Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersGeorge Washington informs John Sullivan about the measures taken to supply his troops with essential clothing, including shoes, overalls, and hunting shirts. He details the logistics and efforts to ensure the soldiers are properly equipped for their campaign. Washington emphasizes the importance of maintaining troop readiness through adequate provisioning.
George Washington warns Alexander McDougall of a possible imminent attack on the Highland forts or the main Continental Army. He provides specific instructions regarding the deployment of reinforcements to prepare for the threat. Washington emphasizes the need for vigilance and readiness in response to enemy movements.
Middlebrook [ New Jersey ] May 24, 1779 . Approves of Clinton’s Indian expedition. Asks Clinton to consult with Major General John Sullivan.
[ Middlebrook, New Jersey ] May 23, 1779 . Asks Board to send shoes and overalls to troops of the western expedition.
George Washington instructs Alexander McDougall to return supplies previously issued to Brigadier General Enoch Poor’s brigade. He also directs McDougall to send hunting shirts and shoes to Easton to support the upcoming western expedition.
George Washington writes to Archibald Cary in 1779 to introduce and recommend Major James Monroe for military or official duties. Washington emphasizes Monroe's capabilities and trustworthiness, seeking Cary's support for Monroe's role.
Alexander Hamilton informs John Laurens about Monroe's planned mission to the South, endorsing his character and urging Laurens to support Monroe's involvement in a proposed operation involving enslaved people. Hamilton also updates Laurens on military affairs, noting the upcoming Western expedition, slow preparations due to funding issues, and unconfirmed reports of British troop movements in Virginia.
George Washington writes to Joseph Reed from Middlebrook, New Jersey, on May 15, 1779, requesting the date of Major General Benedict Arnold’s trial. He seeks timely information regarding the proceedings against Arnold.
Middlebrook [ New Jersey ] May 15, 1779 . Urges continued cooperation on the part of Rhode Island.
George Washington writes to Benedict Arnold from Middlebrook, New Jersey, explaining the reasons for the delay in Arnold’s court-martial. He addresses concerns about the timing and assures Arnold that the trial will proceed when circumstances allow. Washington emphasizes the importance of fairness and due process in handling the matter.
George Washington informs John Jay that deputies from the Delaware Nation have arrived at the Continental Army camp in Middlebrook, New Jersey. He notes that these representatives have been directed to take their matters to the Continental Congress. Washington's communication reflects ongoing diplomatic interactions with Native American groups during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington informs Horatio Gates of disappointing prospects for reinforcements and encloses a congressional resolution regarding the defense of Rhode Island. He also communicates that Virginia levies will be dispatched to support operations in the South. Washington’s message reflects ongoing strategic adjustments during the Revolutionary War.
Alexander Hamilton informs Lachlan McIntosh that although serious charges against Colonel Morgan warrant investigation, the ongoing military campaign and logistical difficulties make a thorough inquiry impractical at this time. Hamilton explains that conducting the trial now would disrupt operations and delay the campaign, so the general prefers to postpone the matter unless McIntosh requests a specific examination of his own conduct.
Lachlan McIntosh requests Alexander Hamilton to convene a court of inquiry to investigate his own actions and those of Colonel George Morgan. He seeks official scrutiny to address questions about their conduct during military operations. This reflects ongoing tensions and disputes among Continental Army officers in 1779.
George Washington informs John Jay about the New Jersey remonstrance, expressing concern over a reported shortage of cattle. He argues that this scarcity will significantly impact the success of the Western expedition. Washington emphasizes the need to address this logistical challenge promptly.
Thomas Randall writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1779 requesting an honorable discharge from military service. He seeks formal release from his duties during the ongoing Revolutionary War.
Middlebrook [ New Jersey ] May 10, 1779 . Regrets that New Jersey officers persist in their complaint about soldiers’ pay. States that “All that the common soldiery of any…
Middlebrook [ New Jersey ] May 3, 1779 . Orders harsh measures to punish Colonel William Malcom’s late regiment for mutiny.
George Washington addresses William Malcom regarding a recent incident in Malcom’s corps, characterizing the soldiers' refusal to obey orders as mutiny. Washington expresses concern over discipline and the potential impact on the Continental Army’s cohesion during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington advises John Jay that peace negotiations should involve only some Native American groups rather than all. He argues that certain tribes deserve harsh punishment for their previous hostile actions against American settlers. Washington emphasizes a selective approach to diplomacy based on past conduct.