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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.

Howard, Oliver Otis (1830-1909) [to a captain]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04056 Author/Creator: Howard, Oliver Otis (1830-1909) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 January 1862 Pagination: 2 p. ; 25.1 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Possibly written in Virginia. Howard describes a recent foraging expedition. Reports that a Squadron of Cavalry under Major Beveridge 8th Illinois was sent to his Head Quarters (possibly referring to John Lourie Beveridge). Recently went to "Edsel's Hill." Saw the Widow Fitzhugh, whom he claims has protection from Generals [Levit?], Blenker, and Franklin (possibly Louis Blenker and William Buel Franklin). Notes that the widow has no forage or stock beyond what she needs. Mentions Burt's Station. Comments on stock and supplies, mentioning civilians living near the Little River Turnpike.

Howard, Oliver Otis, 1830-1909
Blenker, Louis, 1812-1863
Franklin, William Buel, 1823-1903
Beveridge, John Lourie, 1824-1910

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