Eleazar Wheelock, letter, to Dennys DeBerdt, 1761 May 4
Date4 May, 1761
Call Number761304.1
abstractWheelock writes that he is seeking an incorporation, and that Occom has preached in Wheelock’s pulpit prior to leaving for his mission to the Oneidas.
handwritingHandwriting is relatively clear, with some deletions and additions.
paperLarge sheet is in good condition, with light-to-moderate creasing, staining and wear.
inkBlack-brown.
signatureInitials.
noteworthyGiven the number of additions and deletions, the lack of an address, and the abbreviated signature, this document is likely a copy or draft.
EventsOccom’s First Mission to the Oneidas
Modernized Version Deletions removed; additions added in; modern spelling and capitalization added; unfamiliar abbreviations expanded.
both came to Hand Since I came to this Town. I have such
a crowd of business that I cant now attend to write you
particularly but will do it as soon as I can get leisure.
in general My School flourishes and our prospects still
greater and greater. I am going to discourse his Excellency
the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of this Province on the Affair,
of an Incorporation. We have thought it of Importance
that we should be capable of the Tenure and disposal of Lands
etc. but perhaps we Shall find no need of any Hand but in
him whose is the fullness of the Earth, and who gives and dis
poses of it as he will. we have joyful Symptoms in
Several Places in Connecticut that another glorious day
of Gods Power and Special Grace is at the Door. —
The hopes and Expectations of many among us are much raised
that we shall Soon See greater Trophies of the Redeemers
victories in North America than there have been of his
Majesty's late glorious conquests [guess: to] the Northward
The door is now set wide open for the design. Nothing
is now wanting but missionaries Interpreters and Money.
their Youth must come to us or ours go to them
to be fitted for that Purpose. and it cant be without
expense. My black Son Mr.
Occom preached in My Pulpit [illegible][guess: 5]. Sabbaths ago to a full
assembly. and to good acceptance. a rare Sight and
Such an one as was never seen in Connecticut before
he is going on a mission to the Oneidas. Supported by a Number of
gentlemen in New York Government – I purpose to send one of my
scholars with him in order to accompany some
well chosen youth from remote tribes to this school.
dear Sir do write as often as you can Your Letters have
done much good. Your Name is known and is dear to
many here. when I see Mr. Peters I will
Inform him as to the 5. guineas etc. Our purchases on
Delaware and Susquehanna have chosen Colonel
Dyar their agent who is to embark for Europe as soon as
received and recovered of the Small pox by inoculation and has made himself
ready — I am in utmost haste.