brown john 1800 1859

Edward Robeson Taylor autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Sends a typed copy of a letter by John Brown, the original being in the possession of one of his students. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Copies of correspondence to and from John Brown

These transcribed letters were written by John Brown to his wife, Mary, on March 7, 1844 and by Ruth Thompson to her father, John Brown, on February 20, 1858. The transcriptions and annotations are not done by ... More

Extracts from letters by John Brown copied by Samuel May, Jr.

These transcribed letters were written by John Brown of Osawatomie to his wife and family, from 1829-1859. Annotations by May are on pages 1, 15, and 18. The first annotation relates to the spelling in the lett... More

Copies of correspondence to and from John Brown

These transcribed letters were written by John Brown to his wife, Mary, on March 7, 1844 and by Ruth Thompson to her father, John Brown, on February 20, 1858. The transcriptions and annotations are not done by ... More

Copies of correspondence to and from John Brown

These transcribed letters were written by John Brown to his wife, Mary, on March 7, 1844 and by Ruth Thompson to her father, John Brown, on February 20, 1858. The transcriptions and annotations are not done by ... More

Copies of correspondence to and from John Brown

These transcribed letters were written by John Brown to his wife, Mary, on March 7, 1844 and by Ruth Thompson to her father, John Brown, on February 20, 1858. The transcriptions and annotations are not done by ... More

Letter from Maria Weston Chapman, Ch[auncy] Street, [Boston], to Debor...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Urges him to meet John Brown who is in Boston raising funds to equip a company for Kansas. Wants an answer from the Worcester Committee. Discusses policies to be used in Kansas. Printed in part in O.G. Villard,... More

William J. Bride autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, ...

Notice of a meeting at Dr. [Samuel Gridley] Howe's room. Written for George Luther Stearns. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Thinks the project must be deferred since [Hugh] Forbes knows the details of the plan and their share in it. Urges Higginson to attend the convention at Chatham, Canada West. Signed "F.B.S." Printed in part in ... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Declares Nelson Hawkins [John Brown] has found several good men in Canada and "plans to turn his flocks loose about May 15." For this he will need an additional $500. Gives Brown's address. Courtesy of Boston P... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Forwards a letter from [John] Brown inquiring about future operations -- also an older letter. Mentions an article by [David Atwood] Wasson in the Atlantic and his own lecture at the Tremont Temple. Signed "F.B... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Asks him to meet N.H. [John Brown] at Chatham, Canada West. Thinks Hugh Forbes "looks squally." Signed "F.B.S." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Lists those assessed to help raise $1000 for [John Brown]. Is considering admitting Dr. [Samuel] Cabot and G[eorge] R[obert] Russell into the business. Inquires where a supply of boatswains' whistles can be pur... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Declares John Brown has gone to Kansas; the scheme will be put in action next spring. Signed "F.B.S." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Mentions the sums promised to [George Luther] Stearns, treasurer of the enterprise. [John Brown] has made some friends in New York; has gane north in search of shepherds. Signed "F.B.S." Printed in part in O.G.... More

Geo. L. Stearns autograph letter to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson], New ...

Has recalled the arms committed to [John] Brown's care. Hopes to convince him that it is for the best. Printed in part in F.B. Sanborn, Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, p.261. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph note signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson], B...

Asks him to meet Hawkins [John Brown] at the American House. Signed "F.B.S." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Declares [John] Brown is at Rochester; believes he contemplates an uprising of slaves. Hopes Higginson can aid him substantially. Fears the Union is on its last legs. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph note signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson], C...

Encloses the letter previously mentioned; has sent $65. Signed "F.B.S." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Richard J. Hinton autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Quotes from a letter concerning the necessity of hiring counsel for [Albert Hazlett]. A parcel is being sent to [Aaron Dwight] Stevens. Signed "R.J.H." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from R. H. Ober, Claremont, N.H., to William Lloyd Garrison, De...

R. H. Ober writes William Lloyd Garrison expressing his pleasure to contribute financially to the family of John Brown, calling Brown one of "the most unselfish patriots who have blessed the world", and asserti... More

Ruth Brown Thompson autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgin...

Thanks him for his kindness in visiting them, etc. Has heard from her father; hopes his sentence may be commuted. Feels her father's fate is sealed. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

James Redpath autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Intends to write a life of John Brown. Asks for any material. Refers to The Public Life of Capt. John Brown, Boston, 1860. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from Eliza Wigham, Edinburgh, to Samuel May, 22.12.59

Miss Wigham gives instructions concerning subscriptions. She discusses John Brown and says that "his death seems to have caused great excitement every where." Miss Wigham reports that plans are being made to he... More

Richard J. Hinton autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Has received no answer from Leavenworth; is expecting one from [Samuel F.] Tappan. Wishes to be included [in the attempt to rescue Aaron Dwight Stevens]. Signed "R.J.H." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from Lydia Maria Child, Wayland, to Anne Warren Weston, Nov. 28...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Encloses a note from [John Brown]. Mentions possible contributors. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Charles W. Slack autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson...

Asks him to speak at the meeting [for the relief of John Brown's family]. With this is a printed ticket of admission for the meeting, November 19, 1859. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

George H. Hoyt autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson]...

Can give no reason for [John] Brown's refusal to see his wife. Wishes her stopped at Baltimore. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

Letter from Esther Sturge, Northfleet, [England], to Maria Weston Chap...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Letter to Maria Weston Chapman, [New York?], [1859?]

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Thomas Hopkins Webb autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgin...

Needs sun to complete the photographs; can give him four without the facsimile. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Charles Plummer Tidd autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgi...

Offers his assistance for the rescue of [Aaron Dwight] Stevens; thinks of coming to Worcester. Suggests O[wen] B[rown] and [Barclay] Coppoc. Signed "Charles Plummer." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Samuel C. Blackwell autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginso...

Sends $5 for the defense of John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Ruth Brown Thompson autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgin...

Describes her father's funeral; has become resigned to his death. Believes the girls may go to Eagleswood to school. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Thomas Starr King autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Contributes $10 for the support of John Brown's family. 1 p. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

Annie Brown Adams autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginso...

Thanks him for the money to buy sheep. Regrets not being able to become a Christian as her father wishes. Gives biographical data about Frederic [Brown], [John Edwin] Cook and Dangerfield Newby. Appended is a s... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

Anonymous autograph note to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, [Northampton.,...

Encloses $3.00 for the benefit of John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

John W. LeBarnes telegram to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, New York, 28 ...

Has abandoned the projects. Signed "J.W.LeBarnet." Strip; cut and mounted. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

William S. Falls autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson...

Sends a draft of $10 contributed for the defense of John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Realizes from Mrs. Ellen R. Rutherford's letter that at least one of the party is not safe. Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown has petitioned for the body of her husband. Appended is a copy of a letter addressed to J... More

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Has heard there can be no help from Ohio. Plans a memorial service for John Brown in Concord. Asks for facts, dates, etc. for [James] Redpath's book. Signed "F.B.S." Refers for: James Redpath, The Public Life o... More

Letter from Joseph Lupton, Chapeltown, Road, Leeds, [England], to Mari...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson], Boston...

Cites the law on the summoning of witnesses by federal judges. Thinks concerted action must be taken. Suggests a series of newspaper articles. Printed in part in F.B. Sanborn, Recollections of Seventy Years, p.... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Tells him of the proposed visit of [Francis Jackson] Meriam on his way to join [John Brown]. $300 has been raised and sent. Finds Miss [Ellen?] Waterman all he promised. Quoted in T.W. Higginson, Cheerful Yeste... More

Thomas Hopkins Webb autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgin...

Finds the delivery of the photographs depends on the number needed. Suggests adding a facsimile signature of John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Samuel May Jr. autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, [2...

Asks him to call a meeting [in honor of John Brown] in Worcester. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Henry B. Clarke autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Sends a number of contributions to the Brown fund; asks about the photographs advertised by [Thaddeus] Hyatt. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Florence Birney Jennison autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth H...

Inquires about the photographs of John Brown offered for sale by Thaddeus Hyatt. Thinks something may be collected for the family. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Incomplete letter from Joseph Ricketson, New Bedford, [Mass.], to Debo...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Thomas Wentworth Higginson autograph letter signed to Samuel Gridley H...

Reminds him of a conversation where it was agreed that any denial would be the "extreme of baseness." Considers his present letter disclaiming all knowledge of John Brown's plans "one of the worst aspects of th... More

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Realizes from Mrs. Ellen R. Rutherford's letter that at least one of the party is not safe. Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown has petitioned for the body of her husband. Appended is a copy of a letter addressed to J... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Reports on the operation of the Underground Railway. Money is being raised in Boston by [Samuel F.] Tappan. [John] Brown has begun the work in earnest; now would be the time for [Hugh] Forbes to show his hand. ... More

Letter from Robert Kinnicutt, Warren, [R.I.], to William Lloyd Garriso...

Robert Kinnicutt writes William Lloyd Garrison expressing his sorrow for the fate of John Brown, stating that he could scarcely believe that the "principle of liberty was hung in the person of John Brown", and ... More

George Higginson autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, ...

Sends $20 to be expended in defense of John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Thomas Wentworth Higginson circular letter, Boston, 2 November 1859

Invitation to contribute toward the defense of John Brown. Printed form. Contains also the names of Samuel E[dmund] Sewall, S[amuel] G[ridley] Howe, and R[alph] W[aldo] Emerson. Written on the circular is a sta... More

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

Letter from William Lloyd Garrison, Boston, [Mass.], to James Miller M...

Letter from Oliver Johnson, [New York?], to Maria Weston Chapman, 26 D...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Letter from Samuel Joseph May, Syracuse, [N.Y.], to William Lloyd Garr...

Samuel Joseph May notifies William Lloyd Garrison that they held "a large and an enthusiastic meeting" the previous evening, and states that the proceedings will be published in the local newspapers, which May ... More

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Declares [John] Brown has set out, having obtained the balance from [George Luther] Stearns. Suggests Higginson go to Canada and collect recruits and also investigate the society for destitute fugitives. Discus... More

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

Henry B. Clarke autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Suggests having a lithograph drawn from a good photograph of [John] Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Has heard the "men in the mountains" are safe and almost out of danger. Has a letter for Mrs. [Mary Ann (Day)] Brown from her husband. Intends to defray expenses by the annexed circular. Printed on p. 3 is a ci... More

Letter from Lydia Maria Child, Wayland, to Anne Warren Weston, Nov. 28...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Horace H. Day autograph note signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, N.Y...

Returns the enclosed -- intended for Benjamin H[enry] Day. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Wendell Phillips autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson...

Declares [Montgomery] Blair has been asked to go as counsel for John Brown and that [George Henry] Hoyt has gone as junior. [George] Sennott suggests B[enjamin] F[ranklin] Butler. Signed "W.P." Courtesy of Bost... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

Letter from Theodore Parker, Rome, [Italy], to Matilda Goddard and Reb...

Theodore Parker writes to Rebecca and Matilda Goddard in regards to consoling them on their mother's death. He also discusses John Brown's case. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from Samuel May, Leicester, [Mass.], to Richard Davis Webb, Oct...

May imagines that Webb's son sailed for home last week and says that he doubts if his own son will be able to "establish himself" in the Far East. May is pleased with Samuel Joseph May's success in England. He ... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

Thomas Wentworth Higginson autograph letter signed to [John Brown], Br...

Fears there is little money to be obtained this year. Many have lost confidence. Would like to join him in person. Endorsed by John Brown. Quoted in M. T. Higginson, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, p. 192; O. G. Vi... More

Letter from Samuel May, Boston, to Richard Davis Webb, Dec. 7, 1859

May hears of the safe return of Webb's son, Richard. He gives a long account of John Brown and says that Brown should have been tried in a U.S. court. May tells Webb that numerous meetings were held on the day ... More

Henry B. Clarke autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson...

Sends a draft of $100 for [John] Brown. Inquires how much is needed. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

F. B. Sanborn autograph letter signed to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson],...

Encloses a letter from J[ohn] B[rown] Jr. Wants it sent on to E[dwin] Morton. $50 is still lacking. [John Brown] has leased a farm, etc. Signed "F.B.S." Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Thomas Wentworth Higginson circular letter, Boston, 2 November 1859

Invitation to contribute toward the defense of John Brown. Printed form. Contains also the names of Samuel E[dmund] Sewall, S[amuel] G[ridley] Howe, and R[alph] W[aldo] Emerson. Written on the circular is a sta... More

Henry B. Clarke autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Makes further contributions to the Brown fund; orders copies of a photograph sold by [Thomas Hopkins] Webb. 2 p. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from Parker Pillsbury, Rochester, [N.Y.], to William Lloyd Garr...

Parker Pillsbury informs William Lloyd Garrison that he received a letter from his wife recounting Garrison's visit to Concord, and expresses his regrets that he was unaware of this trip beforehand so that he c... More

Thomas Wentworth Higginson autograph letter to Franklin Benjamin Sanbo...

Laments their lack of honor. Thinks the meanest thief would be ashamed to lie in such circumstances. Draft. Refers to the card issued by Samuel Gridley Howe on November 14, 1859, denying all knowledge of John B... More

James Redpath autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, M...

Thanks him for his interesting letter; expects to get the book out on time. Refers to The Public Life of Capt. John Brown, Boston, 1860. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

William Ingersoll Bowditch autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth...

Repeats an offer made by Charles M[ayo] Ellis to act as junior counsel for John Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Letter from Martha Griffith Browne, 15 Carroll Place, Bleecker Street,...

Public domain scan of manuscript related to Massachusetts, American history, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description.

Henry B. Clarke autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Desires to known of the pecuniary needs of John Brown or of any of his family. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

Daniel Stickney autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson,...

Sends a dollar for the family of John Brown and encloses a letter from the mother of Charles Plummer Tidd. Asks Higginson to find out what he can. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

A Southerner (pseud.) autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higg...

Considers Higginson by aiding [John] Brown has been premoting a scheme to murder his fellow men. Heretofore had believed there was some conservatism in the North; now all the South intends to unite. Quoted in M... More

James Miller M’Kim autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higgins...

Declares Mrs. [Rebecca (Buffum)] Spring has taken Mrs. [Mary Anne (Day)] Brown off to Perth Amboy with her, implying it was [John] Brown's wish. Regrets that she was not allowed to remain for the present but do... More

F. B. Sanborn autograph note to [Thomas Wentworth Higginson], Worceste...

Thinks [James] Redpath must go to Ohio; it is the only chance of rescuing [John] Brown. Courtesy of Boston Public Library

E.F. Robers autograph letter signed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson, Wor...

Suggests heading the notice for the meeting "John Brown and Freedom." Thinks a party might spring up under that name. Courtesy of Boston Public Library