John Cusa to Richard Yates

Heyworth McLean Co Ills. Dec. 11/62

Hon R Yates Dear Sir.

You are aware that Congress, passed an act, giveing to each Congressman, and U.S. Senator Thirty thousands acres of land for the purpose of supporting agricultural Colleges.

This state under that act will be entitled to Four hundred and eighty thousand acres (480,000). No doubt you are fully apprised of the provisions of that act; and as Executive of the State, feel the importance, of immediately taking measures, (If you have not allready done so) too procure our quota.

Not seeing that any state except Iowa, has taken measures for locating their lands, it occurred to my mind, that it might not be inappropriate, too call your attention to the subject.

In order that this state may avail herself of the benefit of that act, it will be necessary that a Commissioner be appointed to locate the land.

If you have not made an appointment for that purpose, I would respectfully

ask of you to be appointed to that office.

I will make the selection at __ per acre, or in any way that would be satisfactory to your Excellency.

I would refer you to Hon David Davis & Hon Wm Hannah Bloomington, also: Hon Isaac Funk & Hon Harrison Noble of McLean Co.

On receipt you will confer a favor by corresponding on the subject, you will please direct your answer to Hon Wm Hannah Bloomington McLean Co Ills.

Yours Respectfully

John Cusa

John Cusa

Heyworth McLean Co. Ills

Dec 11 - 62

Says it will be necessary to appoint a Commissioner for the purpose of selecting the lands ceded to the state under "an act to provide for agricultural colleges &c.")

Offers himself for this appointment & refers to Hon. David Davis Hon Wm Hannah & others

(address Hon Wm Hannah Bloomington.