Key, Francis Scott (1779-1843) to unknown
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07483.02 Author/Creator: Key, Francis Scott (1779-1843) Place Written: Georgetown, Maryland Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 September 1823 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 25.3 x 20.9 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Key, the penman of the Star Spangled Banner and a founding member of the American Colonization Society, as an attorney to an unknown reverend. Says he would like to join him on the 30th, but cannot because court will be in session. Appears to write on efforts to assist the American Colonization Society. Hopes his correspondent can help supply missionaries. Comments that a Mr. Ayres is making preparations for a school modeled after "the plan of Mr. Johnson at Regents Town" that will keep African captives and boys together. Says they will be put under the charge of Lott Carey, a famous former American slave who journeyed to Africa as a missionary and teacher. Expects 11 captured Africans will "go out in the Fidelity." Ends letter by asking "how is it that the recorder says nothing for Africa & our cause?"
[excerpt]
Dr Ayres says he is making preparations for a school. He means to adopt in some measure the plan of Mr. Johnson at Regent's Town, & keep the captured Africans & the boys together. - He has put them for the present under the charge of Lott Carey. - The young man you speak of will be eminently useful, and I trust the Lord will preserve him. - I expect eleven captured africans (some of them originally from the neighbourhood of Mesurado) will go out in the Fidelity. - How is it that the recorder says nothing for Africa & our cause?
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