Alexander Hamilton was an American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first U.S. secretary of the treasury from 1789 to 1795 under the presidency of George Washington. He also founded America's first political party, the Federalist Party, in 1791.
Samuel Broome writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1786 from New Haven, requesting Hamilton's assistance in collecting the remaining balance of a debt owed to Broome by Nathan Miller. Broome seeks Hamilton's intervention to ensure repayment.
David Forman writes to Alexander Hamilton from Auburn, Pennsylvania, in October 1786, referencing a previous letter sent earlier that month. He likely discusses matters related to political or military affairs during the post-Revolutionary period. The exact content of the letter is not preserved.
John Sitgreaves informs Alexander Hamilton that his attorney, Robert Bowne, will visit to collect one hundred and sixty pounds received from Mr. Bostwick. The letter serves to coordinate the transfer of these funds. Sitgreaves acknowledges receipt of Hamilton's previous correspondence dated October 17.
Alexander Macaulay writes from Alexandria, Virginia, requesting Alexander Hamilton's help in resolving several financial matters in New York City. He explains that he is currently detained in Alexandria and seeks Hamilton's assistance to manage these affairs efficiently.
Peter Van Schaack writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1786 seeking his legal opinion on a complicated case involving the Vandenbergh and Van Vechten families. He encloses the case details and a fee, expressing hope that Hamilton can find a solution to the complex matter. Van Schaack also formally retains Hamilton's services on behalf of these clients.
John Lansing Jr. informs Alexander Hamilton that the sheriff of Montgomery County faces contempt charges related to the sale of Croghan’s land. Lansing requests Hamilton to take appropriate legal action to defend the sheriff.
Paul Bascom writes to Alexander Hamilton regarding the management of the estates belonging to Paul and Stephen Richards in New York. He references a previous letter from July about the affairs of Mrs. Place’s children connected to these estates. Bascom seeks Hamilton’s guidance or action concerning this matter.
Israel Beach writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1787 seeking guidance on how to manage the payment of specific bonds. He asks for Hamilton's expertise on financial matters related to these obligations. The letter reflects concerns about debt repayment during the post-Revolutionary War period.
Robert R. Livingston advises Alexander Hamilton against publishing a letter from Baron von Steuben, warning it would provoke criticism and harm the Baron's chances for future compensation from Congress. He also acknowledges Hamilton's efforts in taxation reforms and expresses mixed feelings about recent legislative developments.
David Beekman writes from St. Croix in 1787 asking Alexander Hamilton for his legal opinion regarding Beekman’s potential liability on a bail bond he signed with Gilbert Woodward. Beekman seeks clarification on his responsibilities and risks associated with the bond.
Jacob Le Roy and Sons write to Alexander Hamilton in 1787, asking him to assist in collecting debts owed by various individuals to the firm Broome and Platt. The letter emphasizes the financial obligations Broome and Platt have to Le Roy and Sons, seeking Hamilton's intervention to secure repayment.
Theodorick Bland acknowledges receiving a circular letter from Alexander Hamilton and others regarding proposed changes to the Society of the Cincinnati's institution. He informs Hamilton that the proposals will be presented at the upcoming state society meeting in Richmond in 1787.
Daniel Coxe, a British landowner with property in New York, seeks Alexander Hamilton's legal opinion on whether the state enforces laws restricting inheritance rights of British subjects, particularly regarding the principle of alienism. Coxe wants to understand if his property rights remain secure under the Treaty and local law.
Marquis de Lafayette informs Alexander Hamilton about the unusual convening of the French Assembly of Notables in 1787, which challenges royal authority by demanding provincial assemblies and greater national representation. He explains that this assembly, unlike the compliant one in 1626, acts as an interpreter of the nation's will against despotism and arbitrary taxation. Lafayette emphasizes the growing political awareness and resistance to ministerial control in France.
Mary Bryant writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1787 requesting his help in obtaining a contested inheritance left to her by her late husband. She seeks Hamilton’s legal expertise to resolve the dispute and secure her rightful claim to the legacy.
Thomas Mullett urges Alexander Hamilton to accept the settlement reached in the legal dispute between Samuel Brailsford and Thomas Wooldrige. He emphasizes the benefits of resolving the case promptly to avoid further complications. Mullett's advice reflects a practical approach to legal matters during the post-Revolutionary period.
Baron von Steuben appeals to Alexander Hamilton to support his claim for recognition and fulfillment of a contract made with the United States before his military service, which he argues the government has only partially honored. He emphasizes the contract’s validity as agreed upon by prominent officials and insists that failure to honor it threatens both his honor and financial well-being. Von Steuben seeks Hamilton’s advocacy to secure justice and prevent accusations of fraud against him.
Jeremiah Wadsworth informs Alexander Hamilton about a controversial letter circulating in Connecticut that appears intended to alarm the antifederalists, expressing uncertainty about the motives of Wetmore, a man connected to federalist circles. Wadsworth has tasked Colonel Humphry, a trusted associate familiar with Wetmore, to investigate the matter and report back to Hamilton.
David Humphreys informs Alexander Hamilton about a politically charged letter circulating in Connecticut, likely produced locally and embraced by Loyalists. Humphreys discusses efforts to trace its origin and suggests the letter may have been written to gauge public apathy toward government. He also notes attempts by Federalist supporters to use the letter to alarm Anti-Federalists into accepting the Constitutional Convention's outcomes.
Ezekiel Forman requests Alexander Hamilton to confirm whether legal proceedings against Mr. Livingston were properly initiated and if any additional actions are needed to continue the lawsuit. He asks Hamilton to review the documents left with him, including the sheriff's accounts, to determine if they provide sufficient authority to proceed with the case.
John Fitch informs Alexander Hamilton of his development of a steam-powered boat and requests Hamilton's support for a petition to Congress seeking financial assistance. Fitch argues that his invention could revolutionize water transportation on Western waters and compares his request to previous government rewards for technological improvements. He believes his project will increase the value of Western lands and urges Hamilton to endorse his petition.
Governor George Clinton officially commissions Alexander Hamilton and four others as New York's delegates to the United States Congress, granting them authority to represent the state from their appointment until November 1788, with a maximum term of one year. The letter formalizes their nomination and appointment by the state legislature.
James S. Robinson provides Alexander Hamilton with a detailed account of carpentry services rendered, totaling £51.4.1. The letter itemizes the work completed and requests payment for the labor and materials supplied. Robinson documents the expenses to ensure Hamilton acknowledges the debt.
The Society of the Cincinnati of New York, led by Baron von Steuben, certifies Alexander Hamilton and six others as delegates to attend the General Meeting of the Society in Philadelphia on May 5, 1788. The letter formally appoints Hamilton to represent New York at this gathering.