Van der Kemp, Francis Adrian (1752-1829) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.04543 Author/Creator: Van der Kemp, Francis Adrian (1752-1829) Place Written: Kingston, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 March 1790 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 22.9 x 19.1 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses Knox's plan for the militia. Writes, "The sight of a part of your plan for reforming our militia - and my fear of that hideous monster - a standing army, though covered with alluring clothes by artful politicians, wil [sic] atone for the liberty of taking few moments of your leisure by a man of General Knox's disposition." Argues for the establishment of a formal military academy where cadets learn various subjects, including geometry, algebra, geography, engineering, etc. States, "The academy seat must be at the place of the seat of government." Discusses funding for sending young militia men to the academy. Adds that the academy must be provided with a small library, and recommends specific authors and books on mathematics and tactics. Also known as François Adriaan Van der Kemp.
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