Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Haldimand, Frederick, Sir (1719-1791) [Discharge paper of Michal Kerns]

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.303 Author/Creator: Haldimand, Frederick, Sir (1719-1791) Place Written: Oswego, New York Type: Document signed Date: 5 November 1759 Pagination: 2 p. ; 19 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy

Countersigned by Michal Kerns. He was honorably discharged from the 4th Battalion of the Royal American Regiment after three years of service. States he has received his full clothing allowance and back pay.

Haldimand was Commander in Chief of North America during Thomas Gage's absence in England in 1773-1774. His patience with the colonists during the time of the Boston Tea Party helped to prevent hostilities. Recalled to England at the opening of the American Revolution because it was considered best to have a person of English birth in chief command. Haldimand was Governor of Quebec from 1778-1784.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources