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01 January 1778
Whipple, William
to the Gov. of Georgia re: lifting the embargo on rice
Signed on verso by Whipple and Gouverneur Morris, both as members of Congress, as well as Nathaniel Scudder.
GLC00184.51
28 December 1776
Knox, Henry (1750-1806)
to Lucy Knox
Expresses his love for Lucy, but says that the love of his country must keep them apart for now. Discusses the Battle of Trenton (26 December 1776) in depth. Starts by stating that Lucy must "have heard of our success on the morning of the 26th...
GLC02437.00497
25 December 1776
Order of march to Trenton
Orders for surprise attack on British forces at Trenton. On Christmas morning Washington made his famous crossing of the Delaware, and prepared for a surprise attack on Trenton. These orders lay out the various roles of the different sections of...
GLC02437.00495
1774
Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826)
A summary view of the rights of British America
8vo. 2d edition reprinted by Dunlap. Evans 11351, Howes J79, Sabin 35918, Streeter Sale 2: 754. With authorship noted on titlepage in a contemporary hand. There are twenty copies of Dunlap's printing recorded. Seminal for Jefferson's thoughts...
GLC00962
01 January 1823
Stone, William James (1798-1865)
Declaration of Independence [W.J. Stone facsimile on vellum]
The William J. Stone facsimile of the Declaration of Independence, printed on parchment, with Stone's imprint. Secretary of State John Quincy Adams, upon discovering the fragility of the original Declaration of Independence in 1820, ordered this...
GLC00154.02
1770
Revere, Paul (1735-1818)
The Bloody Massacre perpetrated in King-Street Boston on March 5th 1770 by a party of the 29th Reg.
Engraving of the Boston Massacre, hand-colored, first edition. Crispus Attucks is colored in, indicating that he was an African American. The depiction of the event and a poem printed below the engraving vilifies the British Army. The casualties...
GLC01868
7 August 1781
Dunlap, John (1747-1812)
The Pennsylvania packet, or, the general advertiser [Vol. 10, No. 765 (August 7, 1781)]
Reports news on the Charleston campaign and peace negotiations during the American Revolution. Contains news from other papers in America and around the world. An article from the London Evening Post discusses the "infamous letters, published...under...
GLC02059
23 September 1777
Washington, George (1732-1799)
to John Hazelwood
As commander-in-chief, sending confidential orders to Commodore John Hazelwood, introducing Captain Samuel Treat, who is delivering "a message of so interesting and important a nature, that I thought it unadviseable to commit it to writing.…" Per...
GLC09378
27 March 1781
Vose, Joseph
to Henry Sims Lee
Copy of a letter from Vose to Governor Henry Sims Lee of Maryland asking for logistical assistance in his planned retreat to Head of Elk, Maryland, after the defeat of Admiral Destouches's fleet by the British on March 16. "Having received orders...
GLC09338.05
14 March 1781
McHenry, James (1753-1816)
to Joseph Vose
As Lafayette's Aide-de-Camp, informing Col. Vose that British vessels may be near mouth of the Chesapeake intent on upsetting the plan of combined French and American operations in Virginia. "At present we do not apprehend any danger."
GLC09338.02
15 March 1781
Smith, William S.
Lafayette's Adjutant re the planned spring campaign. Unless French ships arrived and established naval supremacy in the Chesapeake it would be "impossible to move the troops to this place" but Vose should remain "in the most perfect readiness to move...
GLC09338.03
Nearly exact copy of 9338.03. With Lafayette Free Frank.
GLC09338.04
25 March 1781
Lafayette, Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert Du Motier, marquis de (1757-1834)
To Col. Joseph Vose at Annapolis, re French Admiral Destouches's setback by the British fleet in the Chesapeake: "I have received certain intelligence of a very severe action having been fought between the [British] Fleet and his Most Christian...
GLC09336
26 March 1781
To Col. Joseph Vose, preparing to retreat after news of victory of British fleet: "make every preparation to march the troops by land to the Head of Elk…. I request you will use every Endeavour to persuade the people that we are going to join Gnl...
GLC09337
Sharp, Granville
The Law of Retribution...
The Law of Retribution; Or, A Serious Warning to Great Britain and her Colonies, founded on unquestionable examples of God's Temporal Vengeance against Tyrants, Slave-holders, and Oppressors. First edition, printed in London.
GLC09291
17 September 1780
Winslow, John
to Brigadier General Irvin, Prisoner on Parole
From British Deputy Commissary of Prisoners at Flat Bush, NY. "Three of your officers having been taken last Night to make their Escape, His Excellency Lieutenant General [James] Robertson wishes to see you...on this matter..." Likely to James...
GLC09193
10 April 1782
Knyphausen, Wilhelm (fl. 1782)
[Reinforcing Jamaica against the French]
About how to reinforce Jamaica against the French without compromising British positions. "as the Troops at present stationed at New York & the immediate Neighboring ports are by no means equal to their defence, if seriously Attacked, any diminution...
GLC09095
7 May 1776
Pennsylvania Evening Post
Relaying news from a Dublin paper of a British fleet set to sail in April: "there will be five debarkations...one at Quebec, one at New-York, one in New-England, and two to the southward." Letter from Cork, describing Col. Ethan Allen and his fellow...
GLC09080
15 November 1775
Scott, John Morin (1730-1784)
to Richard Varick [Incomplete]
"Every office shut up almost...All business stagnated, the City is half deserted for fear of a Bombardment - a new Congress elected - those for New York you will see by the Papers are changed for the better - all staunch Whigs now - How it is with...
GLC09061
18 September 1779
Brodhead, Daniel (1736-1809)
to Doonyontat, Principal Chief of the Wyandots (Huron Indians)
Speech by Maghingwee Keeshuch [Daniel Brodhead] to the Huron Indians demanding that they cease attacks against American settlers and troops, and that they aid in the Revolution against the British, "casting off that bad father the King of Britain...
GLC09029
8 July 1776
Maitland, John (fl. 1776)
to the Earl of Lauderdale
British soldier writing from occupied "Staten Island," sends word of Howe's invasion of New York: " ... we ran up to a bay of Long Island where the Rebels thought we were going to Land & were very strong indeed... Our little Army are all now ashore...
GLC09022
8 April 1778
to Alexander McDougall re: plans for 1778 campaign, conditions in the army
Written as Commander in Chief. Also mentions his fears for a small pox outbreak in the army
GLC03104
1781
Barres, Joseph Frederick Wallet des (1722-1824)
A Chart of the harbour of Rhode Island and Narraganset Bay
The key shows the French and English fleets. Surveyed 7/20/1776. Nebenzahl, Battle Plans of the American Revolution, 36.
GLC03103.02
24 February 1777
Desprez, Henriques (fl. 1777)
Account of slave rebellion in New Orleans [in Spanish]
Account of a slave rebellion while New Orleans was under Spanish rule. States that the rebellion occurred on 9 and 10 February 1777. Discusses what should be done to prevent future rebellions. States that drinking causes enslaved people to commit...
GLC03040
May 1770
A view of part of the town of Boston in New-England and Brittish Ships of War landing their troops 1768
One of two copies known to be signed by colorist Christian Remick, and engraved by Paul Revere. Originally framed in worn edge scallop frame and old glass, with frame cut-down for the print. Propaganda print showing disembarkation of British troops...
GLC02873
14 July 1778
Greene, Nathanael (1742-1786)
to Joseph Webb
Written as Quartermaster General, mentions the Battle of Monmouth and that he is crossing the Hudson (North) River. Adds that the French fleet is off Sandy Hook. Ridicules the "farcical" Parliamentary propositions for reconciliation with the United...
GLC02863
1779/12/15
to Gen. Alexander Spotswood re: horses & marriage, the French fleet [incomplete]
Incomplete, lacking signature and close. Washington jokingly remarks that he "will take the horse... as Men take their wives -- better for worse [sic]." Also mentions his disappointment over the lack of cooperation of the French fleet.
GLC02842
21 July 1780
Wayne, Anthony (1745-1796)
to Stephen Moylan
Written by Brigadier General Wayne to Colonel Moylan of the 4th Dragoons. Signed twice by Wayne. Discusses operations around New York during the summer of 1780. Written in the heat of the movement while planning actions against the British in New...
GLC02681
1776/07/03
Danielson, Timothy (fl. 1776)
to John Hancock re: supporting a declaration of Independence
GLC02635
12 July 1781
to Robert Morris
Major General Wayne discusses the campaign that led up to the Battle of Yorktown. Discusses forcing Lord Cornwallis to retreat, justifies his unorthodox tactics, and describes an amazing escape at the battle of Green Spring.
GLC02620
1776/01/08 ca.
Committee of Public Safety. New York
Appeal to Members of NY Provincial Congress to attend February session
Issued by the New York Committee of Public Safety, appealing to New York's members of Congress. Also appeals on rejection of Lord North's reconciliation plan, which is intended to "disunite the colonies." From the Alexander McDougall papers.
GLC02555
1773/04/06-1793/05/11
Dundas, David, Sir (1735-1820)
[David and Isabella Dundas letters] [Decimalized]
The letters include the American Revolution (Rhode Island, Cornwallis surrender, campaign in the South), the Gordon Riots in London, and cultural life including disparaging remarks on Italian opera and Handel's music. Most letters written by David...
GLC02549
27 November 1776
Schuyler, Philip John (1733-1804)
to James Duane
Written by Major General Schuyler to Duane as a New York delegate to the Continental Congress. References Duane's letter that was delivered 26 November. Says he had to abandon the fortress on York Island because the enemy's strength was overwhelming...
GLC02544
10 November 1780-29 November 1780
Unknown
[Journal of voyage from New York City aboard the Raleigh]
The unsigned manuscript, apparently British in origin, was written while on the Frigate "Raleigh," commanded by Captain James Gambier. Gives list of passengers, who are all officers and says they are bound for the Chesapeake. On 12 November his...
GLC02542.08
3 September 1776
Nelson, Thomas (1738-1789)
to John Page
Discusses the American defeat at the Battle of Long Island and their retreat. Thinks the British will quit New York City very shortly. Reports that Brigadier General Lord Sterling and General Sullivan have been taken prisoner along with other...
GLC02540
13 April 1781
Livingston, Robert (1708-1790)
Writes to his son-in-law with family news. Discusses being "greatly pestered with a band of robbers." Requests news from the southern front in the American Revolution, specifically if Nathanael Greene was successful against Lord Cornwallis and...
GLC02537.03
15 December 1778
to his son [possibly his son-in-law, James Duane]
Discusses a snow storm that may work to the American troops' advantage as the roads are impassable. Mentions a food shortage and the rising costs of provisions. Assures the recipient that his family, under Livingston's care, is healthy. Asks about...
GLC02537.01
24 November 1778
Laurens, Henry (1724-1792)
to William Alexander
Laurens, as president of congress, writes to the Earl of Stirling about the distribution of "the Treaties of Amity & Commerce & of Alliance" with France and trade relations with the United Provinces. He also bemoans the loss of virtue and unity...
GLC02532
16 June 1781
Sumter, Thomas (1734-1832)
to Nathanael Greene
Written by the partisan fighter Brigadier General Sumter, known as the "Carolina Gamecock," to Major General Greene as commander of the Southern Department. Sumter had refused to formally join Greene's command, but was assiting him in the...
GLC02507
16 April 1776
Hawley, Joseph (1723–1788)
to Elbridge Gerry
Criticizes the use of prohibited tea. Mentions sending Gerry a memento. Comments that regiments are ineffective without "a man of Judgment and Spirit" leading them. A long postscript discusses Artemas Ward's resignation (because of poor health)...
GLC02505.23
16 January 1765
Leslie, Thomas (fl. 1765)
[Authorizing William Cochburn to act as Thomas Leslie's attorney]
Witnessed and signed by John Cruger and David Thomson. Partially printed document in which Thomas Leslie grants power of attorney to William Cochburn. Leslie needed Cochburn to help him obtain the fifty acres of land he had been granted for his...
GLC02503.07
9 September 1776
Moylan, Stephen (1737-1811)
to Stephen Hughes
Written by Colonel Moylan as Quartermaster General to Hughes. Trying to procure boards. Says Washington has called upon them to exert themselves in the creation of barracks and to procure bricks, lime, stones, shingles, and whatever else is needed...
GLC02499.14
25 December 1768
Gage, Thomas (1721-1787)
to John Bradstreet
Written by Major General Gage to Lieutenant Colonel Bradstreet. Forgot to mention in his first letter that the mayor desired "the Smith's sheep" be delivered up to him. Says he thought it was mentioned to Bradstreet before, but that he could have...
GLC02499.05
1768-1813
Revolutionary War military officers: 19 letters and documents [decimalized]
[decimalized 02499.01-02499.19]
GLC02499
14 May 1775
Thomas, John (1724-1776)
to the Committee of Safety of Massachusetts
Says agreeable to the resolves put forth by the Committee that he gave directions for Captain Davis to travel southward. Wants them to send whaling ships to Plymouth to help with its defenses. Thomas, who was eventually named a Major General, died on...
GLC02498.15
2 August 1781
Mercer, John F. (1759-1821)
to Thomas Nelson
Relays information about and an analysis of Lord Cornwallis's maneuvers to Virginia's Governor Nelson. Written shortly before the defeat of Cornwallis at the Battle of Yorktown. Mercer (who later became the governor of Maryland) was then an officer...
GLC02498.08
2 November 1776
Reed, Joseph (1741-1785)
to Charles Lee
Written by Colonel Reed as Adjutant General of the Continental Army to General Lee. Says in consequence of his note, General Washington has ordered General Putnam to send a party to Tarrytown. If the party feels Washington should, he'll detach a body...
GLC02497.15
18 October 1777
Clinton, James (1736-1812)
to George Clinton
General Clinton replies to a letter from his brother George, who served as Governor of New York 1777-1795. Expresses regret regarding the 16 October British capture of Kingston, New York, then the capital. Referring to the Hudson River, states that...
GLC02497.03
21 January [1781]
Lee, Henry (1756-1818)
Written by Lieutenant Colonel "Light-Horse Harry" Lee to Major General Greene, the commander of the Southern Department. Written during Greene's retreat across North Carolina. Marked "express." Letter describing the stalling tactics he wishes to take...
GLC02487
28 November 1776
Hogun, James (d. 1781)
[Bill for moving and provisioning troops in North Carolina]
Receipt accounted for by Colonel Hogun that billed North Carolina for captured American prisoners. Hogun was promoted to Colonel two days previously. Hogun was later captured at Charleston, South Carolina, in May 1780. He refused parole to stay with...
GLC02478
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