George Lunt to Jefferson Davis Letter

Collection

Identifier: MSS-4753

No requestable containers

Scope and Contents

This collection consists of a letter written by George Lunt to Jefferson Davis in Boston, 1860, on the eve of the Civil War. In the letter, Lunt expresses sympathy toward Southern concerns and emphasizes the importance of fostering communication between different regions of the country to reduce tensions. He recalls past interactions with Davis, discusses his brief visit to Washington, and conveys his impressions of the political climate in the South.

Lunt also highlights the role of the Boston Courier, a newspaper he co-edited, as a voice of "law and order" in New England and as a publication opposed to abolitionist movements. He appeals to Davis for support in expanding the paper’s circulation in the South, citing growing Southern subscriptions as evidence of its influence. Lunt views the Courier as a critical medium for bridging sectional divisions and mitigating hostilities.

Dates

Creation: 1860

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Collection is open for research. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws before using this collection. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Due to the nature of certain archival formats, including digital and audio-visual materials, access to certain materials may require additional advance notice.

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Biographical / Historical

George Lunt, an American author, lawyer, and political figure, was born in Newburyport, Massachusetts, on December 31, 1803. He graduated from Harvard in 1824 with distinction in Greek, subsequently studying law and beginning his legal practice in Newburyport in 1827.

Lunt was actively engaged in politics, serving as a representative for Newburyport and later as a senator from Essex County in the Massachusetts legislature. He played a key role in the convention that nominated General Zachary Taylor for the presidency and was appointed United States District Attorney under Taylor’s administration. After his tenure in public office, he returned to private law practice while dedicating significant time to literary pursuits.

During the Civil War era, Lunt was co-editor of the Boston Courier alongside George S. Hillard, shaping public discourse through his writings. Later, he resumed his legal career, frequently appearing in state courts and advocating before congressional committees, particularly in matters related to French claims. His work in this area included drafting legislation and lobbying for congressional action.

In his later years, Lunt devoted himself to advocating for the development of harbors of refuge, particularly in Scituate on the southern shore of Boston Bay. Through persistent efforts, he secured substantial congressional appropriations for these projects, ensuring the construction of a safe harbor at Scituate—a lasting testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Politically, Lunt was an ardent member of the Whig Party, known for his eloquence as a public speaker. After the Whig Party dissolved, he aligned himself with the Democratic Party. He was a man of strong convictions, both political and religious, and expressed his beliefs with clarity and courage. As a writer, his style was distinguished by strength, dignity, and grace, reflecting his intellectual rigor and literary acumen.

Lunt passed away in Boston on May 17, 1885. His contributions to law, politics, and literature remain a significant part of his legacy.