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.

Ellis, Henry (1721-1806) to William H. Lyttelton (marked "copy")

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05228.01 Author/Creator: Ellis, Henry (1721-1806) Place Written: Savannah, Georgia Type: Letter signed Date: 7 December 1759 Pagination: 2 p. ; 32.5 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Georgia Governor Ellis responds to South Carolina Governor Lyttelton's letter about illicit trade with the Cherokee Indians occurring in Georgia. Expresses his desire to discipline those involved with selling arms and ammunition to the Cherokee. Mentions John Williams as one of the people who they have information on; Ellis indicates that he is "determined to treat him with Severity." Also notes that he has sent a circular letter to the merchants supplying the traders (see GLC05228.02) which he hopes will deter them. Discusses the possibility of enlisting the aid of the Creeks in fighting against the Cherokee. Notes that he has sent troops to take command of fort Augusta to defend it against the Indians. Written during the French and Indian War.

Ellis, Henry, 1721-1806
Lyttelton, William Henry Lyttelton, Baron, 1724-1808

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources