Manuscript Database - Subject: American Colonization Society

American Colonization Society

Clay, Henry, 1777-1852. Handbill, ca. 1844. 1 p.

Apparently distributed during the 1844 presidential election by the Liberty Party, this handbill castigates Whig Party candidate Henry Clay for his position on slavery and his participation in three duels. The tract contends that Clay, in a speech to the American Colonization Society, stated that he was "utterly opposed to all emancipation of the slaves, either immediate or gradual, without their removal" to another land.

American Colonization Society

Bodley family. Papers, 1773-1939. 9.33 cu. ft.

In her 11 Jan. 1850 letter, James Ann Pearce gives a second-hand account of a speech by George Kinkead that benefited the colonization society and claims that everyone in town was talking about it; James Ann Pearce writes to Wm. Bodley in a 25 Nov. 1852 letter asking if the American Colonization Society could pay for a slave to get to Liberia.

American Colonization Society

Clay, Cassius Marcellus, 1810-1903. To Samuel Wilbur, n.p. White Hall, Ky., 24 August 1852. ALS, 1p.

Describes Cassius Clay's opposition to the "scheme" of slave colonization as "a mere safety valve" which will prolong slavery, and is highly critical of Henry Clay's support of it. Calls him "the chief defender of slavery in the world!"

American Colonization Society

Brown, Orlando, 1801-1867. Papers, 1780-1898. 2.66 cu. ft.

An undated petition written by James Townsend to the Frankfort Commonwealth asks the Congress to repatriate slaves and former slaves to Africa. He feels their presence has prevented southern states from prospering as the North has.

American Colonization Society

Green family. Papers, 1822-1900.

5 Dec. 1842, David Simmons, Boston, to Hector Green, Henderson, Ky. "The Colonization Coma. and half a dozen Africans were put in motion to make inquiries." They haven't been able to "throw any light on the matter in question." As far as he can learn there have never been any persons named Geo. Sewall, a lawyer--James Shavel, P.M.- David Lawrence, master of a ship, or Osborn Barnwell, a violin player, "the supposed father of John," residing in the Boston area. No explanation is given of the "matter in question."

American Colonization Society

Taylor-Cannon family. Papers, 1741-1949. 18 cubic feet.

A 25 July 1839 letter references Samuel Taylor's $635 donation to the ACS.

American Colonization Society

Clay, Henry, 1777-1852. Speech, ca. 1829. AD, 2 pp.

An undated draft of the speech Clay gave before the American Colonization Society on 17 Jan. 1829. His remarks were intended to introduce a resolution in appreciation of the contributions made by women in behalf of the Society. He notes with pride the recent formation of colonization societies in Virginia and Kentucky. However he was particularly pleased by the recent formation of women's auxiliaries to the organization. He states, "Their cooperation was wanted to complete the circle of moral exertion," adding, "Our fair country-women give us their cheering countenance and encouragement."