George Washington was a Founding Father and the first president of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797. As commander of the Continental Army, Washington led Patriot forces to victory in the American Revolutionary War against the British Empire. He is commonly known as the Father of His Country for his role in bringing about American independence.
George Washington approves the proposed Army establishment but recommends increasing regiment sizes and extending enlistment terms. He advocates for officers to receive either half-pay for life or full pay for seven years and insists bounties be paid in specie. Washington opposes state control over regiment reductions, arguing that Congress should retain that authority.
George Washington agrees with Rochambeau's request to double his current military encampment. He promises to provide detailed information about British troop movements once they are confirmed. The letter reflects ongoing coordination between American and French forces during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington that Baron von Steuben is traveling to Philadelphia to seek clarification on his military role. Washington reiterates his recommendation that Congress provide support to von Steuben in his efforts to train and organize the Continental Army.
George Washington acknowledges receiving Francisco Rendon's letters and expresses support for Rendon's proposed expedition. He promises to share intelligence on British movements as soon as he obtains it. The letter reflects ongoing coordination between American and allied forces during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington approves Rochambeau’s proposed locations for winter quarters in New Jersey. He expresses confidence in the strategic value of the plan for the Continental Army’s operations. Washington emphasizes coordination between American and French forces during the winter campaign.
George Washington requests clarification from the Board of War regarding the meaning of the term the line of the army. He seeks to understand its precise definition and implications for military organization. This inquiry reflects Washington's attention to detail in managing the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington addresses Henry Clinton regarding the management of prisoners, proposing the appointment of a resident commissary to oversee their care and exchange. He argues that such an official would improve the treatment and administration of prisoners during the ongoing Revolutionary War. Washington seeks to establish clearer protocols to prevent abuses and misunderstandings between the opposing forces.
George Washington addresses David S. Franks regarding a proposed court of inquiry into Franks’s conduct. Washington communicates the need to investigate the matter formally, reflecting concerns about Franks’s actions during the Revolutionary War. The letter emphasizes maintaining discipline and accountability within the Continental Army.
George Washington instructs William Heath to establish a court of inquiry to investigate the actions of Lieutenant Colonel Richard Varick and Major David S. Franks. The inquiry aims to assess their conduct during military operations. Washington seeks accountability within the Continental Army leadership.
George Washington instructs Charles Harrison to join Major General Nathanael Greene in the southern theater to reorganize the artillery corps. He emphasizes the importance of restoring the unit's effectiveness during the ongoing Revolutionary War. The letter reflects Washington's strategic efforts to strengthen Continental Army forces.
George Washington appoints Major General Nathanael Greene to lead the southern army pending an inquiry into Major General Horatio Gates’s conduct and urges Congress to support Greene in overcoming the challenges ahead. He also requests congressional approval to send Baron von Steuben south to assist in reorganizing the army.
George Washington instructs Abraham Skinner to negotiate a prisoner exchange involving Brigadier Generals William Thompson and Louis Le Bèque Du Portail, and Major General Benjamin Lincoln in return for Major General William Phillips and Baron von Riedesel. The letter reflects ongoing efforts to recover American officers held by the British during the Revolutionary War. Washington emphasizes the importance of securing these exchanges to maintain morale and leadership.
George Washington instructs that, pending Congress's approval, Baron von Steuben is to join Major General Nathanael Greene in marching south. The directive aims to strengthen Continental Army forces in the southern theater during the Revolutionary War. Washington emphasizes coordination and readiness for upcoming military operations.
George Washington responds to John Mathews, agreeing to assist Mrs. Mathews when circumstances allow. He also provides an update on the military and political situation in the southern colonies during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington directs Abraham Skinner to manage the exchange of prisoners of war, providing specific instructions to facilitate the process. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to agreed terms to ensure a smooth and honorable exchange between American and British forces.
George Washington sends Samuel Huntington memorials from Captain Joseph Traversie and Canadian refugee families settled in Albany. He communicates their concerns and requests for assistance during the Revolutionary War. Washington seeks Huntington's support in addressing their needs.
George Washington informs Francisco Rendon of British troop movements, specifically their embarkation plans. He provides intelligence to aid in monitoring enemy actions during the Revolutionary War. This communication reflects Washington's efforts to coordinate with allies and gather timely military information.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington of recent British troop and naval movements near New Jersey. He reports that the Continental Army receives news of a new military establishment with approval. Washington's communication reflects ongoing strategic awareness during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington proposes a meeting with Henry Clinton to arrange the exchange of prisoners during the Revolutionary War. He seeks to establish terms and coordinate the logistics for the prisoner swap. This effort aims to alleviate the suffering of captured soldiers on both sides.
George Washington directs Samuel Darby to organize the movement of boats to Acquackanonck, providing specific instructions for the march. The letter focuses on coordinating logistical efforts during the Revolutionary War in late 1780. Washington emphasizes timely and precise execution of the operation.
George Washington instructs Henry Knox to ready artillery units to provide cover for troop movements across a river. The order aims to ensure safe passage during a military maneuver in the Revolutionary War. Washington emphasizes the strategic importance of artillery support in this operation.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington that he will provide a report on the engineering officers once Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail arrives. He advocates for higher pay for officers in the inspectorship and recommends Simeon DeWitt to succeed Robert Erskine as the Army's geographer.
George Washington expresses regret over Charles Armand's intention to resign from military service. He commends Armand for his valuable contributions during the Revolutionary War. Washington encourages him to reconsider his decision.
George Washington instructs Christopher Greene to accept orders from Comte de Rochambeau to move to West Point only if Greene takes soldiers who will continue serving under the new army arrangement. Washington emphasizes maintaining troop commitment during this transition.