Rare 1757 Handwritten Letter by Reverend John Lowell Newbury, MA

Description: Rare 1757 Handwritten Letter by Reverend John Lowell, Likely Addressed to Joshua Wingate - Historical New England Correspondence Item Description: This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of early American history—a handwritten letter dated March 16, 1757, by Reverend John Lowell, a prominent figure in colonial New England. This letter, preserved with care for over two centuries, is likely addressed to Joshua Wingate, an influential figure in the Newbury, Massachusetts, and Hampton, New Hampshire areas.Historical Context and Significance: Reverend John Lowell (1704–1767): Reverend John Lowell was a respected minister in Newbury, Massachusetts, known for his leadership and intellectual contributions to his community. Ordained in 1726, he served as the pastor of the West Church in Newbury. Lowell was also the father of John Lowell (1743–1802), a distinguished lawyer and judge who played a pivotal role in the abolition of slavery in Massachusetts. Reverend Lowell’s correspondence provides a glimpse into the religious and civic life of 18th-century New England, making this letter a valuable artifact for historians and collectors alike. Joshua Wingate (1703–1787) - Likely Recipient: Joshua Wingate was a prominent figure in the Newbury and Hampton Falls regions, known for his involvement in local governance and community affairs. He served in various civic roles, including as a member of the Massachusetts General Court. The Wingate family was well-established in New England, and Joshua's role as a community leader would have naturally placed him in correspondence with influential figures like Reverend Lowell.Summary of the Letter: In this letter, Reverend John Lowell discusses the borrowing of books from his personal library, expressing regret that he cannot currently provide the requested "Prior's Poems" as his son may have taken them to college. Lowell also offers other titles from his collection, including works by Pope, Dryden, and Chaucer, and sends his compliments to the recipient's family members. He concludes by asking for updates on a recent Parish meeting at Hampton Falls, indicating his active involvement in local religious and civic matters. This letter is a rare example of 18th-century New England correspondence, reflecting the intellectual and social exchanges of the time. It offers a unique insight into the life of Reverend Lowell and his circle, making it a valuable addition to any collection of early American manuscripts.Physical Condition: The letter is in a well handled condition considering its age, with some wear and tear consistent with 18th-century paper. The ink remains legible, and the overall integrity of the document has been well preserved. The letter was folded and addressed on the reverse, typical of the period.Dimensions:Size: [Roughly 10"x10"]Material: Handwritten on period-appropriate paperProvenance: This letter has been carefully preserved in a private collection and is now being offered for sale for the first time in over 50 years. It represents a significant piece of early American history and a rare opportunity for collectors.Transcription of the Letter: Newbury March 16, 1757 Dear Sir, You wrote for Prior's Poems, I am sorry that I can't at present gratify you, not finding them at Home. I suspect my Son took them out of my Library & carried them to College; for I find he had been extruding some of the Heads, & has carelessly left them here. I shall quickly write to him for them, & if he has them I will send them, or any one else who has borrowed them, provided he returns them to me. I hope when you come to see me & desire to borrow some other of my Books, that you would permit me to use at Home Pope's Life in 2 Vols, his Miscellanies 2 Vols, Ethics, Writings of Dryden, Chaucer, Garth, Dispensary, Hudibras, Lady Chudleigh's Poems &c &c. Give my Compliments to Mrs. Whipple, I believe she will be pleased with the Lady Chudleigh's Poems, any of my Books are at her Service, & Miss Hannah's to whom you will be good to give my Compliments also. If my Niece should come up, as I expect is soon as the riding will allow, I shall expect she will be so good as to give me a Visit; if any from your Family should be at Newburg, I hope I shall know it. Please to be so good as to give Mr. Whipple the enclosed Letter with your own Hands, which concludes from Dr Sir, your sincere Friend & humble Servt. J. Lowell P.S. Pray acquaint me what was done in the Parish meeting at Hampton Falls Yesterday, particularly with Respect to supplying the Pulpit &c. I could not tell whether you had read Hutcheson displaced, in drawing Things in Cov't. You may have the other when you have read the paper which I now find — but you must come & look over my Books. J.L. This letter is not just a relic of the past, but a direct link to the lives and minds of early American intellectuals. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of history.

Price: 1500 USD

Location: Telford, Pennsylvania

End Time: 2024-12-31T18:42:20.000Z

Shipping Cost: 10.45 USD