MacKay, John (1805-1849) to Eliza Anne Mackay
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.
A high-resolution version of this object is available for registered users. LOG IN
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07376 Author/Creator: MacKay, John (1805-1849) Place Written: Fort Mitchell, Alabama Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 October 1830 Pagination: 3 p. : address ; 25.4 x 20.4 cm. Order a Copy
Mentions an upcoming camp meeting in Georgia and sending money to his tailor. Discusses protecting Cherokee lands from white intruders, mentioning the capture of "200 gold diggers." In reference to the Indian Removal Act of 1830, he speculates that "The Indians have not yet been informed of the Presidents decision towards them" and mentions petitioning that might change Jackson's mind. Relates a story from an Indian about James McQueen, a Scotsman who married a Tallassee woman, and discusses interacial kinship ties (John's mother's maiden name was McQueen). Also contains family related news. In a postscript, he ponders growing some whiskers, mentioning his sisters disparaging remarks about those of his friend and former West Point classmate, "Mr. Lee," referring to Robert E. Lee. Written at Fort Mitchell to his mother.
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.