Invitation to the laying of the original cornerstone, August 20, 1856.

This document was given to St. Bonaventure by Eileen O'Brien in the summer of 2006.  
It reads:

                                  Ellicottville Aug. 7, 1856
Dear Sir:
     It will afford me great pleasure to
meet you, and as many of your friends as can
find it convenient to accomany [sic] you, at Allegany
on the 20th. inst., on the occasion of laying the
Corner Stone of the Franciscan College.
     Many distinguished persons have signified
their intention to be present, and I trust the
occasion will prove pleasant to all who may
favor us with their company.
                                             Very Respectfully,
Asher Tyler Esq.                       Your Obt. Srvt.
            Elmira                   
                      N.Y.               John C. Devereux

click to see copy of letter

Asher Tyler, the recipient of the letter, had been a land agent for the Devereux lands from 1836 until around 1843.  He lived in Ellicottville during that period and was elected to Congress from that district.  After leaving the agency in Ellicottville, he relocated to Elmira, where he became land agent for the Erie Railroad.  He remained there until his death at age 77 in 1875. (History of Cattaraugus County, New York, p. 252)

Last updated:  09/07/06