Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersGeorge Washington informs Baron von Steuben that despite losing naval superiority, the Marquis de Lafayette continues his march to Virginia. He expresses hope that von Steuben has distributed French supplies to Major General Nathanael Greene and notes that the Pennsylvania line has been ordered to move south.
Alexander Hamilton communicates General Washington's orders to Richard Platt regarding compensation for Colonel Hay, whose oxen were requisitioned for public use. Hamilton instructs that the Quartermaster General provide Colonel Hay with two good oxen as replacement, emphasizing that the source of compensation is not important to the public interest.
George Washington informs Comte de Rochambeau that a reported victory by Comte d’Estaing could lead to a swift end to the Revolutionary War. He updates Rochambeau on troop movements toward Virginia and shares intelligence about British General Sir Henry Clinton’s possible reactions. Washington postpones his Rhode Island visit until he understands Clinton’s next military move.
George Washington informs George Clinton of his inability to provide two regiments requested by New York State for frontier defense in early 1781. He explains the constraints faced by the Continental Army that prevent fulfilling this request. Washington emphasizes the challenges in allocating troops during the ongoing Revolutionary War.
Richard Platt writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1781 requesting compensation for Colonel Ann Hawkes Hay for oxen seized for public use during the Revolutionary War. Platt urges Hamilton to take action to ensure Hay receives payment for the loss. The letter reflects concerns over fair treatment of individuals contributing resources to the war effort.
George Washington instructs General William Heath to enhance the fortifications at West Point to strengthen its defenses. He emphasizes the strategic importance of the location in controlling the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. Washington seeks prompt and effective action to secure this key military position.
George Washington thanks Walter Stewart for updates on the Pennsylvania line and expresses hope that the state legislature will take decisive action to fully recruit and maintain its military forces. He emphasizes the importance of meeting troop quotas during the Revolutionary War.
Alexander Hamilton informs William Heath that Lieutenant Colonel Gouvion and Captain Rochefontaine will join the detachment under Marquis de Lafayette, while Major Villefranche will soon return to West Point. The communication conveys troop movements during the Revolutionary War. Hamilton writes under General Washington's command as his aide-de-camp.
George Washington informs the French naval commander in Chesapeake Bay that he has dispatched a detachment led by the Marquis de Lafayette to support the French fleet. He proposes coordinated operations between American land forces and the French naval squadron to strengthen their joint military efforts.
George Washington instructs Baron von Steuben on coordinating with the Marquis de Lafayette to lead American land forces in a joint campaign with the French against Benedict Arnold in Virginia. He outlines von Steuben's specific role in the operation to ensure effective cooperation. The letter emphasizes the strategic alliance between American and French forces in the Revolutionary War.
George Washington appoints Marquis de Lafayette to lead a military detachment against British forces in Virginia. He provides Lafayette with detailed strategic instructions to carry out this command effectively. Washington emphasizes the importance of swift and coordinated action to disrupt the enemy's operations.
George Washington congratulates Rochambeau on his son's arrival at Versailles and inquires whether Chevalier Destouches has departed for Chesapeake Bay. He notes Baron von Steuben's report that the Virginia militia will cooperate with their efforts. Washington's communication reflects coordination among allied forces during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington informs Timothy Pickering that he is traveling to Rhode Island and that command of the Continental Army will temporarily pass to Major General William Heath. He communicates this change in leadership during his absence.
George Washington informs Ephraim Blaine of his departure for Rhode Island and directs him to send provisions to the West Point garrison. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining supplies for the Continental Army’s operations.
Alexander Hamilton instructs Sebastian Bauman to support Major Garanger in conducting artillery experiments, emphasizing Garanger's French training and potential usefulness despite uncertainty about his practical skills. Hamilton urges Bauman to facilitate the effort discreetly, trusting Bauman's judgment and cautioning that any incompetence will become evident through trial.
George Washington expresses his complete satisfaction with the management of military hospitals under William Shippen's direction. He acknowledges Shippen's effective administration during a critical period of the Revolutionary War. Washington's commendation reinforces Shippen's role in maintaining soldier health and care.
George Washington informs William Livingston that he will consult the commissary of prisoners regarding the issue of New Jersey prisoners. He explains the regulations governing the exchange of militia members and civilians. Washington aims to clarify procedures to facilitate prisoner exchanges during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington expresses gratitude to Anne Francis and her family for their generous contributions to the Continental Army. He acknowledges their support as vital to the ongoing war effort against British forces. Washington emphasizes the importance of such assistance in sustaining the fight for American independence.
George Washington informs Henry Knox of a recent conference where French and American commanders agree to focus military operations on New York. He instructs Knox to prepare artillery support to coordinate with French forces for the planned campaign.
George Washington praises Henry Knox for effectively implementing the orders issued on January 7, 1781. He acknowledges Knox's diligence and successful execution of military measures during the ongoing Revolutionary War. Washington's commendation reinforces the importance of Knox's role in the Continental Army's operations.