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to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter to Knox discussing extra rations at West Point, a meeting of the Society of the Cincinnati and his adjustment to longer longer being in public duty. Copy made 2 February 1854.

GLC02437.09327

to Henry Knox

Later copy: "Copied from & composed with the original Feb'y 8 1854."
Discusses a headache as a result of various responsibilities and states that he will "employ some person who shall ease me of the drudgery of this business at any rate if the whole...

GLC02437.09328

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter by George Washington to Henry Knox, discussing, a gift Washington has received from the Virginia State Legislature, and his desire not to accept any such gifts. Also mentions his need for limestone and other personal affairs....

GLC02437.09329

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing America's relationship with the "the Indians" and British involvement in these affairs. Also discusses the Society of the Cincinnati and a construction project involving limestone. Copy...

GLC02437.09331

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter written by Washington to Knox, discussing his hesitation to become President. Reads "My movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his...

GLC02437.09342

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, thanking Knox for information he previously sent within his private letters. Mentions Mr. Hammond, Mr. Penn, and Andrew Hamilton. Asks how Pennsylvania State officers, including Mr. Morris (possibly...

GLC02437.09347

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, thanking Knox for a letter recently received. Offer condolences to Knox for his recent losses (several of Knox's children died 1796-1797, including his seven year old son named after George Washington)...

GLC02437.09350

to Henry Knox

Transmits a box and map (not included), asking Knox to commit them to a person in whom he can confide. Notes that Knox should go by water to Christiana (possibly Delaware). Gives his compliments to Knox's wife, Lucy, hoping that she will spend some...

GLC02437.09399

to George Washington

Pinckney, former United States Minister to Great Britain, introduces Robert Bird of the House of Bird, Savage, and Bird of London. He states that Bird hopes to pay Washington his respects at Mount Vernon, Virginia.

GLC00604.02

to Frances "Fanny" Basset Washington re: adding another story to home

Written from Philadelphia. Frances Basset Washington was niece by marriage and a favorite of George Washington's wife ("Your Aunt"); she died of tuberculosis, just as her husband, George Augustine, did.

GLC00077

to Isaac R. Douglass

One letter from John A. Washington to Isaac R. Douglass dated July 6, 1844. Pertains to arrangements to enslave a woman named Julia. Notes that William G. Cazenove told him Douglass would either pay $350 cash, or $400 in two installments, for Julia...

GLC00236

[Land bond to increase acreage at Mount Vernon]

Cosigned by Robert Alexander. Washington refers to himself in the third person seven times. Alexander wants to sell 300 acres of Maryland land his wife inherited from her father to George Washington. Washington hoped to exchange the plot with Thomas...

GLC00479

to Gouverneur Morris

Discusses his non-involvement in foreign affairs. The death that called Washington to Mount Vernon was that of his nephew, George Augustus Washington, who died of tuberculosis.

GLC00494

to Henry Knox

General Washington writes to Knox, who had been Chief of the Continental Artillery during the Revolutionary War. Recently visited his "aged Mother," Mary Ball Washington. Thanks Knox for so diligently reporting the state of the garrison and stores...

GLC02437.09404

to Henry Knox

Washington complains of applications, letters of compliment, and enquiries which occupy his time and deprive him of exercise. He plans to hire someone to deal with the drudgery of this troublesome correspondence. Assures Knox that his letters are...

GLC02437.09406

to Henry Knox

Thanks Knox for several letters, which put his mind at ease regarding General Benjamin Lincoln's military operations (Lincoln led the Massachusetts state militia in Shays' Rebellion) and the dignity of Government. Congratulates Knox on the recent...

GLC02437.09411

to Henry Knox

Thanks Knox for information he previously sent within his private letters. Mentions Mr. [George] Hammond (the first British envoy to the United States), Mr. [John] Penn (former colonial governor), and Andrew Allen (former colonial attorney general...

GLC02437.09426

to Henry Knox

Thanks Knox for a letter recently received. Offers condolences to Knox for his recent losses (three of Knox's children died 1796-1797, including his seven year old son named after George Washington). Washington complains of those who lack...

GLC02437.09431

to Harriot Washington Parks, his niece, re: congratulations on her marriage

Written as President, offering his congratulations and suggestions for "a prudent deportment" towards her husband, including "the accomodation of your views to his circumstances." Also advocating frugality, he adds "always keep the old adage in...

GLC02793.005

to James Anderson re: instructions for management of Mount Vernon

Written as President. Washington goes into considerable detail regarding farming, especially innovations (a new red clover). He also mentions building a new road and the drought of the previous fall.

GLC02793.006

to Tobias Lear

Pintard asks Lear for permission to publish a sketch in "New York" magazine: "I mentioned to you when at the President's that I should take it as a particular favor if you would allow a sketch to be taken of the drawing of the Bastile & the key."...

GLC02794.011

to Mrs. Mary S. Lear re: Tobias Lear's health and illnesses in family and slaves

Mary Lear was Tobias Lear's mother. Contains much news of the Mount Vernon estate. "[A]ll my family whites, and Blacks, have been very sick, many of them very ill. -- Thank god they have all recovered again and I was so fortunate as not loose [sic]...

GLC02794.044

Items pertaining to John Augustine Washington [Decimalized .01-.02]

GLC02953

to Ned Turner

Lt. Colonel Washington, George Washington's great-grandnephew and aide-de-camp to Robert E. Lee, discusses Lee's recent promotion, Union general Benjamin Franklin Butler and the recent Battle of Big Bethel, and Confederate general Joseph E. Johnston...

GLC02953.01

[Poem praising John Augustine Washington]

Written in praise of Washington, who died 13 September 1861. States "No soldier of fortune, no seeker or pelf, No lover of glory and fame; But simply a man who was true to himself, The home where he'd dwelt and his name..."

GLC02953.02

to Comte de Moustier [in French]

A rather formal letter of thanks which mentions Washington's hospitality at Mount Vernon towards the end. Signed in the text by Lafayette.

GLC03281.01

to Hannah S. Boudinot

Writes about the pleasure of returning to domestic life after the termination of the Revolutionary War. Congratulates Boudinot on returning to her own home after a seven year exile and on the improved health of her daughter, Susan Boudinot. States...

GLC03909

to Robert Cary & Co.

Mentions enclosing invoices for goods (not included). Discusses tobacco sales. Criticizes English agents for selling tobacco at too low a price. States that, " ... I have lost (at least) four years out of five by Consignments having better prices...

GLC03933

Washington's House Mount Vernon

One engraving titled Washington's House Mount Vernon dated circa 1860. Features a scenic view of the rear porch of Mount Vernon overlooking the river. In the center of the image are three people looking toward the river.

GLC08878.1311

Mt. Vernon - The Home of Washington

One engraving titled Mt. Vernon - The Home of Washington dated circa 1860. Features a scenic view of the rear porch of Mount Vernon, with two figures standing on the porch. In the center of the image are four people and a dog gathered on the lawn.

GLC08878.1312

to Burgess Ball

President Washington discusses the construction of a tilt hammer. Relates that the United States Government may be interested in purchasing a tract of land from Ball, upon which to establish an arsenal. Discusses the character of Hyland Crow, who...

GLC05287

to James Mercer

Written by Washington a month after the adjournment of the first Continental Congress to Mercer as a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. Informs Mercer of the cost of purchases made for him in Frederick, Maryland including £29 for a slave...

GLC06335

Purchasing land bordering Mt. Vernon from Charles West

Printed document, with text filled out and also signed in text by Washington. Witnessed by Robert Burwell and John Fitzhugh.

GLC06793

to Rev. M. Morton re: seeking payment from tardy tenant of George Fairfax

"I could be no neighbor to a person who bore the Character you (justly, or unjustly....) did, there is no reason why Col. Fairfax (a third person) is to have the same Card to play over again next year in pursuit of another tenant." Washington acted...

GLC07143

The Last Will & Testament of.... George Washington

Printed by Isaiah Thomas. Uncut.

GLC07425

Deed of purchase of 196 acres adjoining Mt. Vernon from John & Catharine West

Signed 12 times in text. Signers include John West Junr., Catharine West, G. Mason, Richard Anell Robert Bogges, and Briant Alliston.

GLC07470

to John Fairfax

Before leaving Mount Vernon to serve his first term as President of the United States, Washington instructs Fairfax regarding management of the estate. States that all matters should ultimately be directed by his nephew, Major George Augustine...

GLC07487

to Burwell Bassett

In a humorous letter, chastizes Bassett, his brother-in-law, for not attending church. States "strange it is that you will be so blind to truth that the enlightening sounds of the Gospel can not reach your Ear, nor no Examples awaken you to a sense...

GLC07545

to Mary Ball Washington re: his brother's marriage, ordering clothing for slaves

With provenance note stating property of David A. Hayes, and a clipped signature of John Hancock, President.

GLC07858.01

[Mount Vernon account page].

Account page from Mount Vernon listing monies paid to George Washington by Lewis Lamart, one of his rent collectors.

GLC08228

[Draft survey and plot drawing of Fairfax's land jutting into Mount Vernon Estate]

Washington submitted his final version to the Virginia Proprietors, and succeeded in adding the land to Mount Vernon.

GLC08379

Washington's House, Mount Vernon

One engraving entitled "Washington's House, Mount Vernon" circa 1861-1877. Depicts a view of Washington's House and the surrounding property. Clusters of people across the lawn view the sunset. Caption notes, "drawn after nature for the proprietor...

GLC08878.0200

to Robert Lewis

Gives to his nephew "The Land which was given to me by my Mother, or as Heir at law I am entitled I do," as a present. Describes the tract in Virginia. Also asks if "Major Harrison went to Mount Vernon as you expected" and about Harrison's...

GLC08930

Permission for Elias W. Beach to visit Mount Vernon

Letter written from Head Quarters, Engineer Brigade, near Fort Berry. Clapp, assistant adjutant general, gives Beach a one day pass by command of General Henry W. Benham to visit Mount Vernon.

GLC00919.25.02

to Burwell Bassett re: poor crops, election to House of Burgesses, Stamp Act

Writes about the dry weather's effects on crops, his loss of wheat to rust, etc. Washington also notes receipt of the Governor's proclamation proroguing the assembly

GLC04441

to William A. Washington

Commisserates with his nephew, Colonel William A. Washington, on the death of his wife. Regrets he cannot find employment for Mr. Ashton, who had been recommended to him by his nephew, as he already has hired a clerk. Notes the grains he uses to make...

GLC04445

to Howell Lewis

Writes to his nephew, who was temporarily serving as overseer at Mount Vernon, about the rain they have been experiencing and the effects on the wheat crop. Mentions that the fields should be plowed soon. Asks Lewis to send him any bills. Requests...

GLC04653

to Burwell Bassett

Mentions that he would have enjoyed seeing him at Richmond if it had been possible. Remarks that an artist, Mr. Pine, was at Mount Vernon and had to wait for him to return to do his historical painting. Comments on the engagement of his nephew...

GLC04709

Invoice of Goods to be sent for by Mr. John Gill of Baltimore for and on account of George Washington of Mount Vernon in Virginia, according to agreement

List of dry goods Washington ordered for his plantation. Includes blankets, buttons, and cloth. Most of the items are material for blankets and clothing for his slaves. Asks for "6 pieces of the largest - thickest and best striped Blanketing for...

GLC05100

to James McHenry

Describes his scheme to return a runaway slave to his master William Drayton of Charleston, S.C. After visiting Mount Vernon with his master, the enslaved person escaped and returned to Washington's home. Washington writes that "[t]he fellow pretends...

GLC02065

to Lucy Knox

Received Lucy's letter via Martha Washington and is glad to hear his daughter is in good spirits. Hopes to see her in ten days. He has to prepare to transport ordnance in the aftermath of the siege of Yorktown. Mentions that the French army will...

GLC02437.01277

to John Lamb

Uncertain yet whether he will join the artillery park because General George Washington had not yet arrived. Writes, "He has lately met with a severe Shock to his affections, in the loss of the amiable Mr. Custis, Mrs. Washington's only child."...

GLC02437.01289

to Henry Knox

Has heard from Colonel Jeremiah Wadsworth that Lord Cornwallis' surrender at Yorktown had occurred, or would shortly. She has received his letter of 16 October 1781 and is awaiting the next, which Knox wrote on 19 October 1781 (see GLC02437.01231...

GLC02437.01257

to Benjamin Lincoln

Later copy. Written by Brigadier General Knox to General Lincoln. Says he was concerned for him, but hopes he is safe at Head of Elk, Maryland. Tells him to "pray take care of the trophies and carry them triumphantly into rome." Reports from Mount...

GLC02437.01288

to Marquis de Lafayette

Knox says he wrote Lafayette "several letters" expressing his affection for him. Says America as a nation believes the same thing and that "you must not regard [such expressions] as compliments but the language of sincerity." Goes on to say "Our...

GLC02437.02830

to George Washington

Knox reflects on the Revolutionary War: "Your calm retreat to Mount Vernon must be a source of ineffable delight to you. You can from there take a retrospective view of the critical exigencies of the War, and see a thousand ways by which the issue...

GLC02437.02960

to George Washington

Writes that he hopes to be able to visit General Washington at Mount Vernon soon. Is convinced of the General's affection for him and feels sure that his limited correspondence will not be misconstrued; is aware that responding to too many letters...

GLC02437.03319

to George Washington

Knox introduces Catharine Macaulay Graham and her husband, James Graham, to Washington. Writes, "a glorious enthusiasm for the cause of general liberty and human happiness, has impelled this lady and her husband, to cross the atlantic to visit that...

GLC02437.03122

to George Washington

Writes to Washington on a variety of subjects. Mentions that he had hoped to visit him at Mount Vernon, but now does not think that is possible. Discusses placement of six companies on the Ohio River, by Forts McIntosh and Pitt; declares that they...

GLC02437.03220

to Henry Knox

Discusses routine War Office affairs and preparations for John Pratt's march to Fort Pitt. Comments on Ebenezer Hazard's assurances that a contract would be renewed to guarantee regular postal service. Forwarded some letters from Henry to Winthrop...

GLC02437.04030

to Henry Knox

Gives a report of his trip to Alexandria, Virginia, and the surrounding area. Mentions that he had dinner with the Washingtons at Mount Vernon. Says he would have stayed with a Mrs. House in Philadelphia, but the Attorney General, Edmund Randolph...

GLC02437.04658

to Henry Knox

Discusses meeting Colonel [Marinus] Willet and Alexander McGillivray (Willet was accompanying McGillivray, on his way to negotiate a treaty with the United States). Notes that Willet "appears to have overcome great obstacles in the object of his...

GLC02437.04651

to William Knox

Knox signs with his initials. References receiving several letters from William since 7 April. Has no excuses for why he has not written more often. Says this letter will not be long because there is a ship in port that is just about to leave for...

GLC02437.05027

to James Wilkinson

Marked "Private." Besides receiving a copy of Wilkinson's report to Arthur St. Clair, he also received a private letter of 26 August. Says the volunteer expeditions under Wilkinson and [General Charles] Scott "reflect great honor on the commander...

GLC02437.05175

to Lucy Knox

Expresses his happiness on hearing about his son Henry's current situation. Sends Lucy news of various acquaintances, which he lists by number. States that he is sorry to hear of Mrs. [Abigail] Adams's "indisposition," noting that the Adams family...

GLC02437.05528

to Lucy Knox

Discusses his health and family matters. Talks about gaining weight, stating "I have increased since your departure, owing perhaps to two causes ... more food and less exercise." Mentions that the President (George Washington) has invited him to...

GLC02437.05602

to George Washington

Marked "private." Notes he questioned Mr. Hammond's and Mr. Ternant's intentions of visiting Mount Vernon. Mr. Hammond will set out for Mount Vernon on Wednesday but Mr. Ternant likely will not make the trip due to his health. In a struck paragraph...

GLC02437.05613

to Lucy Knox

Apologizes for not being able to visit her due to his job obligations but states that he will as soon as he can. Mentions that "something has occured relatively to the southern Indians which would seem to open new sources of difficulty." Discusses...

GLC02437.05557

to Henry Knox

Per his promise, sends Knox a statement of his accounts with Hodgdon (not present). Seems to ask that Knox pay him a certain sum, so that Hodgdon can pay off one of Knox's creditors for him. Relates that the President will be traveling to Mount...

GLC02437.06768

to Henry Knox

Refers to the constitutional rights of Massachusetts. Also discusses insurgents in that state (Shays' Rebellion was losing momentum). Relates in confidence that he does not want to go to the Constitutional Convention (to be held in Philadelphia)...

GLC02437.09410

to Henry Knox

One of Washington's most famous letters, written shortly before going to New York for his inauguration. Washington writes about his apprehensions on assuming the presidency: "my movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings...

GLC02437.09419

Gazette of the United States. [No. 6 (May 2, 1789)]

Includes a description of George Washington's 30 April 1789 inauguration as the first President of the United States, held in New York City, with a printing of his Inaugural Address (page 3). Contains a column on the political state of America, and...

GLC03518

to John Francis Mercer

Washington replies to a letter from Mercer, noting that he would have replied sooner, but he had a fever. Expresses his plan to never enslaved another person again, and his wish that slavery be abolished by "slow, sure & imperceptible degrees."...

GLC03705