Library and Archives Canada announces important acquisition of archival material by John Norton
Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is proud to announce the acquisition of an unpublished journal written by John Norton (Teyoninhokarawen) and accompanying letters. The material documents, among other things, his time in the United Kingdom in 1804–1805 as a diplomatic envoy representing the Six Nations. This acquisition was made possible by a generous contribution by the Library and Archives Canada Foundation.
These documents are an important addition to LAC’s pre-Confederation fonds and collections. Furthermore, they are an extremely rare occurrence of textual archives from a member of the Haudenosaunee community from the early 19th century.
After undergoing a light conservation treatment, the journal and letters have been digitized to make them accessible to a wider audience.
The following video and blog provide additional information into these new collection items:
- Video: Journal and correspondence of John Norton: a glimpse at a new acquisition
- Blog: A rediscovered manuscript: the first journal of John Norton (Teyoninhokarawen)
Acquiring historical material is an essential part of our mandate, which includes preserving documentary heritage for present and future generations. The John Norton archives offer exciting future opportunities for research into his life, as well as into the history of the Haudenosaunee and Canada.
We strive to build collections that reflect a diverse history and society. LAC would like to thank members of the Six Nations for their insight and discussions concerning the acquisition and wishes to acknowledge the support of the Foundation and the donors whose generosity has made this acquisition possible.