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.

S., Mattie (fl. 1863) to Elhanan M. Mast

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.10.081 Author/Creator: S., Mattie (fl. 1863) Place Written: Bellefontaine, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 July 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 17.5 x 22.5 cm. Order a Copy

A vibrant letter written to "brother Mast." Writes, "Good morning brother Mast! What are you doing this delightful sabbath sunday! The bells are ringing the birds are singing and every thing and every body seems to say 'God and gratitude' and you Mr. Mast, you too should feel free from responsibility and sadness." Discusses soldiering, remarking how it has a "tendency to make you look sober." Comments on recent Union victories at Gettysburg, Vicksburg, and Port Hudson: "Vicksburg and Port Hudson have [certainly] fallen Charleston must capitulate. Rosecrans has been doing admirably, and Lees army although not so badly defeated as we wish is forced to retreat with the greatest speed followed closely by Meade and his legions of heros." Also states that "I am very proud to day that i am an american woman..." Praises the Union soldiers, and postulates as to how the "Great Rebellion" will be remembered in history. Asks Lieutenant Colonel Mast if he ever thinks about love, despite his nervous temperament. Closes the letter with "Au Revior."

Mast, Elhanan M.
Meade, George Gordon, 1815-1872
Lee, Robert E., 1807-1870
Rosecrans, William S. (William Starke)., 1819-1898

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