The Occom Circle

Nathaniel Whitaker, narrative, 1766

Manuscript Number766900.11

Date1766

Author

AbstractWhitaker gives a brief history of Indian conversion in America and why it has thus far been relatively unsuccessful. Occom’s story is used as an argument for promoting Wheelock’s School and its focus on educating Indians, rather than English, as missionaries. A plan for an expanded school is put forth.

David Fowler, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1766 January 21

Manuscript Number766121.2

Date21 January 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractDavid Fowler writes of the progress of his Indian school, the present religious state of the Indians and their want of a minister, news of Kirtland, and personal matters.

Samuel Kirkland, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1766 March 6

Manuscript Number766206

Date6 March 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractKirkland writes a lengthy letter describing his work among the Senecas, and touching upon, among other things, his concerns regarding Chamberlain and his mission.

Eleazar Wheelock, letter, to Nathaniel Whitaker, 1766 April 5

Manuscript Number766255

Date5 April 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractWheelock writes to update Whitaker -- in England on the fundraising tour of Great Britain -- on the progress of various students and missionaries, and on Whitaker’s family.

Eleazar Wheelock, letter, to George Whitefield, 1766 July 24

Manuscript Number766424

Date24 July 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractWheelock writes to update Whitefield on the missions of Kirkland and others.

David McClure, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1766 August 5

Manuscript Number766454

Date4 August 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractMcClure writes from his mission about his arrival, the work of the school, the condition of the pupils, and the kindness of people. He notes the difficulties in not knowing the language.

Samuel Johnson, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1766 October 5

Manuscript Number766556.2

Date5 October 1766

Author

Recipient

AbstractJohnson writes of the poor progress of his mission among the Mohawks, and gives news regarding other Wheelock missionaries in the vicinity.