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.

Brown, John Jr. (1821-1895) to Jason Brown and others

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08906 Author/Creator: Brown, John Jr. (1821-1895) Place Written: Lecompton, Kansas Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16-19 August 1856 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 24.5 x 19 cm. Order a Copy

Discusses the fighting between pro-slavey and anti-slavery activists in Kansas. Explains that "Events of the most stirring character are now passing within hearing distance...more than 200 shots have been fired within the past half hour, and within a mile of our Camp. Have just learned that some 80 of our free state men have 'pitched in' to a pro-slavery Camp this side of Lecompton." Provides a rich description of both current events and happenings over the past month, both their own actions and those of the pro-slavey men. Recounts the capture of "The notorious Col Titus who only a day or two since was heard to declare 'that Free State men had only two weeks longer to remain in Kansas.' " Brown continues the letter on 19 August 1856, giving more details of the capture of Henry Titus and a wound he sustained. Comments that "This series of victories has caused the greatest fear among the proslavery men. Announces that Lecompton was surrendered to the anti-slavery forces. Praises Colonel Jim Lane and describes him as "an omnipresent dread to the Ruffians." Asks his brother to urge free-staters to enlist. Written from a U.S. Cavalry Camp near Lecompton, Kansas.

Brown, John Jr., 1821-1895
Brown, Jason, 1823-1912
Brown, John, 1800-1859

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