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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.

Breck, Samuel (1747-1809) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.05197 Author/Creator: Breck, Samuel (1747-1809) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 October 1791 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 22.8 x 18.7 cm. Order a Copy

References Knox's letter of 9 October (GLC02437.05189). Thanks him for looking into the housing market in Philadelphia, and agrees with him that "the extravagant high rents will produce a sufficient number of Houses to accomodate all who wish them, on moderate terms." As he has no business to attend to, will visit Philadelphia in the spring. Plans to either hire, purchase, or build a home. Notes that he is willing to consider Mr. Simmons's house if they can agree on a price. Explains other options in Philadelphia and goes on to lament the high taxes in Boston. Relates that it is too late for him to get hired as a bank director, but vacancies might open next year.

Breck, Samuel, 1747-1809
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

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