Adams, John (1735-1826) Letter signed, Quincy, MA. Addressed to Captain John Whitney. Dictated response to invitation to 4th of July celebration in Quincy, June 7, 1826

File — Box: 1, Folder: 2

Staff Only

Scope and Content

From the Collection:

This collection consists of letters and supporting documentation, books on the art of letter writing, a small miscellaneous grouping of catalogs and photographs, and issues of The Wolf Magazine of Letters from June-July 1979 to Summer Quarterly 1991. The earliest letter, from the Marquise de Sevigne, dates from 1695; while the most recent was signed by entertainer Mike Douglas in 1980. Most of the letters date from the 19th century. The collection, which now numbers 85 letters, will continue to grow; in conjunction with his gift, Mr. Lang established a gift annuity to be used for the maintenance and augmentation of the collection.

Dates

Creation: June 7, 1826

Creator

Adams, John, President of the United States, 1735-1826 (Author, Person)

Language of Materials

From the Collection:

The records are in English

Restrictions on Access

There are no restrictions on access to this collection.

Extent

From the Collection: 1.26 linear feet

Additional Description

Condition

Good. Moderate browning, slight staining, partially separated fold and a few holes.

1.25 pages, letter sheet, 10"x 8" (4to)

Transcript

Quincy June 7th 1826

Capt, John Whitney, Chairman of the Committee of arrangements, for celebrating the approaching Anniversary of the 4th of July in the Town of Quincy.

Sir,

Your letter of the 3rd Instant, written on behalf of the Committee of Arrangements, for the approaching celebration of our National Independence; inviting me to dine, on the fourth of July next, with the Citizens of Quincy, at the Town Hall, has been received with the kindest emotions. The very respectful language with which the wishes of my Fellow Townsmen have been conveyed to me, by your Committee, and the terms of affectionate regard toward me, individually demand my grateful thanks, which you will please to accept and to communicate to your Colleagues of the Committee.

The present feeble state of my health will not permit me to induldge the hope of participating, with more than by my best wishes in the joys & festivities and the solemn services of that day; on which will be completed the fiftieth year from its birth, the Independence of these United States. A Memorable epoch in the annals of the human race; destined, in future history, to form the brightest or the blackest page, according to the use or the abuse of those political institutions by which they shall, in time to come, be shaped, by the human mind.

I pray you Sir to tender in my behalf to our fellow Citizens my cordial thanks for their affectionate good wishes, and to be assured that I am very truly and affectionately,

Your’s & their Friend & Fellow Townsman J. Adams