Sterrett, R. W. Letter, 1857 April 23. 1 item. Location: Misc:S. R. W. Sterrett was a squatter seeking to file land claims in Atchison and Doniphan, Kansas. James Henry Lane, a political leader, organized the Free State Party in Kansas. The letter describes R. W. Sterrett's acquisition of. It states that he must remain on his land near Doniphan until he can file a claim. It describes James Henry Lane's efforts to form a party of free state men and to make Doniphan a free state town. Also described is the great influx of settlers to Kansas and the rising price of land. For further information, see online catalog. Mss. 3404.