Brown University class of 1796. Professor of oratory and belles-lettres, 1815-1828. Chief Justice, R. I. Supreme Court, 1815-1816; U. S. Representative, 1825-1835.
Poems and letters written by Tristam Burges, including letters sent to the Brown University Corporation and Zachariah Allen.
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There are no restrictions on access, except that the collection can only be seen by prior appointment. Some materials may be stored off-site and cannot be produced on the same day on which they are requested.
Tristam Burges Papers, AMS-1UF-B6, Brown University Library
This collection is divided into four series. Each one is arranged chronologically.
Four letters to Zachariah Allen (three from 1828 and one from 1837) are currently missing.
Biographical material gathered by Brown University;
On verso: Lines on parting with social "Mess," in Washington. Signed poem.;
First line: There was a lovely calmness in her eye.
Signed, with author's corrections;
To his sister, containing verses he proposes to write in his niece's album.
Poem begins: In ancient times, when human wants were few …;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Regarding his salary;
Asks Allen to endorse a note for him.;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Salary receipt;
Twenty-three page letter outlining his services as Professor of Oratory and Belles Lettres, his arrangement with Professors Messer and Goddard to perform these duties when he was away, his offer of compensation to them which was declined, suggests circumstances under which he could continue in his professorship, which he considers an honor bestowed upon him and about to be taken from him.;
Has received notice of resolution lodged against him; it is not practicable for him to attend meeting.;
A desperate letter uring Allen to secure statements in favor of the Tariff Act of 1828, known to zealous opposition as the "Tariff of Abomination";
Asking his opinion on the currency question, particularly the advisability of using gold and silver.;
Mentioning various business matters, the sale of milk, the desirability of a free bridge, etc.;
Concerning various matters of personal business and urging a new petition for another bridge.;
Requesting him to pay an account for him.;
Concerning repairs to the tavern and the work of Henry Codding, carpenter.;
Letter of introduction for [Francis J.] Lippitt.;
Written on board steamboat B. Franklin. Requesting him to obtain from the Providence Board of Health a permit for him and Mrs. Burges to land in Providence.;
Concerning the purchase and delivery of oil meal.;
To accompany a bank draft.;
Discussing various political matters, chiefly the difficulty of maintaining the Union.;
Giving an account of the voting for Clarke and Franklin.;