Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

Documents on a wide variety of topics. Some include the construction of the Palace of Guadalajara, a continuation of the letter about freedom granted to Indigenous slaves from French ships (in two separate entries), the privileges and status of the House of Moctezuma, the establishment of hospitals across New Spain, religious missions, laws that favor indigenous people, and life in and around the presidios.

Typed transcription of the commission of William Bosson (1753-1823 or 1824) as First Lieutenant. According to the transcription, the original manuscript was dated April 8, 1789, and was sent by jun[ior] sec[re]t[ary] John Avery on behalf of John Hancock, Governor of Massachusetts. [Original manuscript not present.]

Shipment and price of flour.

Regarding a violation of embargo in Vermont; "you will perceive that a violation of the Embargo laws, is contemplated on the borders of the lake, within the State of Vermont...I am directed by the President of the United States...to request that you will afford such further assistance by the Militia...for suppressing any unlawful combination with an intention, of violating the laws of the United States, by opposing those laying an Embargo, passed in the present of Congress."

Lyrics for 8 poems or songs, possibly by a sailor. Unusual combination of religious, humorous, and patriotic themes. Titles include: "Hymn," "A Song Composed in Dartmor Prison, by an american tar," "The brig Eliza," "Jolly Mortals," "Farewel ye Groves," "The Death and burial of a Saint," "The Joys of a Scolding Wife," and "The old maid's last prayer." Several seem to have been penned at Wilmington, [Delaware], and one includes an address for the Carver General Hospital, Georgetown, D.C.

In Spanish. Bill of health for the American brig Florida, also attesting to the health of the people and city from contagious illness. The Florida includes Captain William Weston and 10 crewmembers. Stamped official header. [NB: The left side of the document is browned, possibly indicated that fumigation was used to disinfect the document.].

Chides family for not writing, especially following the recent death of their son. Had to quit working at a saw mill due to poor health but has taken in boarders. News of health, injuries, expected deaths. Comments on the quality of Wisconsin land, encouraging emigration. "th[i]s is good country for a poor man to get a liveing Land cheap and good and plenty ... O! come away from old Allegany and make your fortune on the pleasant prairies of the west where you can go out in the winter without wanting four men to hold you hat on and not have to sh[o]vel through snow drifts to get your fire wood and were you can see the sun shine day after day in Jan. and feb. as you can where you are in May come to the west I say and not stay any in that cold sour country." Urges them to come to Wisconsin rather than Michigan, believing they can establish a sawmill. Mary writes to her parents, lamenting the loss of her son, beseeching them to write, and describing food.