Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersGeorge Washington directs Timothy Pickering to organize the replacement of lost military supplies, including tents and camp kettles, in preparation for the upcoming campaign. He also instructs Pickering to investigate the conduct of the corps of artificers to ensure proper discipline and efficiency.
George Washington instructs Alexander Hamilton on measures to support the Albany Armory, including exempting its workers from military duty and providing necessary supplies. He mentions potential travel plans to Rhode Island related to undisclosed matters and reports on a new British troop movement from New York, possibly involving Benedict Arnold. Washington expresses uncertainty about traveling to Albany during the winter.
Alexander Hamilton informs George Washington that the Albany Armory faces potential closure due to lack of supplies and funding, as the Board of War cannot maintain it under current conditions. Hamilton emphasizes the armory's good condition, strategic location near West Point, and its importance for repairing arms, urging Washington to consider its continued operation. He notes General Knox's judgment will be crucial in assessing the armory's value.
Alexander Hamilton praises James McHenry's recent poem as his best work, acknowledging its wit and artistic merit. Hamilton admits he was mistaken in doubting McHenry's poetic talent and encourages his continued literary efforts. The letter conveys camaraderie and mutual respect between the two men.
Marquis de Lafayette writes to Alexander Hamilton explaining delays in delivering a letter to General Washington due to changes in the General's location and unforeseen obstacles. Lafayette expresses frustration over Hamilton's insistence on written communication but reports taking direct action to ensure the message reaches Washington promptly. He emphasizes the urgency and importance of the matter while maintaining a friendly tone.
George Washington instructs William Heath to deliver a letter to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, directing him to move his troops into winter quarters. The communication aims to ensure proper winter accommodations for Sheldon's regiment during the Revolutionary War.
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.
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.
Alexander Hamilton instructs Timothy Pickering to move boats from Doddes to Pompton and then to Kings Ferry quickly. He directs the Jersey light infantry officer to follow Pickering's orders and stay near Pompton until the Jersey Brigade arrives. Hamilton signs as Aide de Camp to the Quartermaster General.
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 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 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.
Alexander Hamilton requests a military command from George Washington, expressing his desire to distinguish himself through a notable enterprise. He acknowledges Washington's previous refusal due to concerns about rank and family needs but argues that the current expedition offers a suitable opportunity without those issues. Hamilton emphasizes his readiness to improve the mission and notes his impending temporary absence from the army.
Timothy Pickering informs Alexander Hamilton about the challenge of assembling teams to retrieve five boats by Thursday night and offers to try to accomplish it. He inquires whether the oars should be muffled and requests guidance on the route to take. Pickering also anticipates the need to impress horses for the operation.
Alexander Hamilton instructs Timothy Pickering to assemble fifty men the next morning to repair roads and bridges for the army's march to New Windsor via Pompton and Ringwood. He emphasizes the need for skilled artificers to ensure the work is done properly. Hamilton signs off as Aide de Camp, underscoring the military nature of the task.
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.
Timothy Pickering informs Alexander Hamilton that boats from Dobbs Ferry are expected soon and that he will send an express to Major Cogswell to secure teams for additional boats from Kings Ferry. He coordinates the transportation logistics necessary for military operations.
Alexander Hamilton instructs Timothy Pickering to expedite the transport of boats to join others by Wednesday evening, emphasizing urgency. He specifies that the boats should be at Dobbs Ferry for the teams to proceed. Hamilton's message reflects logistical coordination during the Revolutionary War.
Alexander Hamilton requests Charles Stewart to advance rations to Mr. Farge, who is in distress and unable to draw them daily despite having a general's order. Hamilton emphasizes the private nature of the request and seeks Stewart's assistance for a two to three month period.
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.