Description

Description: Writing in a large, looping hand from Ithaca, NY on January 13, 1903, American author, minister, and educator William Elliot Griffis (1843-1928) laments the sale of Schenectady, New York-related manuscripts to someone outside the area.

“My dear Mr. Rast, Although it is some years since I looked rather hurriedly at the Sanders MSS my impression was that they were invaluable for the study of Mohawk Valley and local history, and I read with grief that they had been sold outside of Schenectady. I sincerely hope they may be regained for the Ancient City. In view of this loss, why should not those interested set about forming a Historical Society to guard against future losses of this kind? Now, may be the time to strike, Ever truly yours Wm Elliot Griffis”.

Schenectady County Historical Society was founded in 1905, two years after this letter.

William Elliot Griffis was a prolific writer and traveler. He wrote extensively about Japan and Japanese culture, as well as, New York State history. At the time of this letter, Griffis was serving as a minister in the First Congregational Church of Ithaca, NY. Griffis was a founding member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters (later to become the American Academy of Arts and Letters), the American Historical Association, and the U.S. Naval Institute.

Written on two pages of a folded piece of blank stationery that measures: 8 1/2″ x 5 1/2″. Item #A01713

Condition: Mounting remnants on verso with some glue stains that have bled through to second page, some paper loss at top of second page affecting two words. Generally good condition with a clear, bold signature.