Harrison, William Henry (1773-1841) to Thomas Chilton
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05300 Author/Creator: Harrison, William Henry (1773-1841) Place Written: Northbend, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 February 1834 Pagination: 15 p. ; 1.5 x 19.6 cm. Order a Copy
A very long letter to Chilton, a Kentucky congressman, in which Harrison recounts his experiences in the wars in the Northwest Territory. Voices his support for Chilton's proposal to extend the pension laws to veterans of the Indian Wars in the northwest, describing those conflicts as a continuation of the American Revolution. Reviews General Anthony Wayne's campaign in Ohio from 1793-1795 (Harrison served as his aide-de-camp). Describes the hardships faced by soldiers, and issues relating to recruitment, pay, and casualties. Recounts, at length, the careers and hardships of two veterans Harrison knew well, including a discussion of Commodore Oliver Perry. Describes the savagery of the Indians. Indicates that this letter was written out of concern for his fellow veterans and states that he will claim no pension if congress passes Chilton's proposal.
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