Recipient

Letters to Henry Laurens

B. 1724 · D. 1792

Henry Laurens was an American Founding Father, merchant, slave trader, and rice planter from South Carolina who became a political leader during the Revolutionary War. A delegate to the Second Continental Congress, Laurens succeeded John Hancock as its president. He was a signatory to the Articles of Confederation and, as president, presided over its passage.

Source: Wikipedia
36 letters
Also see 28 letters written by Henry Laurens →
Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, August 21, 1783

From Benjamin Franklin
To Henry Laurens
August 21, 1783

Benjamin Franklin informs Henry Laurens that no letters from him have been received and updates him on the peace negotiations with British ministers. The ministers insist on signing the Preliminary Articles as the Definitive Treaty without changes, except for a preamble and concluding paragraph confirming the agreement. Franklin anticipates the treaty will soon be finalized.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, December 6, 1783

From Benjamin Franklin
To Henry Laurens
December 6, 1783

Benjamin Franklin discusses the examination of an anonymous Brussels letter's handwriting, comparing it to samples from M. de Neufville’s clerk to determine its authenticity. He describes specific handwriting features, such as a long dash over the letter t, and notes correspondence with Henry Laurens and others regarding the letter's origin. Franklin also mentions lending letters to Mr. Ridley for comparison and encloses another anonymous letter.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Benjamin Franklin to Henry Laurens, May 13, 1784

From Benjamin Franklin
To Henry Laurens
May 13, 1784

Benjamin Franklin writes to Henry Laurens expressing regret over recent disappointments and updates him on the exchange of ratifications for the definitive Treaty, while noting uncertainty about a Treaty of Commerce. Franklin requests Laurens' thoughts on such a treaty and asks for assistance in securing his dismissal from his current post so he can return home. He also seeks Laurens' recommendation of his grandson as a potential successor or interim secretary, citing the grandson's experience and qualifications.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Henry Laurens, April 6, 1785

From Alexander Hamilton
To Henry Laurens
April 6, 1785

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.

American RevolutionFederalismFinanceFounding Era