James Madison Papers

Eli Whitney to James Madison, 1 November 1803

From Eli Whitney

Philadelphia Nov 1st. 1803

Sir,

I am desirous of obtaining an Exemplified Copy of my Patent for an Improvment in the Mode of Ginning Cotton; with the principal Specification References & Drawings included in the copy.1 Being now on my way to the Southern Country, I expect to be at Washington on the 6th. and it would be a particular accommodation to me if the proper Officer can make it convenient to have the copy made out so that I receive it on the 7th instant. I am, Sir, with great Respect Your very Obdt. Servt.

Eli Whitney

FC (CtY).

1JM affixed his seal to copies dated 25 and 26 Nov. 1803 of the patent and specifications originally issued to Whitney on 14 Mar. 1794 (DNA: RG 241, Restored Patents, vol. 1).

Index Entries