William Smith papers, ca. 1631-1883, bulk (1770-1780)

Links

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• View PDF finding aid (396.25 KB)

Creator

Smith, William, 1728-1793.

Location

Manuscripts and Archives Division

Extent

• 4 linear feet (6 boxes, 10 v.)

Access Restrictions

Restricted access; Manuscripts and Archives Division; Permit must be requested at the division indicated.

Scope/Contents Note

Collection consists of the papers of William Smith and hisson, William Smith III. The senior Smith's papers containcorrespondence and documents that chronicle the years 1770to 1783, a period of social and political upheaval in North American history. Materials include history of New York, 1732-1762; historical memoirs, 1761-1783; New York Supreme Court register, 1750-1760; and miscellaneous papers. Papers of William Smith III contain official and personal correspondence, family documents, and items relating to lands in Canada.

Biographical/Historical Note

William Smith (1728-1793) was an American lawyer and historian of New York. An influential leader of the New York Presbyterian Whigs, he served as the last Royal ChiefJustice of the Province of New York and Chief Justice of the Province of New York and Chief Justice of Lower Canada. His son, William Smith III (1769-1847), was a clerk of the provincial parliament, Secretary of State forthe colonies, a member of the executive council, and historian of Canada.

Controlled Access Terms

• Colden, Cadwallader, 1688-1776.
• Livingston, William, 1723-1790.
• Smith, William, 1728-1793.
• Smith family.
• American loyalists.
• Indians of North America -- History -- 18th century.
• Canada -- History -- 1763-1791.
• New York (State) -- History -- Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775.
• United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783.
• Diaries.
• Maps.
• Historians.
• Lawyers.

Additional Creator Names

• Smith, William, 1769-1847.
• New York (State). Supreme Court.