Recently obtained by the Library of Congress, the 1760 letter offers positive news about the health of four-year-old Martha Parke Custis, known as Patsy, the stepdaughter of George Washington

November 11, 2026 8:10 a.m.

The Library of Congress has acquired letters written by Martha Washington (left) and Mary Todd Lincoln (right). Shawn Miller / Library of Congress

More than 260 years ago, Martha Washington wrote to a friend with encouraging news about her young daughter’s health. Now, that letter has found a new home at the Library of Congress, offering a rare glimpse into the family’s private life.

Martha penned the note on September 29, 1760. Writing to Margaret Bolan Green, she provided an update on her four-year-old daughter “Patsy.”

“I have the pleasure to tell you my dear little girl is much better,” she wrote.…