Scope and Contents:
The first box includes typed transcripts of correspondence written by and addressed to Edwards. There is also a small selection of speech drafts. The letters focus on various political matters such as criticisms of Edwards’ governance, the postal system, slavery and the law, and political relations with Native communities. The second box includes two volumes of transcribed letters addressed to Edwards which are dated 1809-1832.
Biographical/Historical Context:
Ninian Edwards (1775-1833) served as Governor of the Illinois Territory from 1809-1818. Born in Maryland and a graduate of Dickinson College in 1792, Edwards also served as a U.S. Senator from 1818-1824 and as Governor of Illinois from 1826-1830. He married Elvira Lane in 1803, had five children, and was a slave holder.
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