Hull, William (1753-1825) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.02948 Author/Creator: Hull, William (1753-1825) Place Written: West Point, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 February 1784 Pagination: 6 p. : docket ; 22.5 x 19.1 cm. Order a Copy
Hull, commandant of West Point, describes his conflict with Major Sebastian Bauman, in charge of the artillery at West Point. Bauman refused to carry out Hull's orders requiring artillery to carry out regular garrison duties with infantry. In defense of his order, Hull states, "... it appears to me Troops forming a Garrison are in a very different situation from an Army in the Field, and that there are general duties in which all the Corps of every designation are interested, and consiquently ought to bare [sic] a part." Transmits correspondence pertaining to the disagreement (refer to GLC02437.02943, GLC02437.02944, and GLC02437.02945). Relates that to honor the anniversary of the American alliance with France, his troops discharged cannon, lit fireworks, and made a Fudejoy (from feu de joie, a bonfire). Reports that a group of soldiers from Constitution Island broke into the home and store of David Sands, a Quaker. They "abused his Wife, and plundered his Store," stealing goods and money. Ordered a garrison court martial for their trial.
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