Phelps, Samuel Shethar (1793-1855) to J. H. Barrett
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03678.01 Author/Creator: Phelps, Samuel Shethar (1793-1855) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1 August 1850 Pagination: 8 p. : docket ; 25.2 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
Phelps, a Whig Senator from Vermont, writes to J. H. Barrett, possibly Joseph Hartwell Barrett. Relates that an article by E. D. Barber in the "Brandon Post" (a newspaper from Brandon, Vermont) provided misinformation regarding the Clayton Bill of 1848. Phelps argues that this bill prohibited the extension of slavery, and was an equivalent to the Wilmot Proviso. He vehemently defends his position on the bill against Barber's false reports, emphasizing his opposition to the spread of slavery. Also argues that Barber misrepresented Horace Greeley's opinion of the bill, and thinks the bill's unpopularity was due to the fact that it was misunderstood. Defends Daniel Webster (Barber asserted Webster would not vote for California as a free state). Discusses other facts of the Senate, mentioning Dawson, Bradbury, Walker, and Pearce (presumably Senators William Dawson, James W. Bradbury, Isaac P. Walker, and James A. Pearce) in relation to the omnibus bill (regarding the extension of slavery).
Phelps was a Senator from Vermont 1839-1854. Barrett, from Ludlow, Vermont, was a lawyer, teacher, and the editor of several newspapers.
[excerpts] [draft]
The Brandon Post has recently been placed in my hands of which some three columns are devoted to me in particular those of E. D. Barber...
I am not disposed to notice his preamble or his threats... the main object of this is to expose his gross misrepresentations in regard to the 'Clayton bill.' This is perhaps unnecessary so far as the public opinion of that measure is concerned...
In the first place he quotes the remarks of Mr. Clayton upon the occasion of reporting the bill (in July 1848) as illustrating not only the character of the bill but my personal views of it...
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