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William Davenport Papers

 Collection
Identifier: Ms 022

Scope and Content

The collection consists of autograph letters and official transcripts to Col. Davenport, to and from his fort commanders and other subordinate officers, mostly relative to the Second Seminole War in Florida (1835-1842). Two small pocket diaries, in pencil, by Col. Davenport dated Nov. 1837-March, 1838 and Dec. 1839 - April 1940. Reports of Indian scouts from the field, October 1838 to June 1841, including several manuscript maps. An undated manuscript petition signed by 41 citizens of Madison County, Florida, appealing for Army protection against constant attacks by the Indians, with accompanying letters. Letters from R.K. Call, Gov. of Florida, to Col. Davenport, relative to Indian atrocities and the problems of raising a volunteer militia to combat the situation of "murders and further attacks by the fugitive Creeks." Letter to Col. Davenport from the Indian "Strong Ground" in the hand of translator / interpreter signed "S.M.P.".

This collection, consisting mainly of material during Col. Davenport's tour of duty in Florida, is a portion of his military papers sold by order of the heirs. There are a total of 286 pieces.

Dates

  • Creation: 1835-1842

Creator

Access

The collection is open for research.

Biographical/Historical Note

Born in North Carolina; died in Philadelphia April 12, 1858. He was appointed captain in the 16th infantry in 1812 and distinguished himself at Chippewa and Lundy's Lane in the War of 1812. He was advanced to the rank of Brevet Major on 28 Sept., 1822 for "ten years' faithful service" and transferred to the 6th Infantry [Regiment] Dec. 16, 1825; further advanced to Lt. Colonel in the 1st Infantry [Regiment] April 4, 1832, where he distinguished himself at the battle of Bad Axe under General Atkinson during the Black Hawk War. He was made Brevet Colonel "for meritorious service in Florida July 7, 1838, then advanced to full Colonel while once again posted to the 6th Infantry [Regiment], June 14, 1842; later he was transferred to the back to the 1st Infantry in July, 1843. Davenport resigned his commission and left the service on 31 January 1850. (Ref: Appletons Encyclopedia of American Biography, NY 1887)

Extent

0.05 Linear feet (2 diaries and 286 items)

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

Two small pocket diaries and personal and official correspondence of Davenport, who saw service in Florida during the Second Seminole War.

Arrangement

With the exception of items 1 through 21, all letters and documents are arranged in accordance with dates, which appear at the head of the communication.

Physical Location

University of Florida Smathers Library Building

Alternate Form of Material

Items in this collection have been digitized and are available via the University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC) as part of the Pioneer Days in Florida project, which is generously supported by a grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC). Please read the Permissions for Use statement for information on copyright, fair use, and use of UFDC digital objects.

Title
A Guide to the William Davenport Papers
Status
Completed
Author
Finding aid prepared by Dept. Staff
Date
March 2005
Description rules
Finding Aid Prepared Using Dacs
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin
Language of description note
Description is written in English.
Sponsor
Digitization funded with the generous support of the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).

Repository Details

Part of the Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida Repository

Contact:
George A. Smathers Libraries
PO Box 117005
Gainesville Florida 32611-7005 United States of America
352-273-2755