he thinks would be a beneficial ally, although he is a "monstrous beggarly rascal even for an Indian." Refers to a treaty with the Native Americans, noting, "from the knowledge which you may acquire of this business you will be induced to think Genl [Rufus] Putnam better calculated for all other services than Indian Treaties..." Reports that Northwest Territory Governor Arthur St. Clair is in Philadelphia.

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Sargent, Winthrop, 1753-1820

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