Martha Bradstreet papers, 1772-1868

Papers, 1774-1868, mainly consisting of correspondence and legal documents relating to Martha Bradstreet's attempts to regain title to land in Utica (N.Y.), which was originally part of the property of General John Bradstreet, the stepfather of Bradstreet's father, Samuel. Title to the land became confused by a poorly drafted deed of sale to Peter Schuyler in 1793, and Martha Bradstreet's claim to the land was further complicated by the terms of the will of her aunt, Elizabeth Livius. Because Bradstreet married Matthew Codd in 1799 without the approval of Charles Morgan, the executor of the will, her share of the property reverted to her brother, Samuel Bradstreet. When Morgan approved the marriage in 1801, she found much of the land had been sold, and her litigation, in a case which was finally decided against her in 1831, was an attempt to cancel the sales and regain possession of the land. The correspondence contains some personal letters, but is mainly concerned with the case; the bulk of it dates from 1815. There are also wills, leases, powers of attorney, and other miscellaneous papers and bills.