Description
This group of 34 documents consists of
correspondence, reports, and accounts primarily accumulated by British civil servant William
Blathwayt (1649-1717) between the mid 1670s and 1712 in his capacity as a British government
official in such roles as Surveyor and Auditor General of Plantation Revenues and Secretary
and member of the Lords of Trade. The materials consist chiefly of miscellaneous drafts or
copies of documents related to the British colonies in North America and the West Indies.
Items pertain to taxation, revenue, trade and shipping, and defense, primarily in the
Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Kitts, and Nevis.
Background
English politician and administrator William Blathwayt (1649-1717) was one of the most
distinguished civil servants of his time. Blathwayt was born in London, England, in 1649.
Beginning in 1665, he attended the Middle Temple and in 1668 entered public life as clerk in
the embassy of Sir William Temple at The Hague (1668-1672). In 1672, Blathwayt toured
Germany and Italy, before returning to England.
Extent
1.4 Linear Feet
(1 box)
Restrictions
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or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.