Goff family papers (Ms.2008.016)

Although a very small collection, the Goff Family papers provide a glimpse of nineteenth century and, to a lesser extent, mid-twentieth century American social life and customs. What is especially noteworthy about this collection is the letter of Daniel H. Goff, a native of Rhode Island, to his family; dated August 15th, 1849, it provides an account of his sea voyage from Boston, Massachusetts to San Francisco, California in his quest for gold. For historians interested in the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855, this letter provides a detailed, first-hand account of one person’s voyage in pursuit of gold during that period in United States history.

In addition to the letter by Daniel H. Goff, the collection also includes the following documentation: several military commissions of Daniel H. Goff and his son, William M. Goff; and the wills of William’s brother, Daniel C. Goff, probated 1852, and the latter’s wife, Martha Hall Goff, dated 1946.