Bookcase composed of two sections. Cabinet with glass doors at top and cabinet with wooden doors at bottom. Two glass doors have square mullions holding the panes. Doors give access to moveable shelves inside. Two doors at bottom of each have simple rectangular recessed panels.
Thomas Potter - 2nd owner of Wheatland
Sold to William Morris Meredith 3rd owner of Wheatland
Sold to James Buchanan 4th owner of Wheatland
Inherited by Harriet Lane Johnston 5th owner of Wheatland
Bequeathed to John Newton Lane, Harriet Lane Johnston's nephew
Bequeathed to Mrs. Patty Lane Fay daughter of John N. Lane
Bookcases sold to Meredith in 1845 by Potter then Meredith sold them to James Buchanan in 1848. Letter dated 9/27/1848 to Buchanan from Meredith: 'In addition to the $6750 which you mention, I paid Mr. Potter for the bookcases in the library, I think $75.00.'
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.037
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 14a
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.
Short note from James Buchanan to James B. Lane stating that Harriet will come of age on May 9 and requesting that he set up an account including her share of her father’s estate to include what Buchanan owes her. No date, no location.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.167
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 21
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.
Letter from James Buchanan to Harriet Lane detailing activities of family and friends, especially those of Buck Yates, who will sail with the Navy to the Mediterranean Sea. Washington, D.C.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.080
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 18
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.
Letter from James Buchanan to Harriet Lane giving advice on coming of age, especially at Bedford while in the company of another family and that she left as a school girl, but will return as a lady. With envelope and wax seal. Washington, D.C.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.036
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 19
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.
Letter from James Buchanan to Harriet Lane announcing that she may expect a visit from Henry A. Muhlenberg and his wife, both held in high regard. With envelope. Washington.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.142
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 30
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.
Letter from James Buchanan to Harriet Lane giving her permission to visit him in Washington the following week in the company of Dr. Foltz if she can prepare for the journey. If not, she is to come in early January. Washington
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.143
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 36
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.
Short letter from James Buchanan to Harriet Lane saying he will accompany the Postmaster General, Senator Bagby and W. Medele to Old Point. Asks to be remembered to Mrs. Walker, Mrs. Bache and the young ladies. With envelope. Washington.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.112
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 28
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.
Letter from Harriet Lane to James Buchanan begging him to visit her and take her away. She praises a concert given by pianist [Maurice] Strakosch and Miss Northall and urges him to purchase a piano like it. She advises him to direct his letters to the Marine Pavilion Rockaway to differentiate it from the town of Rockaway on Long Island. Signed Harriette L. Marine Pavilion [Hotel], Far Rockaway, Queens, New York City.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.233
Other Number
JBFP Part 2, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 2
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 4 Papers of Edward Young Buchanan, Series 2 Financial and Legal Documents
Description
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 4 Papers of Edward Young Buchanan, Series 2 contains the financial and legal documents of Edward Young Buchanan. The dates range from 1834 to 1883. This series includes documents and receipts related to James Buchanan's estate, personal account books of Edward Young Buchanan from 1832 to 1844, and a document appointing Edward Young Buchanan as guardian of Harriet R. Lane.
Admin/Biographical History
Reverend Edward Young Buchanan (1811-1895) was born on May 30, 1811 in Mercersburg in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. He was the child of James Buchanan (1761-1821) and Elizabeth Speer Buchanan (1767-1833). He was the younger brother of President James Buchanan (1791-1868). He went to college at Dickinson College. He later became a reverend.
In 1833, he married Anne Eliza Foster Buchanan (1812-1891), and together they had six children: Ann Elizabeth (1838-1927), Harriet (1841-1912), Henrietta Jane (1844-1906), Marie Lois (1847-1920), William Foster (1849-1875), and Alice Conyngham (1852-1931).
Rev. Edward Young Buchanan died on January 25, 1895.
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
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.
Note: This group of six photocopied letters to Rev. Eugene A. Freauf were generously provided by Linden Hall School, which retains the originals.
Letter 1 Letter concerns the bill of Miss Yates in the amount of 8½ cents. No date.
Letter 2 Letter making arrangements to send Miss Hobbs, Miss Dow, and the Misses Laumans for a Saturday appointment. Miss Lane will not be going, but Mr. John Ford, the driver of the carriage, is a careful driver. Wheatland, 26 September 1849.
Letter 3 Letter regretting not attending a musical presentation because of bad weather. Wheatland, 6 March 1850. Letter 4 Letter offering to send a carriage for Miss Theodora, the Misses Laumans, and his niece if they have permission to visit him. Wheatland, 13 August 1850. Letter 5 Letter announcing that Harriet Parker, sister of Miss Hetty, will accompany a pupil for the school. Wheatland, 18 November 1851.
Letter 6 Letter regretting that he cannot attend a function at the school tomorrow because of bad weather and because he has already accepted an invitation to attend the opening of the plank road between Lancaster and Petersburg. Wheatland, 7 December 1851.
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
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. Please contact archives@lancasterhistory.org 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. 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.
Credit
Courtesy of LancasterHistory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Accession Number
JBMS1995.405
Other Number
JBFP Part 1, Series 1, Subseries 1, Folder 15
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 6 Papers of Hiram B. Swarr, Series 1 Correspondence
Description
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 6 Papers of Hiram B. Swarr, Series 1 contains correspondence of Hiram Behm Swarr. The many letters to Harriet Lane Johnston and Henry E. Johnston primarily pertain to the settlement of James Buchanan's estate and work on Buchanan's biography. The dates in this collection range from 1841 to 1887.
Subseries 1 has letters from Hiram B. Swarr to Aristides Welch, Augustus Schell, Harriet Lane Johnston, Henry Elliot Johnston, and William B. Reed.
Subseries 2 has letters to Hiram B. Swarr from A. J. Glossbrenner, Edmund Jennings Lee, John R. Blake, William B. Reed, Samuel Magaw, Chambers McKibbin, John M.Cooper, Isaac E. Hiester, John Cadwalader, Benjamin Bausman, and his nephew, Simeon Toby.
Admin/Biographical History
Hiram Behm Swarr (1821-1896) was born in Londonderry Township in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. His father was Jacob Swarr, a prominent manufacturer of Lebanon County at the time. His mother was from the prominent Behm family. He became a lawyer instead of following in his father's footsteps. In December 1847, H.B. Swarr married Fanny T. Swarr. Together they had three children: Charles, Sallie, and Mary.
Swarr was admitted to the bar in 1847, and worked in Lancaster County for nearly fifty years. He was a member of the Democratic Party, and was also appointed the Chairman of the Democratic County Committee. He was a Democratic delegate for congress from his district in 1868 and was appointed Postmaster General from 1857 to 1861. Additionally, he belonged to the Lancaster School Board, the Board of Censors, the Law Library Association, and was one of the founders of the Lancaster Bar Association.
Swarr was also a close friend of President James Buchanan, handled many of Buchanan's financial affairs and investments, and was appointed co-executor of James Buchanan's estate in 1868.
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
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1 Papers of James Buchanan, Series 2 Financial and Legal Documents
Description
The James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1, Papers of James Buchanan, Series 2 contains the financial and legal documents of James Buchanan, including invoices and receipts, ledgers, accounts, deeds and land records, and estate papers, dated 1812-1883. Among these papers are financial papers including bank statements and memorandums; documents related to land in Clarion, PA; legal papers for the settlement of the Boyd estate and other properties; summaries of three cases decided by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania; a summary for the cost of a dinner in Russia in 1833; estate papers for family members and James Buchanan's will. Amos Slaymaker, Henry F. Slaymaker, Hiram B. Swarr, Edward Young Buchanan, Harriet Lane Johnston, and Henry E. Johnston are among the names found in these records.
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
JBFP Part 1 Series 2 Financial and Legal Documents
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
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1 Papers of James Buchanan, Series 5 Ephemera
Description
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 1 Papers of James Buchanan, Series 5 contains ephemera from his personal life and political career. The materials in this collection range from 1833 to 1860.
The materials include invitations to different events and dinners, a facsimile of his petition for membership in Lodge No. 43, Free and Accepted Masons in Lancaster, a list of guests invited to a dinner in St. Petersburg in Russia during Buchanan's time as the ambassador, admission tickets, menus for dinners, bills of fare, and embossed valentines. Some of the organizations mentioned were the Royal Panopticon of Science and Art, Seamen's Hospital Society, the Royal Astronomical Society Club, the Democratic Citizens of the City of Philadelphia, and the Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacturers, and Commerce.
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
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 2 Papers of Harriet Lane Johnston
Series 5 Miscellaneous Materials
Description
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 2 Harriet Lane Johnston, Series 5 contains miscellaneous materials. These materials include sheet music from various publishers, Congressional resolutions upon the death of James Buchanan, and school essays by Harriet Lane.
Admin/Biographical History
Born on May 9, 1830, Harriet Lane was the youngest surviving child of Elliot Toll Lane and Jane Buchanan Lane. When both of her parents died of consumption, now known as tuberculosis, Harriet went on to be her Uncle James Buchanan's ward in 1841. A well-educated lady, Harriet attended several boarding schools before graduating from the Georgetown Academy of Visitation Convent at the age of 18. When James Buchanan served as the U.S. Minister to Great Britain, Harriet Lane joined him for a time and served as a hostess. During her time in England, which she noted as "the realization of a beautiful dream," she befriended none other than Queen Victoria. When her Uncle assumed the presidency, Harriet Lane assumed her role as hostess. She is considered the first First Lady, as the title had initially been given to the president's hostess during Harriet's time in Washington.
After Buchanan's presidency, Harriet Lane married Henry Elliot Johnston, a banker from Baltimore, on January 11, 1866. She was 35 years old. The couple went on to have two sons, both of whom would pass away from rheumatic fever in their early teenage years. Two years after losing her youngest son, Harriet lost her husband to pneumonia. By 1884, Harriet was a childless widow. She would go on to leave a legacy for generations to come, including establishing a children's hospital in Baltimore called The Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children (today the Harriet Lane Clinic at the John's Hopkins Children's Hospital), preserving her Uncle's letters and manuscripts, bestowing her art collection to the Corcoran Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C., and constructing the St. Alban's School, a school for choir boys. She died on July 3, 1903. [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
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.
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.
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 2 Papers of Harriet Lane Johnston, Series 1 Correspondence
Description
James Buchanan Family Papers, Part 2 Papers of Harriet Lane Johnston, Series 1 contains the correspondence of Harriet Lane Johnston.
Subseries 1 contains letters written by Harriet to James Buchanan, Lily Macalester and Charles Macalester, Lois Buchanan, Hiram B. Swarr, Mary Speer, and others from 1848-1902.
Subseries 2 contains letters written to Harriet from Captain W. R. Palmer, Alfred Pleasanton, Laura Pleasanton, Isaac E. Hiester and others from 1854 to 1897, including several describing Washington, D.C. in 1861.
Admin/Biographical History
Born on May 9, 1830, Harriet Lane was the youngest surviving child of Elliot Toll Lane and Jane Buchanan Lane. When both of her parents died of consumption, now known as tuberculosis, Harriet went on to be her Uncle James Buchanan's ward in 1841. A well-educated lady, Harriet attended several boarding schools before graduating from the Georgetown Academy of Visitation Convent at the age of 18. When James Buchanan served as the U.S. Minister to Great Britain, Harriet Lane joined him for a time and served as a hostess. During her time in England, which she noted as "the realization of a beautiful dream," she befriended none other than Queen Victoria. When her Uncle assumed the presidency, Harriet Lane assumed her role as hostess. She is considered the first First Lady, as the title had initially been given to the president's hostess during Harriet's time in Washington.
After Buchanan's presidency, Harriet Lane married Henry Elliot Johnston, a banker from Baltimore, on January 11, 1866. She was 35 years old. The couple went on to have two sons, both of whom would pass away from rheumatic fever in their early teenage years. Two years after losing her youngest son, Harriet lost her husband to pneumonia. By 1884, Harriet was a childless widow. She would go on to leave a legacy for generations to come, including establishing a children's hospital in Baltimore called The Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children (today the Harriet Lane Clinic at the John's Hopkins Children's Hospital), preserving her Uncle's letters and manuscripts, bestowing her art collection to the Corcoran Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C., and constructing the St. Alban's School, a school for choir boys. She died on July 3, 1903. [ 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
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.
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.
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.
