How History Unfolds on Paper: Important Americana from the Eric C. Caren Collection, Part X

Connecticut Herald
New-Haven: Printed and Published by J. Woodward and M. Potter, November 1, 1803. Vol. I, No. I. Printed newspaper. (4) pp. Creasing from old folds, small holes along central horizontal fold of each sheet; creasing and wear along edges; scattered soiling and minor dampstaining.

One of the most significant and far-reaching Presidential addresses to Congress, Jefferson's October 17, 1803 message announcing the Louisiana Purchase: "The enlightened government of France saw, with just discernment, the importance to both nations of such liberal arrangements as might best and permanently promote the peace, friendship and interests of both; and the property and sovereignty of all Louisiana, which had been restored to them, has on certain conditions, been transferred to the United States by instruments bearing date the 30th of April last." He goes on to stress, "With the wisdom of Congress it will rest to take those ulterior measures which may be necessary for the immediate occupation and temporary government of the country; for its incorporation into our union; for rendering the change of government a blessing to our newly adopted brethren; for securing to them the rights of conscience and of property; for confirming to the Indian inhabitants their occupancy and self-government, establishing friendly and commercial relations with them, and for ascertaining the geography of the country acquired." The latter a reference to the Lewis and Clark expedition that was then ongoing, tracing the source of the Missouri River.

Other news reported is the passage of the 12th Amendment, to be sent to the individual states for ratification, and which altered the procedure for electing the president and vice president (that led to the contentious election of Jefferson as vice-president during John Adams' term).