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Rare Autograph Letter Signed by George Frederick Simmons (1814–1855), noted Unitarian clergyman and outspoken abolitionist, written in Albany, N.Y. on March 20, 1855, to fellow Unitarian leader Rev. Andrew P. Peabody, D.D. of Portsmouth.
This remarkable two-page letter was penned just months before Simmons’ untimely death from typhus in September 1855, making it one of the last known letters from his hand. In it, Simmons discusses Judge Parker, the Unitarian cause, and the value of Peabody’s presence in Albany, expressing both respect and a desire to strengthen the movement. He closes warmly: “Your friend & servant, Geo. F. Simmons.”
Simmons’ career was cut tragically short, but his legacy was defined by courage and conviction. In 1838 he began preaching in Mobile, Alabama, where his outspoken opposition to slavery forced him to flee for his life. Later he held pulpits in Waltham, Springfield, and Albany, publishing several sermons and tracts including Two Sermons on the Kind Treatment and Emancipation of Slaves (1840) and Public Spirit and Mobs (1849). He was admired for his intellect, reverence, and moral courage.
The recipient, Rev. Andrew P. Peabody (1811–1893), was himself a central figure in New England Unitarianism, later becoming Professor of Theology and Moral Philosophy at Harvard. Their correspondence represents a vivid window into the Unitarian and abolitionist networks of the mid-19th century.
Date/Place: Albany, N.Y., March 20, 1855
Pages: 2pp on embossed paper (L.B. & Co. blind-stamp)
Signature: Signed boldly “Geo. F. Simmons” at close
Recipient: Rev. Andrew P. Peabody, D.D., Portsmouth
Importance: Letters from Simmons are exceedingly scarce due to his early death at just 41 years old. Written during his final months, this example highlights both his abolitionist spirit and his ties to major figures of the Unitarian movement.
Condition: Very good, light folds from mailing, strong ink, clear signature. Includes later obituary clipping providing detailed biography of Simmons.
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Transcript (excerpt)
“…it would be very interesting to the Unitarian friends here & gratifying to me… I think it might be quite useful to our cause… Do not trouble yourself to reply… unless you have ability to comply with my suggestion… Very respectfully, Your friend & servant, Geo. F. Simmons.”
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Historical Note
George Frederick Simmons’ opposition to slavery in Alabama nearly cost him his life. His later sermons in Massachusetts against mobs and on behalf of emancipation mark him as one of the brave voices of the early abolitionist cause within Unitarianism. His death in 1855 makes authentic signed material extraordinarily uncommon.
