Recipient

Letters to Alexander Hamilton

B. 1755 · D. 1804

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.

Source: Wikipedia
259 letters
Letter

John Laurens to Alexander Hamilton, July 14, 1779

From John Laurens
To Alexander Hamilton
July 14, 1779

John Laurens urges Alexander Hamilton to support his efforts to raise black troops in South Carolina, arguing that without such measures or militia drafts, the state’s defense will collapse due to dwindling Continental forces. He expresses frustration with the local population’s resistance and the political challenges in securing necessary military preparations. Laurens commits to making a final push before the House of Assembly reconvenes.

Letter

Marquis de Fleury to Alexander Hamilton, August 18, 1779

From Marquis de Fleury
To Alexander Hamilton
August 18, 1779

Marquis de Fleury writes to Alexander Hamilton requesting an order from headquarters to provide shoes for the officers of the two 1st Battalions of L. Infantry, who are currently barefoot while traversing rough terrain. He emphasizes the urgency of their need and notes that officers who dined at headquarters wore shoes supplied by their companies. Fleury also inquires about any news regarding Mr. de la Luzerne.

Letter

Charles Armand to Alexander Hamilton, August 21, 1779

From Charles Armand
To Alexander Hamilton
August 21, 1779

Charles Armand writes to Alexander Hamilton expressing frustration over a court martial process that forces him to relinquish command and appear subordinate to Mr. de Wanderburgh, whom he does not respect. He objects to being treated like a prisoner while Wanderburgh retains authority, and awaits explicit orders from higher command before yielding his position.

Letter

David Henley to Alexander Hamilton, September 1, 1779

From David Henley
To Alexander Hamilton
September 1, 1779

David Henley informs Alexander Hamilton about Mr. Dana’s delayed response defending himself against Colonel Brooks’ accusations, attributing false reports to a dishonest doctor. He congratulates Hamilton on military successes at Powles Hook and the arrival of valuable supplies but criticizes the disastrous loss of nearly twenty vessels at Penobscot, emphasizing its severe impact on the Continental forces. Henley also notes ongoing efforts to rebuild the naval fleet.

Letter

James Duane to Alexander Hamilton, September 4, 1779

From James Duane
To Alexander Hamilton
September 4, 1779

James Duane reports to Alexander Hamilton that the New York Legislature remains committed to supporting the Continental Army, providing supplies like flour and carriage at reduced costs despite local hardships. He expresses regret that this effort stands alone and urges Hamilton to forward his compliments to General Washington and his family. Duane also conveys personal satisfaction with General Sullivan's progress, which he holds in high regard.

Letter

James Duane to Alexander Hamilton, September 16, 1779

From James Duane
To Alexander Hamilton
September 16, 1779

James Duane discusses military strategy with Alexander Hamilton, expressing skepticism that the British will continue focusing attacks on the Southern States and anticipating Count D’Estaign's arrival on the coast. He emphasizes the importance of the expedition against the Six Nations for securing the Northern and Western frontiers and criticizes the enemy's prioritization of army safety over aggressive action. Duane also reflects on the resilience of American spirit and resources despite financial difficulties.

Letter

Henry Lee to Alexander Hamilton, October 15, 1779

From Henry Lee
To Alexander Hamilton
October 15, 1779

Henry Lee informs Alexander Hamilton about the deployment of pilots to Lewis Town and the need for coordination to ensure their timely arrival. He confirms intelligence on Rhode Island's status and fortifications at Sandy Hook, the Narrows, and Governor’s Island. Lee assures Hamilton of his commitment to carrying out orders and providing support.

Letter

Henry Lee to Alexander Hamilton, October 22, 1779

From Henry Lee
To Alexander Hamilton
October 22, 1779

Henry Lee reports to Alexander Hamilton on British naval strength and movements near New York in 1779, noting the presence of several warships and defensive measures like sunk hulks and fire ships. He interprets recent troop relocations as signs of the British withdrawing from the coast and requests updates on the fleet's status. Lee promises to keep Hamilton informed of developments in the area.

Letter

John G. Mitchell to Alexander Hamilton, October 23, 1779

From John G. Mitchell
To Alexander Hamilton
October 23, 1779

John G. Mitchell informs Alexander Hamilton that express riders have been stationed between Philadelphia and Lewis Town as requested and assures him of no delays from the department since Hamilton's arrival. Mitchell confirms delivery of Hamilton's letter to the President of Congress and offers additional express riders if needed. He also discusses the possibility of Hamilton taking dispatches from Mr. Snyder to reduce expenses.

Letter

John Laurens to Alexander Hamilton, December 12, 1779

From John Laurens
To Alexander Hamilton
December 12, 1779

John Laurens informs Alexander Hamilton about the unexpected absence of most French naval reinforcements under Count de Grasse, which jeopardizes sea passage for Southern reinforcements. He explains that the North Carolina Brigade is rerouting overland through Petersburg to Charleston, following a plan endorsed by Congress and military committees. Laurens expresses concern over the missing French ships and the impact on military logistics.

Letter

Nathanael Greene to Alexander Hamilton, January 4, 1780

From Nathanael Greene
To Alexander Hamilton
January 4, 1780

Nathanael Greene informs Alexander Hamilton about the challenges in maintaining a sufficient number of express riders for military communication, noting that many have resigned due to harsh duties and low pay. He questions whether Congress intends to eliminate express riders at certain posts and suggests that using orderly sergeants as express riders might reduce numbers but not costs significantly. Greene estimates that fifteen express riders could suffice for emergencies and camp duties if posts are well managed.

Letter

Philip Schuyler to Alexander Hamilton, April 8, 1780

From Philip Schuyler
To Alexander Hamilton
April 8, 1780

Philip Schuyler informs Alexander Hamilton that Mrs. Schuyler agrees to a marriage arrangement and expresses regret over past family disappointments. He mentions a possible appointment for Hamilton as Secretary to the Embassy at Versailles, pending resolution of an unspecified obstacle. Schuyler also discusses political challenges hindering efforts to support General Washington and proposes sending a committee with broad authority to headquarters to address military and administrative issues.

Letter

George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, May 2, 1780

From George Washington
To Alexander Hamilton
May 2, 1780

George Washington requests Alexander Hamilton's opinion on matters raised in a letter from Doctor Gordon dated March 1, 1780. Washington asks Hamilton to review the enclosed documents and return them so he can respond to Doctor Gordon. The communication reflects Washington's reliance on Hamilton's judgment during the Revolutionary War.

Letter

Nathanael Greene to Alexander Hamilton, May 15, 1780

From Nathanael Greene
To Alexander Hamilton
May 15, 1780

Nathanael Greene expresses frustration and anger toward accusations made against him, seeking Alexander Hamilton's advice on how to respond without appearing overly submissive. He includes correspondence from the Treasury and his reply, emphasizing his desire to defend his honor while planning to leave his position when possible. Greene requests Hamilton's candid opinion on the best course of action.

Letter

Marquis de Fleury to Alexander Hamilton, September 7, 1780

From Marquis de Fleury
To Alexander Hamilton
September 7, 1780

Marquis de Fleury advises Alexander Hamilton to send letters through General Heath for security reasons and expresses concern about Hamilton's risky position at Lee's Fort, warning that British General Clinton may respond. He notes the British have left Martha’s Vineyard and possibly moved south, and asks Hamilton to remember him to his friend Laurens, who has not replied to his letters.