William Patterson collection
Abstract
This collection contains correspondence of William Patterson, chiefly in regard to his daughter Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte, but also in regards to business and politics.
Dates
- 1798 - 1835
Creator
- Patterson, William, 1752-1835 (Person)
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open for research use.
Conditions Governing Use
The reproduction of materials in this collection may be subject to copyright restrictions. It is the responsibility of the researcher to determine and satisfy copyright clearances or other case restrictions when publishing or otherwise distributing materials found in the collections. For more information visit the MCHC’s Rights and Permissions page.
Biographical / Historical
William Patterson was born in Ireland and immigrated to Philadelphia at age 14. He began his career in merchandizing by supplying munitions during the Revolution, and subsequently made a fortune as a Baltimore merchant and realtor. Patterson was the first president of the Bank of Maryland, established in 1790, one of the organizers of the Merchant's Exchange in Baltimore, and one of the incorporators and first directors of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 1827. His daughter, Elizabeth Patterson, was a Baltimore socialite who married Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of Emperor Napoleon. The marriage, although it produced one son, was later dissoved by Napoleon so that Jerome could make a more advantageous European match. Elizabeth returned to the United States with her son and never remarried.
Extent
0.42 Linear Feet (1 box)
Language of Materials
English
Scope and Contents
This collection contains correspondence of William Patterson, chiefly in regard to his daughter Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte (arrangements for her finances in Europe, personal and financial advice to her, discussion of her husband, etc.) and to the marriage of her son Jerome Napoleon Bonaparte. Correspondence also comments on the importance of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and on the possibility of revolution in the United States due to the actions of President Jackson and the B. U. S., 1834. The collection also contains a copy of William Patterson's las Will and Testament, which includes an introductory account of his life---his procurement of powder and arms during the Revolution; his experiences in the shipping trade in St. Eustatia, Martinique and the U.S.; his reflections on commerce and real estate; his personal virtues, etc. collection also includes a copy of the "Analysis and Remarks on the Will of William Patterson, Esp." by Reverdy Johnson. Also Customs House receipts, etc.
Creator
- Patterson, William, 1752-1835 (Person)
- Title
- Guide to the William Patterson collection
- Status
- Minimally Processed
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
Revision Statements
- 2021-09-24: Manually entered into ArchivesSpace by Mallory Herberger.
Repository Details
Part of the H. Furlong Baldwin Library Repository
H. Furlong Baldwin Library
Maryland Center for History and Culture
610 Park Avenue
Baltimore MD 21201 United States
4106853750
specialcollections@mdhistory.org