1From James Madison to William Tatham (Abstract), 6 May 1805 (Madison Papers)
6 May 1805, Department of State . “J. Madison has received the volume of papers concerning the province of Quebeck. He thanks Mr. Totham [ sic ] for this tribute to the collection of Books in the Office of State; as well as for the polite access which he offers, to the other Books in his possession, of which he has not duplicates.” Letterbook copy ( DNA : RG 59, DL , vol. 14). 2 pp.
2To James Madison from William Tatham, 24 October 1808 (Madison Papers)
By last Mail, I did myself the honor of transmitting to you a printed pamphlet on the subject of a link of our coastwise navigation inland, which passes through this County: a matter which I have been many years investigating, and concieve to be of the highest importance in the consolidation of the united force of the Country, the fraternization of its Citizens, and the common safety or...
3To James Madison from William Tatham, 18 August 1809 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
18 August 1809, Washington. Relates his financial losses suffered during and after the Revolution. Proposes a survey which would be sponsored by the federal government to create military maps of U.S. territories. RC ( DLC ). 8 pp. Docketed by JM.
4To James Madison from William Tatham, 10 March 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
10 March 1810, Norfolk. Transmits enclosures for JM’s perusal but reminds him that “these uncountenanced pursuits” cannot continue “unless some respectable appointment in the power and inclination of the executive can afford me means wherewith my leisure hours may be thus employed.” A plan to present JM with “some very extensive results of my topographical researches” is in abeyance for lack...
5To James Madison from William Tatham, 18 May 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
18 May 1810, Norfolk. Gratefully acknowledges receipt of JM’s friendly reply to his 10 Mar. letter . He is recuperating from a long illness. Since last seeing JM in Washington, has never heard from Gallatin concerning his ideas on “the Coastwise improvement of the revenue powers.” About 10 Mar. he also wrote to the secretary of the navy regarding “Maritime improvements … far superior to the...
6To James Madison from William Tatham, 18 May 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
18 May 1810, Norfolk. The same mail that brought JM’s letter [not found] also carried one from London, telling of the death of Miss Tatham, the writer’s cousin, at Hornby Castle, the seat of John Marsden. “As sole heir on my Mothers side,” he may inherit an annual income of £5,000 and from Miss Tatham “the Peerages of Morville, L’Engleys, and Barony of Askham,” to which the duke of Norfolk...
7To James Madison from William Tatham, 25 May 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
25 May 1810, Norfolk. Sends JM papers “on the defence of Lynnhaven Bay, the Chesapeake, Norfolk, &c,” including a paper “which contemplates a co-operation by Fire rafts.” Lists seven more communications he will complete “if encouraged to do so,” ranging from field fortifications to an inland canal system. Asks for JM’s assistance, as he is without income and the administration has neglected...
8To James Madison from William Tatham, 10 July 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
10 July 1810, Norfolk. Believes it is important to add to his former communications the enclosed statement of facts concerning the legal right of the public to “the Desart” at Cape Henry. Is continuing his topographical work. Relates that his family is in distressed circumstances. RC and enclosure ( DLC ). RC 2 pp. Printed in McPherson, “Letters of William Tatham,” WMQ William and Mary...
9To James Madison from William Tatham, 1 January 1811 (Madison Papers)
Observing that Government are now occupied on the claim of the United States to West Florida, & having some idea of that subject through my researches in London, at the instance of our late Minister Mr. Monroe, I shall be pardoned for offering to the executive aid certain evidences tending to strengthen our pretensions—viz. 1st. An old Map (heretofore mentioned to you) procured by me at the...
10To James Madison from William Tatham, 4 March 1811 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
4 March 1811, Norfolk. “Perhaps there never was a period when speedy communication was more important to the safety and prosperity of the United states than the present; especially when we consider how difficult it must be to manage a population so far and widely expanding itself.” Encloses a sketch to demonstrate a method of telegraphic communication “whereby I deem it practicable to pass a...