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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.

Knox, Henry (1750-1806) to Lucy Knox

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.00489 Author/Creator: Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Place Written: White Plains, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 November 1776 Pagination: 2 p. : address ; 24.5 x 17.7 cm. Order a Copy

Informs her of the loss of Fort Washington and 1,500 men. "This is the most severe stroke we have received during the war as to the number of men." Writes that he is very upset over the terrible defeat, but has not lost hope.

[draft]
Camp near White Plains Nov:r 18 1776
I am very sorry to inform you of the surrender of Fort Washington on the 16th. with 1500 hundred men - a Colo Mc Gaw of Philadelphia Commanded I had about one hundred officers and men among whom was Capt [Pearot?] - This is the most severe stroke We have received during the war - as to the number of men I [mean?] or I can see no other ill consequences arrising - the enemy will triumph & we are disgrac'd God grant us a speedy opportunity to retrieve this unhappy affair - I am so chagrind with this disgraceful affair that I cant write much - I beg your Love to excuse me - Let me know When Billey Comes but I wish you not come on before you receive the [Leave?] [2] from me - I am fearful that I shall be obligd to to the southward however I will write you speedily
I am with the utmost [tenderly?]
Love can inspire Your Very
Affectionate Husband
HKnox
[address leaf]
Mrs Knox
New Haven
favord by Mr Smith

Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Knox, Lucy Flucker, 1756-1824

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