The Frank R. Diffenderffer Collection contains documents collected by Mr. Diffenderffer. These documents are primarily from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and include letters, legal and court papers, indentures, receipts, property and probate records, and financial and military papers. The people and businesses represented include George Ross, Jasper Yeates, A. Herr Smith, Timothy Matlack, Mount Hope Furnace, and the Lancaster, Elizabethtown & Middletown Turnpike Road Company.
The Columbia Bridge Company Collection is a valuable source of information concerning construction of bridges in the early 1800s. Documents concern the building of the first two bridges across the Susquehanna River in 1814 and 1832. Items in the collection include minutes, form for stock certificate, invoices, legal papers, proposals, receipts, stockholders, promissory notes, by-laws, settlement of stage tolls with Samuel Slaymaker 1813, salary receipts, circulars and announcements, bridge tolls, orders for payment, correspondence, and a stock certificate from 1842
Admin/Biographical History
First Bridge
Construction of the first Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge was begun in 1812 and completed December 5, 1814, by J. Wolcott, H. Slaymaker, S. Slaymaker at a total cost of $231,771, which was underwritten by the newly formed Columbia Bank and Bridge Company. The bridge was 5,690 feet (1,730 m) long and 30 feet (9.1 m) wide and had 54 piers and twin carriageways. Constructed of wood and stone, the covered bridge also included a wooden roof, a whitewashed interior and openings in its wooden sides to view the river and surrounding areas. It was considered the longest covered bridge in the world at the time. The bridge accommodated east-west traffic across the Susquehanna River for 14 years before being destroyed by ice, high water and severe weather on February 5, 1832.
Second bridge
Construction of the second Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, also covered, started mid-1832 and was completed in 1834 (opening on July 8, 1834) by James Moore and John Evans at a cost of $157,300. It was 5,620 feet (1,710 m) long and 28 feet (8.5 m) wide and also enjoyed the distinction of being the world's longest covered bridge. The wood and stone structure had 27 piers, a carriageway, walkway, and two towpaths to guide canal traffic across the river. Much of the mostly oak timber used in its construction was salvaged from the previous bridge. Its roof was covered with shingles, its sides with weatherboard, and its interior was whitewashed. The structure was modified in 1840 by the Canal Company at a cost of $40,000 concurrent with the construction of the Wrightsville Dam. Towpaths of different levels and with sidewalls were added to prevent horses from falling into river, as happened several times when the river flooded. The roof of the lower path formed the floor of upper path. In this way, canal boats were towed across the river from the Pennsylvania Canal on the Columbia side to the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal at Wrightsville. Sometime after 1846, a double-track railway was added, linking the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad to the Northern Central Railway. Due to fear of fire caused by locomotives, rail cars were pulled across the bridge by teams of mules or horses.
Information from "Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge," https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbia%E2%80%93Wrightsville_Bridge. Accessed 3 February 2020.
System of Arrangement
The papers of the First Columbia Bridge built in 1814 are filed in folders #1 to 157. The papers of the Second Columbia Bridge built in 1832 are filed in folders #158 to 181.
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Collection Title (MG#), Folder #, (or Object ID), LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. URL if applicable. Date accessed (day, month, year).
Access Conditions / Restrictions
Please use digital images and transcriptions when available. The original items in Folder 69 may not be used due to their fragile condition. All other original documents may be used by researchers--contact Research@LancasterHistory.org prior to visit or request at Reference Desk.
Copyright
Collection may be photographed. Images have been provided for research purposes only. Please contact Research@LancasterHistory.org with questions or for a high-resolution image and permission to publish.
LancasterHistory retains the rights to the digital images and content presented. The doctrine of fair use allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. Fair use includes comment, criticism, teaching, and private scholarship. Any images and data downloaded, printed or photocopied for these purposes should provide a citation. All other uses beyond those allowed by fair use require written permission.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory. Persons wishing to publish any material from this site must assume all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants of copyright or other use restrictions. Publication fees may apply.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
The Jacob N. Beam Collection contains information and papers relevant to Dr. Beam's research and writing on the history of the Leacock Presbyterian Church, which he presented in the church's bicentennial address in 1940. Materials in this collection include letters and correspondences, family histories, military and land records, and other publications, as well as copies of drafts and final publication of the bicentennial address.
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Jacob N. Beam Collection (MG0224), Box #, Folder #, LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Access Conditions / Restrictions
No restrictions.
Copyright
Collection may not be photocopied. Please direct questions to Research Center Staff at research@lancasterhistory.org.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Other Numbers
MG-224
Classification
MG0224
Description Level
Fonds
Custodial History
Processed and finding aid prepared by KV, Fall 2013. Added to database 3 February 2022.
This collection contains the legal and personal papers of Judge Henry G. Long. The first ten boxes contain notes of argument and notes of testimony for civil and criminal cases. The remaining papers include receipts for local businesses and services, accounts, documents relating to turnpikes, speeches, stock certificates, deeds, correspondence, and petitions.
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Judge Henry G. Long Collection (MG0283), Box #, Folder #, LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Folders 1-120, gift of The Long Home, 19 January 2001. Folders 121-126, purchased from dealer, October 2013. Folder 127 purchased from The Lawbook Exchange, Ltd., August 2014.
The items in Folders 121-126 were originally part of the collection at The Long Home, but were separated from the rest of the collection and purchased at auction by the dealer who sold them to LancasterHistory.
Access Conditions / Restrictions
Restrictions are noted at the item level.
Copyright
Collection may not be photocopied. Please direct questions to Research Center Staff at research@lancasterhistory.org.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Other Numbers
MG-283
Other Number
MG-283
Classification
MG0283
Description Level
Fonds
Custodial History
Boxes 1-15 processed by JM, finding aid prepared by HST. Added to database 7 November 2017.
Yeates, Lancaster County Historical Society Collection
Description
Yeates, Lancaster County Historical Society Collection provides insight into the Yeates family, local social history, and details of legal business from 1743-1870. These documents have been collected by the Lancaster County Historical Society over many years. Collection includes letters, receipts, articles, eviction notice, advertisement, estate inventories, wills, deeds, treaty, court transcript, drawings, photographs, copy of house plan, post road distances, daybook, letter book, catalog of books in Jasper Yeates' library, and an alphabetical catalog of law books.
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Yeates, Lancaster County Historical Society Collection (MG0205), Folder #, LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Access Conditions / Restrictions
Restrictions noted at the item level. The letter copybooks in Folders 31 and 36 are restricted--please use the transcriptions available in the library.
Copyright
Collection may not be photocopied. Please direct questions to Research Center Staff at research@lancasterhistory.org. Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Other Numbers
MG-205
Classification
MG0205
Description Level
Fonds
Custodial History
Folders 1-34 and Books 1-2 were processed and finding aid prepared prior to 1997. Added to PP on 26 March 2022.
The Paul A. Mueller, Jr. Collection contains a deed for property in Lancaster Borough, an early collection of recipes, a receipt book for the Hamilton Lots, a valentine, stock certificate books for the New Process Steel Corporation, and Civil War letters. The Honorable Paul A. Mueller, Jr. is a descendant of the Zahm, Shreiner, and Cochran families on his mother's side. The items in this collection were passed down through the family for several generations.
Admin/Biographical History
Klein, Huffnagle, and Mussertown
The deed shows the sale of property in Mussertown by innkeepers Leonard and Rosina Klein to Peter Huffnagle. Leonard (1725-1793) married Amalia Rosina Waidlin (1732-1795) at Warwick, Lancaster County in December 1749. At that time he was a saddler in Lancaster. Although they did not have children, they were sponsors at several baptisms at the Moravian Church and Trinity Lutheran Church, both in Lancaster. Peter Huffnagle (1746-1806) and his wife, Charlotte, had their children baptized at the First Reformed Church in Lancaster. They were also buried in that churchyard. Mussertown was laid out in 1760 by John Musser, and was later added onto by Henry Musser. Its original boundaries were the streets now called Church, Strawberry, Locust, and Rockland.
Hamilton Lots
In 1730, Andrew Hamilton, a skilled lawyer, purchased a tract of land in the newly incorporated Lancaster County and convinced the commissioners to place the county seat within his holdings. Queen Street and King Street run through that tract. James Hamilton (1710-1783) acquired 500 acres of land from his father in 1734, and started selling lots by 1735. Although Hamilton sold the lots, he imposed ground-rents so tenants had to pay for the right to occupy and improve the land that they owned. Tenants were also required to build dwellings on their property within two years and to meet certain building specifications. He continued to acquire and sell lots until 1773. Ground-rents were still being collected on the Hamilton Lots after World War II.
Zahm and Shreiner
Godfried Zahm was a brushmaker in Lancaster. His son, Michael (d.1883), learned the brushmaking business from his father and then learned the watchmaking and jewelry business from his brother-in-law, Martin Shreiner, Jr. (1767-1866). Godfried's daughter, Maria, married Martin Shreiner who is best remembered as a Lancaster clockmaker. Maria kept a trimming shop on North Queen Street in Lancaster.
Cochran and New Process Steel Corporation
Harry B. Cochran, great-grandfather of Paul A. Mueller, Jr., was the president of New Process Steel Corporation in 1916. New Process Steel Co. began as New Process Steel Wire Manufacturing Co. and was renamed in 1907. This manufacturer of drill rods and special steel shapes became a subsidiary of General Motors Corporation in 1919. It is significant that Alfred P. Sloan, Jr. owned stock in the New Process Steel Corporation in 1916. Sloan was president of Hyatt Roller Bearing Company when it merged with the United Motors Corporation in 1916. He then became president of United Motors which merged with General Motors Corporation in 1918. Sloan was president and CEO of General Motors from 1923-1946.
Shand, William and Dean Keller. 1965. "Twentieth Century Industrial Development of Lancaster." Journal of the Lancaster County Historical Society 69: 151-162.
Wood, Stacy B. C. 1994. "Martin Shreiner: from Clocks to Fire Engines." Journal of the Lancaster County Historical Society 96: 114-137.
Notes
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Paul A. Mueller, Jr. Collection (MG0360), Folder #, LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Access Conditions / Restrictions
No restrictions.
Copyright
Collection may not be photocopied. Please direct questions to Research Center Staff at research@lancasterhistory.org.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Other Numbers
MG-360
Other Number
MG-360
Classification
MG0360
Description Level
Fonds
Custodial History
Folders 1-9 cataloged in 2005. Folder 10 cataloged in 2009. Added to database 7 September 2017.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1, Papers of James Buchanan, Series 1 Correspondence
Description
The James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1, Papers of James Buchanan, Series 1 Correspondence, Subseries 1 contains letters to James Buchanan and Subseries 2 contains letters from James Buchanan. Within these subseries, the letters are arranged chronologically, dating from 1819-1868.
This collection contains letters, both to and from James Buchanan. The letters from Buchanan range from the different periods of his life-as a private citizen and lawyer, senator, and ambassador to Russia and Britain; his Presidential term from 1857 to 1861; and his later years until his death in 1868. The earlier letters include details of his travels, political matters and the military, social engagements and responsibilities, his responsibilities as a political figure, and accounts of family chatter and gossip. He also discusses at length, in his letters to and about Harriet Lane, his opinions of whom she should marry, his opinions about her social encounters and interactions, her living situations, and her livelihood. Buchanan also often wrote about his Christian beliefs, especially during the later years of his life. Letters from his later years detail the day-to-day life at home in Wheatland, including some of his guests, his servants, and his illnesses as the end of his life neared.
The letters that are addressed to James Buchanan range in different topics, concerning military affairs, political and legal information, and family chatter. Other letters include details of Buchanan's financial matters that are in reference to loans, Buchanan's investments and purchases, deeds and bonds. There are also a number of thank-you letters and notes of recommendation.
Many of the letters are to his niece, Harriet Lane and nephew, James Buchanan Henry. Other correspondents are H. B. Swarr, Henry A. Muhlenberg, family members, Francis Scott Key, Riggs & Co., James L. Reynolds, and many political colleagues.
Admin/Biographical History
James Buchanan was born on April 23, 1791 to James Buchanan and Elizabeth Speer. He was the second child born out of ten children, and he would go on to outlive all but one of his siblings. Most popularly remembered as Pennsylvania's only President and as a lifelong bachelor, Buchanan committed a lifetime to politics. In 1821, he left his law practice and embarked on his political career after having been voted into the U.S. House of Representatives. He would remain in the House for five consecutive terms before serving as the U.S. Minister to Russia, a Senator in the U.S. Senate, the U.S. Secretary of State, the U.S. Minister to Great Britain, and finally, the 15th President of the United States. He died in his bedchamber at Wheatland at 8:30 AM on June 1, 1868. He was 77 years old. [https://www.lancasterhistory.org/about-wheatland, accessed 10/24/2019]
System of Arrangement
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1 Papers of James Buchanan is arranged into six series.
James Buchanan Papers, Dickinson College Archives & Special Collections http://archives.dickinson.edu/collection-descriptions/james-buchanan-papers
James Buchanan and Harriet Lane Johnston Papers, Library of Congress https://www.loc.gov/collections/james-buchanan-and-harriet-lane-johnston-papers/
James Buchanan Papers, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, http://www2.hsp.org/collections/manuscripts/b/Buchanan0091.html
James Buchanan Papers, Penn State University Libraries, https://libraries.psu.edu/findingaids/1458.htm
Related Item Notes
James Buchanan Family Papers
James Buchanan Collection (MG0096) https://collections.lancasterhistory.org/en/permalink/lhdo3760
Historical Society of Pennsylvania microfilm
Photograph Collection
Curatorial Collection
Wheatland Collection
Wheatland Mansion
Notes
Preferred Citation: Title or description of item, date (day, month, year), Collection Title (MG#), Part #, Series #, Box #, Folder #, (or Object ID), LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. URL if applicable. Date accessed (day, month, year).
Access Conditions / Restrictions
Please use digital images and transcriptions when available. Original documents may be used by appointment. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org at least two weeks prior to visit.
Copyright
Images have been provided for research purposes only.
LancasterHistory retains the rights to the digital images and content presented. The doctrine of fair use allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. Fair use includes comment, criticism, teaching, and private scholarship. Any images and data downloaded, printed or photocopied for these purposes should provide a citation. All other uses beyond those allowed by fair use require written permission.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory. Some items are photocopies from other collections--researchers must obtain permission for reproduction and publication from the owner of the original material. Persons wishing to publish any material from this site must assume all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants of copyright or other use restrictions. Publication fees may apply.
Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org for a high-resolution image and permission to publish.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Description Level
Series
Custodial History
The James Buchanan Family Papers were collected by the James Buchanan Foundation for the Preservation of Wheatland. This collection was relocated from the Wheatland mansion to the LancasterHistory archives in the Spring of 2009.
Digitization of the James Buchanan Family Papers was funded by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, PHMC Appl ID # 201808013051, 2019-2020.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1 Papers of James Buchanan, Series 1 Correspondence
Description
The James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1, Papers of James Buchanan, Series 1 Correspondence, Subseries 1 contains letters to James Buchanan and Subseries 2 contains letters from James Buchanan. Within these subseries, the letters are arranged chronologically, dating from 1819-1868.
This collection contains letters, both to and from James Buchanan. The letters from Buchanan range from the different periods of his life-as a private citizen and lawyer, senator, and ambassador to Russia and Britain; his Presidential term from 1857 to 1861; and his later years until his death in 1868. The earlier letters include details of his travels, political matters and the military, social engagements and responsibilities, his responsibilities as a political figure, and accounts of family chatter and gossip. He also discusses at length, in his letters to and about Harriet Lane, his opinions of whom she should marry, his opinions about her social encounters and interactions, her living situations, and her livelihood. Buchanan also often wrote about his Christian beliefs, especially during the later years of his life. Letters from his later years detail the day-to-day life at home in Wheatland, including some of his guests, his servants, and his illnesses as the end of his life neared.
The letters that are addressed to James Buchanan range in different topics, concerning military affairs, political and legal information, and family chatter. Other letters include details of Buchanan's financial matters that are in reference to loans, Buchanan's investments and purchases, deeds and bonds. There are also a number of thank-you letters and notes of recommendation.
Many of the letters are to his niece, Harriet Lane and nephew, James Buchanan Henry. Other correspondents are H. B. Swarr, Henry A. Muhlenberg, family members, Francis Scott Key, Riggs & Co., James L. Reynolds, and many political colleagues.
Admin/Biographical History
James Buchanan was born on April 23, 1791 to James Buchanan and Elizabeth Speer. He was the second child born out of ten children, and he would go on to outlive all but one of his siblings. Most popularly remembered as Pennsylvania's only President and as a lifelong bachelor, Buchanan committed a lifetime to politics. In 1821, he left his law practice and embarked on his political career after having been voted into the U.S. House of Representatives. He would remain in the House for five consecutive terms before serving as the U.S. Minister to Russia, a Senator in the U.S. Senate, the U.S. Secretary of State, the U.S. Minister to Great Britain, and finally, the 15th President of the United States. He died in his bedchamber at Wheatland at 8:30 AM on June 1, 1868. He was 77 years old. [https://www.lancasterhistory.org/about-wheatland, accessed 10/24/2019]
James Buchanan Papers, Dickinson College Archives & Special Collections http://archives.dickinson.edu/collection-descriptions/james-buchanan-papers
James Buchanan and Harriet Lane Johnston Papers, Library of Congress https://www.loc.gov/collections/james-buchanan-and-harriet-lane-johnston-papers/
James Buchanan Papers, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, http://www2.hsp.org/collections/manuscripts/b/Buchanan0091.html
James Buchanan Papers, Penn State University Libraries, https://libraries.psu.edu/findingaids/1458.htm
Related Item Notes
James Buchanan Family Papers
James Buchanan Collection, MG0096
Historical Society of Pennsylvania microfilm in the LancasterHistory Research Library
Photograph collections
Curatorial collections
Wheatland Mansion
Access Conditions / Restrictions
Please use digital images and transcriptions when available.
Original documents may be used by appointment. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org at least two weeks prior to visit.
Copyright
Images have been provided for research purposes only.
LancasterHistory retains the rights to the digital images and content presented. The doctrine of fair use allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. Fair use includes comment, criticism, teaching, and private scholarship. Any images and data downloaded, printed or photocopied for these purposes should provide a citation. All other uses beyond those allowed by fair use require written permission.
Permission for reproduction and/or publication must be obtained in writing from LancasterHistory. Some items are photocopies from other collections--researchers must obtain permission for reproduction and publication from the owner of the original material. Persons wishing to publish any material from this site must assume all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants of copyright or other use restrictions. Publication fees may apply.
Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org for a high-resolution image and permission to publish.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Description Level
Series
Custodial History
The James Buchanan Family Papers were collected by the James Buchanan Foundation for the Preservation of Wheatland. This collection was relocated from the Wheatland mansion to the LancasterHistory archives in the Spring of 2009. Digitization of the James Buchanan Family Papers was funded by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, PHMC Appl ID # 201808013051, 2019-2020.
Thirty four letters, most from James Buchanan, 1832-1867
Description
Various locations, 1832-1867 (The originals of the following 34 letters and one poem are owned by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.)
Letter 1 Washington, 12 October 1847 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry, Georgetown College, making an appointment for his nephew at his dentist, Dr. Gunnell and stating that he will not use his former dentist, Mr. Humphreys; Mr. Bartle or Buchanan will accompany him.
Letter 2 Wheatland, 17 August 1849 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. [Henry] noting that many inquired of him at Bedford Springs; wishing him to get his teeth properly attended to; hoping that he will be able to enter the sophomore class at Princeton; concluding with family gossip including the visit of Mrs. Greenhow, her three daughters, and a nurse along with Harriet and Eskridge Lane; and finally hoping to see him “should you answer my reasonable expectations; otherwise your presence will afford me no pleasure.” Sent to Bolmar’s, at Bolmar’s, West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Letter 3 Wheatland, 7 March 1850 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry reporting that he is happy that Mr. Macken sent him the “Dictionnaire Universal”; asking that he bring the dog Mr. Bolmar promised; family gossip including Buchanan’s visit to Miss Dow, “your Sweetheart in Washington,” but she won’t wait long for a proposal; the Pleasantons spoke highly of him; and Clem regrets not writing. Sent to Bolmar’s, West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Letter 4 Clarendon Hotel, London, 15 September 1853 (Fragment) Letter from James Buchanan probably to James B. Henry imploring him to apply diligence and application to his studies; describing the dull London scene since most of the “fashionables” are out of town, mentioning the large number of Americans passing through the Legation because of passports, Col. Sickles, Mr. Welsh and Mr. Lawrence make this the best Legation of all, and his New York servant is excellent; having to house at present vexes him; will visit the Ladies Wellesley and Stafford in a palace built by Cardinal Wolsey; Mr. Peabody “the great & rich American Banker” hosted a “magnificent” dinner at the Garter Hotel, along with about forty Americans; is appreciative of Mr. Ingersoll and his niece, Miss Willcox; and finally wants to be remembered to “Miss Lily and her father, Mr. & Mrs. Plett, Mr. & Mrs. Van Dyke & Miss Mary & Louise, Mr. & Mrs. Tyler, Mr. & Mcs. M’Kibbin” and especially to young Mr. McKibbin for the cigars and his kindest regards toand r. & Mrs. Cadwalader, Pierce Butler, Col. Marin, Mr. Wescott and …[Rest of letter cut off]
Letter 5 U.S. Legation, London, 2 February 1855 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry expressing happiness that Henry has recovered his health at Wheatland and hopes to return in October; praises Henry’s uncle and aunt for their positive influence on him; thanks him for the local information and remember him kindly to “the late Miss Theodora, now Mrs. I know not what”; liked Coke upon Littleton but didn’t care for the Lord, who was also the Lord Chancellor, but likes the present one; does not think the debaters in Parliament are superior of those of the U.S.; cautions him to postpone a trip to Europe until his education is finished; urges him to invest his “surplus” instead of spending it; Harriet is visiting friends in Lancashire and really enjoying her friendships; reporting that his health is “as usual, ” he asks to be remembered to “Mr Cadwalader, Mr. & Mrs. Plett & all other friends.” Sent in care of Henry & Sharff, 14 Wall St., New York.
Letter 6 Legation of the United States, London, 2 March 1855 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry expressing his happiness of Henry’s health and his deep interest in his welfare; urges him to stay in Pennsylvania to set up his practice; and to defer any decisions concerning his resettling until Buchanan returns in October. Sent to 84 West 48 Street, New York.
Letter 7 Legation of the United States, London, 27 July 1855 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry hoping to be home in time for Henry’s admission to the bar and his return from Europe; saying that the news of the war is received by every steamer, and while he hates “the season,” Harriet thrives on it; imploring him to always tell the truth, even to avoid “white lies” and fibs; hoping his tenure will end on September 30, comparing the English unfavorably to Americans; and asking to be remembered to Mr. and Mrs. Plett and to Mr. Cadwalader; Harriet sends her love. [Signature cut out]
Letter 8 U.S. Legation, Paris, 24 March 1856 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry noting that in Paris he is visiting Judge Mason and then to the Hague to visit Mr. Belmont, then to Brussels, back to Paris, and then embark on The Arago at Havre on April 9; saying that Mr. Dallas will present him appropriately, and Mr. Thomas Baring will advance him ?100 if needed; Mr. Moran will stay with Mr. Dallas for only a month longer; the Pennsylvania State Convention treated his friends well; and that Mr. Mason and family will receive Henry when he reaches Paris. Letter 9 Wheatland, 13 June 1862 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry stating that the portrait of the prince arrived and is not standing in the large dining room; sends a few letters for Harriet; Brother Edward left this morning, is happy that Henry’s business is increasing and hopes he has “sufficient energy & industry to keep up with it”; and sends love to his wife and the two Harriets. In a Post Script, Miss Hetty sends her regards and hopes to visit soon. Sent to 14 Wall Street, New York, N. Y.
Letter 10 Wheatland, near Lancaster, 23 August 1863 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry expressing his profound regrets on the loss of Henry’s wife, putting all hope in the Christian faith; spent a fortnight at Bedford, being the oldest man there and was treated very kindly; Annie Buchanan and her sister Lois just completed their visit; and sends kind regards to Mr. Nicholson and his family.
Letter 11 Wheatland, 1 March 1864 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry reporting that he had been downstairs for a fortnight suffering from “painful and acute rheumatism in the legs but hopes to be in the office tomorrow”; the time for cutting coupons is near, including some for Harriet and Miss Hetty; Harriet is ill and Harriet Buchanan is still visiting; the New York Democrats have “put their foot in it” being led by Dean Richmond and August Belmont, etc., who broke up the party in Charleston. Sent to 14 Wall Street, New York.
Letter 12 Wheatland, 19 M[arch] [1861] Letter to James B. Henry from Miss Hetty Parker saying that she has sent by express a number of family items; Buchanan and Harriet are very well, but James Lane has lost his “little Daughter Patty” from scarlet fever; Buchanan and Mr. Lane have reconciled; Mr. Bair rented his farm, his mother is ill at her daughter’s, Mrs. Beisman; Mrs. Fahnestock is visiting; and asked to be remembered to his wife and son Buchanan, as well as Mr. Shell. Sent to 14 Wall Street, New York.
Letter 13 Wheatland, 31 May 1864 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry anticipating his upcoming visit but asking that he dissuade Mr. Schell since Buchanan wants to discuss “domestic matters”; asks that he bring the bond of George Sanderson; asks if the California legislature has recognized Quick Silver Mining Company; and Harriet and Miss Hetty send their love. Sent to 14 Wall Street, New York.
Letter 14 Wheatland, 6 March 1865 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry praising Henry for doing everything right but thinks he has too much stock in Quick Silver; requests a number bonds, mortgages, and coupons; Harriet left for Washington; read with deep sorrow Lincoln’s second inaugural address; asks to be remembered to Mr. Schell and Judge Roosevelt; and Miss Annie and Miss Hetty send their love, the latter suffering from a very bad cold.
Letter 15 Wheatland, 24 January 1866 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry saying he is ready to send the drafts; asking that he tell Mrs. Johnston he has letters from Mr. Herbert Saunders and Mr. Cellon congratulating her on her marriage; and that he has not written because he is not sure she has returned to New York. Sent to 14 Wall Street, New York.
Letter 16 Wheatland, 24 August 1866 Letter to James B. Henry expressing anxiousness over a deed for some property in Maryland because of “Bowie and his prevarications” and Mrs. Leonard’s abuse of him; wanting to make sure he has clear title; met Frederick S. Poole of Poolesville, who knows the property in question; and Mrs. Johnston and Becky Shunk (formerly Black) are visiting.
Letter 17 Wheatland, 13 September 1866 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry expressing happiness that the property in Maryland is being handled but does not wish to dispossess the Leonards; encloses a check for expenses and fee; Harriet is still visiting but Mrs. Johnston left yesterday and seems very happily pregnant; his health is as usual; thinks the defection of Mr. Johnston from his party will not add much to the strength of the Democrats; Harriet and Miss Hetty send love; asks to be remembered to the Judge and Mr. Schell. Sent to 240 Broadway, New York.
Letter 18 Wheatland, 5 February 1867 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry reporting that Mrs. Leonard had died, leaving only one child, and that he will not evict Mr. Leonard at the moment, partly because there is no one else to live on the property since Mr. Riggs cannot; mentions several other coupons coming due; is sorry Henry lost the Tyler will case and wishes Henry had argued the case before the Court of Appeals himself; Mr. Shunk’s health is not good and wants to connect himself with a daily newspaper in Philadelphia; he has a charming person; Buchanan’s rheumatism is troublesome; and Miss Hetty wants to be kindly remembered. Sent to 240 Broadway, New York.
Letter 19 Wheatland, 10 June 1867 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry hoping for a visit soon to consume his “excellent claret & can furnish you as much of this medicine as your heart can desire”; more coupons are due; Annie and Alice Buchanan are visiting; and Miss Hetty is still on the crutch. Letter 20 Wheatland, 25 July 1867 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry regretting that he can’t travel much except for a few days at Cape May, accompanied by Mr. Baker; William Buchanan, suffering from consumption, is visiting and being nursed by Miss Annie; Harriet will spend two months at Wheatland after visiting Bedford Springs; was happy that Henry visited; more coupons due; worries about his relationship with Chemical Bank; and would like to see Henry’s son. Sent to 33 Wall Street, New York.
Letter 21 Wheatland, near Lancaster, 16 September 1867 Letter from James Buchanan to James B. Henry acknowledging the receipt of the gin but Benton’s book and the knife sharpener have not come; Mr. Shunk has misplaced papers vital to Buchanan’s needs, he will have Mr. Reed handle the matter; Mr. Johnston just left for Baltimore and Mrs. Johnston and the baby are well; Buchanan’s health is not very good, but while the medicine is not totally effective he has faith he will recover; welcomes Mr. Schell any time; and encloses a check for the gin, etc.
Letter 22 Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 13 August 1861 Power of Attorney granted to Messrs. William and John O’Brien of the City of New York to transfer a certificate in Virginia.
Letter 23 Washington, 11 December 1837 Letter from James Buchanan to Rev. Robert Henry acknowledging a check from Dr. Speer and hopes the remaining interest will be forthcoming; living in comfortable quarters with agreeable companions but thinks the upcoming session of Congress will be disagreeable; though the Democrats lost New York this election, they will do better next time; the political climate looks better in the South; James Lane seems to be in good health; Edward and family are also well; encloses an advertisement for a patent medicine for Elizabeth with precautions; sends his love to Elizabeth and implores her to exercise for her health. Sent to Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 24 Washington, 12 March 1838 Letter from James Buchanan to Rev. Robert Henry expressing happiness that the Dr. Speer matter is now closed and sends his love to Harriet. Sent to Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 25 St. Petersburg, Russia, 3 July 1833 Letter from James Buchanan to Elizabeth Buchanan [his mother] hoping to return home after touring parts of Europe, reaching the U.S. early in December; describes his visit to Moscow and was impressed; visited the Shrine of St. Sierge the Tutelary; his health is good, but cannot get used to almost twenty-four hours of light; will give a dinner for all respectable Americans in St. Petersburg; he likes the only resident American merchant in St. Petersburg, Mr. Ropes; met Mr. Swan, a missionary to the “Pagans of Siberia”; received newspapers from New York, but no letters; learned of Edward’s marriage second hand, but not from Edward; sends love to Harriett and Elisabeth and Mr. Henry. Sent care of the Rev. Mr. Henry, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.
Letter 26 No place, no date Poem by Elizabeth Buchanan [Buchanan’s mother] praising the rural, poor life over that of the city and the rich.
Letter 27 St. Petersburg, 3/15 August 1832 Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry expressing his happiness that she is married and his feelings over her not being married; sharing his thoughts on St. Petersburg and Russia, emphasizing the “profanation of the Lord’s day particularly in the afternoon”; his “domestic arrangements” are comfortable; comments on his staff, Mr. Clay, the Secretary of Legation and Mr. Barry, and the American Consul, Mr. Gibson and Mr. Munroe, aid-de-camp of the Emperor; would like to hear from ”poor George” and how he is preparing for death; describes the climate, the effect on his health and the cholera epidemic in Canada; sends regards to Mr. Henry and Elisabeth and “any members of our family whom you may see.” Sent care of the Rev. Mr. Henry, Greensburg, Westmoreland County Pennsylvania.
Letter 28 St. Petersburg, 14/20 January, or 26th N. S. 1833 Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry grateful to have received her letter describing her marriage but disappointed that her letter took so long to reach him; has more leisure since the treaty and has made acquaintances among the populace; the horrors of the Russian winters are highly exaggerated even with the very short days; describes “the strangest spectacle I have ever witnessed”: a ball to which 20,000 people were invited; five hundred guests, including Buchanan, ate in an apartment reminiscent of an Arabian Nights setting; describes the uncomfortable situation of the Queen of Georgia since her country is now a province of Russia; has asked General Jackson to allow him to return home, perhaps in November; deeply hurt over the death of George; enjoys the company of Munroe, of a good family in Washington; cautions her not to fall into the trap of many clergyman’s wives, that of setting themselves up as leaders among the women; wishes to be remembered kindly to their mother, Elisabeth, and Mr. Henry, as well as any other “persons in your family.” Sent care of the Rev. Mr. Henry, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.
Letter 29 Lancaster, 4 November 1837 Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry expressing condolences upon the death of her husband and saying Mr. Henry’s last two letters just arrived and would account for Buchanan’s absence at her time of great need; offers advice on how to cope and invites her to live with him; plans to join her as soon as possible; Jane is still here and invites Harriett to spend the winter with her. Sent to Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 30 [Lancaster], 2 April 1839 [Fragment] Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry saying that since he has not practiced law since returning from Russia but giving some advice on how property of the deceased might be disposed of including the money Mr. Davis has in his administrator's account. Sent to Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 31 Lancaster, 26 October 1839 Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry expressing happiness that her health has improved through a letter from Dr. Speer; offers advice of “fixing” Elisabeth for the winter and praising her good conduct; and asks to be remembered to Mr. Lane and the family.
Letter 32 Lancaster, 11 November 1839 Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry expressing pleasure that through a letter from Elizabeth he found out that Harriett’s health had greatly improved and admonishes her to fight depression and not to fear death; will visit her before going to Washington if she wishes; will handle the necessary papers to arrange of the disposition of her property; is puzzled over Elisabeth’s thanking him for money he never sent; asks to be remembered to Elisabeth, the little girls, Mr. Lane Sr.; and Miss Hetty sends her love to Harriett and Elisabeth; short list of questions follow. Sent to Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 33 May Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry enclosing a check for $100 for the use of Harriett and Elisabeth; encloses a letter from Mr. McLaughlin, with the money removed for safe keeping; James instructed him to keep any money enclosed in a letter from him; she will be in Philadelphia visiting Edward and Buchanan will go also. Sent to Mrs. Israel’s No. 91, S. 3d. Street, Philadelphia.
Letter 34 September Letter from James Buchanan to Harriett B. Henry saying that Miss Hetty will write soon; will come to see her if she stays unwell; sends regards to the little girls and Mr. Lane; wonders if she is taking counterfeit Beckwith pills because Mrs. Slaymaker was cured with the genuine ones.
Sent to Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania. (fragment only)
Letter 29 Lancaster, 4 November 1837
Letter to Harriett B. Henry expressing condolences upon the death of her husband and saying Mr. Henry’s last two letters just arrived and would account for Buchanan’s absence at her time of great need; offers advice on how to cope and invites her to live with him; plans to join her as soon as possible; Jane is still here and invites Harriett to spend the winter with her. Sent to Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 30 [Lancaster], 2 April 1839 [Fragment]
Letter to Harriett B. Henry saying that since he has not practiced law since returning from Russia but giving some advice on how property of the deceased might be disposed of including the money Mr. Davis has in his admin. account. Sent to Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 31 Lancaster, 26 October 1839
Letter to Harriett B. Henry expressing happiness that her health has improved through a letter from Dr. Speer; offers advice of “fixing” Elisabeth for the winter and praising her good conduct; and asks to be remembered to Mr. Lane and the family.
Letter 32 Lancaster, 11 November 1839
Letter to Harriett B. Henry expressing pleasure that through a letter from Elizabeth he found out that Harriett’s health had greatly improved and admonishes her to fight depression and not to fear death; will visit her before going to Washington if she wishes; will handle the necessary papers to arrange of the disposition of her property; is puzzled over Elisabeth’s thanking him for money he never sent; asks to be remembered to Elisabeth, the little girls, Mr. Lane Sr.; and Miss Hetty sends her love to Harriett and Elisabeth; short list of questions follow. Sent to Mercersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
Letter 33 May
Letter to Harriett B. Henry enclosing a check for $100 for the use of Harriett and Elisabeth; encloses a letter from Mr. McLaughlin, with the money removed for safe keeping; James instructed him to keep any money enclosed in a letter from him; she will be in Philadelphia visiting Edward and Buchanan will go also. Sent to Mrs. Israel’s No. 91, S. 3d. Street, Philadelphia.
Letter 34 September
Letter to Harriett B. Henry saying that Miss Hetty will write soon; will come to see her if she stays unwell; sends regards to the little girls and Mr. Lane; wonders if she is taking counterfeit Beckwith pills because Mrs. Slaymaker was cured with the genuine ones.
James Buchanan Papers, Penn State University Libraries,
https://libraries.psu.edu/findingaids/1458.htm
Related Item Notes
James Buchanan Family Papers
MG-96 James Buchanan Collection
Historical Society of Pennsylvania microfilm
Photograph collections
Curatorial collections
Wheatland Mansion
Notes
May 2020 PastPerfect Conversion
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Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS2010.002-34
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 243
Description Level
Item
Custodial History
The James Buchanan Family Papers were collected by the James Buchanan Foundation for the Preservation of Wheatland. This collection was relocated from the Wheatland mansion to the LancasterHistory archives in the Spring of 2009. Digitization of the James Buchanan Family Papers was funded by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, PHMC Appl ID # 201808013051, 2019-2020.
