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.

Morse, Samuel Finley Breese (1791-1872) to Catherine A. Pattison

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06327 Author/Creator: Morse, Samuel Finley Breese (1791-1872) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 9 July 1837 Pagination: 3 p. : address ; 25.2 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy

Apologizes profusely for not writing back sooner and expresses his fondness for her and her friendship. States he has been consumed with perfecting his telegraph, which is "nearly ready to put into operation." Writes very personally and asks about Pattison's summer plans. Advises that if she goes to Saratoga, she should not expect to experience the same pleasures as last year, possibly referring to a former love. Discusses parties he has attended and mutual acquaintances. Addressed to Pattison in Troy, New York.

Morse is credited with inventing the telegraph and Morse code. In 1844, he sent the first telegraphic message, from Baltimore to Washington, D.C. He was also an accomplished artist and politician.

Morse, Samuel Finley Breese, 1791-1872
Pattison, Catherine A., fl. 1837

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