Benjamin Franklin to Samuel Huntington, August 9, 1780
Passy, Augt. 9. 1780. Sir, With this your Excellency will receive a Copy of my last dated May 31. 2 the Original of which, with Copies of preceding Letters, went…
Samuel Phillips Huntington was an American political scientist, adviser, and academic. He was the Albert J. Weatherhead III University Professor at Harvard University, where he directed the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs.
Passy, Augt. 9. 1780. Sir, With this your Excellency will receive a Copy of my last dated May 31. 2 the Original of which, with Copies of preceding Letters, went…
Passy, Augt. 10. 1780 Sir, Having but just been acquainted with this Opportunity which goes directly, 1 I have only time to write a few Lines; and only leave to…
George Washington requests clarification from Congress regarding the resolution of August 5, 1780, about his military authority. He inquires about Congress's capacity to provide currency, the provisioning abilities of North and South Carolina, and plans to replace soldiers whose enlistments expire in January. Washington seeks to ensure adequate support and manpower for the Continental Army.
Amsterdam Sept. 20. 1780 Sir Your Excellencys Letter of 12 July, I have received and thank you, sir, for recommending this Gentleman to me. 1 And shall on all future…
George Washington approves reducing the Continental Army to 50 regiments and proposes a half-pay system for officers as compensation, either for life or converted to full pay over seven years after peace. He outlines detailed organizational structures for infantry, cavalry, partisan corps, and artillery units, specifying ranks and roles within each regiment. Washington also addresses recruitment supervision and the establishment of officers' ranks and duties.
George Washington approves the proposed Army establishment but recommends increasing regiment sizes and extending enlistment terms. He advocates for officers to receive either half-pay for life or full pay for seven years and insists bounties be paid in specie. Washington opposes state control over regiment reductions, arguing that Congress should retain that authority.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington that Baron von Steuben is traveling to Philadelphia to seek clarification on his military role. Washington reiterates his recommendation that Congress provide support to von Steuben in his efforts to train and organize the Continental Army.
George Washington appoints Major General Nathanael Greene to lead the southern army pending an inquiry into Major General Horatio Gates’s conduct and urges Congress to support Greene in overcoming the challenges ahead. He also requests congressional approval to send Baron von Steuben south to assist in reorganizing the army.
George Washington sends Samuel Huntington memorials from Captain Joseph Traversie and Canadian refugee families settled in Albany. He communicates their concerns and requests for assistance during the Revolutionary War. Washington seeks Huntington's support in addressing their needs.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington of recent British troop and naval movements near New Jersey. He reports that the Continental Army receives news of a new military establishment with approval. Washington's communication reflects ongoing strategic awareness during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington informs Samuel Huntington that he will provide a report on the engineering officers once Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail arrives. He advocates for higher pay for officers in the inspectorship and recommends Simeon DeWitt to succeed Robert Erskine as the Army's geographer.
Passy Decr. 3. 1780. Sir, I duly received the Letter your Excellency did me the honour of writing to me the 12th. of July past, 4 by Mr. Searle: and…
George Washington writes to Samuel Huntington from New Windsor in January 1781, enclosing reports on the New Jersey mutiny and the West Chester military operation. He commends the troops involved in both events for their conduct and efforts. Washington’s communication reflects ongoing military challenges during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington requests Congress to clarify and confirm Colonel Peter Gansevoort’s military rank. He emphasizes the importance of resolving this matter promptly to maintain order and morale within the Continental Army. Washington’s appeal reflects ongoing challenges in establishing clear command structures during the Revolutionary War.
George Washington writes to Samuel Huntington from New Windsor, enclosing a memorial from Colonel Moses Hazen. Washington likely seeks Huntington's consideration or action regarding Hazen's petition or report. The letter reflects ongoing military and administrative correspondence during the Revolutionary War.
Passy, March 12[–April 12] 1781. Sir, I had the honour of receiving on the 13th. of last Month, Your Excellency’s Letter of the 1st. January, together with the Instructions of…
George Washington requests Congress to authorize the quartermaster general to appoint Colonel Jabez Champlin as a barrack master for the French army. He emphasizes the need for proper logistical support to maintain the alliance and ensure effective cooperation. Washington's recommendation aims to strengthen the coordination between American and French forces during the Revolutionary War.
Passy May 14. 1781. Sir, I did myself the honour of writing to your Excellency pretty fully on the 12th. March, 5 to which I beg leave to refer. Col.…