An Overview
Support for this project provided by L. Dennis Shapiro through The Arzak Foundation.
Abstract
This subject guide is an overview of all known letters written by U.S. presidents found in the Massachusetts Historical Society's manuscript and autograph collections.
Introduction
This subject guide brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters written by U.S. presidents found in the Massachusetts Historical Society's manuscript and autograph collections. The guide is not a detailed inventory of every collection, but an overview of the Society's presidential holdings.
The Massachusetts Historical Society is famous for the thousands of letters of Presidents John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Thomas Jefferson held in the Adams Family Papers and the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts. This guide describes more than 3,500 letters found in other collections written by all U.S. presidents through George H. W. Bush. While the guide emphasizes letters written during each president's term of office, it includes an overview of letters written throughout the lifetime of each president. Although not the main emphasis, the guide also lists some manuscript copies of letters and other important writings such as Washington's Newburgh Address and Jefferson's Declaration of Independence. The lists of related materials note the existence of printed presidential papers, letters, and works, as well as other manuscript repositories that hold presidential papers.
As this guide was created for research purposes, documents such as commissions, circulars, and materials containing just signatures with no additional content are not included. Because this guide focuses on letters written by the U.S. presidents, other writings (speeches, pamphlets, books, etc.), artifacts, portraits, photographs, and letters written to presidents are not included.
The guide is organized into 45 series (one series for each president listed chronologically). Within each series, there can be up to six subseries listed as follows: presidential papers, collections, items, autographs, other materials, and related materials. Letters are described at the collection level (listed alphabetically by collection name) when two or more letters can be found within that collection. When collections primarily consist of papers by the president, they are listed under the presidential papers (i.e. the Adams Family Papers for John Adams and John Quincy Adams). Items are listed chronologically for collections that hold only one presidential letter. Autograph collections are listed alphabetically and include item- and collection-level descriptions, depending on the amount of presidential letters contained in each collection. Descriptions for the first three subseries include descriptions of recipients, dates, and subjects of the majority of letters found in the collections, except for links to autograph collections that already have an itemized guide online. The last two subseries, other materials and related materials, are listed alphabetically and emphasize additional materials held at the MHS, including manuscript copies of letters and other important documents written by presidents (other materials) and published materials and manuscript collections at other institutions (related materials) that are not included in the first three subseries. The notes section used throughout this guide provides information about additional formats, including microfilm, publication, and photocopies, as well as where originals are stored.
To find more information on these resources or to request materials described in this overview, readers may consult several MHS resources. The Society's online catalog, ABIGAIL, contains collection-level descriptions of the Society's manuscript collections and many of the photograph collections. Published and unpublished manuscript and photograph collection guides contain more detailed information than the descriptions found in ABIGAIL. Many of these guides are fully searchable at the MHS website here, and more are added on a regular basis. The collection-level records in ABIGAIL also indicate if there is a guide available for the collection. Copies of paper guides that have not yet been converted to electronic format are available in the MHS reading room.
The manuscript card catalog contains descriptions of approximately 320,000 individual items; very few of these appear in ABIGAIL. The published Catalog of Manuscripts of the Massachusetts Historical Society (G. K. Hall, 1969; 1980 supplement), available in more than 150 U.S. libraries, consists of photocopies of these item catalog cards. Although almost all of the collection-level descriptions in the Catalog have been revised or superseded in ABIGAIL, the published catalog remains a useful guide for descriptions of more than 300,000 individual manuscript items. The MHS card catalog, now available on microfiche in the Society's reading room, contains the cards in the published Catalog, as well as many additions and corrections.
Detailed Description
I. George Washington (1732-1799; President: 1789-1797)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 600 letters written by George Washington. The majority of the letters in the Society's collection relate to Washington's command of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, including over 300 in the papers of William Heath. There are a few letters during Washington's presidency, including letters to Vice President John Adams, to historian Jeremy Belknap, and to Postmaster General, Secretary of War, and Secretary of State Timothy Pickering. The remainder of Washington's letters are scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the William Livingston family papers, Ward family papers, Warren-Adams papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Washington's letters deal with military issues, including military supplies, intelligence, general orders, and appointments; to political issues, such as advice to President John Adams, federal appointments, constitutional reform, state responsibilities, and Congressional power; and to personal issues, such as Washington's desire to retire. The MHS also holds a letter from Washington to Timothy Pickering, written a few weeks before Washington's death (14 Dec. 1799), that is one of his last letters.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
24 letters (1776-1789) from George Washington regarding military issues, such as the lack of guns and men, military intelligence, military advice about the possibility of France invading the United States, creating an army, and the role of foreign-born men in the army; national issues, such as a national university, John Adams's administration, and immigration; and personal matters. Recipients include John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Peter Ellenno, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox, James McHenry, and Lt. Col. [William Stephens] Smith.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Jeremy Belknap papers (Ms. N-1827)
Four letters (1785-1798) from George Washington to Jeremy Belknap regarding Belknap's History of New Hampshire, American Biography, and histories of Virginia. One letter from George Washington to the ladies of Philadelphia regarding their work and patriotism (copy).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-380. Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
Guide to the Jeremy Belknap papers available online.
3. Bowdoin and Temple papers in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Six letters (1780-1789) from George Washington to James Bowdoin regarding the proposed French expedition to Halifax, the fall of Charleston, the need for reinforcements, and federal appointments.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. The Bowdoin and Temple papers are found in Series V of the Winthrop family papers. Selections published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 9 (1897), and 7th series, vol. 6 (1907).
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
4. Henry Herbert Edes collection (Ms. N-1156)
Three letters (1778-1779) from George Washington: two to Thomas Marshall regarding military matters, including uniforms, regiments, and Captain Samuel King, and one to George Gilpin regarding taxes.
Notes: Original of the letter to George Gilpin (1787) held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
Guide to the Henry Herbert Edes collection available online.
5. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Four letters (1777-1792) from George Washington regarding troop morale, constitutional reform, presidential problems, and Washington's desire to retire from public life. Correspondents include John Jay, Nathaniel Gorham, and James Madison.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
6. William Heath papers (Ms. N-1386)
Over 300 letters (1775-1783) from George Washington regarding military matters, general orders, and appointments.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-205. Selections published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 5th series, vol. 4 (1878), and 7th series, vols. 4 and 5 (1904-5). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the William Heath papers available online.
7. Inserted in Washington Irving's Life of George Washington (New York, 1855) (Guild Library)
Three letters (undated, 1757, 1781) from George Washington regarding Native American relations and movements of the French fleet. Correspondents include Governors Horatio Sharpe and Thomas S. Lee.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
8. Benjamin Lincoln papers (Ms. N-830)
Two letters (one a photostat) (1777, 1778) from George Washington regarding the arrival of British troops in Delaware, military orders, and a gift of epaulets from a "gentleman of France." Correspondents include General Putnam and Benjamin Lincoln.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-40. Collection also includes a number of letters from Lincoln to George Washington.
Guide to the Benjamin Lincoln papers available online.
9. William Livingston family collection (Special Colls. Livingston, George Washington letters)
28 letters (1776-1777) from George Washington to William Livingston regarding military matters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-12. George Washington letters have been removed from the William Livingston family papers to Special Collections. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the William Livingston family collection available online.
10. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
173 letters (1776-1799) from George Washington to Timothy Pickering. The letters (mostly copies) pertain to military matters and Pickering's posts as adjutant general and quartermaster general. Also included are letters regarding Pickering's role in relations with the Senecas and Iroquois and his posts as postmaster general, secretary of war, and secretary of state.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
11. Josiah Quincy autograph collection in the Quincy family papers (Ms. N-764)
Two letters (undated, 1782) from George Washington regarding military matters. Correspondents include Master Charles Carter Lee (postscript only) and General Henry Knox.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-347, as part of the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers.
Guide to the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers available online. Guide to the Quincy family papers available online.
12. John Thomas papers (N-1663)
Three letters (1775, 1798) from George Washington (Cambridge): two to John Thomas regarding military and business matters, and one to John Sinclair regarding the Suffolk, which was captured by the French.
Notes: Published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 2nd series, vol. 18, p. 426. 23 July 1775 letter accompanied by printed copy. Originals of letters held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
Guide to the John Thomas papers available online.
13. Ward family papers (Ms. N-1724)
Nine letters (1776) from George Washington regarding military and political matters. The majority of correspondence is with Continental Army officer Gen. Artemas Ward. Includes one box of letters from George Washington and his aides (1775-1780).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-209. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Ward family papers available online.
14. Warren-Adams papers (Special Colls. Warren-Adams)
Six letters (1775-1785) from George Washington to James Warren regarding Benjamin Hichborn, intercepted letters of John Adams, personal matters, recruiting in Massachusetts, state responsibilities, currency depreciation, Congressional powers, agricultural societies, and improvements in Virginia.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-164. Most letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vols. 72-73 (1917, 1925). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Item list and index included in collection.
Guide to the Warren-Adams papers available online.
15. Meshech Weare papers (Ms. N-78)
Two letters (1779) from George Washington to Meshech Weare regarding military and political matters, including the threat of spies from Canada.
Notes: Letters are copies. Also available on microfilm, P-77. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Meshech Weare papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington)
Letter from George Washington (Winchester) to Gov. Robert Dinwiddie regarding military affairs, 17 Oct. 1755.
Notes: Also available as photostat, Photostats 1755 Oct. 17 (photocopy).
2. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1775 May 16)
Letter from Gen. George Washington to the Committee of Fairfax County about choosing a temporary substitute for him as delegate to the Virginia Convention, his hopes for unanimity in Congress, and news about the military situation in Boston, 16 May 1775.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
3. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1775 Nov. 4)
Letter to Josiah Quincy (addressed "Joseph") regarding Washington's military scheme for blocking Boston Harbor during the Siege of Boston, 4 Nov. 1775.
4. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1776 Apr. 25)
Letter to Josiah Quincy about the defenses for Boston Harbor, 25 Apr. 1776.
5. Ward family papers II (Ms. S-119)
Letter from George Washington to Artemas Ward, written to Ward as commander of the American forces in Boston, 16 June 1776.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
6. John Warren papers (Ms. N-838 Tall)
Letter from George Washington (Morristown Head Quarters) to Dr. John Warren regarding Dr. Warren's new hospital position, 23 Feb. 1777.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
7. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Letter from George Washington (Middlebrook) to the commanding officer of the 14th Virginia Regiment about choosing four men for the company to serve as his (Washington's) guard, 4 June 1777.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
8. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1777 July 4)
Letter written by Gen. George Washington from headquarters at Morristown, New Jersey, to Gen. John Sullivan regarding directions for opposing an expected movement of the enemy up the North River, 4 July 1777.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
9. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from George Washington to Col. Morgan regarding a report that a large fleet had been sighted, 10 Aug. 1777.
10. Henry Herbert Edes collection (Ms. N-1156)
Dinner invitation from George Washington to Capt. Christopher Marshall, 1780?.
Guide to the Henry Herbert Edes collection available online.
11. Lamb family papers (Ms. N-1547)
George Washington (New Windsor, Conn.) order to Jabez Huntington, sheriff of Windham Co., to discharge Benjamin Howling from custody, 6 Apr. 1781.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
Guide to the Lamb family papers available online.
12. Caleb Davis papers (Ms. N-1096)
Letter from George Washington to Caleb Davis thanking the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Captain Sampson for the previous letter and gift given to him on the 5th of June, 1 Aug. 1781.
Guide to the Caleb Davis papers available online.
13. Special Collections (Photostats 1782 June 5)
Letter from Gen. George Washington to Gen. Benjamin Lincoln seeking the latter's opinion and advice regarding Gen. Moses Hazen's choice of Capt. Charles Asgill to be executed in retaliation for the hanging of Capt. Joshua Huddy, 5 June 1782.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington. Published, with minor changes, in The Writings of George Washington, vol. 24 (Feb.-Aug. 1782), pp. 305-306.
14. De Windt family papers (Ms. N-1116)
Letter written by George Washington recommending William Stephens Smith for consular service, 24 June 1782.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. De Windt family.
15. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington)
Letter from George Washington (Newburgh, N.Y.) to William Channing asking Channing, attorney general of Newport, R.I., to provide "any civilities which he may be kind enough to show" Washington's nephew, who is moving to Rhode Island for health reasons, 7 June 1783. The letter also includes a note dated 5 Sep. 1873 from Walter Channing (1786-1876), passing the letter on to his brother.
16. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1785 May 18)
Letter from George Washington to Richard Sprigg introducing artist Robert Edge Pine, 18 May 1785.
17. Tudor-Adams correspondence (Ms. N-1685)
Letter from George Washington regarding Shays' Rebellion, 18 Aug. 1788.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Tudor-Adams. Items published in Papers of John Adams and Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 2nd series, vol. 8 (1819). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
18. Inserted in James Parton, Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin (New York, 1865) (Guild Library)
Letter from George Washington to John E. Howard regarding two acts, one starting the Department of the Treasury and another clearing rebels from legal recourse, 11 Sep. 1789.
Notes: Not cataloged in ABIGAIL. Item individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
19. Robert Treat Paine papers (Ms. N-641)
Letter from George Washington to William Cushing about the latter's appointment to the Supreme Court, 30 Sep. 1789.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-392. Located in volume 4.
Guide to the Robert Treat Paine papers available online.
20. Adams-Hull collection (Ms. N-1776 All Gens. Adams-Hull)
Note from George Washington [in Tobias Lear's hand] to John and Abigail Adams offering a ticket for his box at the theater, 24 Nov. [1789].
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Hull.
Guide to the Adams-Hull collection available online.
21. Caleb Strong papers (Ms. N-990)
Notice from George Washington to Caleb Strong regarding the convening of the Senate, 1 Mar. 1791.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-93.
Guide to the Caleb Strong papers available online.
22. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1793 Mar. 1)
Letter from George Washington to Roger Sherman regarding a special session of the Senate on March 4th, 1 Mar. 1793.
23. Wigglesworth family papers (Ms. N-114)
Letter from George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln regarding the publishing of an advertisement in the Boston Gazette and payment, 11 Feb. 1796.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
Guide to the Wigglesworth family papers available online.
24. Wendell family papers (Ms. N-128)
Letter from George Washington (Mount Vernon) to Timothy Pickering regarding a copy of a letter previously sent to Pickering, 4 Jan. 1799.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington. Also available on microfilm, P-347, as part of the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers.
Guide to the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers available online. Guide to the Wendell family papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Mary Anna Bigelow autograph collection (Ms. N-1842)
Letter from George Washington to the selectmen and city of Boston regarding American Arms and Washington's thanks for support, May? 1776.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Bigelow. Also available on microfilm, P-258.
2. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1754-1799) from George Washington regarding monetary, personal, and political matters, including the Revolutionary War.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. Foster family autograph collection (Special Colls. Foster)
Notes: Guide to the Foster family autograph collection available online.
4. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Three letters (1776-1789) from George Washington, collected by Charles Edward French, regarding the defense of Philadelphia, livestock, and the appointment of Henry Dearborn as marshal. Recipients include Major-General Putnam, Benjamin Grymes, and Henry Dearborn.
5. Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
George Washington (Mount Vernon) to Mr. Joseph Anthony about his check for a subscription for John Trumbull's prints, 13 Nov. 1799.
Notes: Letter accompanied by an engraved portrait of Washington. Item individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. Hannah Farnham Sawyer Lee autograph collection (Ms. N-2295)
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Lee.
Guide to the Hannah Farnham Sawyer Lee autograph collection available online.
7. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Three letters (1775-1791) from George Washington regarding military matters, including supply orders and Connecticut troops, and a letter to Thomas Jefferson regarding a ciphered letter.
Notes: Typed transcriptions included with the originals. Originals of the 1779 and 1791 letters held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
8. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from George Washington (Morristown) to an unidentified recipient ordering that a return of officers and men of the Connecticut line be made to Governor Trumbull of Connecticut. Signed by Washington, 6 Dec. 1779.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
9. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Eleven George Washington letters (1754-1796) regarding a retelling of events during the battle at Great Meadows in the French and Indian War (copy), the state of the war (1777), marching orders, a survey of inspection, personal letters to Edward Pendleton, and Washington's thoughts on retirement.
Notes: Some are early or contemporary copies. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
10. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Three letters and one text fragment (undated, 1776, 1788) from George Washington regarding military strategy at Long Island Sound, the election of John Adams, federal sentiment, and theories in agriculture. Also included is a fragment of a text copied by Washington from an unidentified author meditating on the tendency of man and the effects this will have on the Constitution and the laws and rights laid down by the government.
Notes: Originals of two letters (1788) and undated fragment held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
11. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from George Washington (Mount Vernon) to an unidentified recipient regarding a missed meeting, 24 Aug. 1785.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
12. Roger Wolcott autograph collection (Special Colls. R. Wolcott)
Two letters (1776, 1781) from George Washington to the Huntington family regarding rumors of assassination attempts, military strategy, and Ebenezer Huntington's command. Recipients include Jabez and Ebenezer Huntington.
Notes: Guide to the Roger Wolcott autograph collection available online.
D. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Address to the Cherokee Nation, removed from Timothy Pickering papers (Special Colls. Washington oversize)
"Talk of the President of the United States to his beloved Men of the Cherokee Nation," a draft of a speech urging the Cherokee people to turn to farming and domestic economy to support themselves and offering favorable relations with the government in exchange for cooperation with the president's suggestions. Printed document (possibly a proof) with annotations by Timothy Pickering, then secretary of state, 1796.
2. Jeremy Belknap papers (Ms. N-1827)
Two copies of letters (1782, 1794) from George Washington regarding admission of Vermont to the Union and Belknap's American Biography.
Notes: Some material also available on microfilm, P-380. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. 1782 letter location: 161.A.95. 1794 letter location: 161.B.122. 9 May 1794 letter published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 4, p. 136, 137.
Guide to the Jeremy Belknap papers available online.
3. William Cushing papers (Ms. N-1069)
Letter from George Washington (New York) to the members of the Supreme Court asking for suggestions as to the organization of the judiciary, 3 Apr. 1790 (copy).
Notes: Copy held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Washington.
4. John Davis papers (Ms. N-1097)
George Washington (Morristown) to the Committee of Cooperation regarding Washington's proposal presented to the committee and its acceptance, 25 May 1780 (copy).
5. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Manuscript copy of the diary of George Washington (1 Oct. 1789-10 Mar. 1790, 12 Mar. 1790-11 June 1791).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
6. Horace N. Fisher papers (Ms. N-1223)
Letters sent by George Washington to Artemas Ward and copied by Horace N. Fisher (1775-1776) (copies).
Notes: Guide to the Horace N. Fisher papers available online.
7. Henry Knox papers owned by the New England Historic Genealogical Society and deposited at the Massachusetts Historical Society (P-17, microfilm only)
A large collection of George Washington correspondence to and from various people from 1775-1798, as well as addresses, invitations, and military-related material.
Notes: Unpublished guide and published index to the microfilm edition available in the library. The papers were deposited at the Massachusetts Historical Society by the New England Historic Genealogical Society in 1910. They were removed in Dec. 1992 and are now part of the Gilder Lehrman Collection on deposit at the New York Historical Society.
8. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1750 Apr. 14)
Survey of a tract of land in Fairfax County, Va., prepared by George Washington for James Smith. Includes a description of the land and a sketch of the property, 14 Apr. 1750.
Notes: This is one of the oldest documents from George Washington in the MHS collections.
9. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1754 Apr. 27)
Letter from George Washington (Wills Creek, Pa.) to Lieutenant Governor James Hamilton of Pennsylvania, 27 Apr. 1754, regarding the surrender of a fort being constructed in Wills Creek on the Monongahela River to the French. The copy was examined by Richard Peters, secretary to the governor, 6 May 1754 (manuscript copy).
Notes: Published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 1st series, vol. 6, pp. 139-140.
10. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1760 May 8)
Promissory note to George Washington, signed W. Crawford, 8 May 1760. All but Crawford's signature is in Washington's handwriting.
Notes: This item is bound after the May 12 item in the Miscellaneous Bound photocopies.
11. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1775 June 18)
Copy of a letter from George Washington to his wife Martha, telling her of his appointment as commander in chief of the American army, 18 June 1775.
12. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1780 June 5)
Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Gen. George Washington about Massachusetts' willingness to participate in measures for the security of Coos County, New Hampshire, 5 June 1780.
13. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1775 Nov. 2)
Letter from George Washington to James Warren concerning the lack of firewood for the Continental troops and the consequences that may result, 2 Nov. 1775 (two transcripts only).
14. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1777 Jan. 13)
Letter from George Washington (Morristown) to Sir William Howe proposing the exchange or release on parole of Gen. Lee and complaints about British treatment of American prisoners, 13 Jan. 1777 (copy).
15. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1778 Oct. 20)
Letter from President George Washington (Fredericksburg) to Gen. William Heath regarding a threatened movement from New York by the enemy, 20 Oct. 1778 (copy).
16. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1792 May 1)
Letter from President George Washington (Philadelphia) to the Earl of Buchan about a portrait of the former, by Robinson, and acknowledgement of a gift from the latter, 1 May 1792 (copy).
17. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1792 June 20)
Letter from President George Washington (Philadelphia) to the Earl of Buchan acknowledging the reception of "The Bee," 20 June 1792 (copy).
18. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1793 Apr. 22)
Letter from President George Washington (Philadelphia) to the Earl of Buchan regarding future prospects of the United States, the works of Dr. Anderson, and the Fairfax family, 22 Apr. 1793 (copy).
19. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1793 Nov. 8)
Letter from President George Washington (Germantown) to the Earl of Buchan introducing Mr. Lear, 8 Nov. 1793 (copy).
20. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1796 Feb. 20)
Letter from President George Washington (Philadelphia) to the Earl of Buchan discussing the plan for encouraging emigration, 20 Feb. 1796 (copy).
21. Robert Treat Paine papers (Ms. N-641)
One extract and one copy of a letter (1777, 1778) from George Washington regarding an attack on Germantown. Correspondents include Gen. Joseph Spencer and an unidentified member of Congress.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-392. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Robert Treat Paine papers available online.
22. Daniel Parker papers (Ms. N-657)
Letter from George Washington (Tappan) to Robert Morris introducing Daniel Parker, one of the contractors for the army, and regarding his proposal for paying the troops. Contemporary copy not in Washington's hand, 12 Mar. 1783.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-762.
23. Francis Parkman papers (Ms. N-645 Tall)
Copies of ten letters (1755-1758) from George Washington. These letters are copies of documents held by other repositories in Canada and France, transcribed by Francis Parkman.
Notes: References to individual volume numbers and items within them are included in the MHS card catalog.
Guide to the Francis Parkman papers available online.
24. Sedgwick family papers (Ms. N-851)
George Washington (Newburgh) condolence to Lady Stirling, 20 Jan. 1785 (copy).
Notes: Guide to the Sedgwick family papers available online.
25. Special Collections (Special Colls. Washington Newburgh, oversize)
"To the general, field & other officers assembled at the new building pursuant to the general order of the 11th. instant March." Original manuscript of George Washington's Newburgh Address delivered in Newburgh, New York, 15 Mar. 1783. The manuscript is bound together with the "Report of Proceedings in Meeting of the Officers assembled on 15th Mar. 1783," which was recorded by Major Samuel Shaw, secretary for the meeting, and signed by General Horatio Gates, 15 Mar. 1783.
Notes: Also available as photocopy, Ms. S-197. Published with facsimile in George Washington's Newburgh Address (Boston: MHS, 1966).
Digital image and transcription available online.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Correspondence of the American Revolution (Ms. N-950)
Manuscript of "The Correspondence of the American Revolution: Being Letters of Eminent Men to George Washington, from the Time of his Taking Command of the Army to the End of his Presidency," edited by Jared Sparks (Boston: Little, Brown, 1853). The four volumes contain the manuscript copies of the letters with editorial notations, which were used for publication.
2. Letters of John Hancock, correspondence between George Washington and John Hancock at the Library of Congress
Collection of letters (1774-1777) between John Hancock and George Washington.
Notes: Originally owned by the MHS, but given to the Library of Congress in 1925. See Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 58 (Apr. 1925).
3. Ledger A of George Washington (Boston: Massachusetts Historical Society, 1922) (B-Lg. Washington)
Copy of George Washington's Ledger A, original belonging to the Library of Congress (photostat copy).
Notes: Three volumes. Alphabetical index of names at beginning of ledger, vol. 1. Copied from the original in the Library of Congress.
4. Benjamin Lincoln papers at Houghton Library, Harvard University
Collection includes 55 letters from George Washington to Lincoln.
Notes: Finding aid for the Benjamin Lincoln papers at Houghton Library available online.
5. The Papers of George Washington (Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1983-) (B Washington)
Published volumes of letters and papers of George Washington, including volumes of letters written to and from Washington from 1748-1799, the Colonial Series (1744-1775), the Revolutionary War Series (1775-1783), the Confederation Series (1784-1788), the Presidential Series (1788-1797), and the Retirement Series (1797-1799).
Notes: See the website for The Washington Papersand the digital edition of the volumes.
6. George Washington papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the George Washington papers at the Library of Congress.
II. John Adams (1735-1826; President: 1797-1801)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds the most letters written by John Adams of any institution or private collector. The Adams Family Papers is the main source for Adams's letters which covers over four generations of the Adams family spanning 1639 to 1889. The MHS also holds letters from Adams in over sixty other collections, including the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts, the Warren-Adams papers, and the Winthrop family papers. The Adams Papers Editorial Project, also found at the MHS, seeks to publish volumes of materials written to, from, and by the Adams family broken into four series: Diaries, Adams Family Correspondence, General Correspondence and Other Papers of the Adams Statesmen, and Adams Family Portraits. Materials for the project are found both in the MHS collections and other collections around the world. The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
A. Presidential papers
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Correspondence, letterbooks, diaries, literary manuscripts, speeches, legal and business papers, and other papers (1639-1899) written and received by John Adams. Includes letters to Abigail Adams.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Adams family additions (Ms. N-1776 Adams family All Gens.)
Two boxes of individual letters (1652-1961) written by several generations of the family. Includes letters written by John Adams, Abigail Adams, Thomas Boylston Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Louisa Catherine Adams.
Notes: Originals held in Special Collections. Most items have been individually cataloged. Items are filed alphabetically by author and then by date.
3. Adams-Hull collection (Ms. N-1776 All Gens Adams-Hull)
One box of the Adams-Hull family papers (1775-1856) contains correspondence mostly written to John Adams during his vice presidency and presidency and a small number of letters written by Abigail Adams. Subjects include political matters, replies to dinner invitations, and letters of introduction.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Hull.
Guide to the Adams-Hull collection available online.
4. Adams-Waterhouse letters (Ms. N-1776 Adams-Waterhouse)
One narrow box of letters (and typescripts) (1784-1822) from John Adams to his lifelong friend Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse. Among the subjects are his political philosophies and opponents, the War of 1812, relations with France, peace and preparedness, the need for a Navy, natural history, education, and various scholarly subjects. In addition, there is one letter from John Adams to John F. Waterhouse, Benjamin's son.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Waterhouse. Some of John Adams's letters published in Statesman and Friend: Correspondence of John Adams with Benjamin Waterhouse, 1784-1822, ed. by Worthington Chauncey Ford (Boston: Little Brown, 1927).
5. Adams-Welsh correspondence (Ms. N-1776 1st Gen Adams-Welsh)
One box of correspondence (1790-1830) of John Adams written as U.S. vice president in New York and Philadelphia, and John Quincy Adams as minister to the Netherlands and Prussia, to Dr. Thomas Welsh. Letters discuss opinions on politics in America from John Adams and in Europe from John Quincy Adams, the French Revolution and possible war with France, family matters, and general news. Also included are letters from John Adams, Abigail Adams, and Jeremiah Bailey to Harriet Welsh discussing family news and the end of the War of 1812.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Welsh. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. Letters from John Adams to his son Charles Adams (Ms. N-1776 1st Gen John Adams letters to Charles)
One box of letters (1790-1797) sent by John Adams to his second son Charles Adams in New York discussing foreign and domestic politics, the French Revolution, family news, history, and daily activities. Also includes letters from Charles to John in typescript form.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. John Adams, Letters to Charles.
7. Tudor-Adams correspondence (Ms. N-1685)
One narrow box of letters (1774-1801) from John Adams, written from Philadelphia while Adams was a member of the Continental Congress (1774-1777), relate to the break from England, the progress of the war, and the status of the Continental Army where Tudor served as judge advocate general, and other political concerns; and from Paris, Amsterdam (1781), and Auteuil (1785). Adams's letters from New York (1789) as vice president concern the philosophy behind the new government, the relationship of the states to a central government, and other political matters; and from Washington as president (1800-1801) on national political matters, in particular his relationship with Alexander Hamilton.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Tudor-Adams. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Items published in Papers of John Adams and Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 2nd series, vol. 8 (1819).
8. Warren-Adams papers (Special Colls. Warren-Adams)
Four narrow boxes of correspondence (1767-1822) primarily between James and Mercy Otis Warren and John and Abigail Adams. The bulk of the correspondence was written before, during, and after the Revolutionary War and documents their role in shaping the new government. The letters detail events such as the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Lexington, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Warrens and Adamses also discuss political opinions and activities, especially regarding the new Constitution and Confederation, their families, and social activities.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-164. Most letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vols. 72-73 (1917, 1925). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Item list and index included in the collection.
Guide to the Warren-Adams papers available online.
B. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremy Belknap papers (Ms. N-1827)
11 letters (1789-1823) to Jeremy Belknap discuss the preservation of historical papers created by United States officials, slavery in Massachusetts, and Dr. Kippis, as well as to Aaron Bancroft on Rev. Bancroft's sermons and Adams's history with theological controversy.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-380 (location: 161.B, 161.F), except for 1823 letter to Aaron Bancroft (location: 161.J). Some items published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 5th and 6th series, and in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 2nd series, vol. 8, p. 91. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Jeremy Belknap papers available online.
2. Boylston family papers (Ms. N-4)
17 letters (1819-1826) from John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston regarding Boylston's and Adams's health, Adams's writings, Montezillo, family visits, the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention (1820), Jonathan Russell, John Quincy Adams, Boylston's idea of starting an asylum for those "in despair," John Adams's contributions to the town of Quincy, the removal of Mr. Bradford from the Massachusetts secretary's office, elections, and personal matters.
Notes: Guide to the Boylston family papers available online.
3. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Three letters (1788-1797) from John Adams to Thomas Jefferson regarding a tavern bill when John Adams was in Amsterdam, a request to pay John Adams's account regarding the previous tavern bill, and Thomas Jefferson's vice presidential certification.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60. The majority of letters from Thomas Jefferson to John Adams can be found in the Thomas Jefferson papers at the Library of Congress.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
4. Correspondence between John Adams and John Winthrop (Ms. N-1776 1st Gen Adams-Winthrop)
One box of correspondence (1775-1776) between John Adams and Harvard College professor Dr. John Winthrop regarding news and opinions on the war, the Siege of Boston, and news of politics in Philadelphia.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Winthrop. Also available on microfilm, P-350, reel 20. Letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 5th series, vol. 4, pp. 291-313, and in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 13, p. 263.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
5. Cranch family papers (Ms. N-1049)
Ten letters (1782-1797) from John Adams to Richard Cranch, William Cranch, and Isaac Smith discussing fisheries, treaties, bar associations, and the 1797 presidential election.
Notes: Unpublished guide available in the library. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. William Cushing papers (Ms. N-1069)
Two letters (1776, 1789) from John Adams to William Cushing regarding Cushing's appointment as chief justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, the importance of colonial independence, freedom of the press, and Adams's election as vice president.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
7. Dana family papers (Ms. N-1088)
18 letters (1781-1785) from John Adams to Francis Dana regarding international diplomacy, including Holland, Russia, Sweden, and England; congressional membership; Thomas Jefferson; Benjamin Franklin; and law as a profession.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-646.
Guide to the Dana family papers available online.
8. De Windt family papers (Ms. N-1116)
Four letters (1786-1821) from John Adams to William Stephens Smith and John P. De Windt regarding Adams's journey from London to Herwich, Adams's "posterity," a snow and ice storm in 1820, and the birth of De Windt's daughter.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. De Windt family. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
9. Dorchester Antiquarian and Historical Society records (Ms. N-1128)
Two letters (1798) from John Adams concerning his policies toward France and her increasing belligerence.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-680.
Guide to the Dorchester Antiquarian and Historical Society records available online.
10. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Four letters (1800-1822) from John Adams to John Russell and John West, Thomas Jefferson, and Edward Everett regarding a letter of introduction for Everett, a letter from Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander H. Everett's book on Europe.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
11. Elbridge Gerry papers (Ms. N-1284)
Seven letters (1779-1785) from John Adams to Elbridge Gerry regarding news about the Revolutionary War, the Boston Committee of Correspondence, the treaty of peace, appointment of foreign ministers, Benjamin Franklin, a treaty of commerce with England, and the New England navigation acts.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-362. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
12. Elbridge Gerry papers II (Ms. N-1279)
Five letters (1782-1797) from John Adams to Elbridge Gerry regarding international relations with Paris, treaties, Benjamin Franklin, and Gerry's duty as an XYZ envoy.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-362. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
13. William Heath papers (Ms. N-1386)
Seven letters (1775-1807) from John Adams to General William Heath regarding complaints of the personnel of the Massachusetts regiments, Colonel Loammi Baldwin, the Continental Army, state of affairs, and other military matters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-205.
Guide to the William Heath papers available online.
14. Letters to Mercy Otis Warren (Special Colls. Warren-Adams II)
Ten letters (1807) from John Adams to Mercy Otis Warren discussing her portrayal of him in her published work, History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution. Adams details factual errors and responds to comments on his character.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-164. Letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 5th series, vol. 4 (1877). Item cataloging refers to collection as "Warren-Adams." These letters do not appear in the published Warren-Adams correspondence, Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vols. 72-73 (1917, 1925). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
15. Letters received by A. B. Johnson (Adams All Gens. A.B. Johnson)
18 letters (1814-1823) from John Adams to A. B. Johnson regarding family matters, the plight of the idle, congratulating Johnson on the birth of his children, the study of law, the writing of the Constitution, congratulating Johnson on his completion of law school, Adams's writings, Adams's theories on the usefulness and influence of books, and religion.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams--A. B. Johnson. Select correspondence index available in the library.
16. Original evidence of Dr. Kippis's misrepresentation of American Congress respecting Captain James Cook, 1795 (Ms. S-637b)
Three letters (1795) from John Adams to Jeremy Belknap and James Madison regarding Dr. Kippis, Capt. Cook, and Congressional recollections.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. S-637a. All but Charles Thomson letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 1st series, vol. 4, p. 80. All items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
17. Harrison Gray Otis papers (Ms. N-617)
Eight letters (1815-1823) from John Adams to Jedediah Morse and Harrison Gray Otis regarding Unitarianism, William Crawford and Governor Isaac Shelby, Adams's policy towards France, the farcical nature of Adams's presidency, and the reckless schemes of Alexander Hamilton.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-228. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Harrison Gray Otis papers available online.
18. Robert Treat Paine papers (Ms. N-641)
Ten letters (1786-1792) from John Adams to Robert Treat Paine, Abigail Adams, James Warren, R. R. Livingston, and Elias Boudinot regarding dinner acceptance, friendship, companionship, house mortgages, financial matters, judicial matters in Charlestown, the revolution, British fears of American victory, treatment of Tories in America, and Harvard commencement.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-392. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Robert Treat Paine papers available online.
19. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
47 letters (1775-1822) from John Adams to James Warren and Timothy Pickering regarding Warren's post as speaker of the Massachusetts Assembly, foreign policy with France, Adams's message to Congress, Sir John Sinclair's agricultural schemes, the Chevalier de Yrujo a Blount, the post of treasurer of the mint, Pickering's temporary post as secretary of war, and recollections of the Declaration of Independence.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31. Index to the Timothy Pickering papers available in "Historical Index to the Pickering Papers," Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 8 (1896). Also available in Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Timothy Pickering Papers (Boston: MHS, 1966). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
20. Smith-Carter family papers (Ms. N-2170)
11 letters (1771-1786) from John Adams to Isaac Smith, Jr. and William Smith regarding a contract with a London bookseller, the Boston Massacre trial of Capt. Thomas Preston, the American cause in Europe, peace negotiations, the death of Rev. William Smith, the introduction of Mr. Le Rey de Chaumont, Adams's appointment as minister to England, the whaling industry, American policy toward the Barbary pirates, economic conditions in Boston, and the sugar trade and currency depreciation.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-147. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Smith-Carter family papers available online.
21. Smith-Townsend family papers and papers II (Ms. N-942)
Two letters (1775, 1817) from John Adams to Isaac Smith and President James Monroe regarding supplies to the Newfoundland British fishery, military recruitment in Philadelphia and Wilmington, and welcoming President Monroe to Massachusetts.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-106. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Smith-Townsend family papers and papers II available online.
22. John Thomas papers (Ms. N-1663)
Two letters (1775, 1776) from John Adams to John Thomas regarding politics during the Continental Congress, Thomas's promotion to Major General, and his new assignment by the Continental Congress to send him to Canada.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Thomas papers available online.
23. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
27 letters (1775-1812) from John Adams to John Winthrop (professor), James Bowdoin, John Temple, the President of Congress, John Jay, John Quincy Adams, and Mrs. James Bowdoin, Jr. regarding military information from France, sugar refining in Massachusetts, Anglo-American trade, American relations with the Barbary States, Lord Carmarthen, the new constitution, the American Revolution, the Siege of Boston, politics in Philadelphia, and memorial tributes to James Bowdoin.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Originals held in Ms. N-262. Correspondence between John Adams and Prof. John Winthrop, 1775-1776, published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 5th series, vol. 4 (1878), pp. 291-313. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
C. Items
The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
D. Autograph collections
The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
E. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. William Cushing family papers (Ms. N-67)
Unpublished manuscript copy of John Adams's political essay entitled "Novanglus," written Apr. 1775.
2. John Davis papers (Ms. N-1097)
Legal notes (1770) taken by John Adams as the defense attorney for those accused of the murder of Crispus Attucks and others in the Boston Massacre trials. Adams's notes relate specifically to the cases against Capt. Thomas Preston and William Wemms, prosecuted by Robert Treat Paine. The defendants were found not guilty.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. J. Adams--Boston Massacre. Published, with an extensive introduction, as Cases 63 & 64 in Legal Papers of John Adams, vol. 3 (Belknap Press, 1965).
Digital images available at the MHS website here, here, and here ..
3. Law journal of John Adams [fragments] (Adams All Gens. JA, 1762-1763)
Four fragments from the law journal of John Adams, kept from 1762-July 1763. Entries list Adams's cases and fees charged for his services.
Notes: Not published as part of John Adams Legal Papers. For additional information on John Adams's law journal, see Legal Papers of John Adams, vol. 1, p. 1xxii, n. 146.
4. Putnam-Jackson-Lowell family papers (Ms. N-759)
Five copies of letters (1784-1786) from John Adams to Jonathan Jackson and Stephen Higginson Franklin regarding Anglo-American commercial relations, Franklin's "many stupid opinions," problems facing the United States, and economic conditions in Massachusetts.
F. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Resources at the Massachusetts Historical Society
A list of Adams resources available at the MHS website.
2. Adams Papers, ed. by Adams Papers Editorial Project (Cambridge, Mass: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 1961-)
Published volumes of materials written to, from, and by the Adams family broken into four series: Diaries, Adams Family Correspondence, General Correspondence and Other Papers of the Adams Statesmen, and Adams Family Portraits.
Notes: Website for the Adams Papers Editorial Project available here.
3. Online Adams Catalog
Item-level catalog containing descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adams family, including John Adams.
Notes: Available here.
4. The Works of John Adams: Second President of the United States: With a Life of the Author, Notes, and Illustrations, by his grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston, 1850-56) (B Adams)
A collection of John Adams's works compiled by his grandson Charles Francis Adams. This edition is not comprehensive.
5. Thomas Jefferson papers at the Library of Congress
Collection of Thomas Jefferson papers, including letters from John Adams to Thomas Jefferson.
Notes: See the website for the Thomas Jefferson papers at the Library of Congress.
III. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826; President: 1801-1809)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 9,400 letters by Thomas Jefferson. The majority of the letters can be found in the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts spanning Jefferson's entire lifetime. The majority of letters found outside of the Coolidge Collection were written prior to Jefferson's presidency during his time as minister to France, secretary of state under Washington, and vice president under John Adams, as well as during his retirement. The majority of these letters are found in the Adams Family Papers where Jefferson had a lengthy correspondence with John Adams beginning in 1777 until his death in 1826. Adams and Jefferson stopped corresponding for almost two decades during Jefferson's time as vice president and president, as their opposing political views created tension in their friendship. The coolness between the two did not thaw until both were well into retirement and no longer in the public eye. The remainder of the correspondence is scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the Bowdoin and Temple papers, Letters received by Levi Lincoln, the Timothy Pickering papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Jefferson's letters deal with political matters during his multiple posts in the United States government, including Congressional power, international relations, and political theory; household matters at Monticello, Poplar Forest, and Shadwell; and theology and literature.
A. Presidential papers
1. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Approximately 9,500 items, including more than 8,000 pieces of correspondence (letters to Jefferson and retained copies of outgoing letters often made with a polygraph machine), journals, account books, and other personal papers of Thomas Jefferson. Includes legal documents related to Jefferson's work as a lawyer with George Wythe, as well as correspondence with Maria Cosway, his daughters Martha (later Randolph) and Maria (later Eppes) Jefferson at Monticello, Tadeusz Kosciuszko, Abigail and John Adams, James Madison, and James Monroe. Papers related to Jefferson's home Monticello, in Virginia, include account books, his "Farm" and "Garden" Books, indentures, tax statements and promissory notes. The collection also includes papers related to Jefferson's other properties in Virginia. Papers kept during Jefferson's presidency (1801-1809) include lists of people entertained at Monticello, lists of votes to repeal the 1809 Embargo Act, and letters addressed to the Tammany Society. The collection also includes family papers, including Jefferson's father Peter Jefferson; Jefferson's manuscript of his Notes on the State of Virginia, his only major published work; a manuscript copy of Jefferson's translation of Les Ruins, ou Mediation sur les Revolutions des Empires; two manuscript book catalogs; annotated almanacs; and various other writings. The collection also contains more than 400 architectural sketches, notes, and drawings by Jefferson of Monticello, his apartment in Paris, the University of Virginia, and other sites.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60. Digital images of Jefferson's Farm and Garden Books, library catalogs, architectural drawings, and Declaration of Independence available online. Architectural drawings published in Thomas Jefferson as Architect, by Sidney Fiske Kimball, 1914. Garden Book edited by Edwin Morris Betts, 1944. The Garden and Farm Book of Thomas Jefferson, edited by Robert C. Baron, 1987. Many items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. List of undated items available in the library.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
B. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Among the subjects represented in the 160 letters (1777-1826) from Thomas Jefferson are politics, including Article IX that gives power to Congress to enter into treaties of commerce; international relations among Denmark, Russia, and Sweden; and the dependence of the United States on homespun products to gain independence from foreign trade. Also literary and philosophical matters, including the authenticity of stories from the Bible, poems, and love of country; and personal matters, including his health and that of acquaintances. Recipients include John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Abigail Adams, Dr. Vine Utley, Mrs. Kinloch (Anne Cleland), George Hammond, Dumas and Short, John Brown Cutting, Earl of Buchan, and Thomas Barclay.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. Some letters published in The Papers of Thomas Jefferson / Julian P. Boyd, editor; Lyman H. Butterfield ... [et al.]... associate editors (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1950), and The Works of John Adams: Second President of the United States with a Life of the Author, Notes, and Illustrations / by his grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1850-56). A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams family papers available online.
2. Bowdoin and Temple papers in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Eight letters (1786-1813) from Thomas Jefferson regarding his election as president, international relations, the polygraph machine, and Burr's conspiracy. Recipients include James Bowdoin, David Sears, and Mrs. James Bowdoin.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Originals held in Ms. N-262. Bowdoin and Temple papers published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 9 (1897), and Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 7th series, vol. 6 (1907).
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
3. De Windt family papers (Ms. N-1116)
Six letters (1786-1787) from Thomas Jefferson to Colonel William S. Smith regarding Mme. LeMotte and the "Diamond Necklace" affair, miscellaneous news, Shays' Rebellion, the birth of Colonel William S. Smith's son, Anglo-American relations, and a moose skin and skeleton.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. De Windt family. 23 Sep. 1786 letter signed by William Short on behalf of Jefferson. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
4. Henry Dearborn papers (Ms. N-1106)
Five letters (1803-1805) from Thomas Jefferson to Henry Dearborn regarding Lewis and Clark, the Louisiana Purchase, a Cabinet meeting, and Jefferson's recommendation of Dearborn for attorney general.
Notes: Signatures removed from most letters.
5. Elbridge Gerry papers II (Ms. N-1279)
Two letters (1821, 1822) from Thomas Jefferson regarding judicial responsibilities and the XYZ affair. Recipients include James T. Austin and Elbridge Gerry, Jr.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-362 (part of the Elbridge Gerry microfilm set).
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
6. Letters received by Levi Lincoln (Special Colls. Lincoln)
18 letters (1801-1808) from Thomas Jefferson to Levi Lincoln regarding a naval treaty, politics, the prisoner execution procedure, New Orleans, Florida, the United States' birthday, Jefferson's birthday, international relations, and Congress.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-148. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
7. Letters to William and Caroline Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Three letters (1803-1809) from Thomas Jefferson to William Eustis, including an invitation to dine and two letters (1809) on political matters, such as the Embargo Act of 1807 and Jefferson's reasons for it, violations of U.S. neutrality by England and France, Eustis's appointment as secretary of war, and the threat of secession by Federalists in the North.
Notes: Invitation is a printed document completed in manuscript. Digital images available at the MHS website here, here, and here. Transcriptions of the two 1809 letters available at the National Archives Founders Online website here and here.
Guide to the Letters to William and Caroline Eustis available online.
8. William Livingston family papers II (Ms. N-1579.2)
Two letters (1782, 1786) from Thomas Jefferson regarding international relations. Recipients include Gov. William Livingston and John Jay.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-12, reels 8-10. 27 May 1786 letter is a handwritten copy, not signed.
Guide to the William Livingston family collection available online.
9. Robert Treat Paine papers (Ms. N-641)
Two letters (1793, 1797) from Thomas Jefferson regarding a typographical error in a law relating to the courts and a letter published in a newspaper.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-392.
Guide to the Robert Treat Paine papers available online.
10. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
24 letters (1790-1821) from Thomas Jefferson regarding Consul to the City of London Joshua Johnson, Pickering as postmaster general, the British, navies, the Louisiana boundary, Louis XIV, the Canadian boundary, apple tree culture, Senate meetings, political appointments, the French Revolution, Napoleon, Nathaniel Bowditch, John Pickering, and theological matters. Recipients include Timothy Pickering, James T. Callender, John Brown, Joshua Johnson, Congress, Dr. Morrell, George Logan, and John Adams.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31. Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
11. Martin Van Buren papers (N-1700)
Two letters (1806, 1824) from Thomas Jefferson to Martin Van Buren regarding charges made against Jefferson by Timothy Pickering and personal matters.
C. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Inserted in Washington Irving's The Life of George Washington (New York, 1856) (Guild Library)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Samuel Inglis about legal matters, 19 Oct. 1772.
Notes: The Guild Library is not cataloged in ABIGAIL. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Location: Vol. II, part 2, p. 258.
2. Inserted in James Parton's Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin (New York) (Guild Library)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to C. W. F. Dumas about his lack of knowledge of South Carolina culture, acknowledging Dumas's good wishes, and discussing Mr. Adams's travel plans, 20 May 1785.
Notes: The Guild Library is not cataloged in ABIGAIL. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Location: part 5, p. 528.
3. Cushing family papers (Ms. N-1071)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson asking Judge Cushing to fix some typographical errors, 16 Mar. 1793.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
4. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Mr. Granger about the United States government, 13 Aug. 1800.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
5. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1801 Apr. 25)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Levi Lincoln about Jefferson's plans for returning to Washington, 25 Apr. 1801.
Notes: Published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 183 (11 Apr. 1861).
6. Richard Frothingham papers II (Ms. N-1259)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to James Oldham creating a plan to ship pieces of sheet metal, 29 May 1803.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
Guide to the Richard Frothingham papers II available online.
7. Lamb family papers (Ms. N-1547)
Letter of patent from Thomas Jefferson to John Williams for statical wheel machine, 23 Mar. 1804.
Notes: Guide to the Lamb family papers available online.
8. Amory family papers (Ms. N-2024 Tall)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to Lewis Deblois explaining that a friend of Jefferson's will be calling on Deblois, 24 May 1804.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
Guide to the Amory family papers available online.
9. Benjamin Lincoln papers (Ms. N-830)
Letters from Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Lincoln thanking Lincoln for an earlier letter and apologizing for not responding sooner, 16 Nov. 1804 [2 letters].
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-40.
Guide to the Benjamin Lincoln papers available online.
10. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1804 Dec. 7)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to Abiel Holmes about the American Annals, 7 Dec. 1804.
11. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1806 Mar. 9)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to Abiel Holmes about the American Annals, 9 Mar. 1806.
12. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1806 June 20)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to Abiel Holmes about the American Annals, 20 June 1806.
13. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1807 Mar. 20)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to Abiel Holmes about a shipment of books, 20 Mar. 1807.
14. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Thomas Jefferson (Washington) to General Henry Dearborn regarding movements of British ships, 17 July 1807.
15. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson responding to a previous letter and discussing the transmigration of souls, 5 Dec. 1807.
16. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Milton, Va.) to Alexander H. Everett thanking him for a program of the Harlaam Society, 19 Sep. 1816.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online. Item individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
17. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1817 Aug. 5)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) to Patrick Gibson about accounts and tobacco sales, 5 Aug. 1817.
18. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) to Edward Everett about Alexander H. Everett's Europe and his own views on England, 2 Mar. 1822.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
19. Tudor-Adams correspondence (Ms. N-1685)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) to William Tudor about his The Life of James Otis and the section concerning Benjamin Franklin, 14 Feb. 1823.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Tudor-Adams. Letterpress copy in the Jefferson papers. Published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 7th series, vol. 1, p. 319.
D. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Mary Anna Bigelow autograph collection (Ms. N-1842)
Two letters (1807, 1818) from Jefferson regarding an emergency Cabinet meeting and the Virginia climate. Recipients include Secretary of War Henry Dearborn and Dr. Jacob Bigelow.
Notes: Location: page 5. Also available on microfilm, P-258. Originals held in Special Colls. Bigelow.
2. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Four letters (1804-1820) from Thomas Jefferson regarding William Shait, corn, and a copy of Botta's translations.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. Foster family autograph collection (Special Colls. Foster)
Notes: Guide to the Foster family autograph collection available online.
4. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Three letters (1806-1812) from Thomas Jefferson regarding Michigan laws and seeds. Recipients include William B. Giles, James Madison, and Mr. McMahon.
5. Hannah Farnham Sawyer Lee autograph collection (Ms. N-2295)
Notes: Each manuscript has typed transcript. Originals held in Special Colls. Lee.
Guide to the Hannah Farnham Sawyer Lee autograph collection available online.
6. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1785, 1792) from Thomas Jefferson regarding a loan, business matters, and American exports of flour to France. Recipients include John Adams and James Brown.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
7. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to John Taylor discussing politics and war, 4 June 1798.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
8. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Two letters (1793, 1808) from Thomas Jefferson regarding Native Americans and Mr. Vaughan. Recipients include Kitchoa Gaboway and Mr. Vaughan.
Notes: Original of the 15 Sep. 1793 letter to Mr. Vaughan held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson. The Dec. 1808 letter is a copy.
9. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter of introduction from Thomas Jefferson to an unidentified recipient regarding Bernard Peyton, 11 July 1824.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, it is not available on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
E. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. "Books which Mr Froulle is desired to send me": Thomas Jefferson, "Monticello," Virginia, to Monsieur Froulle, Paris [France] (Box-L 1971)
Facsimile of a letter in which Jefferson acknowledges receipt of a belated and damaged shipment of books from Froulle and requests by title books to be sent by Froulle in his next shipment, 26 May 1795.
2. James Bowdoin papers (Ms. N-2059 XT)
Handwritten copies of three letters (1786-1806) from Thomas Jefferson, including a letter to James Bowdoin regarding Bowdoin's office as minister plenipotentiary to Madrid.
3. Foster Family autograph collection (Special Colls. Foster)
Thomas Jefferson's abridged manuscript copy of a description of a "mould-board of the least resistance" published in the American Philosophical Society's Transactions, Old Series, vol. 4, 1799.
4. Elbridge Gerry letterbook (Ms. SBd-187)
Letters (1798-1801) from Elbridge Gerry to Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, transcribed into the book by Gerry's daughter Ann, concerning the XYZ affair and the ensuing war with France.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-362.
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
5. Hale family papers (Ms. N-1348)
Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Salma Hale thanking Hale for some pamphlets and giving his opinions on religion, 26 July 1818 [transcript].
Notes: Guide to the Hale family papers available online.
6. Thomas Jefferson account book [photostats], 1791-1803 (Ms. N-1487)
Photostat copy of an account book (1791-1803) kept by Thomas Jefferson as the leader of the Republican Party, vice president, and then president of the United States. Entries include money paid to servants, taxes, traveling expenses, money donated to charity, and other family expenses.
Notes: Original account book is located in the Manuscript and Archives division of the New York Public Library in New York City.
7. The Madison papers in the Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Seven letters (1808-1826) from Thomas Jefferson to James Madison copied by Edward Everett regarding harbor development, "freedom of the seas," Greek grammar, the University of Virginia, and slavery.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
8. Manuscript annotations in Proceedings of the Government of the United States...Against the Intrusion of Edward Livingston, by Thomas Jefferson (New York, 1812) (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Notes: MHS copy has brief annotations in Thomas Jefferson's hand on the verso of the plan, p. 5, 20, and 33.
9. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
Four copies of letters (1792-1799) from Thomas Jefferson regarding postal matters, France and England, political Toryism, and Callender's The Prospect Before Us. Recipients include Timothy Pickering, John Wise, and James T. Callendar.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31. Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
10. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson)
List of household expenses beginning with "carriage" and including "actual" and "reformed" columns of monthly and yearly expenditures, undated.
11. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Jefferson)
Two handwritten copies of the Declaration of Independence originally presented by the Committee of Five to Congress. One is a copy that Timothy Pickering made in 1805 from his own papers; the other is a copy that he made in 1811 and sent to the Historical Society. Both copies are enclosed in a letter to Mr. Richard Henry Lee copied by Timothy Pickering, 8 July 1776.
F. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Thomas Jefferson papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the Thomas Jefferson papers at the Library of Congress.
2. The Henry Knox Papers Owned by the New England Historic Genealogical Society (P-17, microfilm only)
22 letters (1788-1800) from Thomas Jefferson to Henry Knox regarding farming, politics, and friendship.
Notes: Unpublished guide and published index to the microfilm edition available in the library. The papers were deposited at the Massachusetts Historical Society by the New England Historic Genealogical Society in 1910. They were removed in Dec. 1992 and are now part of the Gilder Lehrman Collection on deposit at the New-York Historical Society. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. The Papers of Thomas Jefferson (Digital Edition), University of Virginia
33 volumes of Thomas Jefferson papers covering Jefferson's political and public career assembled by the University of Virginia.
Notes: Website for the Papers of Thomas Jefferson (Digital Edition) available here.
4. The Papers of Thomas Jefferson (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1950-) (E302 .J463)
Published volumes of Thomas Jefferson correspondence and papers covering Jefferson's political and public career, assembled from various institutions by the editors at Princeton University.
Notes: Website for the Papers of Thomas Jefferson available here.
IV. James Madison (1751-1836; President: 1809-1817)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds more than 200 letters by James Madison. The majority of the letters were written during Madison's tenure as secretary of state under Thomas Jefferson, as the fourth United States president, and during his retirement. Also included are some earlier letters from Madison's tenure as a United States representative and as a member of the Virginia Assembly. The majority of Madison's letters were written to John Quincy Adams during Adams's term as United States president, with James Bowdoin during Bowdoin's tenure as minister to Spain, to Congressman Richard Cutts during Madison's tenure as president and his retirement years, and to Edward Everett during Everett's tenure as United States representative. The rest of Madison's correspondence is scattered throughout several MHS collections, including Letters received by William Eustis, Letters received by Levi Lincoln, the Jeremy Belknap papers, the Samuel Cabot papers, the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts, the Henry Dearborn papers, the Quincy family papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Madison's letters deal with political matters such as government philosophy, international relations with Spain and England, the War of 1812, and other subjects, including the University of Virginia and literature.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Among the subjects represented in the 35 letters (1802-1835) from James Madison are Elbridge Gerry and his patriotism; government philosophy, including "in one center" government and checks and balances; personal matters; and various writings and orations by John Quincy Adams. Recipients include John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Abigail Adams, Charles Francis Adams, Martin Van Buren, Alexander I (Emperor of Russia), and Robert Livingston.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Jeremy Belknap papers (Ms. N-1827)
Two letters (1794, 1796) from James Madison regarding the addition of the College of William and Mary to the subscribers of Dr. Belknap's biographical work, as well as a donation to Dr. Belknap's library. Recipients include a Mr. Spooner and Jeremy Belknap.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-380. Items and locations individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Jeremy Belknap papers available online.
3. Bowdoin and Temple papers in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
28 letters (1804-1812) from James Madison regarding his post as United States minister in Spain, international relations with France and Spain, Burr's conspiracy, the British Treaty, and memorial tributes to James Bowdoin. Recipients include James Bowdoin, John Armstrong, George W. Erving, and Mrs. James Bowdoin.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Most letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 9 (1897), and 7th series, vol. 6 (1907).
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
4. Samuel Cabot papers (Ms. N-1981)
Three letters (1801-1802) from James Madison to Samuel Cabot regarding the latter's services in connection with the commission on British spoliation claims.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-327. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Samuel Cabot papers available online. See guide for index listing locations of letters.
5. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Two letters (1813) from James Madison to Thomas Jefferson regarding an updated commission to Jefferson, the War of 1812, and the eastern states.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
6. Cutts-Madison papers (Ms. N-1078)
33 letters (1759-1828) from James Madison to Richard Cutts regarding legal issues, international relations with France and England, politics, the War of 1812, finances, personal matters including Dolley Madison, and business (copies).
Notes: Original letters stored in Special Colls. Loose mss. Madison.
7. Henry Dearborn papers (Ms. N-1106)
Two letters (1810, 1823) from James Madison to Henry Dearborn regarding religion, morality, citizenship of the federal clergy, and retirement.
Notes: Signatures removed from manuscripts.
8. William Eustis papers (Ms. N-1193)
Two letters (1817, 1819) from James Madison to William Eustis regarding Eustis's position in Holland, Madison's departure from Washington, and a potential visit from Eustis.
Notes: Collection arranged alphabetically.
9. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
34 letters (1792-1836) from James Madison to Edward Everett include discussions of literature, religion, speeches, the University of Virginia, and political matters, such as Jay's Treaty, neutral rights, Malthus, nullification, the Kentucky resolutions, and the Constitution.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
10. Letters received by Levi Lincoln (Special Colls. Lincoln)
Three letters (1801, 1810) from James Madison to father and son Levi Lincoln discussing politics, the budget, business, letters of marque, Mr. Dawson, Mr. King, and Thomas Jefferson.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-148. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 15, p. 232.
11. Letters received by William Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Eight letters (1805-1815) from James Madison to William Eustis regarding the commander in chief of the army, military matters, the Act of 1794 (against unauthorized enterprises on foreign nations, military on the northern frontier), Madison's retirement from his post as secretary of war, a diplomatic appointment for Eustis, house guests, and travel.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-94. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Collection arranged alphabetically.
12. Letters to William and Caroline Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Two letters (1811, 1812) from James Madison to William Eustis primarily related to the War of 1812, including Eustis's proposal for the detention of Native Americans, the capture of Fort Wayne, a possible expedition against Upper Canada, and other subjects.
Notes: Digital images and transcriptions available at the MHS website here and here.
Guide to the Letters to William and Caroline Eustis available online.
13. Inserted in James Parton's Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin (New York, 1865) (Guild Library)
Two letters (1802, 1808) from James Madison regarding Rufus King's negotiations with Great Britain and the lawless proceedings of the British naval commanders.
Notes: The Guild Library is not cataloged in ABIGAIL. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
14. Quincy family papers (Ms. N-764: QP 69)
Three letters (1829-1832) from James Madison to Josiah Quincy discussing securing information from Quincy, the latest of the statutes of the University of Virginia, and Quincy's address (1832).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-347, as part of the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers.
Guide to the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers available online. Guide to the Quincy family papers available online.
15. Rotch family papers (Ms. N-812)
Letters supplementing patent rights on a boat invention, 3 Aug. 1811.
Notes: Guide to the Rotch family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Original evidence of Dr. Kippis's misrepresentation of American Congress respecting Captain James Cook (Ms. S-637b)
Letter from James Madison (Philadelphia) to John Adams discussing the errors in Dr. Kippis's book A Life of Captain Cook, 3 Feb. 1795.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. S-637a. Published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 1st series, vol. 4, p. 82.
2. Winthrop Sargent papers (Ms. N-877)
Letter from James Madison (Washington) to Winthrop Sargent notifying Sargent that he was not reappointed to the Mississippi governorship, 16 June 1801.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-28.
Guide to the Winthrop Sargent papers available online.
3. Francis Cabot Lowell papers (Ms. N-1602)
Letter from James Madison (Department of State) to Samuel Cabot about Cabot's position as assessor to the Board of Commissioners in London under the Jay Treaty, 10 May 1802. Letter in another hand, signed by Madison.
Notes: Guide to the Francis Cabot Lowell papers available online.
4. Henry Herbert Edes collection (Ms. N-1156)
Letter from James Madison (Washington) to John Norris discussing an award that Capt. Ingersoll is giving Norris, 22 June 1803.
Notes: Guide to the Henry Herbert Edes collection available online.
5. Robert Treat Paine papers (Ms. N-641)
Letter from James Madison (Washington) to William Cushing about allotment of judicial circuits, 30 Mar. 1804.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-392.
Guide to the Robert Treat Paine papers, with microfilm index, available online.
6. Caleb Strong papers (Ms. N-990)
Letter from James Madison to Gov. Caleb Strong of Massachusetts to distribute copies of the Laws of the United States: 1st Session, 8th Congress (copy), 6 Dec. 1804.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-93. Location: Vol. II, p. 6. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Madison.
Guide to the Caleb Strong papers available online.
7. Jonathan Russell family papers (Ms. N-823)
Letter from James Madison to James Monroe regarding a communication between England and France stating an order against trade with French ports. Enclosed with said communication and answer sent by the United States, 26 Mar. 1807.
8. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from James Madison (Washington) to Gen. Henry Dearborn about the Non-Intercourse Acts and relations with England and France, 16 June 1809.
9. Adams-Hull collection (Ms. N-1776 All Gens. Adams-Hull)
Letter from James Madison to John Adams regarding Dr. Freeman and his appreciation of Adams's opinion of the Madison administration, 12 Oct. 1816.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Hull.
Guide to the Adams-Hull collection available online.
10. William Eustis papers (Ms. N-1193)
Letter from James Madison recalling a debt he owes to William Eustis for coming back from Holland sooner than he anticipated, Mar. 1817.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Madison.
11. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
Letter from James Madison (Montpelier) to Timothy Pickering about his interest in agricultural matters, 17 Sep. 1825.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
12. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Letter from James Madison to A. H. Everett about the latter's Fourth of July oration, commentary on Jefferson letter about the Declaration of Independence, 5 Aug. 1839.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Mary Anna Bigelow autograph collection (Ms. N-1842)
Letter from James Madison to an unknown recipient regarding a $10 loan, 26 Apr. 1818.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Bigelow. Also available on microfilm, P-258.
2. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1806-1835) from James Madison regarding a commission to lay a road from Maryland to Ohio, politics, and an enclosed autograph of Mr. Monroe.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Four letters (1788-1824) from James Madison regarding business transactions for sand and a rifle, Mrs. Madison's trip to Baltimore, Mr. Eddins's contract to build market stocks, and faculty for the University of Virginia. Recipients include Joseph Smith, Dolley Madison, Colonel Bomford, and Thomas Jefferson.
4. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from James Madison (Montpelier) to John Quincy Adams responding to the latter's earlier letter about politics, 21 Nov. 1823.
5. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Draft of a letter from James Madison to Alexander H. Everett thanking Everett for a copy of his Fourth of July oration; reference to the original draft of the Declaration of Independence, 5 Aug. 1839.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
6. Henry W. Taft autograph collection (Special Colls. H. W. Taft)
Two letters (1803, 1808) from James Madison regarding an invitation and the case of Mr. Rose. Recipients include Mr. Young and Barnabas Bidwell.
Notes: Items and locations individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
7. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Three letters (1804-1826) from James Madison regarding Monroe's commission as secretary of state, the University of Virginia, and the connection of the Resolutions of the General Assembly to the controversy with Spain over the Mississippi River. Recipients include James Sullivan, James Monroe, Thomas Jefferson, and Mr. Tucker.
Notes: Items and locations individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
8. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Letter from James Madison (Grays near Philadelphia) to Andrew Ellicott (Lancaster, Pa.) about the election in Pennsylvania, 17 Oct. 1805.
D. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. James Bowdoin papers (Ms. N-2059 XT)
Hand-copied letters from James Madison to James Bowdoin.
2. Cutts-Madison papers (Ms. N-1078)
Commonplace-book of James Madison, [1762-1796], containing extracts from published works in English and Latin, including poetry, with annotations by Madison. Included are epigrams on politics, art, and other subjects from works of Jean François Paul de Gondi, Cardinal de Retz; Michel de Montaigne; and Abbé Jean-Baptiste Dubos. The last entry in the volume was probably added by Madison's brother-in-law John C. Payne, ca. 1796. This volume is believed to be Madison's earliest known manuscript.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Madison. Published in The Papers of James Madison, vol. 1, 1962, p. 7-24.
3. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201 Vols. 229-231)
Manuscript copies by Edward Everett of papers of James Madison, including his outgoing correspondence (1780-87, 1817-36); his notes on the debates at the Constitutional Convention of 1787; a copy of the "Report on the debates in 1776 on the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation preserved by Thomas Jefferson and furnished to him by James Madison"; and a few short essays by Madison on such topics as "Sovereignty" and "Majority Government." Madison's correspondents include Thomas Jefferson, Martin Van Buren, Edmund Randolph, W. C. Rives, and Joseph C. Cabell.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349, reels 45-46.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
4. Letters received by George Joy [manuscript copies] (Ms. N-1503)
Manuscript and typescript copies of correspondence (1791-1834) between James Madison and George Joy pertaining to political affairs between the United States, England, and other European countries.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. James Madison papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the James Madison papers at the Library of Congress.
2. The Papers of James Madison: Congressional Series / ed. by Robert A. Rutland ... [et al.] (Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1984-) (B Madison)
Documents (1751-1801) by James Madison pertaining to his role in the creation of the federal government.
Notes: Website for The Papers of James Madison available here.
3. The Papers of James Madison: Presidential Series / ed. by Robert A. Rutland ... [et al.] (Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1984-) (B Madison)
Document (1809-1817) by James Madison pertaining to his presidential term, including material on Madison's role in the War of 1812.
Notes: Website for The Papers of James Madison available here.
4. The Papers of James Madison: Purchased by Order of Congress; Being his Correspondence and Reports of Debates During the Congress of the Confederation and his Reports of Debates in the Federal Convention ; Now Published from the Original Manuscripts Deposited in the Department of State / by direction of the Joint Library Committee of Congress, under the superintendence of Henry D. Gilpin (New York, 1841) (B Madison)
Contains the only surviving record of the debate of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 in the form of Madison's journal.
5. The Papers of James Madison: Retirement Series / ed. by David B. Mattern ... [et al.] (Charlottesville: University of Virginia Press, 2009-) (E302 .M19 2009)
Documents (1817-1836) by James Madison covering his life after leaving the public stage.
Notes: Website for The Papers of James Madison available here.
6. The Papers of James Madison: Secretary of State Series / ed. by Robert J. Brugger, et al. (Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1987-) (B Madison)
Documents (1801-1809) by James Madison during his post as secretary of state under Thomas Jefferson.
Notes: Website for The Papers of James Madison available here.
V. James Monroe (1758-1831; President: 1817-1825)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds more than 500 letters by James Monroe. The majority of the letters were written during Monroe's time as U.S. secretary of state and as the fifth president of the United States, 1817-1825. Also included are letters covering Monroe's time as minister plenipotentiary to France, Virginia senator, and secretary of war, as well as his final years in retirement. The majority of Monroe's letters are found in the Adams Family Papers, where he had a lengthy correspondence with John Quincy Adams during Monroe's tenure as secretary of war, United States secretary of state, and during John Quincy Adams's presidency. The rest of Monroe's correspondence is scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the John Brown papers, Bowdoin and Temple papers, Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts, Rotch family papers, Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection, and several other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Monroe's letters deal with diplomatic and political matters during his many posts in the United States government, including international relations with Russia and Great Britain, the French Revolution, Congressional business, and Virginia politics.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Among the subjects represented in the 491 letters (1795-1831) from James Monroe are the Committee on Foreign Affairs, a report of an act of Congress regarding seamen, international relations and politics, accounts of the French Revolution (1795), John Quincy Adams's duties as consul to Russia, the blockade of the American coast during the War of 1812, financial and business matters relating to John Quincy Adams's post in the Department of State (including some letters in code), the offer of the secretary of state position to John Quincy Adams (1817), and letters exchanged during James Monroe's and John Quincy Adams's presidencies. Recipients include John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Abigail Adams, Henry Wilson, Samuel L. Southard, the minister of Russia (1814), Baron de Mareuil, Levett Harris, Henry Clay, Jonathan Russell, Lord Castlereagh, and the Baring Brothers & Co.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Bowdoin and Temple papers in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Seven letters (1805-1809) from James Monroe to James Madison and James Bowdoin regarding the new Anglo-American treaty, the introduction of John I. Middleton, and negotiations with Great Britain during the Chesapeake-Leopard affair.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Most letters published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 9 (1897), and 7th series, vol. 6 (1907). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Photocopies available for use at Ms. N-262.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
3. Jacob Brown papers (Ms. N-2200)
Five letters (1814-1815) from James Monroe to General Jacob Brown regarding prisoners of war, army orders, and reforms at West Point. Recipients include Jacob Brown and Jared Mansfield.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-302. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Some letters are copies of the originals.
4. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
15 letters (1786-1826) from James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson regarding personal matters, including visits, Monroe's health, dinner invitations, and business matters such as Monroe's debts.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
5. Letters to William and Caroline Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Two letters (1806, 1816) from James Monroe to William Eustis about the Monroe-Pinkney treaty, the Marquis de Lafayette, trade with the Netherlands, and other subjects.
Notes: Digital images available at the MHS website here and here.
Guide to the Letters to William and Caroline Eustis available online.
6. Rotch family papers (Ms. N-812)
Two letters (1811) from James Monroe to Francis Rotch regarding an invention related to boats and vessels.
Guide to the Rotch family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Inserted in Washington Irving's The Life of George Washington (New York, 1859) (Guild Library)
Letter from James Monroe (Richmond) to Colonel John F. Mercer about renting Powhatan and his views on certain unnamed persons, 12 Sep. 1782.
Notes: The Guild Library is not cataloged in ABIGAIL. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Letter from James Monroe to the Commissary of Foreign Relations, France, expressing satisfaction that the French Republic should "appropriate a house for my use as a Minister..." of the U.S. of America, "but declines the offer, because the Constitution forbids...," 22 Aug. 1794.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Monroe.
3. Nathan Dane papers (Ms. N-1090)
Letter from James Monroe to Benjamin Lovett about the capture of the schooner Lark by a French privateer and other Lovett materials, 12 Feb. 1795.
Notes: Guide to the Nathan Dane papers available online.
4. Samuel Cabot papers (Ms. N-1981)
Letter from James Monroe to Samuel Cabot about the latter's return home, 24 Aug. 1803.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-327.
Guide to the Samuel Cabot papers available online.
5. Henry Dearborn papers (Ms. N-1106)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to Henry Dearborn asking Dearborn to come to Washington to consult on military matters, 17 Jan. 1813.
6. Elbridge Gerry papers II (Ms. N-1279)
Letter from James Monroe to Elbridge Gerry about papers taken from a British agent, 7 Apr. 1814.
Notes: Also available on microfilm as part of the Elbridge Gerry microfilm set, P-362.
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
7. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to an unknown recipient about the militia, 17 Sep. 1814.
8. Caleb Strong papers (Ms. N-990)
Letter from James Monroe to Caleb Strong discussing the military, 1 Dec. 1814.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-93.
Guide to the Caleb Strong papers available online.
9. Elbridge Gerry papers (Ms. N-1278)
Letter from James Monroe to Elbridge Gerry stating that he is appointing his brother a cadet, 21 Dec. 1814.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-362.
Guide to the Elbridge Gerry papers available online.
10. Letters received by William Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Letter from James Monroe to William Eustis informing Eustis of his duties as minister plenipotentiary to the Netherlands, 9 May 1815.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-94.
11. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Confidential letter from James Monroe (Washington) to an unknown recipient regarding dispatches to Russia, 15 Oct. 1816.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
12. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to Timothy Pickering about a register of public officers, 7 Jan. 1817.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
13. Harrison Gray Otis papers (Ms. N-617)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to Harrison Gray Otis about Monroe's New England tour, 28 Apr. 1817.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-228.
Guide to the Harrison Gray Otis papers available online.
14. Cutts-Madison papers (Ms. N-1078)
Letter signed J. M., attributed to James Monroe, to [Richard Cutts] about financial help, 11 Mar. 1819.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Monroe.
15. De Windt family papers (Special Colls. De Windt family)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to William Steuben Smith about the post of naval officer at Pensacola, 15 May 1821.
Notes: Photocopies available for use at Ms. N-1116.
16. Adams Office papers in the Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams Papers)
Letter from James Monroe (Oakhill) to John Quincy Adams recommending the appointment of S. Gouveneur to the position of postmaster of New York to replace Gen. Bailey, 22 Sep. 1828.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1800-1820) from James Monroe regarding an upcoming visit to London, finances for his home in London, loans, and a tour of the United States. Recipients include John Mason and two unknown persons.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Three letters (1804-1814) from James Monroe regarding the importation of wine, business matters, diplomatic missions, acceptance of a judicial appointment, and a copy of Life of Cicero and excerpts of letters from Cicero.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from James Monroe (Washington) to an unknown recipient about an appointment, 18 Mar. 1812.
4. Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection (Special Colls. Storer)
Draft of a letter from James Monroe to the committee of "p.s." about complaints to the committee from French citizens at Charleston [endorsed: "To be translated and prepared against my return"], 28 July 1795.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-466.
Guide to the Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection available online.
5. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
25 autograph letters (1792-1824) from James Monroe regarding international affairs, business of Congress, personal matters, Virginia politics, financial matters, Monroe and his family's health, and the presidential election of 1824. Recipients include Henry Lee, John Taylor, John Beckley, Edmund Pendleton, William B. Giles, Charles Mercer, and several unidentified persons.
Notes: See manuscript catalog for item-level descriptions and locations of letters. The majority of the letters published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 42.
6. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from James Monroe to an unknown recipient regarding appropriations for the Cumberland road, 13 Apr. 1818.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Other materials
1. Charles Pelham Greenough papers (Ms. N-1251)
James Madison's draft of a treaty with France, 1812.
Notes: Textural alterations in draft.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. James Monroe papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the James Monroe papers at the Library of Congress available online.
2. Calendar of the Correspondence of James Monroe, by James Monroe (Washington, 1893) (E178 .W574)
Calendar of correspondence (1783-1831) of James Monroe spanning his political career, starting as a member of Congress until his death in 1831. Published by the United States Department of State.
Notes: Available on Google Books and the Internet Archive.
3. The Papers of James Monroe, by the University of Mary Washington (Fredericksburg, 2006, 2009)
Selected letters and papers documenting the life and political career of James Monroe.
Notes: Not available at the MHS. See the website forThe Papers of James Monroe.
4. A Comprehensive Catalogue of the Correspondence and Papers of James Monroe, by the University of Mary Washington (Westport, 2000)
Published book containing approximately 35,800 entries describing letters and papers located in 182 libraries and archives. The book does not contain the text of the letters, just location and general information such as author, date, place of writing, brief summary, and names mentioned. Also included are location of originals, reference to published copies, and enclosures.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
5. Guide to the Microfilm Edition of James Monroe Papers in Virginia Repositories, by the University of Virginia Library (Charlottesville, 1969) (Box 1969)
Published guide of James Monroe papers during his career as a state official in Virginia.
VI. John Quincy Adams (1767-1848; President: 1825-1829)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds the most letters written by John Quincy Adams of any institution or private collector. The Adams Family Papers are the primary source for Adams letters, which cover over four generations of the Adams family from 1639 to 1889. The MHS holds letters from John Quincy Adams in over 50 other collections, including the Boylston family papers, the Edward Everett papers, and the Quincy family papers. The Adams Papers Editorial Project, which seeks to publish volumes of materials written to, from, and by the Adams family broken into four series, Diaries, Adams Family Correspondence, General Correspondence and Other Papers of the Adams Statesmen, and Adams Family Portraits, is also found at the MHS. Materials for the project are found both in the MHS collections and other collections around the world. The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
A. Presidential papers
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Correspondence, letterbooks, diaries, literary manuscripts, speeches, legal and business papers, and other papers (1639-1899; bulk: 1755-1889) largely of John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Charles Francis Adams. The collection also includes letters to Louisa Catherine (Johnson) Adams and a large file of incoming correspondence from hundreds of major and minor figures in America and Europe.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Adams family additions (Ms. N-1776 Adams family All Gens.)
Two boxes of miscellaneous Adams family papers (1652-1961) written by several generations of the family, including John Adams, Abigail Adams, Thomas Boylston Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Louisa Catherine Adams.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams family All Gens. Most items individually cataloged. Items are filed alphabetically by author and then by date.
3. Adams-Waterhouse letters (Ms. N-1776 Adams-Waterhouse)
One narrow box of letters (and typescripts) (1784-1837) from John Adams and John Q. Adams to their lifelong friend Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse. Among the subjects are their political philosophies and opponents, the War of 1812, relations with France, peace and preparedness, the need for a Navy, natural history, education, and various scholarly subjects.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Waterhouse.
4. Adams-Welsh correspondence (Ms. N-1776 1st Gen. Adams-Welsh)
Six letters (1794-1825) from John Quincy Adams to Dr. Thomas Welsh regarding Adams's travel plans, opinions on politics in America, the French Revolution and possible war with France, family matters, and general news.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams-Welsh. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
5. Homans collection (Ms. N-1776 4th Gen. Homans collection)
Four letters (1827-1830) from John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams and Mrs. Anne Adams regarding Thomas Boylston Adams's graduation from West Point, Thomas Boylston Adams's assignment to Fort Moultrie, and the death of Thomas Boylston Adams.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. Letters to Thomas Boylston Adams (Ms. N-1776 2nd Gen. JQA to TBA)
One narrow box of letters (1809-1816) written mostly by John Quincy Adams while serving as minister to Russia in St. Petersburg to his brother Thomas Boylston Adams discussing family matters and news, daily activities, politics both at home and in Europe, and life in Russia.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. JQA to TBA.
B. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Samuel Turell Armstrong papers (Ms. N-1781)
Eight letters (1835-1845) from John Quincy Adams to Samuel Turell Armstrong regarding upcoming visits, the examination of the pubic schools, the funeral of James Madison, distribution of copies of Madison's eulogy, a dinner invitation, Adams's lack of contacts in Europe, and a letter of introduction received by George B. Ainey.
2. Jeremy Belknap papers (Ms. N-1827)
Two letters (1787) from John Quincy Adams to Jeremy Belknap regarding Adams's oration at Harvard commencement.
Notes: Location: 161.A1.39. Also available on microfilm, P-380. Items published in several locations in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society and Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, and so noted on the individual cataloged entries and on the items themselves. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Jeremy Belknap papers available online.
3. Boylston family papers (Ms. N-4)
32 letters (1823-1844) from John Quincy Adams to Ward Boylston, Nathaniel Curtis, Mrs. Alicia Boylston, Thomas and John Baring, Petty Vaughan, and Joshua Bates regarding the Boylston family; Princeton, Mass.; Adams's return to Washington after his father's death; and the will and estate of Ward Nicholas Boylston.
Notes: Guide to the Boylston family papers available online.
4. Cranch family papers (Ms. N-1049)
Three letters (1781-1817) from John Quincy Adams to William Cranch and John Peter De Windt regarding Delft, South Holland, careers, and personal matters.
Notes: Unpublished guide to the Cranch family papers available in the library. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
5. De Windt family papers (Ms. N-1116)
12 letters (1803-1841) from John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, George W. Adams, William Steuben Smith, and Caroline A. De Windt regarding affairs of Jacob Mark and Co., the study of the Bible, family portraits, and the Trial of Smith and Ogden.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. De Windt family. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
32 letters (1826-1847) from John Quincy Adams to Edward Everett regarding Plutarch, the Missouri Compromise, Massachusetts politics, the chaplaincy of West Point, dinner invitations, the Chesapeake affair, the Turkish treaty, the North River Canal, James Madison, Boston Harbor, education, the China mission, college affairs, and the Harvard Observatory.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
7. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Five letters (1811-1832) from John Quincy Adams to Alexander Hill Everett and M. de Cabre, secretary of the French legation in Sweden, regarding Sweden, the affair between the President and Little Belt, war, diplomatic posts, the Putnam and Bunker Hill controversy, and finances.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online.
8. Letters received by A. B. Johnson (Adams All Gens. A. B. Johnson)
Two letters (1825, 1828) from John Quincy Adams to A. B. Johnson regarding a letter of introduction and Johnson's writing.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Adams--A.B. Johnson. Select correspondence index available in the library.
9. Letters received by Levi Lincoln (Special Colls. Lincoln)
Nine letters (1831-1833) from John Quincy Adams to Levi Lincoln and the Antimasonic Committee regarding the committee's nomination of John Quincy Adams as governor of Massachusetts, the Masonic controversy, the Apportionment Bill in the House, the state legislature, Col. John B. Davis as Suffolk County attorney general, and reconciliation between Adams and Lincoln.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-148. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
10. Letters received by William Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Seven letters (1810-1817) from John Quincy Adams to William Eustis regarding international relations, industry, and foreign affairs, including Russia, France, and England; the post of secretary of state; Federalists; and diplomatic posts.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-94. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Collection is arranged alphabetically.
11. Letters to William and Caroline Eustis (Special Colls. Eustis)
Two letters (1808, 1823) from John Quincy Adams to William Eustis about Adams's break with the Federalist Party and support of Thomas Jefferson's Embargo Act of 1807, as well as declining an invitation to the theater to stay home with his aging father.
Notes: Digital images available at the MHS website here and here.
Guide to the Letters to William and Caroline Eustis available online.
12. William P. Lunt family papers (Ms. N-1608)
Three letters (1835-1845) from John Quincy Adams to William P. Lunt and an unknown recipient regarding a dinner invitation and Adams's family.
13. Jacob Norton papers (Ms. N-599)
Three letters (1778-1786) from John Quincy Adams to Elizabeth Cranch regarding his trip to Paris, family matters, travel to Boston, and college life and studies.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-265. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
14. Jonathan Phillips papers (Ms. N-696)
Two letters (1790, 1839) from John Quincy Adams to John Phillips and Thomas W. Phillips regarding authorship of pieces by Caladon and Alcander; the attitude of "Our Ladies"; and a pension claim of Mrs. Margaret Cooper.
15. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
Three letters (1795, 1804) from John Quincy Adams to Timothy Pickering regarding Randolph's resignation, Jay's Treaty, European affairs, political affairs in England, and Judge Pickering's impeachment.
Notes: Locations: 20: 96; 20: 118; 27: 85. Also available on microfilm, P-31. Historical index to the Pickering papers published in Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 6th series, vol. 8 (1896). Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
16. William Hickling Prescott papers (Ms. N-2180)
Two letters (1834-1835) from John Quincy Adams to Benjamin Pickman and George Bancroft regarding the denunciation of Federalist leaders and the Democratic Party in Massachusetts.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-394. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the William Hickling Prescott papers available online.
17. Josiah Quincy autograph collection in the Quincy family papers (Ms. N-764)
16 letters (1804-1845) from John Quincy Adams to Josiah Quincy and John Brazer Davis regarding Federalists, Thomas Jefferson's undeserved popularity, legislative bills, pews at the temple in Quincy, Mass., the office of the overseer of Harvard, Ward Nicholas Boylston, masonry, and Harvard.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-347, as part of the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers.
Guide to the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers available online. Guide to the Quincy family papers available online.
18. Smith-Carter family papers (Ms. N-2170)
Five letters (1793-1815) from John Quincy Adams to William Smith, Abigail Adams, and John Adams regarding the seized ship Abby, James Monroe, business matters, European affairs, and peace.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-147. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Smith-Carter family papers available online.
19. Smith-Townsend family papers and papers II (Ms. N-942)
Three letters (1798, 1804) from John Quincy Adams to William Smith regarding marketing the produce of a Prussian count's Surinam plantation, Franco-American relations, and Congressional politics.
Also available on microfilm, P-106. Items individually described in MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Smith-Townsend family papers and papers II available online.
20. Walcott-Pickman family papers (Ms. N-1712)
Two letters (1832, 1834) from John Quincy Adams to Benjamin T. Pickman regarding the ratio of representatives in the House of Representatives and a meeting of the Harvard Overseers.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Walcott-Pickman family papers available online.
21. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Two letters (1839, 1844) from John Quincy Adams to Robert C. Winthrop regarding a House petition and an upcoming visit.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Originals held in Ms. N-262. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
C. Items
The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
D. Autograph collections
The MHS is also home to the Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog that brings together descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adamses.
E. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. John Quincy Adams annotated Massachusetts Registers (Special Colls. JQA annotated Massachusetts Registers)
Massachusetts Registers for 1834-35 and 1838-41 are interleaved with manuscript copies of poetry and verse written by John Quincy Adams, ca. 1834-1844.
2. John Quincy Adams journal (Ms. N-599)
A fragment of a journal (12-20 Nov. 1779) kept by John Quincy Adams describing the first few days of a journey from America to France in the frigate La Sensible.
3. Two lectures on the Smithsonian bequest (Special Colls. JQA--Smithsonian lectures)
Manuscript copies of two lectures (1839) written and delivered by John Quincy Adams regarding the bequest of the Smithsonian Institution. The lectures were given at the Masonic Temple in Boston, Mass. before the Mechanic Apprentices Library Association on 14 Nov. and 21 Nov. 1839. The second lecture was also given by Rev. William Parsons Lunt before the Quincy Lyceum, 20 Nov. 1839.
F. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Resources at the Massachusetts Historical Society
A list of Adams resources available at the MHS website.
2. Adams Papers, ed. by Adams Papers Editorial Project (Cambridge, Mass: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 1961-)
Published volumes of materials written to, from, and by the Adams family broken into four series: Diaries, Adams Family Correspondence, General Correspondence and Other Papers of the Adams Statesmen, and Adams Family Portraits.
Notes: Website for the Adams Papers Editorial Project available here.
3. Online Adams Catalog
Item-level catalog containing descriptions and locations of all known letters (over 100,000) written by four generations of the Adams family, including John Adams.
Notes: Available here.
4. Correspondence of John Quincy Adams, 1811-1814, ed. by Charles Francis Adams (Worcester, Mass.: The Society, 1913) (B Adams)
A collection of select correspondence (1811-1814) from John Quincy Adams compiled by Adams's son Charles Francis Adams.
5. Memoirs of John Quincy Adams: Comprising Portions of his Diary from 1795 to 1848, ed. by Charles Francis Adams (Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott & Co., 1874-77) (B Adams)
12-volume edition of John Quincy Adams's diary (1795-1848) which omits much of John Quincy Adams's writing. Edited by his son Charles Francis Adams.
6. Writings of John Quincy Adams, ed. by Worthington Chauncey Ford (New York: Macmillan Company, 1913-17) (B Adams)
Seven-volume set of John Quincy Adams's correspondence and memoranda. This edition only covers the years up to 1823.
VII. Andrew Jackson (1767-1845; President: 1829-1837)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 50 letters written by the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson. The letters are scattered throughout several collections of personal papers, the majority of which span Jackson's military career prior to his presidency and his retirement years. A small collection of 11 letters to Martin Van Buren are the majority of presidential letters held by the MHS. Other collections containing letters from Andrew Jackson include the Adams Family Papers, George Bancroft papers, Jacob Brown papers, Edward Everett papers, Amos Kendall papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Many of Jackson's letters pertain to his military and political career, including letters regarding the election of 1844 and the War of 1812.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Seven letters (1804-1829) from Andrew Jackson regarding business matters such as boat purchases and personal matters such as dinner and ball invitations. Recipients include Henry Dearborn, Post Master [of New Orleans], John Quincy Adams, Louisa Catherine Adams, and James A. Hamilton.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Three letters (1839-1844) from Andrew Jackson to George Bancroft regarding Tennessee and national politics, as well as the 1844 presidential election results.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
3. Jacob Brown papers (Ms. N-2200)
Four letters (1815, 1824) from Andrew Jackson to Jacob Brown regarding the disposition of troops, the defense of the Illinois and Missouri Territories, and other military matters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-302. 1815 letters are copies and extracts. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
4. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Five invitations (1830-1835) and three letters (1824-1838) from Andrew Jackson regarding personal appointments and Samuel Swartwout. Correspondents include Ezra Stiles, Edward Everett, and Francis Blair.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
5. Amos Kendall papers (Ms. N-1525)
Two letters (undated, 1835) from Andrew Jackson to Amos Kendall regarding Kendall's post as postmaster general and Jackson's presidency.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-83. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
6. Martin Van Buren papers (Ms. N-1700)
11 letters (undated, 1827-1837) from Andrew Jackson regarding a loan, his opinion of Judge Preble, judicial and governmental appointments, J. O. Bradford, and Master E. Vondrin. Correspondents include Martin Van Buren, William Pollock, and Senator Robert John Walker.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-107. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts (Special Colls. Jefferson)
Invitation from Andrew Jackson and the citizens of Lynchburg, Virginia, to Thomas Jefferson for dinner in his honor, 4 Nov. 1815.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-60.
Guide to the Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts available online.
2. Saltonstall family papers (Ms. N-2232)
Andrew Jackson (Washington) to Rev. Andrew Crawford regarding matters of historical interest, mentioning Gen. Coffe, Poindexter, Clay, and Calhoun; discussion of Nullification, 1 May 1833.
Notes: Location: Vol. XI, no. 40a, 40b. 40b is a more legible copy of the original, 40a.
Guide to the Saltonstall family papers available online.
3. Emory Washburn papers (Ms. N-220)
Admission to Emory Washburn from Andrew Jackson to a reception for the president, Boston, 20 June 1833.
4. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Andrew Jackson (Nashville) to General Plouche securing a loan, 29 Nov. 1841.
5. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1844 Mar. 12)
Letter from Andrew Jackson (Hermitage) to Alexander Vancourt about General Overton's estate, 12 Mar. 1844.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1809-1839) from Andrew Jackson regarding politics and personal matters, including his health.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from Andrew Jackson to George Wolf regarding information that could improve the finances of Pennsylvania suggested by the collector of the port of New York, 10 Mar. 1832.
3. Grenville Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Andrew Jackson (Washington) to General Francis Preston about Clay's attack on his conduct during the Seminole War, 2 Feb. 1819.
4. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from Andrew Jackson (Hermitage) to William Wilkins, secretary of war, pleading the case of Mr. Harris, the sutler of Fort Gibson; state sentiment for annexation of Texas, 20 May 1844.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
5. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Andrew Jackson to William P. Lawrence regarding personal matters, including Lawrence's daughter and Jackson's retirement, 24 Aug. 1838.
Notes: Location: Vol. 9, p. 46.
6. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Letter from Andrew Jackson to Benjamin Franklin requesting the published documents called for by John Jordan Crittenden in the case against Richard Keith Call, 23 Feb. 1837.
D. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Letter from Andrew Jackson (Washington) to a committee of Philadelphia Democrats, 4 Jan. 1837 (facsimile).
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Facsimile of Andrew Jackson letter regarding Jefferson's advice to his son, 9 June 1833.
3. William Berkeley Lewis letters (Ms. S-609)
Typewritten copies of letters to Andrew Jackson from William B. Lewis, former advisor and member of his "Kitchen Cabinet," concerning current events in American government, specifically legislation, Congress, the office of the president, the National Bank question, and Jackson's financial situation. Also, a letter from Andrew Jackson to Moses Dawson of Ohio recounting his stance on the questions of banking and currency. This collection also includes materials about Andrew Jackson and his presidency created by William B. Lewis and a letter from Lewis to Governor Lewis Cass of Michigan recalling the facts leading to Jackson's nomination for the presidency.
4. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1829 Nov. 16-17)
Draft of a letter written by Francis Baylies to Andrew Jackson protesting against David Henshaw's appointment as collector of customs at Boston, 16-17 Nov. 1829.
5. Marcus Morton letterbook (photostats) (Ms. N-2187)
Three letters (1829-1836) from Marcus Morton to Andrew Jackson regarding national politics.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Andrew Jackson papers at the Library of Congress
An Index to the Andrew Jackson Papers created by the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, is available for use at many libraries, including the MHS (B Jackson).
Notes: Finding aid for the Andrew Jackson papers at the Library of Congress available online.
2. The Papers of Andrew Jackson, by Andrew Jackson (Knoxville: University of Tennessee Press, ca. 1980-ca. 1994) (B Jackson)
A published collection of all (over 100,000 items) Andrew Jackson documents from various institutions, including letters he wrote and received, official and military papers, drafts, memoranda, legal papers, and financial records.
Notes: Website for The Papers of Andrew Jackson available here.
VIII. Martin Van Buren (1782-1862; President: 1837-1841)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 180 letters written by Martin Van Buren. The majority of the letters span Van Buren's political career starting as a New York state senator, then as United States secretary of state, vice president, and as the eighth United States president. The bulk of the letters are located in the Martin Van Buren papers; Van Buren wrote to many recipients during his career as a lawyer through his final year as president. The Massachusetts Historical Society also holds a large collection of Van Buren letters in the George Bancroft papers, mostly regarding politics. Bancroft was a strong supporter of Van Buren in 1844 and planned to write his campaign biography, but switched his support to Polk when it appeared that Van Buren would not be nominated. The remainder of Van Buren's letters are scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the Adams Family Papers, Edward Everett papers, Worthington C. Ford papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Van Buren's letters deal with politics, including James K. Polk's campaign and cabinet, the Northeast boundary, New York politics, and the presidential nomination.
A. Presidential papers
1. Martin Van Buren papers (Ms. N-1700)
One box of mostly political papers of Martin Van Buren spanning his tenure as a lawyer (1803-1821), member of the New York State Senate (1821-1828), U.S. secretary of state (1828-1833), vice president (1829-1837), and president (1837-1841).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-107. Many items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
B. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
12 letters (1825-1843) from Martin Van Buren regarding subjects such as enclosed letters, addresses and orations of John Quincy Adams, a visit to John Quincy Adams, and a dinner invitation. Recipients include John Quincy Adams and Charles Francis Adams.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
48 letters, invitations, and introductions (1826-1853) written to George Bancroft, mostly regarding politics, the writing of Van Buren's campaign biography, and Polk's campaign and cabinet.
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
3. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
11 letters (1828-1856): one letter of introduction and 10 letters regarding advice from Van Buren to Edward Everett, politics, invitations, and the Northeast Boundary.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
4. Worthington C. Ford papers (Special Colls. Loose mss. Van Buren)
Six letters (1844) from Martin Van Buren to Henry D. Gilpin regarding personal acquaintances, Pennsylvania and New York politics, presidential nominations, and literary matters.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls.
5. Amos Kendall papers (Ms. N-1525)
Two letters (1835, 1840) relating to Kendall's post as postmaster general during Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren's presidencies.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-83.
6. Sedgwick family papers (Ms. N-851)
Five letters (1822-1837) from Martin Van Buren to Theodore Sedgwick (1780-1839) discussing business matters. Also included are letters from Theodore Sedgwick to Martin Van Buren contained in Sedgwick's letterbooks.
Notes: Some letterbooks are indexed.
Guide to the Sedgwick family papers available online.
C. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Henry W. Taft autograph collection (Special Colls. H. W. Taft)
Autograph deposition by Martin Van Buren and Horatio Marchant, 10 Apr. 1807.
2. Harrison Gray Otis papers (Ms. N-617)
Letter written from Martin Van Buren (Washington, D.C.) to Harrison Gray Otis on behalf of Andrew Jackson, declining Otis's offer of the use of his mansion, 27 May 1829.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-228.
Guide to the Harrison Gray Otis papers available online.
3. Alexander Hill Everett letters (Ms. N-2054 Tall)
Letter from Martin Van Buren (Department of State) to Alexander Hill Everett about notification of the appointment of Cornelius P. Van Ness as envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the United States to Spain replacing Everett, 8 June 1829.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-156.
4. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Martin Van Buren to John C. Spencer giving him permission to publish a letter by Van Buren on the administration of Andrew Jackson and Freemasonry, 15 Sep. 1836.
5. John Collins Warren papers (Ms. N-1731)
Letter from Martin Van Buren to John Collins Warren acknowledging the congratulations of Dr. John C. Warren on his election, 26 Dec. 1836.
Notes: Guide to the John Collins Warren papers available online.
6. Henry Dearborn papers (Ms. N-1106)
Letter from Martin Van Buren to John Fairfield regarding politics in Maine, 1838.
D. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Two letters (1844, 1856) from Martin Van Buren regarding copies of letters and a Mr. Bradley.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Three letters (1815, 1836) from Martin Van Buren regarding a meeting with Benjamin F. Butler, a letter to James A. Hamilton regarding missing him in Oswego and sending letters to him, and a letter to Archibald McIntyre regarding the health of Mrs. Van Buren and advice on a Mr. Combs.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1836, 1841) from Martin Van Buren regarding a personal meeting with the Butler family and monetary matters. Correspondents include Benjamin F. Butler and H. A. Willard.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Three autograph letters (1835, 1845, 1846) regarding books, declining a dinner invitation, and a position offer to N. E. Parker. Correspondents include S. J. Tilden, N. E. Parker, and D. Vanderpoel.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
5. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from Martin Van Buren to Mrs. Butler, undated.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
E. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
"The Madison Papers, Volume III," 1817-1836: copies of letters written to and from Martin Van Buren. One volume containing copies of letters written by James Madison, among them letters from Madison to Van Buren.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
2. Marcus Morton letterbook (photostats) (Ms. N-2187)
Letters (1829-1837) from Marcus Morton to Martin Van Buren regarding local and national politics, including political appointments, international politics with Denmark, and letters of introduction.
F. Related materials
Arranged alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Martin Van Buren to R. Smith regarding payment of rent on his pew and how to reach him after leaving Washington, 5 Apr. 1841.
2. The Papers of Martin Van Buren (Alexandria, Va.: Chadwyck-Healey, 1989)
Microfilm collection of all known papers created by Martin Van Buren. Including a Guide and Index to the Papers of Martin Van Buren, by Lucy Fisher West.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
3. Martin Van Buren papers at the Library of Congress
A Calendar of the Papers of Martin Van Buren: Prepared from the Original Manuscripts in the Library of Congress created by the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, is available at many libraries including the MHS (B Van Buren).
Notes: Finding aid for the Martin Van Buren papers at the Library of Congress available online.
IX. William Henry Harrison (1773-1841; President: 1841)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds letters written by Harrison regarding military and political matters, including the contentious election of 1826. All letters were written during Harrison's military career prior to his one-month presidency.
A. Collections
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Six letters (1825-1828) from William Henry Harrison regarding his appointment to Mexico and his petition to John Quincy Adams to be appointed as major general. Recipients include John Quincy Adams and James Monroe.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to Gen. Anthony Wayne about his marriage and asking to stay at Fort Washington, 30 Nov. 1795.
2. Timothy Pickering papers (Ms. N-708)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to Robert G. Harper about the post of secretary of the Northwest Territory, 26 May 1798.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-31. Location: Vol. 22, p. 179.
Guide to the Timothy Pickering papers available online.
3. Harrison Gray Otis papers (Ms. N-617)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to Harrison Gray Otis introducing Peter Cheauteau, 29 May 1804.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-228.
Guide to the Harrison Gray Otis papers available online.
4. Henry Dearborn papers (Ms. N-1106)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to Gen. Henry Dearborn congratulating him on his military successes, 13 June 1813.
5. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to Edward Everett expressing gratitude for Massachusetts support, 21 Feb. 1840.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Two letters (1823, 1834) from William Henry Harrison regarding military matters. Recipients include Capt. Payne, Major John Chambers, and Col. Leslie Combs.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to W. V. Cushing regarding accusations of financial impropriety, 30 Dec. 1834.
Notes: Includes transcription.
3. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to B. Hurst regarding the senatorial support of John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson, 10 Dec. 1826.
Notes: Location: Vol. 9 p. 51
4. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from William Henry Harrison (Detroit) to an unidentified recipient regarding orders to send a detachment to Lake Erie to repair the bridge and open the road, 12 Oct. 1813.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Other materials
1. Winthrop Sargent papers (Ms. N-877)
Four copies of letters (1795-1799) from William Henry Harrison to Winthrop Sargent regarding military matters, negotiations with Native Americans, and Sargent's Cincinnati property.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-28. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Winthrop Sargent papers available online.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from William Henry Harrison to John Randolph about a grant of land for a school, 28 Dec. 1802.
2. William Henry Harrison papers at the Library of Congress
Includes Index to the William H. Harrison Papers, by the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division (Washington [D.C.: U.S. Govt. Prntg. Office], 1960) (B Harrison).
Notes: Finding aid for the William Henry Harrison papers at the Library of Congress available online (PDF).
3. Messages and Letters of William Henry Harrison, ed. by Logan Esarey (New York, 1975, ca. 1922)
Two published volumes that cover Harrison's term as governor of Indiana.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
X. John Tyler (1790-1862; President: 1841-1845)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds 40 letters in which Tyler discusses political, personal, and international matters. The majority of the letters, most to Edward Everett, were written during Tyler's presidency, 1841-1845. The remainder span Tyler's political career before and after his presidency.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Four letters and invitations (1826-1841) to John Quincy Adams, including two letters regarding condolences on the death of John Adams and a letter of recommendation for Joseph A. Mayborn as district attorney to New Orleans and two invitations to dinner.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
22 letters (1841-1861) from John Tyler to Edward Everett, including 12 letters of introduction and 10 letters regarding the China mission, Duff Green, copies of Everett's speeches, and personal matters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from John Tyler to Robert C. Winthrop regarding Mr. Bacon's situation in the Marine Hospital, 15 Feb. 1844.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350, and as Photostats, Ms. N-263.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
2. Perry-Clarke collection (Ms. N-2155)
Letter from John Tyler (Sherwood Forest) to the New Orleans anniversary committee sending regrets that he is unable to attend the celebration (handwritten description attached), 2 Jan. 1852.
Notes: Guide to the Perry-Clarke collection available online.
3. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from John Tyler (Sherwood Forest) to James S. Whitney giving his views on intervention by the United States government, 3 Feb. 1852.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (undated, 1855) from John Tyler regarding the late David Henshaw and the case of Charles Edwards.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from John Tyler regarding a search for a pony, 22 Mar. 1857.
Notes: Item individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Two letters (undated, 1843) from John Tyler to Daniel Webster regarding a letter from General Andrew Jackson and a dispatch.
Notes: Collection arranged alphabetically. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
4. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1849, 1860) from John Tyler regarding the political outlook. Correspondents include Margaret Buckman and Robert Tyler.
5. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters (undated, 1843) from John Tyler regarding campaign ethics and strategy, as well as the placement of Major Hopkins in the Custom House. Recipients include George Roberts and John C. Spencer.
Notes: Location: Vol. 9, p. 54.
6. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from John Tyler to Mr. Spencer forwarding a letter from Senator Walker, 1840?.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Related materials
1. John Tyler papers at the Library of Congress
An Index to the John Tyler Papers created by the Library of Congress is available at many libraries, including the MHS (B Tyler).
Notes: Finding aid for the John Tyler papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XI. James K. Polk (1795-1849; President: 1845-1849)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 40 letters by James K. Polk, the majority written during his tenure as the 11th president of the United States. Most of the letters were written to George Bancroft during Polk's administration. The remainder are scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the Edward Everett papers, the Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Polk's letters deal with politics during his presidency, including political appointments, naval matters, the Mexican War, a potential campaign biography, and the annexation of Texas.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
28 letters (1844-1849) from James K. Polk to George Bancroft regarding political matters, including Polk's regard for Martin Van Buren, a potential campaign biography, Bancroft's position as secretary of the Navy, naval matters, the Mexican War, slavery, and the annexation of Texas.
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
2. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Two letters (1845) from James K. Polk (Washington) to Edward Everett, including one letter of introduction and one letter recalling Everett to Washington, D.C.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Martin Van Buren papers (Ms. N-1700)
Letter from James K. Polk (Nashville) to Martin Van Buren introducing John P. Hickman, 9 May 1837.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-107.
2. Perry-Clarke collection (Ms. N-2155)
Letter from James K. Polk (Washington) to William G. Childress congratulating the editor of the political paper The Weekly Record on the appearance of its first number, 25 Sep. 1837.
Notes: Guide to the Perry-Clarke collection available online.
3. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from James K. Polk (Washington) to A. G. McNutt enclosing a resolution of the House of Representatives, 6 Feb. 1838.
4. Alexander Hill Everett letters (Ms. N-2054 Tall)
Letter from James K. Polk to the emperor of China explaining Alexander Hill Everett's new position as commissioner to China (two copies), 15 Apr. 1845.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-156.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Letter of introduction to William Marcy for a Mr. Mattoin, 1845.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society.
2. Endicott family autograph collection (Ms. N-1183)
Letter from James K. Polk (Washington) to John Quincy Adams declining a dinner invitation, 21 Dec. 1826.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Endicott.
Guide to the Endicott family autograph collection available online.
3. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from James K. Polk (Washington) to the secretary of war about military commissions, 30 May 1846.
4. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from James K. Polk (Nashville) to Samuel H. Laughlin about the Tennessee gubernatorial campaign, 9 Mar. 1841.
5. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from James K. Polk (Columbia) to Col. S. H. Laughlin about politics, 13 Sep. 1839.
Notes: See also "Other materials" for a letter from George Bancroft to James Schouler regarding Polk's administration.
Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
6. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two confidential letters (1835, 1843) from James K. Polk regarding politics. Correspondents include Samuel H. Laughlin and an unknown recipient.
Notes: Location: Vol. 24, p. a; Vol. 9, p. 55.
7. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from James K. Polk to William Learned Marcy, secretary of war, regarding the creation of a public affairs council in the War Department, 4 Aug. 1847.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Other materials
1. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from George Bancroft to James Schouler listing the four great measures which President Polk told him he would carry through in his administration, 5 Feb. 1887.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Correspondence of James K. Polk, ed. by Herbert Weaver and Paul H. Bergeron (Nashville: Vanderbilt University Press, 1969-1996) (B Polk)
Published series of all known significant correspondence to and from Polk.
Notes: The first seven volumes were published at Vanderbilt University Press. The project was then moved to University of Tennessee Press for the remaining volumes.
2. James K. Polk papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the James K. Polk papers at the Library of Congress available online (PDF).
XII. Zachary Taylor (1784-1850; President: 1849-1850)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 15 letters by Zachary Taylor, the majority written during his military service in the Mexican-American War and his presidential campaign. Letters are scattered through several collections including the Edward Everett papers, the Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection, and several other personal papers and autograph collections. The majority of Taylor's letters discuss military and political matters, including international relations with Europe, marching music, and his presidential nomination.
A. Collections
1. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Three letters (1848-1849) from Zachary Taylor to Edward Everett regarding international relations with Europe.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. John O. Sargent papers (Ms. N-875)
Dinner invitation from Zachary Taylor to John O. Sargent, 18 Nov. 184-.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-163. Printed form completed in manuscript.
Guide to the John O. Sargent papers available online.
2. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from Zachary Taylor (Camargo, Mexico) to Robert C. Winthrop regarding a piece of marching music sent to him by Winthrop for the army, 23 Aug. 1846.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350, and as Photostats, Ms. N-263.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
3. Letters received by Levi Lincoln (Special Colls. Lincoln)
Letter from Zachary Taylor to Levi Lincoln regarding Taylor's attendance at the annual festival of the Worcester Agricultural Society, 3 May 1849.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-148. Location: 151.2.23.124.
4. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Zachary Taylor to the second auditor of the treasury about an improper payment, 14 Oct. 1849.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Two letters (1840, 1844) from Zachary Taylor regarding a cabinet meeting and the U.S. army.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1847, 1848) from Zachary Taylor regarding management of his plantation and his nomination for the presidency.
3. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from Zachary Taylor to Iverson L. Harris reporting on the condition of his son, William A. Harris, 25 Mar. 1847.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Three letters (1822-1849) from Zachary Taylor regarding personal and business matters. Recipients include Thomas Lawson and George A. Briggs.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
D. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Horace Mann collection (Ms. N-1620)
11 letters (1848-1850) to and from Horace Mann regarding protests against Zachary Taylor as a presidential nominee, comments on Taylor's addresses, his presidential actions related to California and New Mexico, Taylor's views on secession, details of Taylor's illness, and a discussion of Taylor's character.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-372. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Horace Mann collection available online.
2. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Zachary Taylor inaugural address, 1849-1889.
Notes: Published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 15 (Mar. 1877), pp. 250-251, and 2nd series, vol. 4 (Jan. 1889), pp. 236-238. Also available on microfilm, P-350, and as Photostats, Ms. N-263.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Letters of Zachary Taylor from the Battlefields of the Mexican War, ed. by William K. Bixby, introduction by William H Samson (New York: Kraus Repr., 1970)
One published volume of letters written by Zachary Taylor during the Mexican-American War.
Notes: Reprint from the originals in the collection of William K. Bixby of St. Louis, Mo. Not available at the MHS.
2. Zachary Taylor papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Zachary Taylor papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XIII. Millard Fillmore (1800-1874; President: 1850-1853)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 90 letters by Millard Fillmore. The majority of the letters were written during Fillmore's tenure as a member of the United States Congress, comptroller of the state of New York, vice president, and as the 13th United States president, 1850-1853. The majority of the letters are in the Edward Everett papers, which contain a lengthy correspondence spanning almost three decades. The remainder of the letters are scattered throughout several collections, including the Nathan Appleton scrapbooks, Amos Adams Lawrence papers, John O. Sargent papers, Winthrop family papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Fillmore's letters pertain to his posts in the United States government, including his presidential nomination, Congressional business, international relations and law, his work as a lawyer and legal cases, and a small number discussing personal interests such as literature.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Nathan Appleton scrapbooks (Ms. N-58 Tall)
Two letters (1849) from Millard Fillmore to Nathan Appleton regarding Fillmore's confidential discussion and plans for leaving Washington.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Edward Everett correspondence (Ms. N-2225)
61 letters (1835-1861) from Millard Fillmore to Edward Everett regarding politics, the presidency (1851), the presidential nomination (1852), offering Everett the post of secretary of state, the Senate session (1853), international copyright, the Gadsden Purchase, and the Kansas-Nebraska Bill.
3. Amos Adams Lawrence papers (Ms. N-1559)
Four letters (1856) from Millard Fillmore to Amos A. Lawrence regarding pledges from presidential candidates, the national government's effect on Kansas, and other political matters.
Notes: Guide to the Amos Adams Lawrence papers available online.
4. John O. Sargent papers (Ms. N-875)
Seven letters (1851-1872) from Millard Fillmore to John Osborne Sargent regarding Wildman's International Law, dinner invitations, a biographical sketch of Fillmore, the Lopez expedition against Cuba (1851), a copy of Sargent's The Last Knight, and Fillmore's thoughts on Grant and Greeley.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-163. Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John O. Sargent papers available online.
5. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Eight letters (1850-1870) from Millard Fillmore regarding personal matters, an article from the Boston Bee (1856), politics, and a memoir of John Pendleton. Recipients include Robert C. Winthrop and Frances Maria Winthrop.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-350. Photostats available for use at Ms. N-263
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1828 Sep.)
Notice from Millard Fillmore to Lyman Blackman and Roswell Buck on filing a declaration in the suit of Joseph Howard, Jr. vs. Lyman Blackman and Roswell Buck, Sep. 1828.
2. Inserted in Oxford Bible, 1841 (E187, Bibles, 1841)
Letter from Millard Fillmore to Dorothea Dix presenting the Bible, 31 Dec. 1850.
3. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Millard Fillmore (Washington) to Charles W. Storey about impromptu speeches made during his visit to Boston, 14 Nov. 1851.
4. Horatio Gates Somerby collection (Ms. N-2169)
Letter from Millard Fillmore to Horatio Somerby discussing Fillmore's genealogy, 31 Mar. 1852.
5. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Letter from Millard Fillmore to George Bancroft giving his opinion of Edward Everett after Everett's death, 8 Feb. 1865.
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
6. Samuel Whitcomb papers (Ms. N-265)
Letter from Millard Fillmore, Albany, N.Y., to Samuel Whitcomb agreeing to send 100 copies of the paper started for the campaign, 29 Sep. 1868.
Notes: Guide to the Samuel Whitcomb papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1852-1856) from Millard Fillmore regarding personal matters and the U.S. Navy.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from Millard Fillmore to J. Knox about legal affairs, 16 July 1834.
3. Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection (Special Colls. Storer)
Letter from Millard Fillmore (Washington, D.C.) to the Hon. A. Hunt enclosing a copy of his letter to Mr. McDonald (enclosure not with letter), 25 Oct. 1850.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-466.
Guide to the Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection available online.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Millard Fillmore (Washington) to an unidentified recipient apologizing for not returning a paper sooner, 28 Mar. 1851.
Notes: Location: Vol. 9, p. 60.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Millard Fillmore papers at the Buffalo History Museum
A collection of correspondence written to Fillmore pertaining to political and legal matters.
Notes: See the website of the Buffalo History Museum here.
2. Millard Fillmore Papers, ed. by Frank Severance, 2 vols. (Buffalo, N.Y.: The Buffalo Historical Society, 1907) (B Fillmore)
Two published volumes of the Millard Fillmore papers at the Buffalo History Museum. The manuscript collection at the Buffalo History Museum has increased since this publication.
XIV. Franklin Pierce (1804-1869; President: 1853-1857)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 30 letters written by Franklin Pierce. The majority of the letters were written during Pierce's time as a United States senator, New Hampshire attorney, soldier in the Mexican-American War (1847-1848), and 14th president of the United States. Letters are scattered through several collections, including the George Bancroft papers, Edward Everett papers, Amos Adams Lawrence papers, Seth Turner Crawford papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Pierce's letters deal with politics during his political career, including the Democratic Convention, the presidential campaign of 1853, and the creation of the Hiram Powers statue of "Liberty."
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Eight letters (1838-1852) from Franklin Pierce to George Bancroft about political matters, including political appointments, the Democratic Convention, and Bancroft's participation in Pierce's presidential campaign.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
2. Seth Turner Crawford collection (Ms. N-7)
Two letters (1839, 1845) of U.S. senator, and later president, Franklin Pierce to Joseph Manahan regarding A. G. Cullen, personal acquaintances, families, and Pierce's trip to Washington.
Notes: Guide to the Seth Turner Crawford collection available online.
3. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Seven letters (1853-1856) from Franklin Pierce to Edward Everett regarding potential visits, Everett's resignation as secretary of state, meetings, and the Hiram Powers "statue of liberty."
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
4. Amos Adams Lawrence papers (Ms. N-1559)
Five letters (1844-1866) from Franklin Pierce to Amos A. Lawrence regarding personal matters, the current state of affairs (1861), and the health of Lawrence's mother.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Amos Adams Lawrence papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Andover) to Nathaniel Thayer about the subscription of the law firm of Peirce and Bacon, 18 Dec. 18--.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online.
2. Amos Lawrence papers II (Ms. N-1555)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Washington) to Amos Lawrence regarding the U.S. currency, 26 Apr. 1836.
3. John Collins Warren papers (Ms. N-1731)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Concord, N.H.) to Dr. J. C. Warren regarding Pierce's receipt of Warren's latest volume, 1 Jan. 1853.
Notes: Guide to the John Collins Warren papers available online.
4. William Richards Lawrence papers III (Ms. N-1564)
Letter from Franklin Pierce to William R. Lawrence regarding his book about his father, Extracts from the Diary and Correspondence of the Late Amos Lawrence, 28 May 1855.
5. Samuel A. Green papers (Ms. N-1330)
Letter of introduction from Franklin Pierce (Concord, N.H.) to Nathaniel Hawthorne for Samuel A. Green, 28 June 1857.
6. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Concord, N.H.) to Curtis Guild regarding his upcoming visit to Boston and calling on Curtis Guild while there, 27 June 1865.
7. Theodore F. Dwight papers (Special Colls. Dwight)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Concord, N.H.) to Theodore F. Dwight about the Nathaniel Hawthorne papers, 25 Mar. 1867.
Notes: Guide to the Theodore F. Dwight papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Two letters (1845, 1852) from Franklin Pierce regarding the postponement of Boston celebrations and a visit to Concord.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Washington) to A. H. Reeder declining an offer for an animal and suggesting he contact a Mr. Andrews, 13 Sep. 1854.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Franklin Pierce (Washington) to Edmund Burke about slavery, 17 Jan. 1838.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters from Franklin Pierce to John L. O'Sullivan discussing politics, 1853.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
5. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from Franklin Pierce to George Morey regarding copies of orders and dispatches about El Dorado, Mr. Thompson, and Gen. Lodge, 2 May 1855.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Related materials
1. Franklin Pierce papers at the Library of Congress
An Index to the Franklin Pierce Papers created by the Library of Congress is available at many libraries, including the MHS (B Pierce).
Notes: Finding aid for the Franklin Pierce papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XV. James Buchanan (1791-1868; President: 1857-1861)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 70 letters by James Buchanan. The majority of Buchanan's letters were written during his time as United States senator, secretary of state under James K. Polk, and minister to England under Franklin Pierce. A few letters in the MHS collections were written during Buchanan's term as the 15th United States president, including letters to Charles Francis Adams and Edward Everett. The majority of letters were written to fellow politician and ambassador George Bancroft and fellow politicians Edward and Alexander Hill Everett during Buchanan's tenure as secretary of state. The remainder of the letters are scattered through several collections, including the Everett-Peabody family papers, the Martin Van Buren papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Buchanan's letters deal with politics and his duties as secretary of state, including international relations, as well as the 1848 presidential campaign and other campaigns.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Special Colls. Adams family)
Two letters (1859, 1861) from James Buchanan regarding a letter of introduction for Rev. Edward W. Appleton and memories of Lancaster, Pa. Recipients include Henry Rogers and Charles Francis Adams.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
28 letters (1844-1853) from James Buchanan to George Bancroft discussing letters of introduction and political matters, including the Mexican War, Winfield Scott's and Zachary Taylor's presidential aspirations, the presidential campaign of 1848, American Navigation Acts, Mosquito Coast negotiations, slavery, and the Franklin Pierce cabinet.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
3. Alexander Hill Everett letters (Ms. N-2054 Tall)
12 letters (1845-1848) from Secretary of State James Buchanan, including three letters to Alexander Hill Everett about Everett's post as commissioner to China; two letters to Garret Davies and Peter Parker about Everett's expenses; and six letters to Edward Everett about a monument to Alexander Hill Everett, funeral expenses, and the appointment of Peter Parker as acting charge d'affaires in China.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-156. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
4. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
15 letters (1834-1859) from James Buchanan to Edward Everett regarding letters of introduction and business matters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
5. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Four letters (1845-1846) from James Buchanan regarding Alexander Hill Everett's authorizations to negotiate with the Japanese government and to draw money from Baring Brothers and Co., London.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online.
6. Martin Van Buren papers (Ms. N-1700)
Two letters (undated, 1839) from James Buchanan to Martin Van Buren regarding lines from Gov. Wolf and the position of consul at Havana.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-107.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Amos Kendall papers (N-1525)
Letter of introduction from James Buchanan to Amos Kendall, postmaster general, 25 Oct. 1835.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-83.
2. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Letter from James Buchanan telling Robert C. Winthrop he complied with his request for a new passport, 30 Mar. 1847.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
3. John Collins Warren papers (Ms. N-1731)
Letter from James Buchanan (Washington) to J. Sullivan Warren thanking Warren for a book, 5 Sep. 1857.
Notes: Guide to the John Collins Warren papers available online.
4. Preston-Dodge family papers (Ms. N-742)
Note from James Buchanan about a commission to W. Appleton, 19 May 1858.
5. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1859 Nov. 29)
Letter from James Buchanan (Washington) to Andrew Hunter about Aaron D. Stevens's trial, 17 Dec. 1859.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Three letters (1842-1862) from James Buchanan regarding the nomination of Reverend J. R. Goodman as chaplain of the Navy and the Chelsea Granite Club, no. 11.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Charles Edward French autograph collection (Special Colls. C. E. French)
Letter from James Buchanan (Lancaster, Pa.) to Peter Wager about a political appointment, 4 Oct. 1836.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1847, 1857) from James Buchanan regarding politics and Franklin and Marshall College.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters (1845, 1849) from James Buchanan regarding politics. Recipients include John L. O'Sullivan and Asbury Dickins.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
5. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from James Buchanan to Joseph C. Neal regarding the confirmation of John F. Mulloney as consul to Morocco and criticism of the Tyler administration, 14 Mar. 1842.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. James Buchanan Papers at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania
A Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the James Buchanan Papers, created by Lucy Fisher West for the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, is available at many libraries, including the MHS (Box 1974). See the website of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania here.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from James Buchanan to Richard Smith about a banking transaction, undated.
3. The Works of James Buchanan: Comprising His Speeches, State Papers, and Private Correspondence, collected and edited by John Bassett Moore (Philadelphia, 1908-1911) (B Buchanan)
12 published volumes (1813-1868) of speeches, state papers, and private correspondence of James Buchanan.
XVI. Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865; President: 1861-1865)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 30 letters written by Abraham Lincoln. The majority of letters were written during Lincoln's terms as the 16th United States president. There are also a few letters written by Lincoln during his time as a United States representative and lawyer. Letters are scattered through several MHS collections, including the Adams Family Papers, Letters to Edward Everett, the Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Lincoln's letters deal with many subjects, including politics, Edward Everett's speech at Gettysburg, legislation, slavery, and military matters.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Ms. N-1776)
Four letters (1861-1863) from Abraham Lincoln to Charles Francis Adams regarding letters of introduction, Prof. J. N. Chesney, and politics.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Letters to Edward Everett (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Two letters (1863, 1864) from President Abraham Lincoln to Mass. Senator Edward Everett regarding Everett's speech at Gettysburg.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-349, reel 18. Published (including facsimiles) in Edward Everett at Gettysburg (Boston: MHS, 1963).
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. R. C. Waterston autograph collection (Special Colls. Waterston)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to William H. Herndon about a bank case, 13 Dec. 1847.
Notes: Individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
2. Inserted in Life of Abraham Lincoln, by I. Arnold (Chicago, 1885) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Springfield) to Messrs. Hempstead and Washburne about securing a map of Galena from the Supreme Court files, 11 Nov. 1853.
3. Special Collections (individually cased)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Springfield) to Joshua Fry Speed about slavery, the Nebraska Bill, and Kansas affairs, 24 Aug. 1855.
Notes: Individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Original individually cased in Special Colls.
Digital image and transcription available online.
4. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to Capt. Gustavus V. Fox about the attempt to provision Fort Sumter, 1 May 1861.
Notes: Published in Proceeding of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 1st series, vol. 15, p. 394.
5. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln thanking Edward Everett for an earlier letter and discussing Congress and politics, 18 Nov. 1861.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
6. Theodore Chase papers (Ms. N-2133)
Note from Abraham Lincoln to Salmon P. Chase, secretary of the treasury, regarding instructions to Mr. [Edward L.] Pierce about the Port Royal contrabands, 15 Feb. 1862.
Notes: Framed. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
7. Amos Adams Lawrence papers (Ms. N-1559)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln thanking Amos A. Lawrence for an earlier letter, 7 Aug. 1862.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
Guide to the Amos Adams Lawrence papers available online.
8. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to the commanding officer of Fort Randall, Dakota Territory, asking for protection for Hon. J. B. S. Todd and family, 29 Apr. 1863.
9. Quincy family papers (Ms. N-764)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln thanking Josiah Quincy for advice, 12 Sep. 1863.
Notes: Body of letter in John Hay's handwriting. Also available on microfilm, P-347, as part of the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
Guide to the Quincy, Wendell, Holmes, and Upham family papers available online. Guide to the Quincy family papers available online.
10. Theodore F. Dwight papers II (Special Colls. T. F. Dwight II)
Message from Abraham Lincoln about dispatches, 10 Mar. 1864.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
11. Edward Gilman Frothingham papers (Ms. S-404)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to the judge advocate general asking for a report, 9 May 1864.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
12. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to the secretary of war asking if he will discuss something with the Senate, 5 July 1864.
13. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Brief note from Abraham Lincoln to the secretary of war on a card concerning a Mr. Fenton, 5 July 1864.
14. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to Gov. John A. Andrew of Massachusetts introducing an old friend, Dr. A. G. Henry, 17 Mar. 1865.
15. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln introducing A. G. Henry to Governor Andrew, 17 May 1865.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to B. F. James discussing a recent journal publication, 1846.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society.
2. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Note from Abraham Lincoln recommending the son of his friend Col. Baker for a position in the subsistence department of the United States army, appended to "An Act to promote the efficiency of the Commissary department," 5 Feb. 1863.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln to the attorney general about a court-martial finding, 6 Feb. 1862.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
4. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to William Schouler asking him about the position Massachusetts will take in the presidential election, 8 Aug. 1848.
Notes: Published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society (Jan. 1908).
Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
5. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters (1846, 1863) from Abraham Lincoln regarding the Perkin Convention and military matters. Recipients include B. F. James and General Halleck.
Notes: 9 Feb. 1846 letter location: Vol. 9, p. 65; published in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, vol. 42, p. 83. Original 27 Oct. 1863 letter held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
6. Roger Wolcott autograph collection (Special Colls. Wolcott)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to William Buckingham thanking him for conveying the resolutions of the legislature of Connecticut, 12 Jan. 1863.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
Notes: Guide to the Roger Wolcott autograph collection available online.
D. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to Michael Hahn about African American suffrage in Louisiana, 13 Mar. 1864 (copy).
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
2. Letters to Truman H. Bartlett (Ms. N-636)
Letters received (1875-1892) by Truman H. Bartlett, mostly sent by William H. Herndon about the life of President Abraham Lincoln. Letters include discussions of Lincoln's paternity and mother Nancy Hanks Lincoln, historical and genealogical notes, discussions of their friendships with Lincoln, clippings, and brief biographical sketches. Also includes letters to and from James K. Magie, Joseph Medill, H. E. Scudder, Jesse W. Weik, Herndon's wife Anna after his death, 1892, and letters received by MHS librarian Julius Herbert Tuttle, 1920, from Rev. William E. Barton and Bartlett pertaining to the use of these letters for books written by Barton.
3. Caroline Wells Healey Dall papers (Ms. N-1082)
Memorandum book of Abraham Lincoln, 1858, containing a list of voters of Sangamon County, Illinois, who would support him in the 1858 senatorial campaign.
Notes: Letter of transmittal from W. H. Herndon to Mrs. Dall, dated 1 Feb. 1868, on inside cover. Also available on microfilm, P-323. Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Lincoln.
Guide to the Caroline Wells Healey Dall papers available online.
4. Miscellaneous Bound Additions (Misc. Bd. Adds. [1862])
Letter from friends of Maj. Robert Morris Copeland to Abraham Lincoln requesting a court-martial to rectify Copeland's "unexplained dismissal" from the Union army. The letter is signed by Ralph W. Emerson, J. M. Forbes, James Savage, William B. Rogers, Thomas Hill, James Warner, James Freeman Clarke, Amos Tuck, Ezra Lincoln, J. Z. Goodrich, Louis Agassiz, Jared Sparks, J. R. Lowell, Henry W. Longfellow, Josiah Quincy, Jr., William I. Bowditch, Henry Lee, Jr., Charles Hale, Henry I. Bowditch, George S. Hillard, and Samuel G. Howe, [1862].
5. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1865 Apr. 29)
Piece of sheet on which Lincoln's head is said to have been lain after his assassination (in a letter to Henry B. Metcalf), 29 Apr. 1865.
6. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1889 Aug. 8)
Account of an interview with Abraham Lincoln by Henry Samuel, 8 Aug. 1889.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln, the Abraham Lincoln Association, Springfield, Illinois; ed. by Roy P. Basler, Marion Dolores Pratt, and Lloyd A. Dunlap (New Brunswick, N.J.: Rutgers University Press, 1953-1955) (B Lincoln)
Published volumes of papers written by Abraham Lincoln.
2. Groton School autograph collection (photocopies) (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Abraham Lincoln (Washington) to the commissioner of pensions regarding a position for O. D. Banet of Oswego, N.Y., 8 May 1861.
3. Abraham Lincoln papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the Abraham Lincoln papers at the Library of Congress.
4. Henry Horner Lincoln collection at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum here.
5. The Papers of Abraham Lincoln, assembled by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Published volumes and digital publications of all known documents created by and written to Abraham Lincoln throughout his lifetime.
Notes: Website for the project available here.
XVII. Andrew Johnson (1808-1875; President: 1865-1869)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 16 letters by Andrew Johnson, the majority written during Johnson's term as the 17th United States president. A few letters were written while he was in the United States House of Representatives and Senate and while he served as military governor of Tennessee. The majority of Johnson's letters are located in the George Bancroft papers and the Amos Adams Lawrence papers and discuss political support, Congressional affairs, and aid for Tennessee. The remainder of his letters, which discuss politics and the Civil War, are scattered throughout other personal papers and autograph collections.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Seven letters and telegrams (1865-1866) from Andrew Johnson to George Bancroft regarding pledges of support, a conference, a trip to Washington, an invitation to give Lincoln's eulogy before Congress, and a trip to Chicago.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
2. Amos Adams Lawrence papers (Ms. N-1559)
Three letters (1861) from Andrew Johnson to Amos A. Lawrence regarding aid for Tennessee Unionists, as well as money receipts.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Amos Adams Lawrence papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Edward Everett papers (Ms. N-1201)
Letter from Andrew Johnson (Nashville) to N. G. Taylor regarding supplies for East Tennessee, 24 Jan. 1864.
Notes: Extract. Also available on microfilm, P-349.
Guide to the Edward Everett papers available online.
2. John A. Andrew papers (Ms. N-728)
Letter from Andrew Johnson (Washington) to Gov. Andrew regarding Mr. Chase, 8 Aug 1865.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-344.
Guide to the John A. Andrew papers available online.
3. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Andrew Johnson (Washington) to Henry A Smythe about appointments, 6 Aug. 1866.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jeremiah Colburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Bostonian Society)
Letter from Andrew Johnson to Colonel Edmunds discussing politics and war, 6 Oct. 1848.
Notes: Collection owned by the Bostonian Society. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection. (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Andrew Johnson (Washington) to Otis Norcross about Johnson's proposed visit to Boston, 11 June 1867.
3. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Andrew Johnson (Washington) to William M. Launy discussing the Homestead Bill, 4 Apr. 1852.
Notes: Location: Vol. 9, p. 69.
4. Mrs. Grenville Temple Winthrop autograph collection in the Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-262)
Letter from Andrew Johnson to James E. Harvey and W. H. Seward regarding a political publication, 2 May 1866.
Notes: This letter is only available in the original volume, not on microfilm. Index for the autograph collection available in vol. I.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Andrew Johnson papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the Andrew Johnson papers at the Library of Congress.
2. The Papers of Andrew Johnson (Knoxville: University of Tennessee Press, 1967-) (B Johnson)
Published volumes of correspondence, speeches, and official documents of Andrew Johnson.
XVIII. Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885; President: 1869-1877)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 26 letters by Ulysses S. Grant. The majority of letters were written during Grant's post as general in command of all Union armies under President Lincoln and during his two terms as the 18th United States president. Letters written by Grant are scattered through several collections, including the John Davis scrapbook, Winthrop family papers, Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Grant's letters deal with military matters, including the surrender at Vicksburg; political matters, including the silver question; and personal matters, including invitations to dinners and family visits.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. John Davis scrapbook (Ms. N-74)
Two letters (1875-1876) received by John Davis from Ulysses S. Grant, including a wedding invitation for Grant's daughter and regrets for not attending the wedding of John Davis.
2. Forbes family papers (Ms. N-49)
Two letters (1872, 1880) from Ulysses S. Grant to John M. Forbes declining invitations to visit.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-55, reel 43, part I.
Guide to the Forbes family papers available online.
3. Saltonstall family papers (Ms. N-2232)
Two letters (1881) from Ulysses S. Grant to David K. Hitchcock regarding the Mexican Southern Railroad Company in New York.
Notes: Guide to the Saltonstall family papers available online.
4. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Two letters (1867, 1872) from Ulysses S. Grant to Robert C. Winthrop regarding a meeting with Grant and a dinner invitation.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. George Bliss papers (Ms. N-1853)
Letter from Ulysses S Grant to General Bawlins asking him to provide shelter for George C. Wood and George Bliss, Jr. at City Point, 20 Nov. 1864.
2. John A. Andrew papers (Ms. N-728)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to Massachusetts Governor John A. Andrew thanking him for a copy of his address to the Massachusetts legislature, 15 Jan. 1866.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-344.
Guide to the John A. Andrew papers available online.
3. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1866 May 23)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to Mrs. Lafayette S. Foster about her husband's defeat for re-nomination as senator, 23 May 1866.
4. John Murray Forbes papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter to J. M. Forbes from Ulysses S. Grant in response to a previous letter discussing a visit from the president and Mrs. Grant during the summer, 1 Sep. 1868.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the John Murray Forbes papers available online.
5. John H. Clifford papers (Ms. N-2158)
Telegram from Ulysses S. Grant to J. H. Clifford about plans for a visit to Boston, 29 Nov. 1868.
Notes: Guide to the John H. Clifford papers available online.
6. George Bancroft papers (Ms. N-1795)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to George Bancroft about the latter's appointment as minister to Prussia, 8 June 1876.
Notes: Guide to the George Bancroft papers available online.
7. First Parish Church in Dorchester records (Ms. N-258)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to Thomas Allen stating that he is unable to attend the 250th anniversary celebration of the First Parish Church in Dorchester, Mass., 23 May 1880.
Notes: Guide to the First Parish Church in Dorchester records available online.
8. Charles Sumner papers (Ms. N-1640)
Invitation from Ulysses S. Grant to Charles Sumner, 4 Apr. 1886.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Special Collections, removed from Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Loose mss. Grant)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to his father announcing the surrender of Vicksburg, 6 July 1863.
2. Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to A. J. Drexel about his travels, the silver question, and other matters, 22 Mar. 1878.
3. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to George Frisbie Hoar regarding Gen. Sheridan, 15 Feb. 1875.
Notes: Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
4. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter to General McDowell about returning papers, 2 May 1882.
5. James Schouler autograph collection (Special Colls. J. Schouler)
Undated note referring to a genealogy of the Grant family by a Mr. Marshall.
Notes: Guide to the James Schouler autograph collection available online.
6. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters (1865, 1869) from Ulysses S. Grant to E. B. Washburne regarding military placements and politics.
Notes: Locations: Vol. 9, p. 70; Vol. 9, p. 71. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
7. Benjamin Whitwell autograph collection (Ms. N-507)
Letter from Ulysses S. Grant to Col. Webster about Mr. Blair's departure, 1 Jan. 1865.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Whitwell.
Guide to the Benjamin Whitwell autograph collection available online.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Ulysses S. Grant papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Ulysses S. Grant papers at the Library of Congress available online.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Commission to Egbert Sammie as U.S. consul at Rio Grande, Brazil, 28 May 1872.
3. The Papers of Ulysses S. Grant, ed. by John Y. Simon (Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press, c1967, 1969-) (B Grant)
Published volumes of papers created by Ulysses S. Grant throughout his life.
XIX. Rutherford B. Hayes (1822-1893; President: 1877-1881)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 20 letters by Rutherford B. Hayes. The majority of letters were written during Hayes's term as the 19th United States president. There are also letters written during Hayes's term as governor of Ohio. Letters are scattered through several collections, including the Winthrop family papers, Dana family papers, George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Hayes's letters discuss politics, including the election of 1876 and political appointments; and personal matters, including literature and visits to friends.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Dana family papers (Ms. N-1088)
Two letters (1876-1877) from Rutherford B. Hayes to Richard H. Dana discussing political matters, including the election of 1876.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-646.
Guide to the Dana family papers available online.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. Hoar)
Eight letters (1878-1880) from Rutherford B. Hayes to George Frisbie Hoar regarding personal and political matters, including political appointments in Boston and visits between the two men.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Four letters (1876-1888) from Rutherford B. Hayes to John C. Winthrop regarding personal and literary matters, including John C. Winthrop's Ovation and his centennial oration of Yorktown.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Henry Herbert Edes collection (Ms. N-1156)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes to Samuel Armstrong about a gift to the Hampton Institute, 27 Aug. 1877.
Notes: Guide to the Henry Herbert Edes collection available online.
2. John O. Sargent papers (Ms. N-875)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes to John O. Sargent sending regrets that he is unable to attend the Harvard Club of New York dinner, 6 Feb. 1879.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-163.
Guide to the John O. Sargent papers available online.
3. Inserted in The Presidents of America: A Series of Original Steel Engravings Taken from Paintings and Photographs by Distinguished Artists ... and Executed by H. W. Smith / with biographical sketches, and an introductory essay by John Fiske (Boston, 1879) (Special Colls.)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes to General J. B. Hawley asking his assurance that a rumor was not true before denying it publicly, 15 Apr. 1879.
4. Caroline Wells Healey Dall papers (Ms. N-1082)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes (Fremont, Ohio) to Caroline H. Dall thanking Dall for her letter complimenting his article on the Garfield assassination, 4 Nov. 1881.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-323.
Guide to the Caroline Wells Healey Dall papers available online.
5. James Beal papers (Special Colls. James Beale)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes (Freemont, Ohio) to John P. Nicholson about an incident of heroism during the Civil War, 4 Oct. 1888.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1877, 1886) regarding the directory of the 49th Congress. Recipients include Benjamin P. Poore and an unknown individual.
2. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Rutherford B. Hayes (Fremont, Ohio) to V. B. Horton turning down Horton's invitation, 27 Apr. 1876.
Notes: Vol. 9, p. 74.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Other materials
1. Howells, Mead, Noyes and Dock family papers (Ms. N-1446)
Genealogy of the Hayes family, copied by Elinor Mead Howells, 18 Aug. 1876.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Rutherford B. Hayes's tribute to General Grant, undated.
2. Rutherford B. Hayes collections at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums
Notes: See the website for the collections here.
XX. James A. Garfield (1831-1881; President: 1881)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 36 letters by James A. Garfield. The majority of letters were written during Garfield's tenure as a United States representative. The MHS holds only four letters written by Garfield during his presidency; one is located in the Curtis Guild autograph collection, and the remaining three are located in the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection. The majority of his letters are located in the Edward Atkinson papers and the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection and discuss House debates; presidential campaigns, including his campaign of 1880; and political support. Garfield and Hoar became friends while serving in the House of Representatives together. Hoar was a manager at the Republican Convention that nominated Garfield (a "dark horse" candidate) in 1880. Garfield was about to set out on a trip to Massachusetts and New England when he was mortally wounded. The remainder of the letters are scattered through several collections, including the Francis Parkman papers, the Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Edward Atkinson papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
16 letters (1868-1880) from James Garfield to Edward Atkinson regarding political matters, including opinions on current debates in the House, presidential campaigns, and comments on the latter's speech.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide and letterbook index to the Edward Atkinson papers available online.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Eight letters (1876-1881) from James A. Garfield to George F. Hoar and a letter from Garfield's widow, Lucretia, to Hoar (6 Nov. 1881). Subjects include the Republican Convention (1880), a presidential nomination acceptance letter, campaign plans, and political support.
Notes: A combination of autograph letter signed and letters in a clerical hand signed. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Francis Parkman papers (Ms. N-645 Tall)
Three letters (1873-1874) from James A. Garfield regarding the role of Congress, an address delivered to a historical society, and maps and documents for a library.
Notes: Items and locations individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Francis Parkman papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Adams Family Papers (Ms. N-1776)
Letter of introduction from James A. Garfield to Charles Francis Adams for L. P. Barrett of Massachusetts, 5 May 1866.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-54. A list of institutions holding the Adams Family Papers microfilm set can be found online here. The Online Adams Catalog, an item-level catalog of all known letters written by four generations of the Adamses, is available at the MHS website.
Guide to the Adams Family Papers available online.
2. Henry W. Bellows papers (Ms. N-1829)
Letter from James A. Garfield to Henry W. Bellows about church statistics in the next census, 2 Nov. 1869.
Notes: Guide to the Henry W. Bellows papers available online.
3. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Letter from James A. Garfield to Robert C. Winthrop thanking Winthrop for an earlier letter, 27 Apr. 1880.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
4. Forbes family papers (Ms. N-49)
Letter from James A. Garfield to John M. Forbes about a committee, 20 July [1880].
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-55, reel 43, part I.
Guide to the Forbes family papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from James A. Garfield (Mentor, Ohio) to Mr. B. Perry with his opinion on the treatment of enemies of the Union, 28 Jan. 1881.
2. George E. Nitzsche Unitariana collection (Ms. N-2165)
Letter from James A. Garfield to Hon. Hugh McCullough recommending Col W. D. Mann for a position, 30 June 1866.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Nitzsche.
Guide to the George E. Nitzsche Unitariana collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1869, 1877) from James A. Garfield regarding financial conditions in the United States and the contested presidential election of 1877. Recipients include Charles B. Norton and Horace Steele.
4. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Two letters (1874, 1878) from James A. Garfield discussing newspaper articles about the war and Garfield's campaign. Recipients include Frank Moore and V. B. Horton.
Notes: Locations: Vol. 9, p. 76, Vol. 9, p. 77.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Crete and James: Personal Letters of Lucretia and James Garfield, ed. by John Shaw (East Lansing: Michigan State University Press, 1994)
Published correspondence between James A. Garfield and his wife Lucretia.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
2. James A. Garfield papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the James A. Garfield papers at the Library of Congress available online.
3. Garfield-Hinsdale Letters: Correspondence Between James Abram Garfield and Burke Aaron Hinsdale, ed. by Mary L. Hinsdale (Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 1949)
Published volume of letters between the two friends and colleagues at Hiram College. Hinsdale wrote Republican Textbook for the Campaign of 1880: Full History of General James A. Garfield's Public Life, with Other Political Information, along with other articles on Garfield.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
4. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from James A. Garfield (Mentor, Ohio) to J. D. Cox declining his invitation to attend the opening of the Cincinnati College of Music, 27 Jan. 1881.
5. The Life and Letters of James Abram Garfield, by Theodore Clarke Smith (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1925) (B Garfield)
Published volumes of letters from James A. Garfield, 1831-1882.
6. Politics and Patronage in the Gilded Age: The Correspondence of James A. Garfield and Charles E. Henry (1862-1881), ed. by J. D. Norriss and A. H. Shaffer (Madison: State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 1970)
Published correspondence between Garfield and his chief political advisor, Charles E. Henry.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
7. The Wild Life of the Army: Civil War Letters of James A. Garfield, ed. by Frederick D. Williams (East Lansing: Michigan State University Press, 1964)
Published letters of James A. Garfield as a colonel in the Civil War.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
8. The Works of James Abram Garfield, ed. by Burke A. Hinsdale (Boston: J. R. Osgood and Company, 1882-1883) (B Garfield)
Notes: Vol. 1 and 2 of this work have been made available online at the Internet Archive.
XXI. Chester A. Arthur (1829-1886; President: 1881-1885)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately seven letters by Chester A. Arthur. The majority of letters were written during Arthur's nomination for and term as the 21st United States president. Arthur's letters are scattered through several collections, including the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection, George Cabot Lodge collection, Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection, and Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection. Arthur's letters discuss his presidential nomination, military appointments, and personal matters.
A. Collections
1. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Two letters (1880) from Chester A. Arthur to George Frisbie Hoar regarding notification for candidates and accepting the Republican nomination for president.
Notes: Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. George Cabot Lodge collection (Ms. N-72)
Letter from Chester A. Arthur telling Sarah Davis how thankful he is for her friendship and how she helped him through his term as president, 1881.
2. Forbes family papers (Ms. N-49)
Letter from Chester A. Arthur to John M. Forbes declining an invitation, 20 Nov. 1883.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-55, reel 43, part I.
Guide to the Forbes family papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Chester A. Arthur to Brig. Gen. Thomas Hillhouse about a military appointment, 15 Aug. 1862.
2. Alexander Calvin and Ellen Morton Washburn autograph collection (Special Colls. Washburn)
Letter from Chester A. Arthur (Washington) to Frank Moore acknowledging receipt of a note and acceptance of a request, 23 Oct. 1883.
Notes: Location: Vol. 24, p. 152.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Chester A. Arthur papers at the Library of Congress
An Index to the Chester A. Arthur papers created by the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, is available for use at many libraries, including the MHS (B Arthur).
Notes: Finding aid for the Chester A. Arthur papers at the Library of Congress available online.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter to Mrs. Paran Stevens regretting his inability to attend her reception, 18 Jan. 1882.
XXII and XXIV. Grover Cleveland (1837-1908; President: 1885-1889; 1893-1897)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 100 letters by Grover Cleveland. The majority of letters were written during Cleveland's two terms as the 22nd and 24th United States president and the four intervening years when he worked as a lawyer in New York. The majority of letters are located in the Endicott family autograph collection and the letters to William E. Russell. Among the subjects are War Department issues with Cleveland's Secretary of War William C. Endicott; political issues, including the Democratic Party and speeches; and personal matters, including his home in Buzzards Bay. The remainder of the letters are scattered through several other collections, including the Codman family correspondence, the Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Codman family correspondence (Ms. N-1003)
Two letters (1894) from Grover Cleveland to Charles R. Codman, Jr. regarding politics and political appointments.
2. Endicott family autograph collection (Special Colls. Endicott Special)
Four folders (1885-1897) of Grover Cleveland correspondence with Secretary of War William C. Endicott regarding War Department issues, personal matters, military appointments, a Western and Southern tour, and political issues.
Notes: Removed from the Endicott family papers. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Endicott family autograph collection available online.
3. Letters to William E. Russell (Ms. N-2162)
One narrow box of letters (1889-1892) (with transcriptions) written by Grover Cleveland to Mass. Gov. William E. Russell while Cleveland was working at a law firm in New York and vacationing on Cape Cod. The letters discuss politics, including the Democratic Party and speeches; and Cleveland's personal life, including his home on Buzzards Bay and his family.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Cleveland. All items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
4. William Eustis Russell papers (Ms. N-824)
A handful of letters (ca. 1891-1893) from Grover Cleveland to William E. Russell about civil service reform, the tariff, the silver question, and the principles of the Democratic Party.
Notes: Guide to the William Eustis Russell papers available online.
5. Saltonstall family papers (Ms. N-2232)
Two letters (1885, 1886) from Grover Cleveland to Leverett Saltonstall (1825-1895) regarding politics and Saltonstall's acceptance of the position of collector for the Port of Boston.
Notes: Guide to the Saltonstall family papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Letter from Grover Cleveland to John C. Winthrop thanking him for the research he did regarding the portrait of John Hampdin, 27 June 1885.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
2. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Cleveland)
Letter from Grover Cleveland (Saranac Lake) to Patrick H. Kelly concerning the replacement of incumbent federal officers for purely political reasons, 25 Aug. 1885.
Notes: Typescript copy. Four pages with pencil and ink annotations and corrections.
3. Huntington-Wolcott papers (Ms. N-1456)
Letter from Grover Cleveland stating that he would be glad to see General Sheridan, 21 Nov. 1885.
4. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1889 Oct. 17)
Letter from Grover Cleveland to Warren W. Hart concerning a subscription to a paper, 17 Oct. 1889.
5. Lend a Hand Society records (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Grover Cleveland (Princeton, N.J.) to Minnie Whitman (Mrs. Bernard) regretting that he is unable to serve on the honorary committee of the Lend A Hand Society's Hale Endowment Fund, 13 Dec. 1906.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Letter located in the Hale Endowment Fund correspondence.
Guide to the Lend a Hand Society records available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Two letters (1886, 1900) from Grover Cleveland to Curtis Guild regarding the role of the church in the press.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Letter from Grover Cleveland to George Frisbie Hoar regarding the Worcester postmaster, 14 Jan. 1897.
Notes: Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Three letters (1884-1890) from Grover Cleveland regarding legal matters and the creation of a memorial in Washington. Recipients include H. W. Chaplin, Mrs. K. B. Brown, and George A. Davy.
4. Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection (Special Colls. Storer)
Letter from Grover Cleveland (Princeton, N.J.) to George S. Hale explaining that he needs a rest at Gray Gables, 13 June 1897.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-466.
Guide to the Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection available online.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Grover Cleveland papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Grover Cleveland papers at the Library of Congress available online.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Grover Cleveland to George William Curtis about his views on civil service reforms, 28 Oct. 1882.
3. Letters and Addresses of Grover Cleveland, ed. by Albert Ellery Bergh (New York: Unit Book Pub. Co., 1909)
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
4. The Letters of Grover Cleveland, 1850-1908, ed. by Allan Nevins (New York: Da Capo Press, 1970)
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
XXIII. Benjamin Harrison (1833-1901; President: 1889-1893)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 20 letters by Benjamin Harrison, the majority written during Harrison's term as the 23rd United States president. There are also letters written while he was a United States senator and during his retirement. The majority of letters are located in the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection and discuss the 1888 presidential campaign, Republicanism at Harvard, and Congress. The remainder of Harrison's letters are located in several collections, including in the John Davis Long papers, the Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Thomas Jefferson Coolidge correspondence (Ms. N-1029)
Two letters (1891) from Benjamin Harrison to Thomas Jefferson Coolidge regarding the silver question and S. Dana Horton, a silver advocate sent abroad by Harrison.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Harrison.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
11 letters (1888-1896) from Benjamin Harrison to George Frisbie Hoar regarding Hon. J. N. Huston, the presidential campaign of 1888, Harvard's Republicanism, an extra session in Congress, the "International Maritime Exhibition" (1889), and reasons for and against Harrison becoming a senator again (1896).
Notes: Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. John Davis Long papers (Ms. N-1589)
Three letters (1888) from Benjamin Harrison to John D. Long about political matters, including Harrison's campaign, his election as president, and a political reform movement in South Carolina.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Davis Long papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Everett-Peabody family papers (Ms. N-1206)
Letter from Benjamin Harrison (Washington) to Francis H. Peabody thanking him for advice on silver purchases, 31 Dec. 1892.
Notes: Guide to the Everett-Peabody family papers available online.
2. Winthrop family papers (Ms. N-263)
Letter from Benjamin Harrison (Indianapolis) to Robert C. Winthrop, Jr. regarding Robert C. Winthrop's memoir written by Robert C Winthrop, Jr., 2 Nov. 1897.
Notes: Originals held in Ms. N-262. Also available on microfilm, P-350.
Guide to the Winthrop family papers available online.
3. Huntington-Wolcott papers (Ms. N-1456)
Letter from Benjamin Harrison (Indianapolis) to Roger Wolcott about taxation, 13 Dec. 1897.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Endicott family autograph collection (Ms. N-1183)
Letter from Benjamin Harrison (Washington) to William C. Endicott accepting the latter's resignation as secretary of war, 5 Mar. 1889.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Endicott.
Guide to the Endicott family autograph collection available online.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Two letters (1884,1889) from Benjamin Harrison regarding an appointment in Chicago and a letter to George Edmunds stating his inability to attend the re-assembly of the Senate.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. The Correspondence Between Benjamin Harrison and James G. Blaine, 1882-1893, ed. by Albert T. Volwiler (Philadelphia: The American Philosophical Society, 1940)
Correspondence between Harrison and his first secretary of state.
2. Benjamin Harrison papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Benjamin Harrison papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XXII and XXIV. Grover Cleveland (1837-1908; President: 1885-1889; 1893-1897)
XXV. William McKinley (1843-1901; President: 1897-1901)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 17 letters by William McKinley. The majority of letters were written during McKinley's term as the 25th United States president. His letters are scattered through several collections, including the Henry Cabot Lodge papers, George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection, John Davis Long papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of McKinley's letters discuss McKinley's 1900 nomination and presidential campaign, the Philippines, and Harvard.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Henry Cabot Lodge papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Four letters (1900) from William McKinley to Henry Cabot Lodge regarding the Republican presidential nomination and Lodge's support.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-525. The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge papers available online.
2. John Davis Long papers (Ms. N-1589)
Two letters (1898, 1899) from William McKinley to Secretary of the Navy John D. Long regarding the removal of Americans from the island of Navasa and missionaries sent to the Philippines by the Episcopal Church.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Davis Long papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Edward Atkinson papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from William McKinley to Edward Atkinson telling him why he spoke out, 1 Apr. 1898.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Edward Atkinson papers available online.
2. William T. Sherman papers (Ms. N-392)
Letter from President William McKinley to John Hay acknowledging his resignation as secretary of state, 26 Apr. 1898.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Two letters (1899, 1900) from William McKinley to Curtis Guild thanking him for support and expressing good wishes.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Five letters (1896-1901) from William McKinley to George Frisbie Hoar regarding Hoar's support of McKinley, invitations, and the Harvard commencement of 1901.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from William McKinley to William M. Osborne stating that he received his letter, 25 May 1895.
Notes: See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Card from William McKinley bearing sentiment about the American flag, 8 Dec. 1899.
2. William McKinley papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the William McKinley papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XXVI. Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919; President: 1901-1909)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 400 letters by Theodore Roosevelt. The majority of letters were written during Roosevelt's seclusion after the death of his wife and mother; during the Spanish-American War as a colonel of the Rough Riders; during his terms as governor of New York, vice president under McKinley, and 26th United States president; during the 1912 Bull Moose campaign; and during his retirement. The majority of Roosevelt's letters are held in the Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence. Roosevelt and Henry Cabot Lodge (1850-1924) maintained a life-long correspondence about politics, personal matters, and world events. The remainder of the letters are scattered through several collections, including the Winthrop Murray Crane papers, the Dana family papers, the George Cabot Lodge papers, the John Davis Long papers (Roosevelt served as Long's assistant in the Navy Department, and they became life-long friends), Letters to George H. Lyman, the George von Lengerke Meyer papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Roosevelt's correspondence discusses politics, including the presidential campaigns of 1900 and 1912, the Panama Canal, treaties, World War I, and various political parties; personal matters, including Harvard, family deaths, and his African expedition; and military matters, including the Rough Riders, the United States Navy, and his post as secretary of the Navy.
A. Presidential papers
1. Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence (Ms. N-1584)
Seven boxes of correspondence, notes, and texts of speeches (1884-1924) exchanged by Theodore Roosevelt and Henry Cabot Lodge (1850-1924). Topics range from their families, friendships, and personal lives, to careers, politics, and world events. Included are letters written by Roosevelt during his days with the Rough Riders and letters from his African expedition of 1909-1910. Other topics include the Alaska Boundary Tribunal, the Panama Canal, the Colombia Treaty, President Woodrow Wilson and his administration, World War I, Santiago, Cuba, and national politics, in particular the elections of 1908 and 1916 and the Republican, Democratic, and Progressive Parties. Letters from 1919-1924 were primarily exchanged between Lodge and Roosevelt's widow, Edith Kermit Roosevelt, and pertain to the publication of Lodge and Roosevelt's correspondence.
Notes: Also on microfilm, P-490. Original of 3 July 1898 letter held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt, Theodore. In addition to the original Roosevelt documents and copies of Lodge's letters and memoranda, the collection also includes four boxes of edited typescript copies of many of the letters that were published as Selections from the Correspondence of Theodore Roosevelt and Henry Cabot Lodge, ed. by Henry Cabot Lodge (2 vols.) (New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925; reprinted New York: Da Capo Press, 1971).
Guide to the Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence available online.
B. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Adams-Lodge correspondence (Ms. N-57)
Two letters (1902, 1906) from Theodore Roosevelt to George Cabot Lodge regarding the birth of his son Henry Cabot Lodge and The Turn of the Screw.
Notes: Photocopies available for use at Ms. N-57. Unpublished guide available in the library.
2. Brooks Adams papers (Ms. N-1776 4th Gen. Brooks Adams)
Two letters (1906, 1912) from Theodore Roosevelt to Brooks Adams regarding Roosevelt's handling of the 25th Infantry and his views on a judicial appointment.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
3. Charles Francis Adams papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
11 letters (1891-1910) from Theodore Roosevelt to Charles Francis Adams regarding invitations to visit, Roosevelt's involvement in a Harvard committee, Charles Francis Adams's writings, the state of the administration, a zoological committee report, and the Robert E. Lee memorial in Washington.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-353. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Charles Francis Adams papers available online.
4. Charitable Irish Society records (Ms. N-1474)
Two letters (1908, 1910). One is a manuscript copy of a long letter by Theodore Roosevelt about religion and politics.
Notes: Guide to the Charitable Irish Society records available online.
5. John H. Clifford papers (Ms. N-2158)
Two letters (1895, 1896) from Theodore Roosevelt to Charles W. Clifford regarding dinner invitations.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John H. Clifford papers available online.
6. Winthrop Murray Crane papers (Ms. N-77)
One folder of correspondence (1901-1911) from Theodore Roosevelt to Winthrop Murray Crane. Typed letters signed, some with Roosevelt's manuscript annotations, including a 13-page confidential letter from Roosevelt to Crane (then governor of Massachusetts), 22 Oct. 1902, about the 1902 coal strike.
Notes: Photocopies available for use at Ms. N-77.
Guide to the Winthrop Murray Crane papers available online.
7. Dana family papers (Ms. N-1088)
67 letters (1889-1916) from Theodore Roosevelt to Richard H. Dana regarding civil service reform, football training at Harvard, corrupt practices in legislation, the Harvard-Yale game, double turrets on the Kentucky and the Kearsarge, the 1909 Census bill, and the recall of judicial decisions (1911-1912).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-646.
Guide to the Dana family papers available online.
8. Clarence Ransom Edwards papers (Ms. N-1162)
Two letters (1908, 1909) from Theodore Roosevelt regarding Granville Roland Fortescue. Recipients include William H. Taft and Clarence Edwards.
Notes: Guide to the Clarence Ransom Edwards papers available online.
9. Endicott family autograph collection (Ms. N-1183)
Ten letters (1888-1918) from Theodore Roosevelt to William C. Endicott regarding Endicott's father's archives, Henry Cabot Lodge, and dinner invitations.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Endicott. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Endicott family autograph collection available online.
10. Mary Bowditch Forbes papers (Ms. N-49.68)
Two letters (1917, 1918) from Theodore Roosevelt to Mary Forbes regarding pacifism in men and women, suffrage, and "German propaganda."
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Mary Bowditch Forbes papers available online.
11. Thomas Goddard Frothingham family papers (Ms. N-1260)
Three letters (1924) from Theodore Roosevelt to Thomas G. Frothingham regarding war preparedness, Frothingham's book on naval history, and Frothingham's support.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
12. Hale family papers (Ms. N-1348)
Six letters (1877-1902) from Theodore Roosevelt to George S. Hale and John S. Tabbets about laws pertaining to paupers, charities, civil service reform, Roosevelt's life since leaving Harvard, Roosevelt's Life of Benton, and Tabbets's touchdown in the Harvard-Yale football game.
Notes: Guide to the Hale family papers available online.
13. Norwood Penrose Hallowell papers (Ms. N-1355)
Three letters (1901-1912) from Theodore Roosevelt to Norwood P. Hallowell regarding the Harvard football game, a White House reception, and Susan Hallowell's wedding.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Norwood Penrose Hallowell papers, with digital images, available online.
14. George Frisbie Hoar papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Two letters (1889, 1895) from Theodore Roosevelt to George Frisbie Hoar regarding the department of the civil service commission and Hoar's opinion of Roosevelt.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar papers available online.
15. Edith Holliday papers (Ms. N-172)
Two letters (1917, 1918) from Theodore Roosevelt to and about Edith Holliday, including a letter of recommendation to work during World War II.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-450. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Unpublished finding aid to the Edith Holliday papers available in the library.
16. George Cabot Lodge papers (Ms. N-1509)
22 letters (1891-1906) from Theodore Roosevelt to George Cabot Lodge regarding Roosevelt's 1891 trip west, Lodge's schoolwork and writings, literature, and the Society of the Spanish American War.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-317. Box and volume list available in the library.
17. John Davis Long papers (Ms. N-1589)
46 letters (1888-1900) from Theodore Roosevelt to John D. Long regarding Yellowstone National Park, the Navy Department, postage stamps, inflammatory anti-Spanish articles in the New York Journal and New York World, the investigation of the USS Maine affair, Spanish coal purchases, support of an embargo on shipments to Cuba, F. E. Laupp and Jacob A. Riis as war correspondents, and the post of assistant secretary of the Navy.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Davis Long papers available online.
18. Letters to George H. Lyman (Ms. N-808)
62 letters (1894-1907) from Theodore Roosevelt to George H. Lyman regarding Lyman's health, politics, guns, hunting, the Medal of Honor, the constabulary crisis and his re-nomination, whether Roosevelt should run for the vice presidency or for governor, Charles Francis Adams, Henry Cabot Lodge, and John S. Higgins's candidacy for assistant paymaster of the Navy.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. List of contents with the collection.
19. Merriman family papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Four letters (1913, 1918) from Theodore Roosevelt to Roger B. Merriman regarding literary matters, Spanish history, and invitations.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. This collection is PARTIALLY PROCESSED.
Guide to the Merriman family papers available online.
20. George von Lengerke Meyer papers (Ms. N-549)
77 letters (1900-1914) from Theodore Roosevelt to George von L. Meyer regarding Meyer's promotion, the Danish Islands, the coal strike of 1902, Roosevelt's health, international relations, hunting, the death of John Hays, Meyer's post as ambassador to Russia, the health of Meyer's family, the head of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, politics, Meyer's post as postmaster general, Roosevelt's trip to Africa, and uniting the Republicans and Progressives.
Notes: Guide to the George von Lengerke Meyer papers available online.
21. Henry Davis Minot papers (Ms. N-2244.4)
Five letters (1877-1886) from Theodore Roosevelt to Henry Davis Minot regarding Roosevelt's entrance into politics, Minot's book Land and Game Birds of New England, and personal matters.
Notes: Guide to the Henry Davis Minot papers available online.
22. John Torrey Morse papers (Ms. N-563)
14 letters (1886-1888) from Theodore Roosevelt to John Torrey Morse regarding Roosevelt's biography of Thomas Hart Benton, Morse's American Statesman Series biographies, and Henry Cabot Lodge.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Torrey Morse papers available online.
23. Francis Parkman papers (Ms. N-645 Tall)
Four letters (1888-1892) from Theodore Roosevelt to Francis Parkman regarding the dedication of The Winning of the West to Parkman, Roosevelt's political standards, and Parkman's Half Century of Conflict: Observations of French-Canadian Influx Into New England.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Francis Parkman papers available online.
24. Saltonstall family papers (Ms. N-2232)
Eight letters (1891-1907) from Theodore Roosevelt to Richard M. Saltonstall and Leverett Saltonstall (1825-1895) regarding visiting the White House, dinner invitations, sympathy for Richard Saltonstall on the death of his father, portraits of Sir Richard Saltonstall, and Saltonstall's offer to help Roosevelt's son.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the Saltonstall family papers available online.
25. Robert G. Valentine family papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Two letters (1911-1912) from Theodore Roosevelt to Robert G. Valentine regarding his regret at declining an invitation and his thanks to Valentine for joining the Progressive Party; one letter (1916) to Sophie Valentine expressing condolences upon Robert Valentine's death; and one letter (1908) to Asa P. French about Massachusetts politics and his approval of William H. Taft.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Robert G. Valentine family papers available online.
26. Joseph Walker papers (Ms. N-202)
Ten letters (1910-1916) from Theodore Roosevelt to Joseph Walker regarding the volunteer movement, the Tariff Plank, and prohibition.
Notes: Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
27. John Collins Warren papers (Ms. N-1731)
Three letters (1911-1912) from Theodore Roosevelt to Dr. John Collins Warren regarding upcoming engagements, Warren's laboratory, and the use of Warren's car.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the John Collins Warren papers available online.
C. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Amos Adams Lawrence papers (Ms. N-1559)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Amos A. Lawrence discussing a seminar meeting, 8 Sep. 1877.
Notes: Guide to the Amos Adams Lawrence papers available online.
2. Theodore F. Dwight papers (Special Colls. Dwight)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt telling Theodore F. Dwight that he does not know the facts pertaining to a case, 2 Aug. 1890.
Notes: Guide to the Theodore F. Dwight papers available online.
3. Special Collections, removed from Thomas Jefferson Coolidge correspondence (Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt, Theodore)
Letter of introduction from Theodore Roosevelt to Thomas Jefferson Coolidge, 22 June 1891.
4. John H. Clifford papers (Ms. N-2158)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt declining an invitation from the Cliffords, 4 Nov. 1895.
Notes: Guide to the John H. Clifford papers available online.
5. Lamb family papers (Ms. N-1547)
Letter of recommendation from Theodore Roosevelt for Chaplain Peirce, 190-.
Notes: Guide to the Lamb family papers available online.
6. Moorfield Storey papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Moorfield Storey regarding the purchase and use of Storey's house, 27 Nov. 1900.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Moorfield Storey papers available online.
7. George Metcalf papers (Ms. N-1539)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Franklin Bartlett about visiting Oyster Bay, 18 June 1901.
8. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts II (Misc. Bd. II 1903 Dec. 10)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt (Washington) to William H. Olin declining an invitation to "Veterans' Night" at the Boston Middlesex Club, 10 Dec. 1903.
9. Shattuck family papers (Ms. N-914)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Frederick C. Shattuck about U.S. peace sentiments, 17 Jan. 1917.
Notes: Guide to the Shattuck family papers available online.
10. Crosby family papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Mary Crosby thanking her for her previous letter, 30 July 1918.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested two business days in advance.
Guide to the Crosby family papers available online.
11. Abel Rathbone Corbin papers (Ms. N-1036)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Herbert E. Cushman thanking him for a previous letter, 29 Oct. 1918.
D. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Four letters (1900-1902) and one manuscript page from Theodore Roosevelt's The Winning of the West. Letters to Curtis Guild pertaining to Roosevelt's trip to the West, the recovery of President McKinley after the assassination attempt, and Roosevelt's memoranda to the War Department about promotions.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
37 letters (1888-1904) from Theodore Roosevelt to George Frisbie Hoar regarding Hoar's speeches, Navy discharges, poetry, the American Protective Association, civil service reforms, Masonry, the Philippines and Filipino independence, the promotion of Chief Justice Holmes of Massachusetts, the Mabini matter, pardoning Joel G. Tyler, appointing Hoar as a delegate to the Universal Congress of Lawyers and Jurists, Wendell Phillips, and religious tolerance.
Notes: Most items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
One letter and leaves of an original manuscript (1889, 1904) from Theodore Roosevelt. Letter to John Woodbury thanking him for his congratulations and two leaves of the original manuscript for The Winning of the West.
4. Wells autograph collection (Ms. N-124)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to James W. Clark about publishing a newspaper article, 22 Mar. 1888.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Wells.
5. Edith Prescott Wolcott autograph collection (Special Colls. E. Wolcott)
Six letters (1898-1917) from Theodore Roosevelt to Edith Prescott Wolcott regarding lunch invitations and woman's suffrage.
Notes: Guide to the Edith Prescott Wolcott autograph collection available online.
E. Other materials
1. Henry Davis Minot papers (Ms. N-2244.4)
Copies of nine letters (1878-1880) from Theodore Roosevelt to Henry Davis Minot regarding the death of Roosevelt's father, his family vacation, his engagement to Alice Lee, and the death of Minot's mother.
Notes: Guide to the Henry Davis Minot papers available online.
F. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Reverend Endicott Peabody accepting his invitation to speak at the Groton School, 13 Sep. 1903.
2. The Letters of Theodore Roosevelt (Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 1951-1954) (B Roosevelt)
Eight volumes of letters written by Theodore Roosevelt.
3. Theodore Roosevelt Collection at Houghton Library, Harvard
Notes: See the website for the collection here.
4. Theodore Roosevelt papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: See the website for the Theodore Roosevelt papers at the Library of Congress.
5. Theodore Roosevelt's Letters to his Children, ed. by Joseph Bucklin Bishop (New York: C. Scribner's Sons, 1919) (B Roosevelt)
Letters written by Theodore Roosevelt to his children over 20 years.
Notes: Available online at Bartleby.com.
XXVII. William H. Taft (1857-1930; President: 1909-1913)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds 117 letters written by the 27th president of the United States, the bulk dating from William Howard Taft's presidential campaign and single term as president, 1908-1913. There are also earlier letters from his service as secretary of war during the administration of Theodore Roosevelt, 1904-1908, and his post-presidential career as a professor of constitutional law at Yale, 1913-1921, and chief justice of the United States, 1921-1930. Other Taft letters in MHS collections are scattered through the personal papers of Republican members of Congress and his cabinet, including Massachusetts Senators Henry Cabot Lodge (his chief correspondent in the MHS collection) and Winthrop Murray Crane, as well as Postmaster General and Secretary of the Navy George von Lengerke Meyer. Other recipients include historian Charles Francis Adams; General Clarence Ransom Edwards; Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court justice Arthur P. Rugg; Ellery Sedgwick, the editor of the Atlantic Monthly; and Joseph Walker, who was active in Massachusetts state politics. Most of Taft's letters in MHS collections pertain to diplomatic and political matters during his presidency, including his break with Theodore Roosevelt and the 1912 presidential campaign, when the split in the Republican Party led to Taft's defeat for re-election. There are also a small number of individual Taft letters scattered in other collections of personal papers or collected as autograph letters.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Charles Francis Adams papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Eight letters (1909-1913) from Taft to Charles Francis Adams (1835-1915) regarding personal subjects such as visits, vacations, and dinner invitations, as well as political subjects such as public addresses, conflicts in Congress, presidential pressures, tariff vetoes, political trips, Adams's political support, the "Seven Governors" and Theodore Roosevelt, the pension bill, and the 1912 campaign against Theodore Roosevelt. Also included are additional letters from Adams to Taft.
Notes: Locations: 29 Dec. 1909, 19 July 1911, 26 Aug. 1911, 28 Feb. 1912, 10 May 1912, 12 May 1912, 18 Oct. 1912, 12 Nov. 1912, 19 Dec. 1913, 13 Feb. 1913. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Charles Francis Adams papers available online.
2. Winthrop Murray Crane papers (Ms. N-77)
13 items (1908-1925), mostly letters from Taft as president and chief justice to Crane; a combination of typed letters and autograph letters.
Notes: Guide to the Winthrop Murray Crane papers available online.
3. Dana family papers (Ms. N-1088)
Two letters (1909, 1916) from Taft to Richard Henry Dana regarding political matters such as the tariff in 1909 and civil service reform in 1916.
Notes: Guide to the Dana family papers available online.
4. Clarence Ransom Edwards papers (Ms. N-1162)
13 letters (1907-1910) from Taft about personal matters such as family health; business matters; and political matters, including international relations with Japan and the Philippines, the policies of Jackson Smith and the Labor Department, political appointments, and the budget.
Notes: Guide to the Clarence Ransom Edwards papers available online.
5. Henry Cabot Lodge papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
34 letters (1908-1913) from Taft to Henry Cabot Lodge, mostly discussing political and business matters, including ships appropriated by the president for the Panama Canal, cabinet recommendations, international embassies in the United States, the removal of the commissioner of navigation, the collector of the port vacancy, the corruption of the customs officers, the establishment of a naval observatory, the surveyorship of Boston, judicial appointments, the convention with Nicaragua, and the presidential campaign of 1912.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Also available on microfilm, P-525, 183 reels.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge papers available online.
6. George von Lengerke Meyer papers (Ms. N-549)
94 letters (1903-1914) from Taft to George von Lengerke Meyer about the United States Postal Service and Meyer's duties as postmaster general (1907-1909), speech writing, the Navy Department and Meyer's duties (1909-1913), and the case of Colonel Charles H. Lauchheimer, as well as personal and religious matters such as personal visits and the appointment of an Irishman as rector of Catholic University in Washington.
Notes: Guide to the George von Lengerke Meyer papers available online.
7. Ellery Sedgwick papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Five letters (1925-1929) from Taft to the Atlantic Monthly regarding the publication of manuscripts in the magazine.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Some materials also available as photocopies, Ms. N-854.
Guide to the Ellery Sedgwick papers available online.
8. Joseph Walker papers (Ms. N-202)
Five letters (1910-1915) from Taft to Joseph Walker on various topics, including state and national politics, the Republican and Progressive Parties and platforms, the issue of national prohibition, and a constitutional amendment on direct elections.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. John Davis Long papers (Ms. N-1589)
Letter from Taft to John D. Long pertaining to the National Civil Service Reform League, 24 Nov. 1897.
Notes: Guide to the John Davis Long papers available online.
2. Norwood Penrose Hallowell papers (Ms. N-1355)
Letter from Taft to Hallowell about the selection of his cabinet, 31 Dec. 1908.
Notes: Location: Vol. 3.
Guide to the Norwood Penrose Hallowell papers, with digital images, available online.
3. Frank Watson Carpenter papers (Ms. N-133)
Letter from Taft to Frank W. Carpenter thanking him for a Christmas card, 16 Feb. 1909.
4. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1913 Oct. 30)
Letter from Taft to Dr. William W. Gannet thanking him on behalf of the American Bar Association in appreciation of his medical services to Maitre F. Labori, 30 Oct. 1913.
5. Page family papers (Ms. N-637)
Letter from Taft to Walter Gilman Page declining his invitation to speak before the Sons of the Revolution, 28 Nov. 1913.
6. Lend a Hand Society records (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Taft to E. C. Atkins of Georgia State Prison Farm, Milledgeville, Ga., requesting that he address his letter to someone else, 21 Apr. 1924.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Lend a Hand Society records available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Two letters (1909-1912) from Taft to Curtis Guild regarding relations with Russia and Guild's position as ambassador.
2. George E. Nitzsche Unitariana collection (Ms. N-2165)
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Nitzsche.
Guide to the George E. Nitzsche Unitariana collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Taft to Max Rubin thanking him for his congratulations on his 64th birthday, 26 Sep. 1921.
4. Arthur P. Rugg autograph collection (Special Colls. A. P. Rugg)
Notes: Removed from the Arthur P. Rugg papers.
5. Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection (Special Colls. Storer)
Letter from Taft (War Dept. Washington) to Joseph B. Warner explaining that the Tafts cannot stay with the Warners when they visit Boston, 2 June 1904.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-466.
Guide to the Agnes Caroline Storer autograph collection available online.
D. Other materials
1. Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence (Ms. N-1584)
Five letters (1908-1911) regarding ship purchases for the Panama Canal construction, Senator Joseph B. Foraker, the Republican Party, Henry Cabot Lodge, and the appointment of George Von L. Meyer as secretary of the Navy (copies).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-490. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Some letters were published in Selections from the Correspondence of Theodore Roosevelt and Henry Cabot Lodge (Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925; reprinted by Da Capo Press, 1971).
Guide to the Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence available online.
E. Related materials
1. William Howard Taft papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the William Howard Taft papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XXVIII. Woodrow Wilson (1856-1924; President: 1913-1921)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 40 letters by Woodrow Wilson, the majority written during Wilson's terms as the 28th United States president. There are also some letters written while he was governor of New Jersey. The majority of letters are located in the Charles Francis Adams papers and the Winthrop Murray Crane papers and discuss education, congressional legislation, and Wilson's first inauguration. The remainder of the correspondence is scattered through several collections, including the Ellery Sedgwick papers, the Phillips family papers II, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Wilson's letters discuss education, politics, international relations, and literature.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Charles Francis Adams papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
11 letters (1907-1914) from Woodrow Wilson to Charles Francis Adams during Wilson's tenure as president of Yale and president of the United States. Letters discuss various subjects, including education, Adams's address on college life, Adams's participation in the 1909 Yale commencement and alumni lunch, Lincoln Memorial University, a suggested appointment of a board member for the new currency bill (1914), and the Panama Canal.
Notes: Locations: 4 Oct. 1907, 4 Feb. 1909, 29 May 1909, 21 June 1909, 5 July 1909, 3 Dec. 1912, 27 Mar. 1913, 19 Dec. 1913, 20 Jan. 1914, 17 Apr. 1914, 27 Apr. 1914. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Also available on microfilm, P-353.
Guide to the Charles Frances Adams papers available online.
2. Winthrop Murray Crane papers (Ms. N-77)
One folder of correspondence (1913) with Winthrop Murray Crane regarding Wilson's first inauguration.
Notes: Wilson's correspondence with Winthrop Murray Crane forms part of Crane's autograph collection.
Guide to the Winthrop Murray Crane papers available online.
3. Phillips family papers II (Ms. N-302)
Two letters (1918, 1919) from Woodrow Wilson to Mrs. Phillips regarding their friendship.
4. Ellery Sedgwick papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Seven letters (1912-1923) from Woodrow Wilson to Ellery Sedgwick regarding articles printed in the Atlantic Monthly.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Ellery Sedgwick papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Special Collections, removed from Cummings-Clarke family papers (Special Colls. Loose mss. Wilson)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson to Edward Cummings about a position to teach history, 6 Apr. 1887.
Notes: Guide to the Cummings-Clarke family papers available online.
2. John Davis Long papers (Ms. N-1589)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson to John D. Long about the threatened removal of Mr. Renick, chief clerk of the State Department, 1 May 1897.
Notes: Guide to the John Davis Long papers available online.
3. Massachusetts Reform Club records (Ms. N-515)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson to John G. Palfrey declining an offer to speak at the club dinner due to the death of Wilson's father, 14 Feb. 1903.
4. Gamaliel Bradford papers (Ms. N-1913)
Woodrow Wilson to Gamaliel Bradford about Wilson's candidacy for president, 5 Feb. 1907.
5. Abel Rathbone Corbin papers (Ms. N-1036)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson to Abel Rathbone Corbin thanking Corbin for a previous letter related to the railroad and taxes upon it, 21 Sep. 1910.
6. August Belmont papers (Ms. N-1830)
Telegram from Woodrow Wilson to August Belmont congratulating Belmont on the completion of the Cape Cod Canal, 28 July 1914.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-203. Some items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. In part, transcripts (typewritten) of translations.
Guide to the August Belmont papers available online.
7. Special Collections, removed from Richard Olney papers (Special Colls. Loose mss. Wilson)
Official document from Woodrow Wilson appointing Olney the American member of the international commission to negotiate peace with France, 1 June 1915.
Notes: The Richard Olney papers are closed to researchers pending processing.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson to Curtis Guild regarding relations with Russia and Guild's ambassadorship there, 3 Dec. 1912.
Notes: Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
2. George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection (Special Colls. G. F. Hoar)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson thanking George Frisbie Hoar for finding an error in his book, 16 Feb. 1885.
Notes: Guide to the George Frisbie Hoar autograph collection available online.
3. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Woodrow Wilson (Washington) to Samuel A. Harlow thanking him for a previous letter and his friendship, 6 Dec. 1913.
Notes: See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Other materials
1. Special Collections, removed from Richard Olney papers (Special Colls. Loose mss. Wilson)
Copy of a letter from Woodrow Wilson about his disappointment that Olney did not want to accept the British mission, 14 Mar. 1913.
Notes: The Richard Olney papers are closed to researchers pending processing.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Wilson to Rev. Endicott Peabody about his interest in the Groton School, 5 Jan. 1916.
2. The Hoover-Wilson Wartime Correspondence: September 24, 1914, to November 11, 1918, the Hoover Presidential Library Association (Ames: Iowa State University Press, 1974)
Published volume of letters between Herbert Hoover, head of the Food Administration, and President Woodrow Wilson.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
3. The Papers of Woodrow Wilson (Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 1966-1994) (E660 .W717)
Published series of papers created by Woodrow Wilson from 1856-1924.
4. A President in Love: The Courtship Letters of Woodrow Wilson and Edith Bolling Galt, ed. by Edwin Tribble (Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1981)
Published volume of letters between Woodrow Wilson and Edith Bolling Galt.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
5. Two Peacemakers in Paris: The Hoover-Wilson Post-Armistice Letters, 1918-1920, ed. by Francis William O'Brien (College Station: Texas A&M University Press, 1978)
Published volume of letters between a member of the Supreme Economic Council and head of the American Relief Administration, Herbert Hoover, and President Woodrow Wilson.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
6. Woodrow Wilson papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Woodrow Wilson papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XXIX. Warren G. Harding (1865-1923; President: 1921-1923)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds 23 letters written by Harding in which he discusses military, political, and personal matters. All but one were written during Harding's presidency, 1921-1923, and all but three are addressed to Massachusetts Senator Henry Cabot Lodge.
A. Collections
1. Henry Cabot Lodge papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
20 letters (1921-1923) from Warren G. Harding to Henry Cabot Lodge discussing the Navy, politics, and the government.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Also available on microfilm, P-525.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge papers available online.
B. Items
1. Albert Bushnell Hart papers (Ms. N-1369)
Harding's response to an earlier letter from Hart discussing his vetoes, 22 Mar. 1922.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter to Mr. Rogers discussing a railway strike, 6 Sep. 1922.
Notes: See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter to John Barton Payne thanking him for a previous letter and making plans to go to the golf course in the near future, 24 June 1920.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Harding to Rev. Endicott Peabody commending the Groton School on its fine record, 2 Mar. 1923.
2. Warren G. Harding papers at the Library of Congress
Notes: Finding aid for the Warren G. Harding papers at the Library of Congress available online.
XXX. Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933; President: 1923-1929)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 60 letters by Calvin Coolidge, the majority written during Coolidge's service as the 30th president of the United States. There are also a few letters written during Coolidge's terms as governor of Massachusetts and vice president under Warren G. Harding. The majority of Coolidge's letters are found in the Henry Cabot Lodge papers, Winthrop Murray Crane papers, and Arthur P. Rugg papers. Among the subjects are various political issues, including the coal crisis, the United States Navy, political prisoners, promotions and appointments, foreign relations bills, and Amherst College. The remainder of Coolidge's correspondence is scattered throughout several MHS collections, including the Albert Bushnell Hart papers, Shattuck family papers, Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Winthrop Murray Crane papers (Ms. N-77)
One folder (11 items) of correspondence (1913-1930) with Winthrop Murray Crane. Mostly letters to Crane from Coolidge as lieutenant governor and governor of Massachusetts, as president, and in retirement.
Notes: Personal correspondence of Winthrop Murray Crane with Calvin Coolidge stored onsite as part of his autograph collection.
Guide to the Winthrop Murray Crane papers available online.
2. Albert Bushnell Hart papers (Ms. N-1369)
Six letters (1925-1927) from Calvin Coolidge to Albert Bushnell Hart regarding Coolidge's Armistice Day address, Mt. Vernon highway, the improvement of Wakefield, the Washington Memorial, and the first volume of Hart's history of Massachusetts.
3. Henry Cabot Lodge (1850-1924) papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
20 letters (1923) from Calvin Coolidge to Henry Cabot Lodge, mostly regarding political advice sent by Lodge on various subjects. Subjects include the Merchant Marines, the coal crisis (including a letter from Chairman Meyer of the Coal Commission), Francis Parkman's address, the needs of the U.S. Navy, Geneva, future legislation, speeches given by Lodge, political prisoners, the promotion of Colonel Hammond, an appointment of an ambassador to London, the International Fisherman's Race, the appointment of Senator Kellog, department nominations, and a foreign relations bill.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. Also available on microfilm, P-525.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge papers available online.
4. Shattuck family papers (Ms. N-914)
Three letters (1920-1925) from Calvin Coolidge to Henry L. Shattuck thanking him for his support and his letters.
Notes: Locations in the Shattuck family papers: 31.5, 32.23, 62.7, 63.3, 78.9.
Guide to the Shattuck family papers available online.
5. Henry W. Sprague papers (Ms. N-955 oversize)
Two letters (1919) from Calvin Coolidge to F. A. Welch regarding Welch's work during World War I.
B. Items
1. Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts (Misc. Bd. 1917 July 22)
Letter to Frank Waterman Stearns from Calvin Coolidge about his political supporters, 22 July 1917.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from Calvin Coolidge to Curtis Guild about a speech in Boston, 24 Mar. 1923.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Four letters (1917-1930) from Calvin Coolidge regarding Harvard commencement and the frigate Constitution. Recipients include John S. Barrows, James R. Carret, James Olmstead, and Clarence A. Barnes.
3. Arthur P. Rugg autograph collection (Special Colls. A. P. Rugg)
14 letters (1921-1931) from Calvin Coolidge to Arthur P. Rugg. Subjects include honorary degrees, thanks for previous letters and support, Rugg's addresses, a degree for Judge Holmes, favorable reports on John M. McElhinney, the proper way to address the Italian ambassador, Rugg's health, and Amherst College.
Notes: Removed from the Arthur P. Rugg papers.
4. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum at Forbes Library, Northampton, Mass.
Notes: See the website of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum here.
2. Calvin Coolidge papers at the Library of Congress
Includes a published Index to the Calvin Coolidge papers created by the Library of Congress, Manuscript Division (Washington [D.C.: For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Govt. Print. Off.], 1965) (B Coolidge).
Notes: Finding aid for the Calvin Coolidge papers at the Library of Congress available online.
3. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Calvin Coolidge to Reverend Endicott of Peabody about the responsibilities of secondary schools, 15 June 1927.
XXXI. Herbert Hoover (1874-1964; President: 1929-1933)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 30 letters by Herbert Hoover. The majority of letters were written during his time on the Supreme Economic Council, as head of the American Relief Administration, and during his terms as secretary of commerce under Harding and Coolidge. There are also a few letters written during Hoover's term as the 31st U.S. president. Letters are scattered through several collections, including the Ellery Sedgwick papers, August Belmont papers, Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection, Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Hoover's letters discuss literary matters, including the Atlantic Monthly; political matters, including his opponent Al Smith and political support; and personal matters.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. August Belmont papers (Ms. N-1830)
Two letters (1961) from Herbert Hoover to Mrs. August Belmont about Hoover writing a forward for her history of the Cape Cod Canal (typescript).
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-203. Items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog.
Guide to the August Belmont papers available online.
2. Ellery Sedgwick papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
One folder (six letters) of letters (1920-1938) to Mr. and Mrs. Ellery Sedgwick regarding political support, Al Smith, and the Atlantic Monthly.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Ellery Sedgwick papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Charitable Irish Society records (Ms. N-1474)
Letter from Herbert Hoover to the Charitable Irish Society, 14 Jan. 1927.
Notes: Guide to the Charitable Irish Society records available online.
2. Arthur Asahel Shurcliff papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Herbert Hoover (Washington) to Arthur A. Shurcliff thanking Shurcliff for suggestions for flood controls, 22 Dec. 1927.
Notes: Located in Writings. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Arthur Asahel Shurcliff papers available online.
3. Joseph Lee papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Herbert Hoover to Joseph Lee greeting the Congress of Recreation Leaders of the United States and Canada, 14 Sep. 1931.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Joseph Lee papers available online.
4. Lamb family papers (Ms. N-1547)
Letter from Herbert Hoover (New York) to Mrs. Horatio M. Lamb thanking her for a donation to the Finnish Relief Project, 10 Apr. 1940.
Notes: Guide to the Lamb family papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from Herbert Hoover to R. M. Washburn of the Roosevelt Club, Inc. thanking Washburn for his support of the club, 16 Nov. 1928.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Letter from Herbert Hoover (Washington) to William Irwin acknowledging his note, 3 Mar. 1922.
3. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
4. Benjamin Whitwell autograph collection (Ms. N-507)
Letter from Herbert Hoover to Lucy T. Poor and Euphemia M. Parker thanking them for their kind letter, 6 Feb. 1934.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Whitwell.
Guide to the Benjamin Whitwell autograph collection available online.
5. Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection (Ms. S-133)
Four letters (1932-1959) from Herbert Hoover to Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wigglesworth regarding political support, holiday greetings, and other personal messages.
Notes: See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Herbert Hoover (Washington) to Rev. Endicott Peabody about George Rublee, a Groton graduate who became adviser to the American delegates at the 1930 London Naval Conference, 3 Nov. 1930.
2. Herbert Hoover papers at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website for the collection here.
3. The Hoover-Wilson Wartime Correspondence: September 24, 1914, to November 11, 1918, the Hoover Presidential Library Association (Ames: Iowa State University Press, 1974)
Published volume of letters between Herbert Hoover, head of the Food Administration, and President Woodrow Wilson.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
4. Public Papers of the Presidents: Herbert Hoover (1929-1933), Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Service, General Services Administration (Washington, D.C.: U.S. G.P.O., 1974-1977)
Four published volumes of papers created by Herbert Hoover during his presidency, 1929-1933.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
5. Two Peacemakers in Paris: The Hoover-Wilson Post-Armistice Letters, 1918-1920, ed. by Francis William O'Brien (College Station: Texas A&M University Press, 1978)
Published volume of letters between a member of the Supreme Economic Council and head of the American Relief Administration, Herbert Hoover, and President Woodrow Wilson.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
XXXII. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945; President: 1933-1945)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 30 letters by Franklin D. Roosevelt. The majority of letters were written during his tenures as New York senator, assistant secretary of the Navy, and governor of New York. There are also a few letters written during Roosevelt's two terms as the 32nd United States president. Letters are scattered through several collections, including the Godfrey Lowell Cabot papers, Merriman family papers, Phillips family papers II, Ellery Sedgwick papers, and other personal papers and autograph collections. Most of Roosevelt's letters discuss international relations, World War II, Harvard, and politics.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Godfrey Lowell Cabot papers (Ms. N-1979)
Two letters (1916) from Franklin D. Roosevelt (assistant secretary of the Navy) to Godfrey Lowell Cabot regarding aeronautics instruction at the U.S. Navy Aeronautics Station, Pensacola, Fla., and the Gooseberry Islands.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt, Franklin. The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Godfrey Lowell Cabot papers available online.
2. Merriman family papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Five letters (1935-1941) from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Roger B. Merriman regarding the prime minister of Iceland, the British attitude on World War II, and Harvard.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt, Franklin. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Merriman family papers available online.
3. Phillips family papers II (Ms. N-302)
Four letters (1932-1944) from Franklin D. Roosevelt to William Phillips regarding potential visits, Phillips's health, Phillips's position as ambassador to Italy, and Arthur Murray.
4. Ellery Sedgwick papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Five letters (1921-1932) from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Ellery Sedgwick regarding the Woodrow Wilson Foundation, an article on religion and politics, the Ewald case, potential visits, and the presidential election of 1932.
Notes: The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Ellery Sedgwick papers available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. August Belmont papers (Ms. N-1830)
Telegram from Franklin D. Roosevelt (Newport) to August Belmont sending regrets that he is unable to attend the opening of the Cape Cod Canal, 18 [19] July 1914.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-203.
Guide to the August Belmont papers available online.
2. Miscellaneous Manuscripts (Misc. 1915 May 10)
Letter from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Honorable Andrew J. Peters, assistant secretary of the treasury, about the use of colver coal by the U.S. Navy, 10 May 1915.
Notes: Enclosed in a letter from Andrew J. Peters to George G. Wolkins, dated 13 May 1915.
3. John Collins Warren papers (Ms. N-1731)
Letter from Franklin D. Roosevelt (Washington) to John Collins Warren thanking Warren for donating to the "Eyes for the NAVY" campaign, 29 Dec. 1917.
Notes: Guide to the John Collins Warren papers available online.
4. Ralph Lowell papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Ralph Lowell requesting that he not be nominated to the Board of Consultants for the Harvard Alumni Association because of his continuing recovery from an attack of infantile paralysis, 14 Dec. 1927.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Roosevelt, Franklin. The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Ralph Lowell papers available online.
5. Benjamin Loring Young papers (Ms. N-504)
Letter from Roosevelt (Washington) to Benjamin Loring Young thanking him for the support of the Harvard Class of 1907, 20 Mar. 1933.
Notes: Guide to the Benjamin Loring Young papers available online.
6. Charitable Irish Society records (Ms. N-1474)
Letter from Franklin Roosevelt to the Charitable Irish Society, 22 Nov. 1935.
Notes: Guide to the Charitable Irish Society records available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Curtis Guild autograph collection (Special Colls. Guild)
Letter from Franklin D. Roosevelt (Albany, N.Y.) to Alphonsus J. Murphy thanking Murphy for his letter and agreeing with his opinion, 15 Feb. 1932.
2. Grenville H. Norcross autograph collection (Special Colls. Norcross)
Three letters (1914, 1932, 1934) from Franklin D. Roosevelt regarding an article by James Olmstead entitled "Our Sovereign Legislatures" and suggestions on a statement for the passage of the Vinson Bill. Correspondents include Mr. Benjamin, James Olmstead, and Thomas G. Frothingham.
3. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Churchill and Roosevelt: The Complete Correspondence, ed. with a commentary by Warren F. Kimball (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1984)
Three published volumes of letters (1933-1945) between Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Franklin Roosevelt to Rev. Endicott Peabody about Groton's presidential autograph collection inspiring his own collection, 21 Sep. 1935.
3. Franklin D. Roosevelt papers at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum here.
XXXIII. Harry S. Truman (1884-1972; President: 1945-1953)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds two letters from Harry S. Truman, written during his retirement. The letters were written to Representative John W. McCormack and MHS Director Stephen T. Riley regarding finances and the publication of the Adams Papers.
A. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Letters to John W. McCormack (Ms. S-414)
Letter showing support for McCormack's statement on the presidential expense account and retirement pay, 16 Apr. 1957.
2. Special Collections, removed from MHS Archives (Special Colls. Loose mss. Truman)
Letter from Henry S. Truman (Independence, Mo.) to Stephen T. Riley congratulating the MHS on the publication of the Adams Papers, 25 Sep. 1961.
B. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Dear Bess: The Letters from Harry to Bess Truman, 1910-1959, ed. by Robert H. Ferrell (New York: Norton, 1983)
Published volume of letters between Harry Truman and his wife Bess Truman.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter to Reverend John Crocker from Harry Truman recalling Franklin D. Roosevelt's association with Groton School, 16 Jan. 1946.
3. Letters from Father: The Truman Family's Personal Correspondence, ed. by Margaret Truman (New York: Arbor House, 1981)
Published volume of letters from Harry S. Truman to his family.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
4. Off the Record: The Private Papers of Harry S. Truman, ed. by Robert H. Ferrell (New York: Harper & Row, 1980)
Published volume of private papers created by Harry S. Truman.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
5. Strictly Personal and Confidential: The Letters that Harry Truman Never Mailed, ed. by Monte M. Poen (Boston: Little, Brown, 1982)
Published volume of letters never mailed by Harry S. Truman.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
6. Harry S. Truman papers at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum here.
XXXIV. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969; President: 1953-1961)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds over 380 letters by Dwight D. Eisenhower. The majority of the letters were written during Eisenhower's service as commanding general of the U.S. Army (European Theater), Army chief of staff, president of Columbia University, supreme allied commander of Europe, president, and five-star general in the United States Army, as well as during his retirement. Most were written to Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. (1902-1985) throughout Eisenhower's public career, including during 1952 when Lodge ran Eisenhower's presidential campaign in Massachusetts, and during Eisenhower's retirement. The remainder of the letters are scattered throughout several MHS collections. including the Phillips family papers II, Mary Bowditch Forbes papers, Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection, and Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection. Most of the correspondence deals with politics during Eisenhower's campaign for the presidency and during his administration. Also included are letters related to Eisenhower's military service during World War II.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Lodge-Eisenhower correspondence in the Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II (Ms. N-166)
Two document boxes and two narrow boxes of correspondence and memoranda (1942-1982) (some items postdate Eisenhower's death) exchanged by Dwight D. Eisenhower and Henry Cabot Lodge. Includes hundreds of pages of Eisenhower letters and memoranda, mostly typed and signed, with some autograph notes signed. Some materials from Lodge's military service in early World War II, but most date from Eisenhower's decision to run for president, the campaign, and his presidency, 1951-1960.
Notes: Many items individually described in the MHS manuscript catalog. Also available on microfilm, P-373.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II available online.
2. Phillips family papers II (Ms. N-302)
Three letters (1956-1957) from Dwight Eisenhower to William Winthrop discussing previous letters and politics.
B. Items
1. Mary Bowditch Forbes papers (Ms. N-49.68)
Letter from Eisenhower to Mary Bowditch Forbes regarding Brotherhood Week, sponsored by the National Conference of Christians and Jews, 20 Feb. 1948.
Notes: Guide to the Mary Bowditch Forbes papers available online.
C. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
2. Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection (Ms. S-133)
Two letters (1958, 1959) from Dwight Eisenhower to Richard Wigglesworth thanking Wigglesworth for earlier letters and discussing politics.
D. Other materials
1. Leverett Saltonstall papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Papers (1955-1961) related to the Eisenhower campaign and his years as president, collected by Leverett Saltonstall on the campaign trail.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall papers available online.
E. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. The Churchill-Eisenhower Correspondence, 1953-1955, ed. by Peter G. Boyle (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1990)
Published volume of correspondence between Dwight D. Eisenhower and Winston Churchill. Many but not all of Eisenhower's letters are duplicated in the Johns Hopkins edition of The Papers of Dwight Eisenhower. However, unlike the Johns Hopkins edition, this collection of correspondence includes incoming correspondence from Churchill.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
2. The Dwight D. Eisenhower papers at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home
Notes: See the website of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library here.
3. Ike's Letters to a Friend, 1941-1958, ed. with introduction and notes by Robert Griffith (Lawrence, Kan.: University Press of Kansas, 1984)
Published volume of letters in which Dwight D. Eisenhower discusses a variety of issues with childhood friend Edward E. Hazlett.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
4. Letters to Mamie, ed. with commentary by John S. D. Eisenhower (Garden City, N.Y.: Doubleday, 1978)
Published volume of correspondence between Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife.
Notes: Not available at the MHS.
5. The Papers of Dwight David Eisenhower: Digital Edition (1941-1961), John Hopkins University Press
Notes: See the website for the Papers of Dwight David Eisenhower.
XXXV. John F. Kennedy (1917-1963; President: 1961-1963)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 50 letters by John F. Kennedy. The majority of Kennedy's letters were written during his tenure as United States senator, with a few letters written while he served as the 35th U.S. president. The majority of presidential letters are located in fellow Senator Leverett Saltonstall's autograph collection, while the majority of senatorial letters are located in the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts records and the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection. The remainder of Kennedy's letters are scattered through several collections, including the Massachusetts Historical Society Archives and Letters to Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Landers. Most of Kennedy's letters discuss civil rights legislation, Massachusetts Historical Society activities, congressional bills, and speeches.
A. Collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts records (OFFSITE STORAGE)
15 letters (1947-1959) from John F. Kennedy regarding protests against the House Committee on Un-American Activities, the Mundt-Ferguson Bill, Communist Labor representatives, wire-tap legislation, civil rights legislation, the Justice Department and the Mallory bill, and the National Defense Education Act. Recipients include Mary Sanger and Luther McNair.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Kennedy. This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts records available online.
2. John F. Kennedy political papers (Ms. S-848)
Two letters (1959, 1960), one from John F. Kennedy to Joseph D. Ward and one memo regarding Kennedy's acceptance of the presidential nomination and the exchange of nuclear arms information with NATO.
3. Massachusetts Historical Society Archives (MHS Archives)
Four letters (1953-1961) from John F. Kennedy to the Massachusetts Historical Society regarding the spring exhibition and reception, resident membership, and receptions. Recipients include John Adams and Thomas Boylston Adams.
Notes: Originals held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Kennedy.
Guide to the Massachusetts Historical Society Archives available online.
B. Items
1. Letters to Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Landers (Ms. S-807)
Letter from John F. Kennedy to Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Landers thanking them for their letter and their interest in the Dinosaur National Monument, 28 Jan. 1954.
C. Autograph collections
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from John F. Kennedy (Washington) to Rev. John Crocker about Groton's tradition of public service and placement of its graduates in his administration, 1 June 1962.
2. John F. Kennedy papers at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum Archives here.
XXXVI. Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973; President: 1963-1969)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds 51 letters from Lyndon B. Johnson as United States senator, vice president, and president. The majority of the letters are found in the personal papers of Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr., ambassador to Vietnam and Germany, and in the autograph collection of Massachusetts Senator Leverett Saltonstall. Also included is one letter from the MHS Archives written by Johnson to MHS president Thomas Boylston Adams. Most of Johnson's letters deal with personal, political, and diplomatic matters during his political career as senator, vice president, and president.
A. Collections
1. Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II (OFFSITE STORAGE)
43 letters (1954-1972) from Lyndon Johnson to Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. discussing politics and Lodge's work as an ambassador to Vietnam. Also includes some personal letters.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-373. The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II available online.
B. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Special Collections (Special Colls. Loose mss. Johnson)
Letter from President Lyndon B. Johnson to Senator Leverett Saltonstall enclosing one of the first John F. Kennedy half dollars issued by the U.S. Treasury, 24 Mar. 1964.
2. Special Collections, removed from MHS Archives (Special Colls. Loose mss. Johnson)
Letter from Lyndon B. Johnson to Thomas Boylston Adams, president of the MHS, thanking him for his approval of the Historical Documents Bill, 7 Aug. 1964.
3. M. Virginia Morrissey McDermott papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Lyndon B. Johnson to Emma Guffey Miller reiterating his support for the Equal Rights Amendment, 26 Oct. 1967.
C. Autograph collections
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
See also the Groton School autograph collection in "Related materials."
D. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Lyndon B. Johnson (Washington) to Rev. John Crocker about Groton School graduates in his administration, 18 Mar. 1964.
2. Lyndon B. Johnson papers at the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library
Notes: See the website of the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library here.
XXXVII. Richard Nixon (1913-1994; President: 1969-1974)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 60 letters by Richard Nixon. The majority of letters were written during Nixon's term as vice president under Eisenhower, his presidential campaign in 1960, and the eight years prior to his election as president. There are also a few letters written by Nixon during his term as the 37th United States president. The majority of Nixon letters, located in the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection, were written to fellow Senator Leverett Saltonstall throughout his political career. The remainder of Nixon's letters are scattered through several collections, including the Leverett Saltonstall papers, Massachusetts Historical Society Archives, and Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection. Most of Nixon's letters discuss politics, including political support, international relations, and his political campaigns.
A. Items
Listed chronologically.
1. Leverett Saltonstall papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Richard Nixon to Leverett Saltonstall regarding political support, 12 Dec. 1968.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance. See also the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection in "Autograph collections" and copies of Richard Nixon letters to Saltonstall in the Leverett Saltonstall papers in "Other materials."
Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall papers available online.
2. Massachusetts Historical Society Archives (MHS Archives)
Letter from Richard Nixon to Thomas Boylston Adams, president of the MHS, congratulating the society on its efforts to make historical manuscripts available in facsimile, 2 Feb. 1970.
Notes: Original held in Special Colls. Loose mss. Nixon.
Guide to the Massachusetts Historical Society Archives available online.
B. Autograph collections
Listed alphabetically.
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
2. Richard Bowditch Wigglesworth autograph collection (Ms. S-133)
Five letters (1958-1960) from Richard Nixon to Richard B. Wigglesworth discussing diplomatic relations and politics.
C. Other materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Collection of papers (1972-1979) related to CLUM's impeachment campaign against Nixon.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts records available online.
2. Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence (Ms. N-166)
Letter quoting Dwight D. Eisenhower's support of Nixon as his successor, 30 Nov. 1959.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-373.
Guide to the Lodge-Roosevelt correspondence available online.
3. Leverett Saltonstall papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Seven letters and one statement (1954-1972) from Richard Nixon to Leverett Saltonstall regarding the Republican National Convention, the Republican Party, a campaign song written by Tom Currier, Nixon's visits to the Middlesex Club Dinner, political support, the report of the president, and Nixon's statement as vice president (1960) upon arrival at Vnukovo airport, 23 July 1959 (copies).
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall papers available online.
D. Related materials
1. Richard Nixon papers at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum here.
XXXVIII. Gerald R. Ford (1913-2006; President: 1974-1977)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 20 letters by Gerald R. Ford. The majority of letters were written during Ford's tenure as United States House representative, vice president under Nixon, and the 38th president. Ford's letters are located in the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection and pertain to political campaigns, the Republican Party, and President Carter and his administration.
A. Autograph collections
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Two folders of letters (1969-1977) from Gerald Ford to Leverett Saltonstall. Subjects include Leverett Saltonstall's 1969 congressional campaign, the 1976 presidential campaign, various speaking engagements, the state of the Republican Party (1971), and criticism of President Carter and his policies.
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
B. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Gerald R. Ford papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum here.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Gerald Ford to Rowland Cox complimenting Groton on its objectives, 12 Mar. 1975.
XXXIX. James Carter (1924- ; President: 1977-1981)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds one letter by James Carter in the Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II. The letter was written during the first year of Carter's administration and discusses Lodge's service as the United States representative to the Holy See.
A. Items
1. Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Letter from Jimmy Carter to Henry Cabot Lodge as Lodge left his assignment as United States representative to the Holy See, thanking him for his able service through three presidential terms, 6 July 1977.
Notes: Also available on microfilm, P-373. The bulk of this collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr. papers II available online.
B. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Jimmy Carter papers at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum here.
2. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Jimmy Carter to Rowland Cox, headmaster of the Groton school, 1 Aug. 1977.
XL. Ronald Reagan (1911-2004; President: 1981-1989)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds one letter from Ronald Reagan in the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection requesting Saltonstall's support for Reagan and his political agenda.
A. Autograph collections
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Form letter from Ronald Reagan to Leverett Saltonstall requesting support for Reagan's political agenda, 18 Oct. 1977.
Notes: Letter possibly signed in facsimile.
Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
B. Related materials
Listed alphabetically.
1. Groton School autograph collection [photocopies] (Ms. N-1344)
Letter from Ronald Reagan (White House) to William M. Polk, headmaster of the Groton School, commending the school on its continuing dedication to excellence in education, 23 Dec. 1981.
2. Ronald Reagan papers at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute
Notes: See the website of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute here.
XLI. George H. W. Bush (1924-2018; President: 1989-1993)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds approximately 25 letters from George H. W. Bush. The majority of letters were written during Bush's tenure as a United States House representative, United States ambassador to the United Nations, director of the CIA, vice president, and the 41st United States president. Bush's letters are located in the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection and consist of correspondence between long-time family friends, the Bushes and Saltonstalls, discussing personal gifts, events, and political support.
A. Autograph collections
1. Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection (Special Colls. Saltonstall)
Two and a half folders of letters (1965-1990) from George H. W. Bush to Leverett Saltonstall. Subjects include personal matters such as family birthday parties, a gift of a family gavel to the Bush family, and congratulations on being honored by the Essex Club, as well as political matters such as invitations to fundraising dinners, political publications, campaign contributions, and campaign involvement.
Notes: Guide to the Leverett Saltonstall autograph collection available online.
B. Related materials
1. George H. W. Bush papers at the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library Center
Notes: See the website of the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library Center here.
XLII. William J. Clinton (1946- ; President: 1993-2001)
The Massachusetts Historical Society currently does not hold any letters from William J. Clinton. Below is information on where you can find the papers of Clinton.
A. Related materials
1. William J. Clinton papers at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum here.
XLIII. George W. Bush (1946- ; President: 2001-2009)
The Massachusetts Historical Society currently does not hold any letters from George W. Bush. Below is information on where you can find the papers of Bush.
A. Related materials
1. George W. Bush papers at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
Notes: See the website of the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum here.
XLIV. Barack Obama (1961- ; President: 2009-2017)
The Massachusetts Historical Society holds two letters by Barack Obama in the Sylvia R. Gilman papers. Both letters were written during his presidency.
A. Collections
1. Sylvia R. Gilman papers (OFFSITE STORAGE)
Two letters (2010, 2013) from Barack Obama to Sylvia R. Gilman in response to her letters.
Notes: This collection is stored offsite and must be requested at least two business days in advance.
Guide to the Sylvia R. Gilman papers available online.
B. Related materials
1. Barack Obama papers at the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Notes: See the website of the Barack Obama Presidential Library here.
XLV. Donald Trump (1946- ; President: 2017-2021)
The Massachusetts Historical Society currently does not hold any letters from Donald Trump. For further information on his letters and papers, contact the National Archives and Records Administration.
XLVI. Joseph R. Biden (1942- ; President: 2021- )
The Massachusetts Historical Society currently does not hold any letters from Joseph R. Biden. For further information on his letters and papers, contact the National Archives and Records Administration.
Preferred Citation
When using the items described in this guide, researchers should cite the collection containing the item.
Access Terms
For information about the collections and items described in this guide, consult ABIGAIL, the online catalog of the Massachusetts Historical Society.