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Washington, George (1732-1799) to Henry Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09389 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Newburgh, New York Type: Manuscript letter signed Date: 17 August 1783 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 32.8 x 20.6 cm. Order a Copy

Emphasizes the priority of garrisoning the posts which will soon be ceded to the United States from the British in the "Western Waters," (referring to the Great Lakes region, specifically the posts at Oswego and Niagara, in present-day Western New York). Instructs Knox on the specifics of this preparation, including the transfer of artillery, stores, and ammunition. Notes that some articles may be taken from stores on the Mohawk River. Issues further instructions on detaching artillerists and light infantry to the region.

Signer of the U.S. Constitution.

Head Quarters Newburgh
Aug.st 17.th 1783
Dear Sir

To make preparation for garrisoning the Posts which will be ceded to us by the British on the Western Waters, is now the greatest object that can claim our attention - On this [inserted: subject] I wrote to you yesterday, and desired you to make the necessary Arrangements in [struck: your] [inserted: the Ordnance] Department - I have now to repeat the request, that, as soon as the Boats proper for Service on the Lakes can be repaired, you will forward without a moments loss of time, the Artillery, Stores, and spare Ammunition sufficient to compleat a full supply including such of those Ariticles at present on the Mowhawk River, as may be appropriated to this [2] this use. - In addition to the Artillerists who will be detached for these Garrisons, (and who will take the immediate charge of the Ordnance &C) you will be pleased to order one Company of the Light Infantry from Lt. Col Hulls Command to proceed with the Boats to the Northward - The whole of the Detachments to report themselves to Colonel Willet, and receive his Instructions.
Either the Quarter Master Genl or one of his Assts. will go immediately to the Mowhawk River to provide more Boats, make provision for transportation, & supply the Contingencies in that Department which may be necessary.
I am with great esteem
Dear Sir
Your Most Obedient Servt
Go: Washington
Majr. Genl. Knox.
[docket]
His Exc Genl Washington
17 Augt 1783
Original
No 24 -

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Washington, George, 1732-1799

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