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United States Presidents collection, 1778-1992

0.25 linear feet

The United States Presidents collection contains materials authored by, signed by, or related to presidents of the United States of America.

The United States Presidents collection consists of single items authored by, signed by, or related to presidents of the United States of America. Including personal correspondence, land deeds, official appointments, and various manuscript and printed documents, the United States Presidents collection touches broadly on presidential politics, social activity, and national affairs from 1784 to 1992.

Items of note in the collection include:
  • A manuscript description of an exchange between a Revolutionary War soldier and Andrew Jackson in 1832, in which Jackson was presented with a candle originally used to commemorate General Charles Cornwallis's defeat, intending that he should now use it to honor the victory at the Battle of New Orleans
  • A handwritten eulogy for President Benjamin Henry Harrison, describing his life, career, and character
  • Three letters by William Howard Taft, documenting the legal dispute over whiskey production in 1909
  • Nine letters written by Herbert Hoover to Wilson W. Mills between 1923 and 1952, relating to Michigan banks, and state and national politics
  • Eight Associated Press teletypes reporting on the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963

The United States Presidents collection contains a diverse array of materials that reflects broadly on personal, presidential, and national affairs. See the Detailed Box and Folder Listing for more information about each item.

Container

. [John Adams] and [Benjamin Franklin] Df to Council and House of Representatives of Massachusetts; Passi., 1778 May 22

2 pages

Box 1
Regarding Joseph Parker's ownership of a vessel that has been "in the Custody of the Public" since 1775 according to their orders. Assures them of Parker's longstanding friendship with America and his reputable character. Notes the financial difficulty it has caused him and discusses wartime practices and protections concerning enemy property. Includes a signed note by Joseph Parker, attesting to the document's authorship by Adams and Franklin.
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. John Adams Cy; Anteieul, [France]., 1784 November 3

3 pages

Box 1
Dr. Franklin forwarded letters to Adams and Thomas Jefferson from the Comte de Vergennes and Mr. Grand concerning payment of interest on a loan made by the King in Holland for the United States. Concerned that Governeur Morris intends to call upon bankers in Amsterdam to pay the interest. Does not believe Franklin will receive relief from the French court on account of their expectation of entering into war in the Low Countries. Notes the need for treaties with the Barbary powers to ensure continued American commerce in the Mediterranean. Reflects on the difficult choices to be made to pay debts, receive loans, and maintain American credit.
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. James Madison ANS to [Robert Mallory?]; and [Dolley Madison] LS to [John G.] Chapman; Montpelier, [Virginia]., 1818 February 11; 1834 July 15

2 pages

Box 1
Two documents mounted together. In the first, James Madison declines his appointment to the Board of Public Works. The second document sends J[ames] Madison's respects to Mr. Chapman for the engravings he sent, noting Dolley Madison's pleasure with the likeness.
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. James Madison ALS to [Augustus B.] Woodward; Montpelier, [Virginia]., 1824 September 11

1 page

Box 1
Comments on Woodward's proposal for a "standard of measures and weights" and the "observations 'addressed to the individual citizen.'" Clarifies that George Mason, not Thomas Jefferson, contributed substantially to Virginia's constitution and declaration of rights. Mentions Jefferson's additions to Notes on Virginia. "Your love of truth will excuse this little tribute to it, or rather would not excuse its omission."
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. James Madison ALS to [Thomas W.] Gilmer; Montpelier, [Virginia]., 1830 September 6

3 pages

Box 1
Writes concerning Gilmer's support of public education, emphasizing Jefferson, Wythe, and Pendelton's work on a bill from 1776-1779 for the "diffusion of knowledge." Expects the next session of legislature to take up the question of primary schools. Suggests the laws of New England, New York, and Pennsylvania May offer guidance. Reflects on the difficulties southern states face in regards to education due to "the character of their population, and the want of density in the free part of it." Does not feel equipped to offer substantive assistance. Agrees that the University should take an interest in primary schools.