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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.

Oneida and Cayuga Indians Proposition to the Commissioners of Albany with an answer

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03107.02076 Author/Creator: Oneida and Cayuga Indians Place Written: Albany, New York Type: Manuscript document Date: 1704/05/10 Pagination: 1p. + docket 26.9 x 20.6 cm Order a Copy

The Sachems report that they are resolved not to let a priest or French man live among them, and state that they are returning to their castles for security. They also complain of the lack of security offered by the English, and request more arms and ammunition. In their answer, the Commissioners thank the Sachems for their affirmation of the covenant chain, and agree with their mistrust of the French. They also agree to supply the Indians with the best powder and ammunition so that they may avenge the death of 5 Indians.

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