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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.

Waters, Josiah (fl. 1776-1794) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00333 Author/Creator: Waters, Josiah (fl. 1776-1794) Place Written: New London, Connecticut Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 June 1776 Pagination: 2p.+addr. 30.8 cm. x 19.2 cm. Order a Copy

Writes the evening before sailing to York and responds to Knox's letter sent 3 June 1776. Inquires about the fortifications Knox was constructing to defend New York and again requests materials to learn about artillery works. Asks if Knox can send "outlines of any Capital fortress." Comments on Knox's artillery regiment, specifically a meeting with Major John Crane's company in Mendon, New York. Wishes he could serve with Knox but "must attend where called."

[draft]
New London 6 June 1776
Dear Sir
A passage boat intending to sail to morrow morning for York, & having a few moments leisure this Evening I've taken up my pen to hank you for your favor of the 3d Instant, this day received.
Be assured I shall chearfully comply with your request of writing "fully & frequently" I shall expect the same from you, free from ceremony on both sides -
Do you meet with any thing new in matter of Fortification? You are sensible I am almost a Stranger to this part of the Art Military, but yet, I could wish to perfect myself altho' I know 'tis impossible: favor me with whatever may be usefull or Instructing, and thus assist my endeavors to serve my distressed & injured Country - Are the Works with you upon the same Construction as there at Cambridge &c or has there been any particular improvements?
The outlines of any Capital fortress, would be very agreeable, if you can favor one therewith and not trespass too much upon your time -
Your regiment I hope is in all respects agreeable to you, I saw the Detachment at NLondon, commanded by Major Crane, with which I was much pleased: it must improve if I have your disposition, which I believe I do: Go on my Friend & May God Almighty be your director, protector & defence. [2] I want much to converse with you about many things, but must be deny'd, altho' I once thought that I should be happy in spending a Campagne with you, however we must attend where called -
Present my best wishes to Mrs Knox (Dr Lady I hope she's well) and accept the same from Yr. Friend &c Most H Servt.
J Waters Jr.
Regards to all Friends
Henry Knox Esqr.
[address leaf]
Henry Knox Esqr.
In
New York

Waters, Josiah, fl. 1776-1794
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

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