Rochester, January 25, 1847.
Frederick Follett, Esq.
Sir:—The undersigned, a Committee appointed at the Printers' Festival, held in this city on the 18th instant, to superintend the publication of its proceedings, have deemed it fitting to include in connection with such publication, a History of the Newspaper Press in Western New-York. Materials for this purpose have, to some event, been collected by different members of the Craft, and placed in our hands. But, as they are in most instances hastily prepared, as well is imperfect in their character, it has occurred to us that the object in view would be best attained by requesting some gentleman competent to the task, to prepare from such and other sources, a succinct and connected History. Our attention has been directed you, Sir, as eminently qualified, by an acquaintance of nearly thirty years with the Press in this part of the country, to undertake the work.—Your consent will place not only us, but the Profession generally, under very great obligation—and we earnestly beg that it may not be withheld.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
EVERARD PECK,
ALEXANDER MANN,
H. L WINANTS,
HENRY COOK,
J A. HADLEY.
Batavia, January 28, 1847.
To Everard Peck Esq., and others, Committee.
Gentlemen:—Your note of the 25th instant, came duly to hand, in which you express a desire that I should write out a History of the Newspaper Press of Western New-York. I feel a strong desire that this task should be performed by some one. The period is fast hastening on when many, if not most of those engaged in the early establishment of the Press in this section of the State, will be swept from the scenes of their early labor, and many of the facts connected with this undertaking, will die with them. If such a task, therefore, is to be accomplished, it is very desirable that it be done at once. I feel flattered that the Committee have designated me to perform this duty, and, agreeable to your request, Gentlemen, will undertake it, although I cannot hope to do it that justice which the subject would seem to demand.
Your obedient servant,
FREDERICK FOLLETT.
