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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.

Paterson, John (1744-1808) [Certification for rations]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02497.13 Author/Creator: Paterson, John (1744-1808) Place Written: s.l. Type: Document signed Date: 6 February 1788 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 8.2 x 16.9 cm. Order a Copy

Written by Major General Paterson to certify that Ira Sayman has furnished 140 rations. This was enough for ten days for one lieutenant and 12 men who were guarding prisoners in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Note on verso, signed by Caleb Hick, says the rations were received.

Paterson served with distinction through the Revolution and was also a commander of Massachusetts troops during Shays Rebellion.

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