Alexander Hamilton was an American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first U.S. secretary of the treasury from 1789 to 1795 under the presidency of George Washington. He also founded America's first political party, the Federalist Party, in 1791.
Alexander Hamilton acknowledges receipt of fifty-seven pounds and ten shillings from William Floyd, representing the principal and interest on a fifty-pound note dated April 1783. He records this payment on behalf of John Carter, also known as John Church, noting the original note was misplaced in his possession. Hamilton formally documents the transaction in New York on July 7, 1785.
Alexander Hamilton requests Richard Varick to propose candidates for a commission tasked with examining witnesses in a legal dispute between John Wardrop and Alexander Macaulay. He seeks Varick’s input to ensure a fair and effective investigation.
Alexander Hamilton expresses sorrow over Angelica Schuyler Church's departure from America, fearing they may never meet again and lamenting the loss of her presence. He urges her and her husband not to settle hastily in Europe, suggesting America offers a more favorable environment. Hamilton emphasizes his deep affection and hopes for continued friendship despite the distance.
Alexander Hamilton informs Stephen J. Schuyler that John J. Skidmore, assignee of Hannah Brewer, has paid £200 toward purchasing a farm held by Doctor Perry. Hamilton requests the deed to complete the mortgage agreement. He offers to execute the mortgage once the deed is received.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Theodorus Bailey in November 1785, likely addressing political or financial matters relevant to the post-Revolutionary period. Bailey responds in January 1786, explaining that illness delayed his reply. The content of Hamilton's original letter is not preserved.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Barker Church in November 1785, likely discussing financial matters or debts between them. The letter prompts Church's April 1786 response acknowledging his indebtedness and thanking Hamilton for multiple previous letters. Hamilton's communication reflects ongoing personal and financial correspondence during the post-Revolutionary War period.
Alexander Hamilton informs George Washington about debates within the New York Society of the Cincinnati regarding proposed changes to the organization's constitution. He reports a unanimous decision to draft a circular letter advocating for a general meeting to approve amendments that address objections and safeguard the society's interests. Hamilton also notes opposition to legislative control over the society's funds and continuity provisions.
Alexander Hamilton conveys a proposal from Laurence Kortright to Helena Brasher, offering to release all claims on Kortright's father's estate if she repays money owed and returns a £200 bond tied to his mother's death. The letter addresses settling financial and legal obligations stemming from wartime support during her residence in New Jersey.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Barker Church in December 1785, likely addressing financial or personal matters between them. The correspondence reflects ongoing communication and mutual obligations, as Church acknowledges owing Hamilton and thanks him for several letters. The exact content of Hamilton's December 6 letter is missing, but it forms part of their continued exchange.
Alexander Hamilton requests Richard Varick to assume responsibility for the legal case Macaulay v. Ludlow and to continue managing the suit. Hamilton entrusts Varick with overseeing the proceedings on his behalf.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Wilcocks in 1786, likely discussing matters related to post-Revolutionary War governance or finance, reflecting his ongoing involvement in shaping the new nation. The letter precedes Wilcocks's brief acknowledgment dated March 5, 1786. Specific content of Hamilton's message remains unknown due to the missing text.
Alexander Hamilton confirms Francis Upton's clear legal claim to lands in New York and advises him on steps to secure and maintain possession. Hamilton emphasizes the importance of proper documentation and timely action to protect Upton's property rights.
Alexander Hamilton instructs John Chaloner to sell a group of ships on the best possible terms, specifying that he intends to retain one-eighth ownership without regard to expenses. He mentions a potential arrangement with Mr. Wilcox for payment flexibility and requests updates on the sale and buyer. Hamilton promises to send a bill of sale once the transaction is finalized.
Alexander Hamilton responds to John Wilcocks regarding a dispute involving ship ownership, expressing regret over the inconvenience but declining to intervene further on behalf of Mr. Church. Hamilton instructs Mr. Chaloner to finalize the sale of Mr. Church’s share in the two ships on favorable terms. He also mentions having written to Mr. Wadsworth about the matter.
Alexander Hamilton and fellow petitioners appeal to the New York legislature in 1786 to abolish the slave trade, condemning it as inhumane and incompatible with the principles of liberty and justice. They argue that a free society must reject such commerce to uphold its moral and enlightened values.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Chaloner enclosing a copy of a previous letter sent privately, along with the original letter addressed to Mr. Wilcox. He provides these documents to ensure Chaloner has the necessary correspondence for reference or action. The letter is dated March 16, 1786, from New York.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Ezekiel Forman enclosing a bond and asks him to provide a receipt acknowledging it as payment toward a legacy in which Forman has an interest. Hamilton seeks to ensure proper documentation of the transaction.
Alexander Hamilton informs John Laurance of preparations to bring the case of Benjamin Paine and others versus Peter Mesier Jr. and Jacob Van Voorhees to trial at the upcoming Supreme Court term. He outlines the legal strategy and emphasizes the importance of timely proceedings. Hamilton seeks Laurance’s support in advancing the case efficiently.
Alexander Hamilton, along with 136 petitioners, requests the Mayor and Corporation of New York to improve the street in front of the Coffee House, a central gathering spot for merchants. They argue that the street's poor condition and heavy cart traffic create filth and nuisance, negatively affecting those who frequent the area. The petition seeks better regulation to address these issues.
Alexander Hamilton expresses deep concern for Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton's health and urges her to take care of herself while he remains uncertain about the length of their separation. He emphasizes his longing for frequent communication to ease his distress and sends affectionate regards to their children. Hamilton conveys his unwillingness to endure a prolonged separation despite potential financial burdens.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Barker Church in May 1786 to send a duplicate of a previous letter dated May 23. The content of the original letter is not available, but Hamilton emphasizes the urgency by noting limited time to correspond. The communication suggests ongoing matters requiring Church's attention.
Alexander Hamilton informs Robert R. Livingston that they, along with a third commissioner to be decided between Livingston and Ganseevort, are appointed to travel south for a meeting scheduled around September 1786. Hamilton seeks to confirm their roles in this upcoming delegation.
Alexander Hamilton sends Richard Varick a draft of a trust deed along with related documents, requesting Varick to review and make necessary amendments. The letter focuses on finalizing legal arrangements connected to the trust. Hamilton seeks Varick's expertise to ensure the documents are properly prepared.
Alexander Hamilton informs John Barker Church that he is about to leave on a legal circuit and encloses a duplicate letter and a bill of lading for money sent by the last packet, which may not have sailed yet. He has arranged insurance through a broker and asked a friend to collect gold and silver to be sent after his return. Hamilton assures Church of his unwavering friendship.