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.

Williams, Otho Holland (1749-1794) to Henry Knox

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 #: GLC02437.05451 Author/Creator: Williams, Otho Holland (1749-1794) Place Written: Baltimore, Maryland Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 May 1792 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; 22.2 x 17.8 cm. Order a Copy

Thanks him for his letter, and is flattered to learn that Knox believes the President thinks highly of him. However, does not think he can accept a command in the army at this time. Cites his ill health and his desire to remain with his family. Asks that he not have to officially decline the offer, under the present circumstances, and hopes to be able to serve his country again under different circumstances. Marked "private."

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Williams, Otho Holland, 1749-1794
Washington, George, 1732-1799

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources