Stampless Autograph Letter Signed from Presbyterian Minister of Baltimore John C. Backus to Reverand William McDowell, Secretary Presbyterian Board of Missions, Philadelphia November 1842
Stampless Autograph Letter Signed from Presbyterian Minister of Baltimore John C. Backus to Reverand William McDowell, Secretary Presbyterian Board of Missions, Philadelphia November 1842
Folded three-page bifolium stampless letter, 9.75 x 7.75 inches. Tear from wax seal; no loss of content but previous archival repair at tear. Light soiling and minimal separation at folds. Very Good condition.
Interesting letter marked confidential from John Backus regarding the funding and activities of Presbyterian missions in the 'western country'. Backus previously had served as Assistant Secretary of the Board of Domestic Missions of the Presbyterian Church, before he was called to the pastorate of the 1st Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, Maryland in 1836, where he served the next 39 years. The recipient, William McDowell of Philadelphia was serving as the Secretary of the Board of Domestic Missions, a position he held for 17 years. As Secretary, McDowell travelled often visiting churches, presbyteries, and synods and was heavily involved in the politics and funding of Presbyterian outreach and westward church expansion.
Backus writes, "On the general subject of Domestic Missions within our bounds, our position is peculiar. We have destitution as great as in any part of the Western country. Most of our churches need help...the difficulties that have existed in getting money from the Board have given those who prefer an independent action a great advantage...I greatly deprecate independent action. I think the example will be bad...and I hope you will make matters as smooth as possible to avert it."
The ornate American Italianate house built for John Backus in 1855 survives today.
Decent blue circular date stamp for Baltimore with manuscript rate mark.
Good insight into the workings of mid-19th century Presbyterians in this 573 word letter. A full transcript will be provided. Item #668
Price: $75.00