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.

Jackson, Richard H. (fl. 1861-1864) to Father

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 #: GLC07705.007 Author/Creator: Jackson, Richard H. (fl. 1861-1864) Place Written: Riker's Island, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 2 June 1861 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 24.8 x 19.9 cm. Order a Copy

He is glad to finally be leaving Rikers Island, and says he would have deserted if they had been there one more week. Once they reach Fort Monroe, everyone will have to have a rifle. He insists his father draw his pay every month as it will be of no use to him.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources