Between the Covers

Unbound. Autograph Letter Signed by John Johnson to the New York Missionary Society. One leaf folded to make four pages. Measuring 8" x 10". Spotting on the page edge, small chips and tears, and folds from mailing, thus good.

A retained copy of a letter written by “a young Indian Son” of the Buffalo Creek Indians, Signed John Johnson, to his fellow tribesman discussing the teachings of the New York Missionary Society in 1803. The letter begins “friends” and discusses that he “lives under the Missionary Society in order to gain knowledge for your [the Buffalo Creek Indians] good, in which Mr. Holmes first laid the foundation.” He continues, “you my friends all know how you have been cheated by the White People by not knowing how to manage things right…I hope you chiefs and warriors will not let your children grow up in ignorance as you now have a good opportunity to send them to school.” He praises the society as “the wisest and best men in the United States” and concludes “therefore it is worth our while to hear and do their sayings.” The final two pages of the letter describe Christian religious teachings and attempt to persuade the “chiefs and warriors” to follow the missionarie's ways which include following “Christ’s teachings” and abstaining from alcohol.

An interesting letter detailing the teachings of the New York Missionary Society to local Native Americans.

Item #432252