Lydia Broadnax to Thomas Jefferson, 9 April 1807

George Wythe's former servant, Lydia Broadnax, wrote to President Thomas Jefferson in 1807, explaining her difficulties in health and finances following Wythe's death. Broadnax describes herself as almost entirely deprived of her eyesight as a result of the poisoning which killed Wythe and Michael Brown.

Jefferson instructed his personal secretary, George Jefferson, to give Broadnax $50.00.

Letter text, 9 April 1807

Richmond 9 April 1807.

Sir,

I beg leave to trouble you with these lines, hoping you will lay such favorable constructions as the nature of my distressed situation shall appear & at present require.

You must know Sir, that since the death of my dear old Master (Judge Wythe) I have, already labored under many tedious difficulties, and what is more unfortunate my eyesight has almost failed me, I believe it is owing to the dreadful complaint the whole family was afflicted with at the decease of my poor Master—supposed to be the effect of poison.—It is true I have a tolerable & comfortable house to live in, but being almost intirely deprived of my eyesight, together with old age and infirmness of health I find it extremely difficult in procuring merely the daily necessaries of life—and without some assistance I am fearful I shall sink under the burden. This being my situation I am compelled to resort to this crisis from the old and intimate acquaintance, and Knowing your benevolence do now appeal to you for some charitable aid, which I have no doubt your generous hands will not refuse when considering my embarrassed circumstances—and be well assured that nothing but this, and this alone sires me with fortitude to make my supplications Known to you. If this should meet your approbation—and such charity as you shall think proper to bestow to me, you will please inclose in a letter directed to me by the Mail to [me] at this City—and the favor will ever be remembered by Your Obt. & humble Servant

Lydia Broadnax

See also

• Lydia Broadnax
• Lydia Broadnax to Thomas Jefferson, 2 June 1819

External links

• "To Thomas Jefferson from Lydia Broadnax, 9 April 1807," Founders Online, National Archives.
• "From Thomas Jefferson to George Jefferson, 18 April 1807," Founders Online, National Archives.