William Bingham writes to Benjamin Rush from London and discusses the state of financial support for Dickinson College. Bingham references the Pennsylvania Mutiny of 1783, stating "the abdication of congress is a severe blow on the interests of Philadelphia..." He also discusses the political...

John Erskine writes to John Dickinson expressing his sorrow in bidding Charles Nisbet farewell as he leaves Montrose for his new post as Principal of Dickinson College. Erskine also expresses faith in Nisbet's abilities and wishes well for the college. Additionally, he comments on the...

Dickinson President Charles Nisbet writes six letters to David Erskine, the Earl of Buchan, on a number of topics that include the consequences of America's independence, the economy, governance, natural history of the country, international politics, relations with Native Americans, the...

Benjamin Rush writes to Thomas Fitzsimons about a recent funding law and business conditions in the United States. While "lands sell and settle rapidly," Rush argues that "our vitals are unsound and we must finally perish under the weight of Mr. Hamilton's 'public blessing." In addition, Rush...

Matthew Boulton provides an account of the Birmingham riots in England and the destruction of property, including Joseph Priestley's house. The recipient's identity is unknown. Transcript included.

Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson writes to William Short, the US minister to the Netherlands, with instructions regarding his duties as treaty commissioner to Spain. "It is hoped that in consequence of my former letter, you will have made the necessary arrangements for an immediate departure...

Charles Nisbet writes to bookseller William Young regarding a packet from an unspecified Mr. Wilson with two letters for Europe. Nisbet also asks for a paper, discusses Carlisle weather, and speculates about the French Revolution.

Theologian and scholar Joseph Priestley writes to his friend Theophilus Lindsey. Priestley discusses his recent move to Northumberland, Pennsylvania, trouble with the mail, the local climate, the prospect for building, his work, the French Revolution, and the cause of Unitarianism. Transcript...

David Erskine, the Earl of Buchan, writes a letter to Dickinson President Charles Nisbet in which he recommends John Millar and laments Nisbet's difficulties in finding a literary society in Carlisle. Erskine also comments on how he deals with the political issues of the day. "I have never...

Joseph Priestley writes to George Thatcher regarding news from England, where Priestley expects revolution: "The unanimity you speak of in this country does not exist in this neighborhood. The Gentry, indeed, are generally with you, but the lower classes, those who must take the field, had...

Alexander Nisbet writes four letters to William Young, a bookseller and printer in Philadelphia, on issues that include Young's suit involving a Mr. Webber and a payment made by the Estate of Webber for a parcel of books. Nisbet also mentions a conversation regarding "United Irish Citizens" who...

James McKenzie writes a letter to President Charles Nisbet expressing apprehension over a potential invasion of Great Britain by France, and the precautions taken against it. "Our fleets are as formidable as our armies, and watch the motions of the French so closely, that they cannot get out of...