Letter from L. Lawes to William Lawes, 21 May 1812

In this letter to her brother, L. Lawes writes that their father sold their enslaved man, Gabe, for $280, stating that "slaves can be bought in New Orleans for cheaper than in Kentucky." Notes that they haven't purchased sugar or coffee because the Native Americans are doing a "great deal of mischief on the river." She states that many people have left their homes on the frontier and moved to Louisville because of the mischief, talks of drafts for volunteers for the militia, updates William on his brother and his marriage, and his hiring a substitute for the draft. She requests that he bring a nice pair of leather shoes and some sugar and coffee because it is cheaper where he is, and blue cloth for a coat for his father.

The Filson Historical Society Manuscript Collection

Mss. C L