Browse the complete collection of historical letters, memos, and telegrams.
46,149 lettersAndrew P. Skene writes to Alexander Hamilton from Montreal in 1785, inquiring about the potential to reclaim property confiscated under New York's post-Revolutionary confiscation laws. He seeks guidance on legal avenues or precedents for recovering such assets.
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.
John Barker Church appoints Alexander Hamilton as his legal representative with full authority to collect debts and sums of money owed to Church. He empowers Hamilton to sue, demand, and recover any current or future financial claims on his behalf. The letter formalizes Hamilton’s role as Church’s attorney in legal and financial matters.
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 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.
Jacob Hardenbergh writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1785 seeking assistance to secure a new trial for his father. He appeals to Hamilton's influence and legal expertise to intervene in the case. The letter reflects a personal plea for justice during the post-Revolutionary period.
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 writes to his brother James Jr. expressing concern for his difficult financial situation and offers to pay a fifty-pound draft to assist him. He advises James to avoid debt, encourages him to remain industrious for a few more years, and inquires about their father’s well-being, fearing he may have passed away. Hamilton also suggests it might be beneficial for James to remain unmarried for the time being.
Alexander Hamilton acknowledges receipt of Ezekiel Forman's letter dated May 31, 1785, and indicates he has replied on June 17, 1785. The content of Hamilton's response is not preserved. This correspondence reflects ongoing communication between the two men during the post-Revolutionary period.
Jeremiah Wadsworth informs Alexander Hamilton of financial concerns regarding Moses's debts and expresses willingness to accept partial repayment with discharge. He requests Hamilton to manage the situation and update him on Henly's legal matters and trial timing. Wadsworth also doubts rumors about Church remaining in Europe and notes General Schuyler's survival.
David Beekman informs Alexander Hamilton that Cornelius P. Low refuses to act regarding a sum of money, now claiming it belongs to the state. Beekman requests Hamilton to handle the matter and assess whether recovery of the funds is possible.
Lafayette writes to Alexander Hamilton expressing affection and friendship, mentioning mutual acquaintances and plans to visit European troops. He requests Hamilton to support his admission to an anti-slavery association and shares happiness about Greene sending his son to be educated with Lafayette's. The letter conveys personal warmth and political engagement in post-Revolutionary America.
Alexander Hamilton advises Moses Myers, a partner in a firm that has stopped payment, to assign all partnership assets in several states to trustees for creditor benefit, anticipating creditor claims from Europe. Hamilton assesses Myers' financial sketch but notes the complexity and uncertainty of his full obligations.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Henry Laurens in 1785, likely discussing matters related to post-Revolutionary War governance or finance. He addresses ongoing political or economic issues facing the new United States, seeking Laurens's input or cooperation. The letter reflects early efforts to stabilize the nation under the Articles of Confederation.
Alexander Hamilton publicly declines consideration for public office in the upcoming election, expressing a desire to step aside at that time. He urges fellow citizens to focus on candidates better suited to serve their interests. Hamilton emphasizes his sincere wish to avoid diverting attention from more capable individuals.
Jeremiah Wadsworth informs Alexander Hamilton of troubling news about Isaac Moses & Co in Holland and requests Hamilton to investigate whether their financial interests are at risk due to the firm's difficulties. He also inquires about any news from Church received by the latest packet.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Jeremiah Wadsworth in April 1785, referencing a previous letter from April 1 that is now missing. He likely continues discussions on financial or political matters relevant to the post-Revolutionary War period. The letter reflects ongoing correspondence between key figures shaping the new American government.
Thomas White provides Alexander Hamilton with a detailed account of rental income from disputed vineyard lots following his father's death. He intends this financial statement to assist Hamilton and other arbitrators in resolving the ongoing property dispute with the Beekman family. The letter aims to facilitate a fair settlement in the contentious matter.
Alexander Hamilton instructs his wife, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, to agree to purchase their current house for £2100 if no better offer arises. He requests that she arrange payment, ideally half soon and the remainder within a year. Hamilton signs off affectionately, emphasizing his trust in her handling the transaction.
Baron von Steuben informs Alexander Hamilton that he has presented Hamilton's letter to a Mr. J, who supports advancing Steuben's requests to Congress without delay, specifically regarding the appointment of a Secretary or Minister of War. Steuben asks Hamilton to send the memorandum quickly so he can review it before traveling to Philadelphia and seeks Hamilton's opinion on the political situation. He also notes that the Marquis has avoided discussing the matter to prevent causing him annoyance.