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Asa Messer papers (MS-1C-3)

Brown University Archives

Box A
Brown University
Providence, RI 02912
Tel: 401-863-2146
email: hay@brown.edu

Inventory

Series I. Letterbooks, 1811-1836

Subseries 1. Letterbook No. 1, 1811 April 10-1813 October 30

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 1 To Adoniram Judson, Plymouth
Contents Note: Judson's son, Elnathan, having caused disturbance in the college, is being sent home.
 1811 April 10
Box 5, Folder 1 To Ebenezer Nelson, Reading
Contents Note: Nelson's son, James, has become intemperate, and must be removed from the college.
 1811 April 11
Box 5, Folder 1 To Adoniram Judson, Plymouth
Contents Note: Elnathan Judson may return to his class at end of the present term, provided he pursues his studies under a suitable person during his absence.
 1811 May 29
Box 5, Folder 1 To Adoniram Judson, Plymouth
Contents Note: Question regarding college bills of Elnathan Judson.
 1811 June 24
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. General McPherson, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Concerning funds needed by her son, James McPherson.
 1811 December 17
Box 5, Folder 1 To [Stephen Gano]
Contents Note: Invitation to partake of a turkey.
 1812 January 7
Box 5, Folder 1 To [Stephen Gano]
Contents Note: Offers his services as a preacher.
 1812
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. McPherson
Contents Note: Concerning debts of her son, James, who has become more studious and economical.
 1812 May 8
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. E. L. Durnford, Colchester
Contents Note: Extending further trial to Henry Durnford, who, though absent from his room in college in the evenings, has not been found addicted to gambling.
 1812 May 16
Box 5, Folder 1 To Robert Fauntleroy, Tappanhannock, Va.
Contents Note: Reports good progress of Henry Fauntleroy, who is living with Messer's family, will look for private lodgings for him, reports baptism of more than thirty persons by Stephen Gano.
 1812 June 9
Box 5, Folder 1 To Adoniram Judson, Plymouth
Contents Note: Concerning college bills of Elnathan Judson.
 1812 June 23
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. McPherson
Contents Note: Concerning payments made by Messer from James McPherson's funds and remaining outstanding debts in Boston.
 1812 June 26
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. Durnford
Contents Note: Henry Durnford's behavior had made it necessary to place him elsewhere, recommends that he pursue his studies with Rev. Nott in Franklin, praises John Durnford.
 1812 June 13
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. Mr. Nott, Franklin, Conn.
Contents Note: Introduces Henry Durnford, and lists studies he is to pursue under Nott's direction.
 1812 June 13
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. Mr. Thatcher, Dedham
Contents Note: Introduces Nathaniel Bicknell, and lists studies he is to pursue under Thatcher's direction.
 1812 July 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To Albert Smith, Hanover, Ms.
Contents Note: Smith's general inattention to studies and involvement in July 4th incident make it necessary for him to purse his studies privately under the direction of Rev. Mr. Gurney in Middleborough.
 1812 July 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To Timothy Coffin, Sandwich
Contents Note: Coffin is to study with Rev. Burr until February, lists studies he is to pursue.
 1812 July 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To Amherst Wight, Bellingham
Contents Note: Wight is to study with Rev. Crane of Northbridge until next June, lists studies he is to pursue.
 1812 July 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To Gen. Chandler, Monmouth
Contents Note: Five students have been rusticated for disturbance, but Chandler's son, "an avowed enemy of the Politics which produced it," is not involved, praises and congratulates Gen. Chandler on recent appointment.
 1812 July 25
Box 5, Folder 1 To Amherst Wight
Contents Note: Approves change of Wight's rustication from Northbridge to Rev. Richmond's in Stoughton.
 1812 August 3
Box 5, Folder 1 To Timothy Coffin
Contents Note: Coffin may change his place of rustication from Mr. Burr's in Sandwich to Mr. Everett's in Wareham.
 1812 August 3
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. Dr. Sanders
Contents Note: Thanking President of University of Vermont for honor conferred on him.
 1812 August 13
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers, Dinwiddie, Va.
Contents Note: Long account of behavior of William Withers, who has complained of "abuse." In future Withers will recite only to Professor Park and Messer.
 1812 September 30
Box 5, Folder 1 To Robert Fauntleroy, Tappanhannock, Va.
Contents Note: Henry Fauntleroy has tried living in the college edifice and boarding in commons, but is now lodging with Mrs. Bolles. Henry's progress good, and he might have entered the college, but his affliction with boils caused loss of time and he prefers to remain in the grammar school. Stephen Gano has baptized more than 100 persons.
 1812 October 2
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. James Williams, Providence
Contents Note: Explains use of a Greek term in various Biblical contexts.
 1812 October 7
Box 5, Folder 1 To Master Asa Messer
Contents Note: Presents his nephew with a dollar and advice on putting it at interest.
 1812 October 13
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. E. McPherson Pringle, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: About her brother James McPherson.
 1812 October 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To President James Madison
Contents Note: Recommendation for David Howell to succeed David Leonard Barnes as judge.
 1812 November 3
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers, Dinwiddie, Va.
Contents Note: Concerns debts contracted by William Withers.
 1812 November 12
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. McPherson, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Fears James McPherson's return to Charleston for vacation will interrupt his education, James's expenses and his general improvement.
 1812 November 16
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. McPherson
Contents Note: Concerning debts of James McPherson in Boston and Providence, he is not making expected progress, although his conduct is improved since coming to Providence.
 1813 January 19
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mr. Hawkins, the Editor of the American
Contents Note: Wants last proof sheet at once.
 1813 January 0
Box 5, Folder 1 To Revd. Luther Baker, Warren
Contents Note: Indignation at content of Baker's letter to Eddy relating to baptism.
 1813 January 30
Box 5, Folder 1 To Revd. John Stanford, New York
Contents Note: On Stanford's plan of theological lectures, comment on erroneous record of Stanford's death in catalogue, notes progress of Society in Philadelphia for education of young ministers.
 1813 February 2
Box 5, Folder 1 To William Jones, Secretary of the Navy
Contents Note: Presents credentials of John Martin for surgeon in Navy.
 1813 February 2
Box 5, Folder 1 To Revd. Bishop Griswold, Bristol
Contents Note: Belatedly sending honorary degree diploma.
 1813 January 29
Box 5, Folder 1 To Robert Fauntleroy, Tappahannock, Va.
Contents Note: Expenses of Henry Fauntleroy, religious revival in Rhode Island.
 1813 February 26
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. Gen. McPherson, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: On debts of James McPherson.
 1813 March 1
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. Dr. Furman, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Will send money with Mr. Rivers, religious revival in Rhode Island College has highest number of students in its history.
 1813 March 3
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers, Dinwiddie, Va.
Contents Note: On debts of William Withers and his success in college.
 1813 March 4
Box 5, Folder 1 To [John Waldo]
Contents Note: Page mutilated and name of addressee removed. Cannot afford postage on packet supposed to contain a grammar, too late to include account of Waldo's father in Benedict's history. (Waldo sent a grammar to Messer, which was refused. Cf. copy of letter from Edmund Botsford to Richard Furman in biographical file of John Waldo in Brown University Archives.)
 1813 April 7
Box 5, Folder 1 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Rev. Edward Richmond, Stoughton. Sends Benjamin Whitman, whose father wishes him to study with Richmond.
 1813 April 21
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers, Dinwiddie, Va.
Contents Note: Dr. Bowen recommends that William return to Virginia for his health.
 1813 April 25
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers, Dinwiddie, Va.
Contents Note: William Withers recovering at Messer's house and at Mr. Lippitt's and will return home when able.
 1813 May 4
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers
Contents Note: William is well enough to return home, will try to accompany him part of the way, has remunerated Lippitt for expenses of boarding William since Lippitt lost his property.
 1813 May 30
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers.
Contents Note: Has paid debt of William Withers and advanced money for his return home.
 1813 May 31
Box 5, Folder 1 To Daniel Sharp, Boston
Contents Note: Declines having his discourse published because of doubt of its worth.
 1813 June 6
Box 5, Folder 1 To Thomas Withers
Contents Note: He accompanied William Withers at beginning of his journey home, on disposition of William's books, some of which were given to the United Brothers Society, further debts incurred by William.
 1813 July 23
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. Genl. McPherson, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Concerning bills of her son, James McPherson.
 1813 August 17
Box 5, Folder 1 To Robert Fauntleroy, Tappahannock, Va.
Contents Note: Has given Henry Fauntleroy permission to return home, he has exerted himself to further Henry's education and has failed.
 1813 August 18
Box 5, Folder 1 To James Burrill, Providence
Contents Note: Announces conferring of honorary D. D. degree on Burrill.
 1813 September 3
Box 5, Folder 1 To Tillotson Bronson, Cheshire, Conn.
Contents Note: Announces conferring of honorary D. C. degree on Bronson.
 1813 September 4
Box 5, Folder 1 To Moses Stuart, Andover
Contents Note: Announces conferring of honorary D. D. degree on Stuart.
 1813 September 4
Box 5, Folder 1 To George Edwards, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Acknowledges receipt of funds for Edwards's nephews (John and Silas Holbrook), admires Edwards's detestation of Great Britain's crimes and his attachment to the U. S.
 1813 September 15
Box 5, Folder 1 To Col. Thomas Reed, Charlotte, Va.
Contents Note: Opinions on War of 1812, differences between northern and southern states, "Union is the badge of my Politics. Virginia and Massachusetts should be one."
 1813 September 20
Box 5, Folder 1 To Joel Hawes, Brookfield
Contents Note: Declines request of Hawes for letter to Andover, because of views since Hawes left Brown.
 1813 September 29
Box 5, Folder 1 To George [Patten?], Hartford
Contents Note: Is sending Eliab Kingman to pursue his studies with him for thirteen weeks.
 1813 October 2
Box 5, Folder 1 To Dr. Abner Phelps, Reading, Ms.
Contents Note: Opinions on medical system of Brown and requirements for M.D. degree, knows of no connection between medical degree and medical
 1813 October 7
Box 5, Folder 1 To Mrs. Elizabeth Durnford, Bermuda
Contents Note: Praises John Durnford, who has completed his course with merit.
 1813 October 14
Box 5, Folder 1 To Rev. [Leonard] Wood[s], Andover
Contents Note: Recommends Thomas Shepard for admission to Andover Theological Seminary.
 1813 October 16
Box 5, Folder 1 To Daniel Chessman, Bridgewater
Contents Note: In order to make a decision, inquires about Chessman's thoughts on his rustication, restoration, and alter remarks about the college.
 1813 October 18
Box 5, Folder 1 To Stephen Crosby
Contents Note: Informs him that his dismission was given in the usual form and without reluctance.
 1813 October 30

Subseries 3. Letterbook No. 3, 1816 December 10-1819 April

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [William] Rogers, Philadelphia
Contents Note: Query about bankruptcy of Mr. W. [Walet?", protest of Rogers's church.
 1816 December 10
Box 5, Folder 2 To Jacob Dyer, Abington
Contents Note: Recommends that [Ezekiel] Dyer study with Rev. Richmond until he has reformed.
 1817 January 6
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Prayer at Dr. Gano's
 1817 January 5
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Judge [Joseph" Story, Washington. Recommendation for John Bailey, who seeks a position in Washington.
 1817 January 30
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Diary entry recording temperature of nine degrees below zero]
 1817 January 5
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Rev. Jacob Ide. Sending Joseph F. Martin to study with him, lists studies he is to pursue.
 1817 February 14
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Diary entry recording extremely cold temperatures]
 1817 February 15
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Dr. [George] Osgood, Andover. Comments on Robert Hall's book, and on extreme cold in Providence and loss of vegetables.
 1817 March 30
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Col. Thomas Reed, near Charlotte Court House, Va. Sends laws of college and relates expenses of students, would welcome Reed's son.
 1817 April 2
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: To Rev. [William] Rogers, Philadelphia. Praises Stephen Rogers, inquires about missionary board and present conventions to which he would like to be appointed.
 1817 April 8
Box 5, Folder 2 To David Leonard, Bristol
Contents Note: Good wishes on Leonard's removal to distant land, impressed by education of his daughters, who are competent to teach school.
 1817 May 9
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Wm. Richards, Lynn, Great Britain
Contents Note: Has heard through William Rogers that Richards plans to bequeath his library to the college, tells him of religious freedom in the college and in Rhode Island, quoting at length from his own speech to the Bible Society of Rhode Island
 1817 September 18
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [William] Patten, Newport
Contents Note: Enclosing a scroll for Mr. Ellery, Collector at Newport. Quotes contents of scroll, a mathematical explanation of the elevation and visibility of the lantern at Newport.
 1817 September 25
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [Leonard] Wood[s], Andover
Contents Note: Recommends Henry Jackson for admission to Andover Theological Seminary.
 1817 October 27
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Diary entry of conditions of lease of his farm to his nephew, Asa Messer]
 1817 November 2
Box 5, Folder 2 To William Ellery, Newport
Contents Note: Concerning visibility of light-house at Newport.
 1817 November 30
Box 5, Folder 2 To Kilburn Whitman, Pembroke, Mass.
Contents Note: He would have advised Whitman's son John against making deposition to magistrate in matter of burning of privy at the college.
 1817 December 13
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Stephen Gano, Providence
Contents Note: Sending electrical stool.
 1817 December 13
Box 5, Folder 2 To Pardon Bowen, Providence
Contents Note: He did not institute civil suit against Bowen's son Henry in matter of fire and disturbance at the college, witnesses may not return home until the next court.
 1817 December 15
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Jacob Ide, Medway
Contents Note: Sending Amos Binney to study with Ide, lists studies he is to pursue.
 1817 December 16
Box 5, Folder 2 To Amos Binney, Boston
Contents Note: Binney's son Amos, an accomplice in the burning of the college outhouse, has been sent to study with Jacob Ide.
 1817 December 18
Box 5, Folder 2 To Ephraim Bowen
Contents Note: Bowen's son George is be sent to study with Jacob Ide.
 1817 December 18
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Jacob Ide
Contents Note: Sending George Bowen to study with Ide.
 1817 December 18
Box 5, Folder 2 To John W. Whitman, Pembroke, Ms.
Contents Note: Whitman is to be sent to study with Rev. Richmond in Dorchester.
 1817 December 28
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [Edward] Richmond, Dorchester
Contents Note: Sending John W. Whitman to study with Richmond.
 1817 December 18
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Certificate of dismission of Jared W. Williams, who has been keeping school in Massachusetts]
 1817 December 18
Box 5, Folder 2 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Certificate of dismission of Azel Utley, who is punished for misdemeanor]
 1817 December 30
Box 5, Folder 2 To Wm. Ellery, Newport
Contents Note: Letter on light refraction. Crossed out and superseded by next letter.
 1818 January 2
Box 5, Folder 2 To William Ellery
Contents Note: Answering inquiries about lantern in lighthouse, refraction, curvature of sea, visibility in fog.
 1818 February 6
Box 5, Folder 2 To John F. Williams, Woodstock, Connecticut
Contents Note: Would prefer that Williams's brother [Jared] return to Schenectady, but he may apply for readmission after studying with a suitable person.
 1818 February 5
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. James M. Winchell, Boston
Contents Note: He cannot recommend Winchell's arrangement of Watts's hymns.
 1818 February 28
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Barnabas Bates, Bristol
Contents Note: On charges of heresy against Bates, opinions on divinity of Christ.
 1818 April 15
Box 5, Folder 2 To Gov. [Nehemiah R.] Knight
Contents Note: Declines commission as Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Rhode Island.
 1818 June 18
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Joseph Hughes, Battersea, G.B.
Contents Note: Sends diploma for honorary degree to replace one lost in 1811.
 1818 July 10
Box 5, Folder 2 To Wm. Ennis, Newport
Contents Note: Directs him to study with Martin Parris.
 1818 July 23
Box 5, Folder 2 To Martin Par[r]is, Marshfield, Ms.
Contents Note: Sends William Ennis to study with him.
 1818 July 23
Box 5, Folder 2 To Jasper Adams, Andover
Contents Note: Appointment of Adams as tutor.
 1818 September 19
Box 5, Folder 2 To David Adams, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Receipt for money for board of Lawrence Adams, other expenses, Lawrence's lack of progress in studies to fit him for college.
 1818 October 8
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. William Richard, Lynn, Great Britain
Contents Note: Admires Richards's history of Lynn, honorary LL.D has been conferred on him, will again present honorary degree candidates recommended by Richards, describes Baptists in Rhode Island, "a contention respecting the Trinity has sprung up among Us, which threatens extensive consequences."
 1818 November 17
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Lucius Bolles, Salem
Contents Note: Lengthy letter on his view of the character of Christ, asks if Bolles is a Unitarian on the scheme of Sabellius.
 1818 December 10
Box 5, Folder 2 To Wm. Hunter
Contents Note: Asks if salary of Professor of Oratory has been determined, need to protect free inquiry, mentions "storm of bigotry ... raging around Us." Favors motion in House of Representatives for endowing a literary institution in each state.
 1818 December 16
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Stephen Gano
Contents Note: Questions views of Gano's church on divinity of Christ.
 1818 December 21
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [Thomas] Baldwin, Boston
Contents Note: Wonders if Baptists have changed views and embraced opinion "that this son of God had no generation..." The college has added thirty-nine students and progresses harmoniously.
 1818 December 22
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Stephen Gano, Providence
Contents Note: Has found Gano's reply to earlier question unsatisfactory, restates his own views.
 1818 December 23
Box 5, Folder 2 To the committee of the first Ba[p]tist church, Providence
Contents Note: Richmond Taggart has accused Messer of "trespass" in holding a differing view of scriptures. "P.S. The above letter was not sent."
 1818 December 19
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [Thomas] Baldwin, Boston
Contents Note: Baldwin has been offended by Messer's questions, intended to discover whether those who maintain that Baldwin shares their views are correct.
 1819 January 2
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [Josephus] Wheaton, Holliston
Contents Note: Sends Samuel Howe to study with him.
 1819 March 12
Box 5, Folder 2 To Joseph N. How[e], Boston
Contents Note: Describes conduct of Samuel Howe, who has put ashes into a tutor's bed, expulsion to be mitigated to rustication with Rev. Wheaton.
 1819 March 12
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. [William] Rogers, Philadelphia
Contents Note: Certificate of character and education of Stephen Marsh Rogers.
 1819 March 20
Box 5, Folder 2 To [William] Rogers
Contents Note: Sends certificate requested by Stephen Rogers, quarrels of Philadelphia Baptists, praises Dr. William Ingalls and recommends him for Professorship of Anatomy at University of Pennsylvania, postscript stating view of "formerly orthodox Trinitarians."
 1819 March 20
Box 5, Folder 2 To Theodore Dwight, New York
Contents Note: Declines invitation to address American Bible Society.
 1819 March 28
Box 5, Folder 2 To David Adams, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Debts of Lawrence Adams, who has entered college.
 1819 March 29
Box 5, Folder 2 To Josiah Quincy, Boston
Contents Note: Acknowledges Memoirs of American Academy of Arts and Sciences on behalf of Brown University.
 1819 April 7
Box 5, Folder 2 To John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: On bequest of library of William Richards, wonders is bequest was affected by his own statement in an earlier letter.
 1819 April 20
Box 5, Folder 2 To Rev. Lucius Bolles, Salem
Contents Note: Declines suggestion that he resign, more Rhode Island Baptists agree with him than with Bolles, mentions meeting respecting him that Bolles attended.
 1819 April 0
Box 5, Folder 3 Duplicate
Contents Note: Use copy of Letterbook 3.

Subseries 4. Letterbook No. 4, 1819 May 10-1823 July 18

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 4 To David Adams, Charleston
Contents Note: Disposition of money sent for use of Lawrence Adams.
 1819 May 10
Box 5, Folder 4 To Rev. Simeon Doggett, Mendon, Ms.
Contents Note: Has fined Doggett's son John for subverting a recitation. "N.B. A letter similar to this is sent to the Fathers of Juniors [Joseph] Hathaway and [Henry] Hersey, Sophomores [Thomas] Humphrey and [Ezekiel] Holmes, and Freshman [George] Hathaway, and also to the Revd. Mr. Pipon of Taunton and the Revd. Mr. Willis of Kingston respecting Junior [Samuel] Stetson and Sopho- more [Joseph] Sampson.
 1819 May 19
Box 5, Folder 4 To Rev. [Josephus] Wheaton
Contents Note: Sends Eleazer M. P. Wells to study with Wheaton. A similar letter to Mr. Wheaton was sent with Elijah Hamlin.
 1819 May 19
Box 5, Folder 4 To Cyrus Hamlin, Paris, Me.
Contents Note: Elijah Hamlin has been rusticated for part in damaging college building.
 1819 May 29
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: What constitutes an orthodox Baptist? Written for the CHRISTIAN DISCIPLE, but did not appear.
 1819
Box 5, Folder 4 To Rev. Jacob Norton, Weymouth
Contents Note: On testimony necessary for lawful baptism.
 1819 July 15
Box 5, Folder 4 For the Baptist Church, Providence
Contents Note: Protests against the church's vote that it has no fellowship with those who deny the deity of Jesus Christ.
 1819 July 24
Box 5, Folder 4 To Nathan Waterman
Contents Note: Reply to Waterman's preamble to vote at church, suggesting Messer's acceptance of Arian doctrine.
 1819(07?
Box 5, Folder 4 To Rev. Jacob Norton, Weymouth, Ms.
Contents Note: He is ready to baptize Norton, preferably at Weymouth, because of orthodox Baptists in Providence. Most of his friends are Congregationalists and there are those who "For my faith in the Son of God would banish me from the College as well as from the church."
 1819 August 12
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Account of baptism of Rev. Jacob Norton. Includes address to people attending.
 1819 September 20
Box 5, Folder 4 To Rev. John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: The library of Dr. Richards has been placed in an alcove in the library room, Samuel Eddy forced to leave First Baptist Church, and some desire that Messer should leave the College, thanks him for books and send diploma.
 1819 November 17
Box 5, Folder 4 To Nathaniel Hazard, Washington
Contents Note: On stopping slavery as a condition for admission as a state.
 1819 December 10
Box 5, Folder 4 To President [John] Kirkland, Cambridge
Contents Note: About a student who has left Harvard and wishes to enter Brown, "probably Bernard Whitman.'
 1819 December 30
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Two articles of Prof. Stuarts creed. For the Christian disciple. N.B. The above appeared in the Christian Disciple for March and April 1820."
 1820 January 2
Box 5, Folder 4 To John Quincy Adams
Contents Note: Desires patent for his invention called "Messer's Pneumatic Engine, or Philosophical bellows."
 1820 January 25
Box 5, Folder 4 To the superintendent of the Patent Office, Washington
Contents Note: Application for patent for Messer's Pneumatic Engine, or Philosophical Bellows.
 1820 January 25
Box 5, Folder 4 To James Munroe [i.e. Munroe], Washington
Contents Note: Recommends Rev. Barnabas Bates for office of Collector in Bristol.
 1820 March 1
Box 5, Folder 4 To Wm. Thornton, Washington
Contents Note: Sending a drawing of pneumatic engine for which he seeks patent. Portion of letter missing.
 1820 March 2
Box 5, Folder 4 To Wm. Thornton, Washington
Contents Note: Collegial duties delay his furnishing a model, seeks patent with model to be furnished later.
 1820 March 20
Box 5, Folder 4 To Wm. Thornton, Washington
Contents Note: Further communication on need for model.
 1820 March 21
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa: Prayer at Commencement
 1820 September 6
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: Has sent Evans's honorary degree diploma, "the University was never so flourishing, notwithstanding all the alarms of bigots." Preaching of William Rogers, Drs. Baldwin, Staughton, and Furman are leaders of Calvinistic Baptists, wonders at trial of Queen, hopes Evans will visit America where "we have a fine opportunity for deciding ... whether men are capable of self-government."
 1820 November 5
Box 5, Folder 4 To James Munroe [i.e. Monroe]
Contents Note: Recommends John Pitman for district attorney in Rhode Island.
 1820 November 8
Box 5, Folder 4 To Samuel Eddy, Washington
Contents Note: Discusses article in Missouri Constitution, possible effects of transporting free negroes to another state may be transferral of government to blacks.
 1820 December 9
Box 5, Folder 4 To Samuel Eddy, Washington
Contents Note: Disagrees with Eddy's vote against Missouri, illness of Dr. Bowen.
 1820 December 21
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. Abner Jones, Hopkintown, N. H.
Contents Note: Statement of his theological views.
 1820 December 23
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd Jacob Norton, Weymouth, Ms.
Contents Note: On subject of baptism "in water" and "into doctrine," concluding that "Dr. Woods orthodoxy is rather heretical."
 1820 February 24
Box 5, Folder 4 To Mrs. Susanna Maxcy, Columbia, S. C.
Contents Note: Prospects of sale or rental of her Rhode Island property.
 1821 January 30
Box 5, Folder 4 To Samuel A. Wells, Boston
Contents Note: Recommends Caleb H. Snow for office in English Classical School.
 1821 February 24
Box 5, Folder 4 To Allen Brown, Philadelphia
Contents Note: Having experienced difficulties confronting Brown, tells how he has followed scripture and lost friends, discusses God's plan of salvation.
 1821 March 12
Box 5, Folder 4 To Elipha White, Randolph, Ms.
Contents Note: Offering position of tutor, including care of the library.
 1821 April 13
Box 5, Folder 4 To John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: Letter continued on June 6. Asks if diploma has arrived, he withdrew long ago from American Baptist Foreign Missionary Society, which is now establishing a college in Washington, of which "the real object ... is the Promotion of Calvinism, Trinitarianism, and the like." Mr. Benedict passes for an orthodox preacher. Mentions his home, family, doubt that he will ever be a pastor, and rarity of his appearance in pulpits, likens his case to that of Dr. Richards. Sends drawing of the college with Mr. Angell, reports that Staughton is president of new college [Columbian College], to which foreign missionary fund transfers $10,000.
 1821 March 31
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. [David] Holman, Douglas
Contents Note: Sending Francis Jenckes to study with him, note studies to be pursued.
 1821 June 11
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa, Prayer at the celebration of the 4th of July in the Baptist meeting-house.
 1821 July 4
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa, Prayer at collation for West Point cadets at State House.
 1821 August 20
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1821 September 5
Box 5, Folder 4 To Increase S. Smith, Leicester, Ms.
Contents Note: Offering position of tutor.
 1822 January 18
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. [Richard] Furman, Charleston, S. C.
Contents Note: Discusses his belief in the sonship of Jesus Christ, in reply to a letter from Furman accusing him of adopting Unitarian principles.
 1822 April 22
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: Letter continued on July 8. Introducing John Carter Brown, who is travelling in Europe, Nicholas Brown is building an edifice worth $20,000 for Brown University, has seen Smallfield's letter to Benedict stating that terms, "general" and "particular" Baptist, are unknown in America, Calvin is an enemy of the Baptists, describes preaching of Dr. Rogers.
 1822 June 24
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. [David] Holman, Douglas
Contents Note: Sending William H. Williams to study with him.
 1822 August 7
Box 5, Folder 4 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1822 September 4
Box 5, Folder 4 To Revd. John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: Introducing Robert H. Ives, who is travelling in Europe, worried at not hearing from Evans.
 1823 July 18

Subseries 5. Letterbook No. 5, 1822 October 18-1836 January 21

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 5 To John Quincy Adams
Contents Note: Application for patent for improvement in flumes, to which is added description of improvement, and note of posting application on Oct. 22, 1822.
 1822 October 18
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Note of notification that his patent application should be notarized and description improved
 1822 November 7
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Note of addition to specifications and subscription before witnesses
 1822 November 8
Box 5, Folder 5 To President [John] Kirkland, Cambridge
Contents Note: Sends his specifications, "a result of my experiments on Hydraulicks," which may be worth of notice in American Academy.
 1822 November 26
Box 5, Folder 5 To John Quincy Adams
Contents Note: Application for patent for new and useful mode of using water wheels, to which is added description, and note of posting on Jan. 7, 1823.
 1822 December 30
Box 5, Folder 5 To the agent of the company now making a Factory Establishment at the foot of Pawtucket Falls in the Merrimack, Chelmsford
Contents Note: Ms. Explains how his flume might, applied to a water wheel, move a great mill.
 1823 January 30
Box 5, Folder 5 To Samuel Starkweather, Windham, Con.
Contents Note: Offers Starkweather, who is studying law, position as tutor.
 1823 May 20
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1823 September 3
Box 5, Folder 5 To Revd. [David] Holman, Douglas
Contents Note: Sending Christopher Williams to study with him.
 1823 September 30
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, [Prayer at the Pawtuxent (?) Cattle Show]
 1823
Box 5, Folder 5 To Henry S. Fearing, Boston
Contents Note: Offering position as tutor.
 1824 January 23
Box 5, Folder 5 To James Munroe [i.e.Monroe]
Contents Note: Expiration of commission of Mr. Bates, collector of the port of Bristol, who has been opposed because of determination to end slave-trade, recommends John Throop Child of Warren, also opponent of slave-trade, to succeed him.
 1824 January 24
Box 5, Folder 5 To John A. Parker, New Bedford
Contents Note: A number of students having combined to subvert a recitation, Parker's son Frederic is among those being fined. Notes that similar letter was sent to Nathaniel Ruggles re George B. Ruggles, John Hathaway re George S. Hathaway, Amasa Nichols re James B. Campbell, and Mr. Hammond re Justin Hammond.
 1824 February 2
Box 5, Folder 5 To John Quincy Adams
Contents Note: Applications for patent for new and useful improvement in the mode of constructing water wheels and flumes, to which is added description of improvement and note of notarization.
 1824 March 10
Box 5, Folder 5 To Wm. Thor[n]ton, Washington
Contents Note: Has not sent money for patent, as earlier one may secure his object and he wishes more time to apply principles describes. With note, Mar. 12, of posting of specifications.
 1824 March 11
Box 5, Folder 5 To Frederick Parker, New Bedford
Contents Note: Directs him to study with Rev. Cobb of Taunton.
 1824 May 12
Box 5, Folder 5 Note
Contents Note: [Note that letters were sent directing Horatio Danforth and Onslow Peters to study with Rev. Holman of Douglas, and to Charles Hastings and Jubal Harrington to study with Rev. Pond of Ward]
 1824 May 18
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1824 September 1
Box 5, Folder 5 To Rev. [Edward] Griffin, Wms. College
Contents Note: Describes disorders among students at Brown and warns that they may apply to other institutions, mentioning especially Leonard Tobey. Notes that similar letter was sent to Dr. Nott of Union College.
 1824 October 29
Box 5, Folder 5 To Theodore Dwight, N. Y.
Contents Note: Will address American Bible Society in May if able, advocates object of dissemination of scripture without comment.
 1825 May 18
Box 5, Folder 5 To Wm. Thornton, Washington
Contents Note: Inquiring whether earlier patent will still secure his further improvement in moving water wheels.
 1825 May 20
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1825 September 7
Box 5, Folder 5 To Revd. John Evans, Islington
Contents Note: Introducing Arnold Buffum, a Quaker, who comes to England to secure improvements which he has made as a hatter, Mr. Ives has brought books from Evans, reports deaths of Drs. Rogers, Furman, and Baldwin, "Christians" are an increasing sect, are Unitarian and have effect on illiterate and uninfluential, Free-will Baptists are Trinitarian, "generally ignorant, though less bigoted than some of their neighbors," Town is a Free-will Baptist. Progress of Brown "has been retarded by orthodox exertions for exterminating heresy."
 1825 October 10
Box 5, Folder 5 To Joseph Harvey
Contents Note: Written to the Secretary of the American Education Society, concerning aid to students, who should be talented, poor, frugal, studious, and devout.
 1825 November 29
Box 5, Folder 5 To Nathan Comstock, Wrentham
Contents Note: Berates Comstock for losses of Wrentham Manufacturing Company and wishes to be released from the company.
 1826 April 24
Box 5, Folder 5 To Henry Clay
Contents Note: Application for patent for improvement in use of water-wheels and flumes, including description and notarization by tutor Crane and Keely, and note of posting on April 22.
 1826 April 12
Box 5, Folder 5 To Revd. David Benedict, Pawtucket
Contents Note: Anonymous pamphlet [A true and candid statement of facts, relative to the late affairs and proceedings of the government of Brown University] of which Benedict is the reputed author contains false hoods. Questions whether Benedict promoted other publications against Nicholas Brown and Messer.
 1826 September 20
Box 5, Folder 5 To Samuel Eddy, Providence
Contents Note: Letter to Secretary of Corporation of Brown University. Resignation of presidency of Brown. This letter, which includes his view on divinity of Jesus Christ, was retained, and the following sent in its place.
 1826 September 23
Box 5, Folder 5 To Samuel Eddy
Contents Note: Letter of resignation recalling his long service and hope that "I have served my GOD as faithfully as I have served Brown University."
 1826 September 23
Box 5, Folder 5 To Oliver Starkweather, Pawtucket
Contents Note: Since David Benedict has not replied to his letter of Sept. 20, he sends the letter to the church, Benedict's authorship of pamphlet suggested by testimony of Barnum Field.
 1826 October 14
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, Note of temperatures on last three days
 1827(0-20
Box 5, Folder 5 To Dr. Hare, Philadelphia
Contents Note: Concerns payments involved in his purchase of the Snow estate from Mrs. Clark.
 1829 June 15
Box 5, Folder 5 To Secretary [Samuel D.] Ingham, Washington
Contents Note: Recommending John D'Wolf for office in Bristol.
 1829 July ?
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, [Copy of resolutions of directors of Wrentham Manufacturing Company]
Contents Note: Requiring weekly reports of agent. Signed by Asa Messer, David Fisher, and Lewis Metcalf, and sent to Allen Tillinghast.
 1829 July 27
Box 5, Folder 5 To David Fisher, Wrentham
Contents Note: Enclosing note, entering protest against adoption of any measure freeing agent from resolves of directors of Wrentham Manufacturing Company.
 1829 August 6
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: [Note of actions of directors of Wrentham Manufacturing Company and his written protest]
 1829 August 10
Box 5, Folder 5 To David Fisher, Wrentham
Contents Note: Seeks separation from Wrentham Manufacturing Company and recompense for his share.
 1829 August 18
Box 5, Folder 5 To David Fisher, Wrentham
Contents Note: His opposition to policies of Wrentham Manufacturing Company and Nathan Comstock, value of his stock and effect of act of Massachusetts legislature in 1827.
 1829 September 2
Box 5, Folder 5 To Horace Mann, Dedham
Contents Note: To his son-in-law on disposition of furniture left by his deceased daughter, Charlotte Messer Mann, and advice to Mann, including "Never forget that you have here a Fathers house."
 1832 August 16
Box 5, Folder 5 To Hobart Clark, Andover, Ms.
Contents Note: Potential sale of property of his sister, Mary Messer Osgood.
 1832 December 21
Box 5, Folder 5 To Horace Mann, Boston
Contents Note: Has missed Mann on a visit to Dedham, news of Caroline Messer Williams and her children.
 1835 December 15
Box 5, Folder 5 Messer, Asa, [Note of temperature of 12 below zero]
 1835 December 17
Box 5, Folder 5 To W. Wheaton, G. Gardner, W. Driscol, H. Sanders, and C.Randall, Warren
Contents Note: He is not willing to reun for office suggested. With footnote explaining the office was that of Governor.
 1836 January 21

Subseries 6. Letterbook No. 6: Prayers, 1817-1819

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes'
 1817 March 2
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: Prayer at Dr. Gano's (April 14 at Mr. Edes)
 1817 March 23-April 14
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Dr. Gano's
 1817 April 7
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Dr. Gano's
 1817 April 21
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer
 1817
Box 5, Folder 6 To Revd. James M. Winchell, Boston
Contents Note: Death of [Cyrus] Babcock, who left promising pursuit to study at Brown for ministry.
 1817 August 5
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement
 1817 September 3
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa
Contents Note: The following was read in the Chapel on the morning of the 19th Dec. 1817. Reports result of inquiry about burning of the privy, describing participation of Henry Bowen, William Ennis, John Winslow Whitman, Amos Binney, George Bowen, Joseph Jones, John Metcalf, and Daniel Fisher, and their punishment.
 1817 December 19
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Mysteries!
Contents Note: Communication written on Feb. 4 and published in the Providence Phoenix, Feb. 14.
 1817 February 4
Box 5, Folder 6 [Communication to the Providence Gazette]
Contents Note: Published. Signed "Rogator." Comments on Anderson case, asking if a bribe offered to a member of Congress is worse than another bribe.
 1818 February 14
Box 5, Folder 6 To Revd. Barnabas Bates, Bristol
Contents Note: John D'Wolf has visited and has seen the telescope, he has not been encouraging about chemical lectures. Gratified by D'Wolf's inquiries about Christianity, related how Gov. Bowdoin was confirmed in Christian faith by Butler's Analogy, revealed religion cannot subvert natural religion. Postscript on gratifying state of "Brother H's" mind.
 1818 February 17
Box 5, Folder 6 Mysteries! For the Providence Phoenix, published Feb. 28, 1818.
 1818 February 28
Box 5, Folder 6 Mysteries! Published in Providence Phoenix, March 7, 1818.
 1818 March 7
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Mysteries!
 1818
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Mysteries!
 1818
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1818 August 17
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
 1818 September 2
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1818 October 4
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at the Circuit Court.
 1818 November 15
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1818 November 29
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer.
 1818/ 19?
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1818/ 19?
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer.
 1818/ 19?
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1819 May 2
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1819 May 2
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1819 May 9
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Mr. Edes.
 1819 July 18
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer.
 1819
Box 5, Folder 6 Messer, Asa, Prayer at Commencement.
Contents Note: Insertion mentions death of General Mason the previous night.
 1819 September 4

Series II. Letters and manuscripts by Asa Messer, 1799-1826, undated

Container Description Date
Box 1, Folder 2 Electricity
Contents Note: Two lectures.
Box 5, Folder 7 [Lecture]
Contents Note: Begins: "Dr. Morse ... tells us that in 1787, the whole number of the clergy in Spain was 188,625 ..."
 undated
Box 1, Folder 3 To Nicholas Brown
Contents Note: Cannot meet officers' salaries, has advanced his own money, $200 would give satisfaction.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 3 To Nicholas Brown
Contents Note: College officers need their salaries amounting to $360, thinks $300 would give satisfaction, has excluded his own salary.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 4 To Asa Messer, Methuen
Contents Note: To his parents. Completed April 15. Has finished one preaching engagement and begun another and has hired another house.
 1799 April 1
Box 1, Folder 4 To Asa Messer, Methuen
Contents Note: Mr. (Jeremiah?) Chaplin, bearer of letter, has been preaching in New York and invited to return there.
 1802 December 2
Box 1, Folder 5 Address ... deliv[er]ed to the senior class at the commencement of Brown University ...
Contents Note: Contains names of some degree recipients (3p.)
 1804 September 5
Box 1, Folder 6 Address delivered to the senior class at the commencement of Brown University ...
Contents Note: Contains names of some degree recipients (2p.)
 1805 September 4
Box 1, Folder 7 Address to the senior class at the commencement of Brown University
Contents Note: Contains names of some degree recipients.
 1807 September 2
Box 1, Folder 9 Address delivered to the senior class at the annual commencement of Brown University ...
Contents Note: Contains names of some degree recipients (1p.)
 1809 September 6
Box 1, Folder 10 [Address] delivered to the senior class at the commencement of Brown University ...
Contents Note: Addressed to "Rev. Mr. Elton, New-Haven."
 1811 September 4
Box 1, Folder 10 "Recd. of Luther Harris 4 dols. for degree"
 1811 August 30
Box 5, Folder 7 [Prayer at meeting of Warren Association]
Contents Note: Not in Messer's hand. With this is note on envelope by R. A. Guild identifying the manuscript.
 probably 1813
Box 1, Folder 11 To Revd. Bishop Griswold
Contents Note: Accompanying Griswold's honorary degree diploma.
 1813 January 29
Box 1, Folder 11 To Caleb H. Snow
Contents Note: Offers position as tutor at Brown with yearly salary of about $375. "It will furnish an opportunity ... for revising the classics."
 1814 September 2
Box 1, Folder 11 To Caleb H. Snow
Contents Note: The corporation of Brown University have appointed you a Tutor ... with the salary of $375, and Librarian, with the salary of $25, a year ... this arrangement was made with reference to the $400, mentioned in your note ...
 1814 September 8
Box 1, Folder 11 To Revd. and dear Sir
Contents Note: Describes the satisfactory conduct of the addressee's young son.
 1815 June 30
Box 1, Folder 11 To Caleb H. Snow
Contents Note: Advises Snow that he need not resign, regretting that the restoration of his health has been slow.
 1815 December 26
Box 1, Folder 12 To William Rogers
Contents Note: Concerns Rogers's son, Stephen, a student at Brown, questions whether missionary board will retain Luther Rice is he does not go to India, religious revival in Providence.
 1816 April 13
Box 1, Folder 12 [Recommendation for Reuben Bryant]
Contents Note: Concurring statement by Calvin Park.
 1817 November 6
Box 1, Folder 12 To William Rogers
Contents Note: Mentions acquisition of William Richards's books for Brown through efforts of Rogers, Mr. Evans to send all his works, has been invited to address American Bible Society.
 1819 April 26
Box 1, Folder 13 To John Evans
Contents Note: Copies of extracts from four letters relating to AM's theological views.
 1819 1825
Box 1, Folder 14 To Nicholas Brown
Contents Note: Sending Mr. D'Wolf's accounts.
 1820 April 25
Box 5, Folder 7 To Judge Howell
Contents Note: Case of B. Peck vs. the University for the salary due Solomon Peck.
 1821 February 5
Box 1, Folder 14 To Enoch Sanford
Contents Note: Offers him a position as tutor and requests immediate reply.
 1821 May 14
Box 1, Folder 14 To Nicholas Brown
Contents Note: Order to pay Tristam Burges his salary.
 1822 March 23
Box 1, Folder 14 [Recommendation for Caleb H. Snow]
 1823 April 27
Box 1, Folder 14 To Caleb H. Snow
Contents Note: Comments on Snow's plan to leave the medical profession, sends copy of his recommendation of Snow.
 1823 April 28
Box 1, Folder 15 To General La Fayette, Boston
Contents Note: Invitation to Commencement at Brown.
 1824 August 24
Box 1, Folder 15 Commencement prayer
Contents Note: In hand of Reuben A. Guild.
 1824 September 1
Box 1, Folder 15 To Samuel Eddy, Secretary of the Corporation
Contents Note: His resignation as president of Brown University.
 1826 September 23
Box 1, Folder 15 To the Trustees of Brown University
Contents Note: Requests that the Rev. Mr. Benedict be required to prove the falsehoods against him which Benedict intimated were true.
 1826 December 7

Series III. Letters and manuscripts by others, 1791-1859, undated

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 8 Adams, David, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Asks if John Lawrence has arrived at college safely and what his expenses will be.
 1818 April 24
Box 1, Folder 16 Adams, John Quincy, 1767-1848, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Forwarding copy of Additional Census of Alabama.
 1822 November 6
Box 1, Folder 17 Anderson, Robert, 1778-1835 (1802), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Studying law, information about Brown men in the South, Dr. Maxcy willing to be president of South Carolina College.
 1804 April 23
Box 1, Folder 18 Bailey, John, d.1835 (1807), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Has applied for position in private academy in Charleston, asks Messer to write letter of recommendation for him.
 1808 February 9
Box 1, Folder 19 Baldwin, Thomas, 1753-1826 (1794), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Concerning a false story about Messer which he had heard. Does not consider two men competent to all purposes of instruction at the college.
 1815 November 16
Box 5, Folder 9 Benson, George, d.1836, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Resigning from Brown Corporation as a result of unfair treatment by Dr. G[ano] on his withdrawal from Baptist Church.
 1801 September 1
Box 1, Folder 20 Bowen, William Corlis, 1785-1815 (1803), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Resigning chemical professorship which interferes with his profession.
 1813 August 13
Box 1, Folder 21 Brown University--Corporation. Vote on account of Asa Messer
Contents Note: Allowing further credit of three hundred dollars.
 1827 March 15
Box 1, Folder 22 Brown University Faculty. [Resolution of the death of Asa Messer]
Contents Note: Signed by A. Caswell, secy. and accompanied by note communicating the resolution to Mrs. Messer, signed by Romeo Elton and William G. Goddard, committee.
 1836 October 14
Box 1, Folder 23 Cogswell, William, 1787-1850, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Requests information about the courses required to enter Brown University.
 1817 May 26
Box 1, Folder 24 Cook, Orchard, d.1819 (1810), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Has decided to place his son at Brown University, requests information.
 1806 September 8
Box 1, Folder 24 Cook, Orchard, d.1819 (1810), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Requests information about his son who has not written to his family.
 1807 May 24
Box 1, Folder 25 D'Wolf, John, 1786-1862 (1806), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Apparatus he has acquired or needs.
 1818 December 4
Box 1, Folder 26 Eaton, Asa, 1778-1858, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written as clerk of American Education Society, which is awarding sums for debts of thirteen Brown University students.
 1821 April 12
Box 1, Folder 27 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written from Islington, England. Reports death of William Richards on Sept. 23, 1818, Evans as executor has prepared library of 1200 volumes for shipment to Brown University, he is preparing memoir of Richards and teaching in a seminary, acknowledges Richards's LL.D. degree, Richards did not complete memoir of Roger Williams, but appendix to Evans's memoir is to contain some writings of Backus owned by Richards.
 1819 January 20
Box 1, Folder 27 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to William Rogers
Contents Note: Written from Islington. Death of William Richards on Sept. 13, 1818, Abraham Rees has finished his dictionary.
 1819 April 5
Box 1, Folder 27 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to [William Rogers]
Contents Note: Written from Islington. About sending William Richards's books to Brown University, his memoir of Richards includes account of Morgan Rhees.
 1819 April 28
Box 1, Folder 27 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written from Islington. Has received his diploma, his publication of Richards's Cambro-British biography, discusses William Rogers and his respect for Messer, comments on a pamphlet by Eddy, Benedict's HISTORY OF THE BAPTISTS, Rippon and Quincey(?).
 1821 February 6
Box 1, Folder 27 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written from Islington. Nicholas Brown had called on him, he rejoices in prosperity of Brown University.
 1823 August 2
Box 5, Folder 10 Evans, John, 1767-1827, to Asa Messe
Contents Note: Written from Islington. Opinions of Arnold Buffum and Romeo Elton, Quincey(?) has said Messer is a Socinian and is about to be turned out, sends his TRACTS AND SERMONS, death of Abraham Rees, who is succeeded by Mr. Davison.
 1826 March 29
Box 1, Folder 28 Fox, William, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Asks for a recommendation in order to obtain a reading school in Boston.
 1808 March 29
Box 1, Folder 29 Grew, Henry, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Sympathizes with Messer on circumstances of his removal from Brown University, has been preaching in the west.
 1826 October 17
Box 1, Folder 30 Holyoke, Edward A., to Asa Messer
Contents Note: His plans to settle the estate of Dr. Osgood.
 1834 March 14
Box 1, Folder 31 Howell, David, 1747-1824, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Appointing him a tutor at Rhode Island College at a salary of 30 pounds a year.
 1791 September 8
Box 5, Folder 11 Howell, David, 1747-1824, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Copy. On provisions of Charter concerning religious denominations of trustees and fellows. If Quakers decline to participate, their seats could be assigned to other three denominations in same proportions as their assigned representations on the Corporation.
 1818 August 22
Box 5, Folder 11 Howell, David, 1747-1824, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Copy. Calls attention to earlier service of Quakers on Brown Corporation. "Quakers as a body, have not done, or neglected anything sufficient to prove, that they have declined taking part in this Institution." Vacant seats of Friends should not be usurped, and politics should have no part in transactions of the University. In a postscript he mentions that Obadiah Brown had not given attention to his election, because he had no official notice of it.
 1818 August 24
Box 5, Folder 11 Howell, David, 1747-1824, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: If three Quaker seats are to be filled, two should be Baptist, one Episcopalian, feels that he has been forced from Board of Fellows, requests that his resolutions on Quaker vacancies be laid before the Corporation.
 1818 August 26
Box 1, Folder 32 Judson, Adoniram, 1788-1850 (1807), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written from Rangoon. Discusses the Burman language.
 1816 January 16
Box 1, Folder 33 Martin, Simeon, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Sends his son, George Washington Martin, to college and recommends him to Messer's care.
 1803 October 3
Box 5, Folder 12 Messer, Mary. [Biography of Asa Messer]
Contents Note: 2 copies.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 34 Milne, Timothy, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Gives information about Francis Messer.
 1806 January 27
Box 1, Folder 35 Nott, Eliphalet, 1773-1866, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Requests copy of the formula conferring degrees on the alumni of Brown University.
 1805 January 4
Box 1, Folder 36 Nott, Samuel, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Places Nathaniel Searle in his charge and gives his opinion of the habits and abilities of the boy.
 1815 August 21
Box 1, Folder 37 Pitman, John, 1785-1864. Recipe for the Erysipelas communicated to Judge Pitman by Mr. Hazard of Newport ...
Contents Note: For Mrs. Messer
 1799
Box 1, Folder 38 Prince, John, 1751-1836, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Has sent his instruments to Mr. Kane. Suggests he call foe them there.
 1818 April 21
Box 1, Folder 39 Providence--First Baptist Church. Copy from the records of the first Baptist Church
Contents Note: On baptism, call to preach, and license to preach of Asa Messer.
 1792 November 0
Box 1, Folder 39 Providence--First Baptist Church. License to preach issued to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written and signed by John Pitman, clerk.
 1792 December 17
Box 1, Folder 40 Quincy, Josiah, 1772-1864, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Directed by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences to transmit the first part of the fourth volume of its memoirs to the library of Brown University.
 1818 February 16
Box 1, Folder 40 Quincy, Josiah, 1772-1864, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: American Academy of Arts and Sciences present the second part of the fourth volume of its memoirs to the library of Brown University.
 1821 July 21
Box 5, Folder 13 Rhode Island Governor. Certificate appointing Asa Messer Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Rhode Island
Contents Note: With mutilated seal. Signatures of N. R. Knight, Governor, and Samuel Eddy, Secretary.
 1818 June 15
Box 1, Folder 41 Richards, William, 1749-1818 (h1793), to William Rogers
Contents Note: Written from Lynn, England. Has lived in solitude for 12 years, prejudice of his American friends because of his religious sentiments, terrible conditions in England, William Reynolds, bearer of letter, is a druggist's apprentice desiring to remove to America, thinks of bequeathing 2000 volumes to Brown University, has published history of Lynn.
 1817 February 6
Box 1, Folder 41 Richards, William, 1749-1818 (h1793), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Written from Lynn, England. Sending copy of his history of Lynn for Brown University Library, difficulties in preparing his books for shipment to Brown University, thinks of writing memoir of Roger Williams, information about General Baptists in England, suggests honorary degrees for John Evans of London and Joseph Kinghorn of Norwich.
 1818 April 22
Box 1, Folder 42 Rogers, Robert, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Letter introducing Benjamin Solliman, who is planning to visit Brown University.
 1807 June 3
Box 1, Folder 43 Rogers, Stephen Marsh, 1800-1825 (1818), to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Requesting letter of recommendation for position of private tutor for Virginia family, difficulties among Philadelphia Baptists.
 1819 March 10
Box 1, Folder 44 Rush, Richard, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Concerns Rev. William Richards's bequest of books to Brown University.
 1819 February 4
Box 1, Folder 45 Snell, Thomas, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Recommends that Hervey Jenks be accepted as a freshman.
 1807 February 16
Box 1, Folder 46 Stanford, John, 1754-1834, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Sends copies of a tract on the Lord's Day, writes of religious affairs.
 1811 March 18
Box 1, Folder 47 Stillman, Samuel, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Cannot attend ordination, since he cannot travel in winter, has been ill.
 1802 December 21
Box 1, Folder 47 Stillman, Samuel, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Inquiring about Mr. Ellis, a preacher being considered for Stillman's congregation.
 1805 June 9
Box 1, Folder 47 Stillman, Samuel, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Recommends conferring honorary degrees on Mr. William Carey, Rev. Joseph Clay, and Mr. Hay of Philadelphia.
 1806 September 1
Box 1, Folder 48 Talbot, Ephraim(?), to Mary Messer
Contents Note: Invitation of Mr. and Mrs. E. Talbot.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 49 Webster, Noah, to Asa Messer
Contents Note: Asks him to become a patron of a larger dictionary which Webster hopes to publish.
 1806 August 18
Box 1, Folder 50 Williams, Asa Messer. The cultivation of the taste for the beautiful.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 51 Williams, Asa Messer. Journal through Italy
 1853
Box 1, Folder 52 Williams, Asa Messer. Journal through Germany
 1853
Box 1, Folder 53 Williams, Asa Messer. Sermons
Contents Note: Two sermons on texts John 11:25 and Mark 9:24 in hand of Asa Messer Williams.
 undated
Box 1, Folder 53 Williams, Asa Messer, to Sydney Williams
Contents Note: Written from Berlin. Concerning his proposed trip to Italy.
 1853 March 5
Box 1, Folder 54 Williams, Asa Messer. Letters of condolence on the death of Asa Messer Williams
Contents Note: 10 items. Includes letters by William B. Crocker, Edward T. Caswell (transmitting printed resolution of Brunonian Chapter of Alpha Delta Phi), George W. Briggs, and E. B. Hall, who also mentions death of Horace Mann.
 1859 September 0
Box 1, Folder 55 Williams, Sydney, to Misses Caroline and Charlotte Messer
Contents Note: Mentions influence of Asa Messer on his adoption of free inquiry in religion, values their friendship.
 1830 January 1
Box 1, Folder 56 Woods, Alva, 1794-1887, to Miss [Mary] Messer
Contents Note: Correcting statement in biography of Asa Messer. After resigning from Brown, Messer attended a Free Will Baptist, not a Unitarian, church.
 1858 April 26
Box 1, Folder 1 Sermons (Unidentified author)
Contents Note: Sermons of unknown authorship received with Messer papers.
 circa 1823-1835

Series IV. Sermons and Essays, 1795-1833, undated

Subseries 1. Sermons, 1795-1833

Container Description Date
Box 2 Sermon 1: Concerning imposition of Hands on church members
 undated
Box 2 Sermon 2: Charge
 undated
Box 2 Sermon 3: Thoughts on Taxes in a church for the support of the poor
 undated
Box 2 Sermon 4: Thoughts
Box 2 Sermon 5: Text: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1795 November 5, Providence; 1796 January 31, New Rowley; 1796 February 14, Methuen; 1796 April 12, Providence; 1796 June 26, Wrentham; 1796 August 28, Rehoboth
 1795-1796
Box 2 Sermon 6: Text: "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1796 March 15, Providence; 1796 April 24, Providence, Dr. Gano's; 1796 June 12, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1796 July 3, Wrentham; 1796 July 31, Rehoboth.
 1796
Box 2 Sermon 7: Text: "Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1796 August 14, Providence; 1796 September 4, Rehoboth; 1796 September 11, Wrentham.
 1796
Box 2 Sermon 8: Text: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1796 November 22, Providence; 1796 December 4, Rehoboth, Mr. Ellis's; 1798 April 15, Wrentham; 1798 July 7, Dr. Hitchcock's.
 1796-1798
Box 2 Sermon 9: Text: "I tell you, Nay, but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1797 January 10, Providence; 1797 January 29, Rehoboth; 1797 June 11, Providence; 1798 May 20, Milford; 1798 September 2, Wrentham; 1798 December 9, Attleborough, Mr. Wilder's.
 1797-1798
Box 2 Sermon 10: Text: "Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure, and trouble therewith"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1797 May 5, Providence; 1797 May 7, Rehoboth, Mr. Ellice; 1797 July 16, Providence, Mr. Snow's; 1798 May 27, Providence, Mr. Gano's; 1798 September 2, Wrentham.
 1797-1798
Box 2 Sermon 11: Text: "For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and godhead"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1799 July 20, Brown University; 1799 July 21, Rehoboth
 1799
Box 2 Sermon 12: Text: "And lead us not into temptation"
Contents Note: 1799 August 25, Providence, Mr. Gano's; 1799 November 17, Barrington.
 1799
Box 2 Sermon 13: Text: "God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1799 December 16; 1799 December 28, Brown University; 1799 December 19, Rehoboth; 1800 December 20, Pawtucket.
 1799-1800
Box 2 Sermon 14: Text: "O give thanks unto the Lord"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1800 November 27, Pawtucket; 1804 November 28, Dr. Hitchcock's.
 1800-1804
Box 2 Sermon 15: Text: "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall be made alive"
 undated
Box 2 Sermon 16: Text: "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who shall believe on me through their word ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 January 6; 1804 January 8, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1804 May 15, Mr. Willson's; 1819 August 29, Seekonk; 1825 January 15, Mr. Edes.
 1804, 1819, 1825
Box 2 Sermon 17: Text: "Follow after charity"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 April 1, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1804 May 6, Mr. Fisks; 1819 September 12, Seekonk.
 1804, 1819
Box 2 Sermon 18: Text: "So then, every one of Us shall give account of himself to God"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 April 29, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1804 July 8, Mr. Willsons; 1805 September 29, Mr. Gano's; 1819 January 2, Seekonk.
 1804-1805, 1819
Box 2 Sermon 19: Text: "And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 May 13, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1805 September 21, Mr. Gano's.
 1804-1805
Box 2 Sermon 20: Text: "Fear not, little flock, for it is your fathers good pleasure to give you the kingdom"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 May 27, Dr. Hitchcock's.
 1804
Box 2 Sermon 21: Text: "and he said, Ye have taken away the gods which I made, and the priests, and ye are gone away, and what have I more?
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 May 27, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1819 November 27, Seekonk.
 1804-1819
Box 2 Sermon 22: Text: "But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 September 30, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1819 August 29, Seekonk; 1822 February 3, Mr. Edes.
 1804, 1819-1822
Box 2 Sermon 23: Text: "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brothers eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1804 December 23, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1820 April 23, Seekonk.
 1804, 1820
Box 2 Sermon 24: Text: "Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1805 March 31, Mr. Gano's; 1805 June 30, Mr. Willson's; 1805 July 28, Mr. Watson's.
 1805
Box 2 Sermon 25: Text: "Cast me not off in the time of old age"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1805 June 2, Dr. Hitchcock's.
 1805
Box 2 Sermon 26: Text: "Judge not, that ye be not judged"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1805 June 16, Dr. Hitchcock's; 1819 August 22, Seekonk; 1826 June 12, Mr. Edes.
 1805, 1819, 1826
Box 2 Sermon 27: Text: "verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hast not risen a greater that John the Baptist..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1805 June 23, Dr. Hitchcock's.
 1805
Box 2 Sermon 28: Text: "For the Jews require a sign and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1806 January 26, Mr. Edes'; 1808 July 24, Mr. Gano's; 1809 January 8, Boston, Mr. Clays; 1809 January 22, Pawtucket; 1819 September 12, Seekonk; 1825 October 25, Mr. Edes.
 1806-1809, 1819, 1825
Box 2 Sermon 29: Text: "There remaineth, therefore, a rest for the people of God"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1806 June 1, Mr. Gano's; 1809 April 1, Mr. Edes.
 1806-1809
Box 2 Sermon 30: Text: "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1806 June 1, Mr. Gano's; 1806 August 0, Pawtucket; 1807 January 11, Methuen; 1807 March 1, Revd Mr. Edes'; 1808 July 3, Pawtuxent(?); 1808 November 5, Rehoboth, Mr. Hills; 1809 May 28, Boston, Dr. Baldwin; 1810 February 11, Boston, Mr. Clay's.
 1806-1810
Box 2 Sermon 31: Text: "And I say unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock will I build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1806 September 0, Haverhill, Mr. Bachelor's; 1806 December 29, Providence, Mr. Edes'; 1810 January 21, Boston, Mr. Clays; 1810 October 14, Mr. Gano's.
 1806-1810
Box 2 Sermon 32: Text: "These things I wrote unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly, But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1806 November 5, Providence, "at the Baptist meeting house in Providence at the ordination of Mr. Ferdinand Ellis.
 1806
Box 2 Sermon 33: Text: "For by grace are ye saved thro faith, and that not of yourselves ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1807 February 8, Mr. Gano's; 1820 April 23, Seekonk.
 1807, 1820
Box 2 Sermon 34: Text: "Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1807 April 12, Mr. Gano's; 1809 April 9, Mr. Edes; 1818 July 12, Seekonk.
 1807-1809, 1818
Box 2 Sermon 35: Text: "For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discserning the Lords body"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1808 June 5, Mr. Cornells; 1808 October 9, Pawtucket; 1809 January 1, Boston, Mr. Clays.
 1808-1809
Box 2 Sermon 36: Text: "And this I do for the gospels sake, that I might be a partaker thereof with you"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1808 August 14, Coventry, at the dedication of the Baptist meeting house in Coventry; 1808 October 2, Johns[t]on; 1808 October 7, Pawtuxet; 1808 November 13, Mr. Edes; 1809 January 1, Boston, Mr Clays; 1809 June 25, Mr. Gano's.
 1808-1809
Box 2 Sermon 37: Text: "Even so hath the Lord ordained, that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1808 November 24, Warwick, at the ordination of Rev. David Curtis.; 1812 September 29, Providence, at the ordination of the Revd. Harvey Jenks in Providence, first Baptist Meeting-House.
 1808-1812
Box 3 Sermon 38: Text: "The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the suffering of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God, which is among you ..."
Contents Note: Item undated. Dated from cover, which is 1809 Theses for Commencement.
 circa 1809
Box 3 Sermon 39: Text: "Strive to enter in at the strait gate, for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1809 April 9, Mr. Edes; 1809 April 16, Rehoboth, Mr. Hills; 1809 May 28, [Boston] Mr. Clays; 1809 June 18, Mr. Gano's; 1809 December 16, Mr. Willsons; 1818 July 5, Seekonk.
 1809, 1818
Box 3 Sermon 40: Text: "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation, not to be repented of"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1809 May 20, Boston, Mr. Clays; 1809 June 18, Mr. Gano's; 1809 September 30, Mr. Edes.
 1809
Box 3 Sermon 41: Text: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1809 December 24, Mr. Willsons; 1810 January 13, Boston, Mr. Clays; 1810 April 22, Pawtuxent(?); 1810 August 19, Mr. Edes; 1810 October 14, Mr. Gano's; 1819 October 21, Warren; 1810 October 28, Rehoboth, Mr. Hills; 1811 April 14, Pawtucket.
 1809-1811, 1819
Box 3 Sermon 42: Text: "Is any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1810 July 15, Mr. Gano's; 1810 September 16, [Boston] Mr. Clays; 1810 October 21, Warren; 1810 October 28, Rehoboth, Mr. Hills; 1811 December 8, Mr. Edes.
 1810-1811
Box 3 Sermon 43: Text: "For the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1812 May 3, Mr. Gano's; 1813 October 10, Mr. Edes; 1813 October 24, Mr. Wilders; 1818 December 17, Seekonk.
 1812-1813, 1818
Box 3 Sermon 44: Text: While Peter yet spake these words, the holy Ghost fell on all there that heard the word"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1813 April 22, Mr. Gano, "on acct. of Missionary Society"; 1819 September 15, Seekonk; 1820 January 9, Mr. Edes.
 1813, 1819-1820
Box 3 Sermon 45: Text: "How shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent?
Contents Note: Delivered: 1813 May 0, Boston, "before the Baptist Missionary Society in Massachusetts"; 1813 June 23, Bristol, "at the ordination of J. Winchell"; 1817 June 9, Providence, at the ordination of A. Briggs in Providence.
 1813-1817
Box 3 Sermon 46: Text: "Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1814 June 6, Mr. Gano's; 1814 October 1, Mr. Edes; 1814 November 6, Mr. Hills; 1815 January 15, Warren; 1815 February 5, [Boston] Mr. Baldwins; 1815 May 4, Mr. Watsons; 1819 December 26, Seekonk.
 1814-1819
Box 3 Sermon 47: Text: "And behold one came and said unto him Good master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 March 26, Warren; 1815 October 8, Mr. Gano's; 1816 August 3, Mr. Edes; 1817 June 22, Seekonk. Also includes, text: "not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith." Delivered: 1815 April 9, Warren; 1815 June 11, Mr. Gano's; 1815 September 0, Boston, Mr. Sharps, "On the evening after the Meeting of the Boston Baptist Association"; 1815 November 26, Mr. Edes; 1817 September 22, Seekonk; 1825 December 11, Mr. Edes.
 1815-1817, 1825
Box 3 Sermon 48: Address before Bible Society
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 September 7, "In the Baptist-Meeting house before the Bible Society."
 1815
Box 3 Sermon 49: Text: "we know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 8, Mr. Gano's; 1816 January 14, Andover, Mr. Lorings; 1816 January 28, Seekonk, Baptists; 1818 April 12, Seekonk, Congregational; 1818 May 10, Brown University, Chapel. Also includes text: "Wherefore I say unto you, all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men, but the blasphemy against the holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men ...." Delivered: 1815 December 3, Mr. Gano's; 1818 April 19, Seekonk.
 1815-1818
Box 3 on 50: Text: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth'
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 January 9: Dr. Gano's; 1816 January 14: Andover, Mr. Lorings; 1816 December 22: Mr. Prestons; 1817 April 13: Seekonk, Congregational; 1817 July 20: Warren.
 1816-1817
Box 3 on 50: Text: "For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity, and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 February 4: Dr. Gano's; 1816 April 21: Mr. Willsons; 1816 June 23: Pawtucket; 1817 July 20: Warren; 1817 August 10: Brown University, Chapel; 1819 May 2: Seekonk.
 1816-1819
Box 3 Sermon 51: Text: "Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given Us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 July 7, Mr. Gano's; 1817 November 28, Brown University, Chapel; 1819 April 11, Seekonk.
 1816-1819
Box 3 Sermon 52: Text: "For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance, but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 December 1, Mr. Edes; 1818 November 22, Seekonk. Also includes, text: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." Delivered: 1816 October 6, Mr. Gano's; 1817 February 2, Warren; 1817 April 20, Mr. Edes; 1817 April 27, Seekonk, Congregationalist.
 1816-1818
Box 3 Sermon 53: Text: "Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 December 8, Dr. Ganos; 1817 April 20, Mr. Edes; 1819 December 5, Seekonk; 1834 May 11, Mr. Halls. Also includes text: "whom having not seen ye love, in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." Delivered: 1817 January 15, Mr. Gano's; 1817, Warren; 1817 October 19, Mr. Edes; 1818 July 2, Bristol, Mr. Bates; 1819 January 3, Seekonk; 1824 September, Brookline, Conn.
 1816-1824
Box 3 Sermon 54: Text: "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 April 27, Dr. Gano's; 1817 May 24, Seekonk; 1817 July 27, Warren; 1818 November 1, Barrington; 1819 October 10, Mr. Edes; 1832 October 20, Mr. Edes.
 1817-1832
Box 3 Sermon 55: Text: "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 April 17, Dr. Gano's; 1817 April 13, Seekonk, Congregationalists; 1817 May 11, Barrington; 1817 July 0, Mr. Edes; (1818?) Methuen, Mr. K.; 1824 November 28, Mr. Edes. Also includes text: "And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him ...." Delivered: 1817 May 4, Dr. Gano's; 1817 May 11, Barrington; 1817 June 0, Methuen, Mr. Kimballs; 1817 September 7, Seekonk; 1820 February 13, Mr. Edes
 1817-1818, 1824
Box 3 Sermon 56: Text: "If a man desireth the ofice a bishop, he desireth a good work"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 September 16, Bridgewater. Ordination of Revd. Flavel Shurtleff.
 1817
Box 3 Sermon 57: Text: "And fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 August 3, Warren; 1817 September 7, Seekonk; 1817 October 5, Mr. Gano's; 1817 October 7, Mr. Wilders. Also includes text: "And if you have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?" Delivered: 1817 October 8, Mr. Gano's; 1817 October 12, Mr. Wilders; 1818 June 14, Mr. Edes; 1819 June 6, Seekonk.
 1817-1819
Box 3 Sermon 58: Text: "For without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1818 February 1, Mr. Gano's; 1818 August 16, Mr. Edes; 1826 November 13, Brown University Chapel; 1826 October 1, Mr. Edes. Also includes text: "For as many as are led by the spirit of God, they are the sons of God." Delivered: 1818 February 22, Mr. Edes; 1819 August 1, Bristol, Mr. Bates; 1818 November 1, Barrington; 1818 November 15, Seekonk; 1818 December 13, Mr. Bakers; 1826 April 30, Brown University Chapel; 1826 May 6, Brown University Chapel; 1833 May 26, Mr. Hall's.
 1818-1833
Box 3 Sermon 59: Text: "And Jesus, answering, said, Were ther not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God save this stranger"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1818 December 3, Seekonk.
 1818
Box 3 Sermon 60: Text: "Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1818 November 29, Mr. Edes; 1819 February 28, Seekonk; 1825 March 6, Mr. Tobey's; 1832 August 11, Mr. Edes. Also includes text: "we have also a more sure word of Prophecy, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts." Delivered: 1819 January 10, Seekonk; 1819 January 31, Mr. Edes; 1832 August 11, Mr. Edes.
 1818-1832
Box 3 Sermon 61: Text: "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith"
Contents Note: Delivered: 1819 March 14, Seekonk; 1819 March 21, Mr. Edes.
 1819-1820
Box 3 Sermon 62: Text: "Nay, but, o man, who art thou that replieth against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the Potter Power over the clay ..."
Contents Note: Delivered: 1819 May 9, Mr. Edes; 1819 December 19, Seekonk. Also includes text: "And he that doubteth is damned, if he eat, because he eateth not of faith, for whatsoever is not of faith is sin"; 1819 May 16, Seekonk; 1819 July 18, Mr. Edes.
 1819

Subseries 2. Essays 1, 1815-1829

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.1
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 June 11; 1820 October 8; 1825 April 17.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.2
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 June 18; 1820 October 15; 1825 April 24.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.3
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 June 15; 1820 October 25; 1825 May 1.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.4
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 July 2; 1820 October 29; 1825 June 5.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.5
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 July 9; 1820 November 13; 1825 June 12.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.6
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 July 16; 1829 November 19; 1815 June 19.
 1815, 1829
Box 4, Folder 1 [Chapel address] No.7
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 July 23; 1820 November 27; 1825 June 26.
 1815-1825

Subseries 3. Essays 2, 1815-1825

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.8
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 July 30; 1821 October 14; 1825 July 3.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.8(!)
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 August 13; 1821 October 21; 1825 July 10.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.9
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 August 20; 1821 October 28; 1825 July 17.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.10
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 August 27; 1821 November 11; 1815 July 24.
 1815, 1821
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.11
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 1; 1822 March 10.
 1815, 1822
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.12
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 8.
 1815
Box 4, Folder 2 [Chapel address] No.13
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 15; 1822 March 17.
 1815-1822

Subseries 4. Essays 3, 1815-1826

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.14
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 22; 1821 June 10; 1825 September 4.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.15
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 October 29; 1821 June 17; 1825 October 2.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.16
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 November 19; 1821 July 1; 1825 October 9.
 1816-1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.17
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 November 26; 1821 July 8; 1825 October 16.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.18
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 September? 10; 1821 July 22; 1825 October 23.
 1815-1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.19
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 December 17; 1825 October 30.
 1815, 1825
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.20
Contents Note: Delivered: 1815 December 15.
 1815
Box 4, Folder 3 [Chapel address] No.22
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 February 25; 1821 August 4; 1826 April 16.
 1816-1826

Subseries 5. Essays 4, 1816-1826

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.23
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 March 10; 1821 August 19; 1825 November 25.
 1816-1825
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.24
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 March 17; 1821 September 30.
 1816, 1821
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.25
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 24; 1821 October 7.
 1817, 1821
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.26
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 March 31; 1825 November 24.
 1816, 1825
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.27
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 April 14; 1826 March 5.
 1816, 1826
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.28
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 April 21,
 1816
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.29
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 April 28; 1826 March 12.
 1816, 1826
Box 4, Folder 4 [Chapel address] No.30

Subseries 6. Essays 5, 1816-1826

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.31
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 July 8.
 1816
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.32
Contents Note: Delivered: 1822 April 14; 1826 April 3
 1822, 1826
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.33
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 June 23; 1822 March 24.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.34
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 June 30; 1822 April 1.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.35
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 July 7; 1822 April 21.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.36
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 July 14; 1822 April 29.
 1816. 1822
Box 4, Folder 5 [Chapel address] No.37
Contents Note: Delivered: 1826 April 9.
 1826

Subseries 7. Essays 6, 1816-1826

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.38
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 July 28; 1822 May 12; 1826 June 12.
 1816-1826
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.39
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 August 4; 1822 June 9; 1816 June 19.
 1816-1826
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.40
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 August 11; 1822 June 23.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.41
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 August 18; 1822 July 7.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.42
Contents Note: Delivered: 1822 July 14; 1826 June 5.
 1822, 1826
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.43
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 September 29; 1822 July 22; 1826 July 9.
 1816-1826
Box 4, Folder 6 [Chapel address] No.44
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 October 13; 1822 July 29; 1826 July 16.
 1816-1826

Subseries 8. Essays 7, 1816-1826

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.45
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 October 20; 1822 August 11.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.46
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 October 27; 1826 July 30.
 1816, 1826
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.47
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 November 10; 1826 August 6.
 1816, 1826
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.48
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 November 17; 1826 August 13.
 1816, 1826
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.49
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 November 24; 1822 October 6; 1826 August 20.
 1822, 1823
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.50
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 December 8; 1822 August 18; 1826 September 3.
 1822, 1826
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.51
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 December 15; 1822 August 25.
 1816, 1822
Box 4, Folder 7 [Chapel address] No.52
Contents Note: Delivered: 1816 December 22; 1822 September 22.
 1816, 1822

Subseries 9. Essays 8, 1817-1823

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.53
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 February 23; 1822 October 27.
 1817, 1822
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.54
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 2; 1822 November 10.
 1817, 1822
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.55
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 9; 1822 November 18.
 1817, 1822
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.56
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 16.
 1817
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.57
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 23; 1823 August 16.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.58
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 March 30; 1823 August 24.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.59
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 April 130; 1823 August 31,
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 8 [Chapel address] No.60
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 April 20.
 1817

Subseries 10. Essays 9, 1817-1823

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.61
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 April 17; 1822 November 24.
 1817, 1822
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.62
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 May 4; 1822 October 19.
 1817, 1822
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.63
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 May 11.
 1817
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.64
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 May 18; 1823 March 16.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.65
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 June 8; 1823 March 23.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.66
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 June 15; 1823 April 13.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.67(i.e.70)
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 July 13.
 1817
Box 4, Folder 9 [Chapel address] No.73
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 October 5; 1822 October 14.
 1817, 1822

Subseries 11. Essays 10, 1817-1823

Container Description Date
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.74
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 October 19; 1823 April 27.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.75
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 October 26; 1823 May 4.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.76
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 November 2; 1823 May 11.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.77
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 November 9; 1823 May 8.
 1817, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.78
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 November 16; 1823 June 15.
 1816, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.80
Contents Note: Delivered: 1817 December 17.
 1817
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.81
Contents Note: Delivered: 1818 March 1; 1823 June 22.
 1818, 1823
Box 4, Folder 10 [Chapel address] No.82
Contents Note: Delivered: 1818 March 8; 1823 June 29.
 1818, 1823

Series V. Legal papers of Asa Messer and heirs, 1804-1862

Container Description Date
Box 5, Folder 14 Deeds for land in Methuen, Mass.
Contents Note: 5 items.
 1804-1811
Box 5, Folder 15 Providence--First Baptist Church. Deed for pew no. 45
 1808 April 14
Box 5, Folder 16 [Stock certificates]
Contents Note: Certificates of Exchange Bank, Manufacturers Bank, Merchants Bank, Globe Bank, and Providence and Pawcatuck Turnpike Company. 20 items.
 1808-1862
Box 5, Folder 17 [Promissory notes to Asa Messer and heirs]
Contents Note: 3 items.
 1822-1862
Box 5, Folder 18 [Receipts]
Contents Note: 3 items.
 1822-1862
Box 5, Folder 19 Osgood, Mary (Messer). [Will]
Contents Note: Will of Asa Messer's sister, with quitclaim deed of Alpheus Messer for title to her estate, September 4, 1834. 2 items.
 undated