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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.

Gunn, James (1753-1801) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05887 Author/Creator: Gunn, James (1753-1801) Place Written: Savannah, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 May 1793 Pagination: 4 p. ; 25 x 20.8 cm. Order a Copy

Says that the Indians have committed several murders in Washington County, with two murders committed on the frontier of South Carolina. Reports they refuse to return property or give up the offenders. Mentions the hunters have returned to the towns, which indicates a coming attack on the frontier. Believes war is inevitable and that the militia will have to be called out in the western counties of South Carolina and Georgia. Wants a commander of "Rank and Ability who has a Talent for employing Militia to an Advantage in the field..." If war is avoided, wants a man of talent to be a resident Indian agent for the Creeks. Reports on the poor conduct of the current agent.

James Gunn was born in Virginia to John and Mary Gunn. After being educated in law, and began practicing as a lawyer in Savannah, Georgia. He served in militia dragoon units during the Revolutionary War, and eventually rose to Brigadier General in the Georgia Militia. He was selected as a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1787 but never attended sessions. He was elected a United States Senator for the First United States Congress and drew a six year term in the lottery. He was re-elected in 1795 and served out his second term until March 1801. Shortly after, Gunn died in Louisville, Georgia.

Gunn, James, 1753-1801
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

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