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.

Livingston, Robert (1654-1728) Council meeting of Governors Burnet and Spotswood with Sachems of the 5 Nations

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03107.02148 Author/Creator: Livingston, Robert (1654-1728) Place Written: Albany, New York Type: Manuscript document Date: 1722/09/08 Pagination: 3p. + docket 32.6 x 20.7 cm Order a Copy

Governor Burnet explains that the Eastern Indians have attacked settlers in New England, and asks if the 5 Nations knew of any plans for this attack. The 5 Nations reply that a year ago the Mohawks received black wampum from the Onnagongues, who asked for their assistance in a war against the English of New England. Burnet then reprimands the 5 Nations for not taking action, and reminds them that they owe their loyalty to all British subjects, and therefore must travel to Boston to speak to the Governor.

Livingston, Robert, 1654-1728
Burnet, William, 1688-1729

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