Dinwiddie, Robert (1693-1770) to Horatio Sharpe
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07850 Author/Creator: Dinwiddie, Robert (1693-1770) Place Written: Williamsburg, Virginia Type: Letter signed Date: 1 March 1755 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 23.3 x 18.8 cm Order a Copy
Robert Dinwiddie (1693-1770) was Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 1751-758. Horatio Sharpe (1718-1790) was colonial governor of Maryland from 1753-1768. Sharpe was also the Royal Commander in Chief of all British Forces and commander of colonial forces for the protection of Virginia and adjoining Colonies until superseded by Major General Edward Braddock (1695?-1755) in 1755. This letter makes a reference to the upcoming meeting of Braddock and several colonial governors at the Council of Alexandria on April 14, 1755, where the decision to undertake vigorous actions against the French was made. Braddock's well-known defeat at the hands of the French took place on July 9, 1755. William Shirley (1694-1771) was the governor of Massachusetts from 1741-1756.
Virga. Williamsburg Mar.1st: 1755
Sir,
Last Sunday Genl [Edward] Braddock came to my House, & say's we may very soon expect the Forces from Ireland. I should have imediately sent you an Express on his Arrival but was willing to delay till I had some Conversation with him.
After the Troops arrive he proposes going for Alexandria, from thence shall send You an Express. I sent one this Morning to the Northward; the General has desired Governor [William] Shirley to meet him at Annapolis to concert the Plan for the Operations.
Sir John is gone to Wills's Creek to review the Independents, & the Recruits raised from this Province, & to form them into Companies.
I considered You woud be much engaged with Your Assembly, & I hope they have voted You an handsome Supply. As I propose waiting on the General to Alexandri[inserted: a] when I shall be glad in Person to assure You that I am.
Your Excellency's
Most obedt. hble Servt.
Robt. Dinwiddie
Govl. Sharpe
[docket]
Govr. Dinwiddie March 1st. 1755
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