Letter, George Corbin Washington to James A. Pearce

Containers:

Box 69, Folder 1848.04.29

Creator:

Washington, George Corbin, 1789-1854

Scope and content:

A.L.S. 3 pages. Quotes B.W-n's will on disposition of G.W.'s library--most valuable portion at Mt. Vernon, owned by Mrs. Jane C. Washington--comprises about 1500-2000 vols.--doesn't know Mrs. W's feelings but thinks "since she has expressed her willingness for a fair equivalent, to let Mr. Vernon with a portion of land attached, become the property of the Nation at its request, so in the same spirit of compliance with its wishes and those of Congress, she possibly might consent for a liberal consideration to have the books of Genl. Washington placed in so safe a depository as the library of congress, where they would be preserved for all time."--suggests they contact her about this--the books left to him were largely those of Judge Washington's--about 3-400 of G.W.'s books were included--he recently disposed of all these to an agent of the library of the British Museum--would have preferred American institution, but none were interested--defends his actions in so doing, since press has seen fit to [criticize] him for it. Autograph letter signed, draft, endorsed by G.C.W. "To Hon James A. Pearce in relation to the Library of Genl. Washington." Name on original manuscript appears as "G. C. Washington."

Names:

Washington, George Corbin, 1789-1854

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