26 July 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Is disappointed not to have received a letter from Knox recently, and hopes that Knox's son isn't ill again, which would prevent him from writing. Writes, "By the last New York paper I observe that the Revenue System is nearly compleated [sic] and ready for the Nominations & Appointments - I am really extremely anxious in this head, and if I am disappointed it will be very severely felt by me, more so than any circumstance of my life." Adds that he is pleased Mr. [Rufus] King has been elected to represent New York in the Senate. Provides an update on Captain [Thomas] Vose and Major […

GLC02437.04305

13 August 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses his disappointment with apparently not receiving a government position, but knows that Knox did everything in his power to help. Would prefer, if possible, to be appointed in the Revenue department. Comments on the appointment of General [Benjamin] Lincoln and of Mr. Lovell. Mentions the severely hot weather they have recently experienced in Boston, and sends his love to Mrs. Knox and the rest of the family.

GLC02437.04326

23 August 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Has received the news that Knox's son has died. Sends his condolences to Knox and his wife and discusses the difficulty of losing a child. Has enclosed a letter for the President from Mr. Thomas Edwards, the former Judge Advocate, who is very poor at present and would like an appointment in the judicial branch as a clerk. Would like to pursue for himself the office of Marshal, and explains why he is well-suited for its duties. Also discusses his suitability for several other positions, but leaves it to Knox, who is in the seat of government, to represent his interests there.

GLC02437.04333

30 August 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Reports that "Cousin Isaac" (likely Isaac Winslow) has departed for "Georges River" (possibly St. George River in Maine, near the Waldo patent lands). Writes, "General [Benjamin] Lincoln appointment as one of the Commissioners to Treat with the Southern Indians has given great Satisfaction to the people in this quarter, particularly to his friends who are exceedingly gratified in the confidence placed in him by the President." Continues to emphasize his interest in the position of Collector of the Port of Boston, but also discusses the position of Marshall and the duties and salary…

GLC02437.04342

6 September 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Mentions the illness of Lucy Knox, related to the recent passing of one of the Knox children. Discusses the recent bill describing the salaries of the various executive departments. Mentions General [Benjamin] Lincoln's recent appointment and his leading troops to negotiate with the Creek Indians in Georgia. Comments on his own prospects for receiving an appointment in the Revenue office or as Marshall. Also mentions the arrival of a French ship in the Boston area, as well as a bill from Captain [Thomas] Vose, Knox's agent in the Waldo patent.

GLC02437.04350

30 August 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Jackson acknowledges that he received a letter from Knox on 22 August 1790. Laments that it was not within his "power" to take care of a debt that Knox asked him to settle in Worcester. Says he heard from a vessel from the West Indies that on 15 July war had been declared on England, but Jackson does not believe it, though he wishes "in god it may be true." Reports that Benjamin Austin, Jr. and Thomas Dawes, Jr. are "candidates for Federal Representatives for this district in the Room of Mr. Ames." Expects opposition, but believes "we shall be able to counteract them." Says that John…

GLC02437.04706

7 September 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

General Jackson did not receive Knox's letter of 30 August 1790 because he had been out of town. Jackson had met with two men named Jonathan Dow and Ebenezer Eastman interested in purchasing a "Township" from Knox. The land is between "Northern Stream and Lower debscot." These men assure Jackson they can bring in forty families to settle it immediately. Jackson needs to know what Knox wants to do about the situation. Jackson calls Knox's attention to an extract of a letter (in the newspaper) by Spanish Ambassador Don Diego de Gardoqui "which points an end to the prospects of War." Jackson…

GLC02437.04723

24 October 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Jackson describes his concern that two letters he sent to Secretary of War Henry Knox did not reach him yet. Jackson tells Knox that a Captain Barnard is in Boston and will bring "the article" Knox left when he returns. Jackson also informs Knox of the courtship and pending marriage between John Codman and Katy Amory. Notes that judgment against a man named Richard has been postponed fourteen days, during which time Richard must prove that he paid a debt. Jackson closes by saying that Governor James Bowdoin is very sick and not expected to "continue long." "Free" stamped on address leaf…

GLC02437.04755

31 October 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Jackson acknowledges receipt of Knox's letter of 24 October 1790 and was pleased to learn that Knox had arrived safely in New York. Jackson and others in Boston had received word of a coach accident that severely injured Mrs. Knox and some of their children. "To the astonishment of every body, Governor Bowdoin is yet living," Jackson reports, "for a week past every moment was supposed to be his last." Bowdoin "is a good and valuable man, and his death will be much lamented by his family and the public at large." Jackson comments on the performance of Knox's horse, "Boston," saying that Knox…

GLC02437.04763

7 November 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Acknowledges receipt of Knox's last letter. Tells Knox that he has spoken with the ailing Governor [James] Bowdoin "respecting the Fish, and we have concluded to put on board the first Vessell bound to Philadelphia." Bowdoin died at 4 o'clock that morning. "He had his reason to the last moment." Bowdoin's property left to "Mrs. Temple" will be "put into the hands of the Trustees, and the income only at her command during the life her husband but if she outlives him, it comes into their hands and at her own disposal." Notes he had a visit from Mr. [Sylvanus?] Bourne, but Jackson had no…

GLC02437.04773

28 November 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Advised Knox and family to get out of Philadelphia in the summer or be exposed to "the unhealthy climate of that City in the hot Season..." Describes a severe snowstorm that has hit Boston. Mentions that Governor John Hancock is not well and "is not long for this world." Says the Governor's face and legs are frequently swollen. Notes Mr. [Sylvanus] Bourne has delivered all of his papers to Colonel [Benjamin] Hichborn. Says he is interested in hearing how Knox's horse "Boston" is working out for him.

GLC02437.04782

5 December 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Notes he received Knox's letter of 21 November. Says he feels bad that Knox is not that happy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania but reminds him that he "must not expect all that elegance and convenience that you left in New York." Notes he is sending Knox's [wall]paper to him including a bill that will sail out on a ship the following day. Comments that the weather continues to be severely cold and a man was found frozen to death. Looks to Knox to give one of his friends a government appointment. Says the friends and family of "Lt. Foule" are looking to pick up his effects and his pay.

GLC02437.04790

12 December 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Complains about the increased distance between them but says if they "continue to write on Sundays, we shall hear from each other the middle of every week." Worries Knox's new and unfurnished house might cause illnesses in his family during this time of year. Discusses Knox's wallpaper and the severe weather in Boston. Mentions that [Sylvanus] Bourne "is choosen Fed-Rep for the County of Plymouth." Says he has found a relief in his head by "bleeding and regular diet." Also expects that "exercise and temperance" will help him fully recuperate. Writes, "by every Vessell from Europe the…

GLC02437.04795

14 December 1790

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Notes this letter will be delivered by Major Samuel Gatchell. Tells Knox that Gatchell is interested in an appointment to one of the cutters ordered by Congress. Attests to Gatchell's "reputation and honor."

GLC02437.04796

9 January 1791

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Expresses his joy on finally hearing from Knox: "a Lover never received a Letter from his Mistress with half the pleasure that I received yours of the 28th [of December]." Talks about Knox's wallpaper and the trial of Knox's "Coachman." Jackson's news includes "a confirmation that the dispute between England and Spain is made up.-this comes by a ship which arrived here yesterday from Halifax." Jackson is disappointed that there won't be a war. Jackson did not accept an appointment to the militia because he is waiting for the one that Governor Bowdoin granted him before he died. Jackson is…

GLC02437.04820

January 23,1791

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes, "General Harmar's letter of the 23d of November as publish'd in the papers, has relieved the minds of many, and the people are now less severe in the observations on his conduct." Says Captain John Hobby has written him seeking an appointment in the new militia. Believes Hobby is "one of the best of Officers, and is a Man of activity & integrity, and will do honor to any appointment." Also mentions John Tracy's desire for an appointment. From what he knows, Tracy is an honorable man with a good family. Acknowledges that the clamors for appointments must be challenging for Knox…

GLC02437.04835

January 30, 1791

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes that Governor John Hancock "deliver'd a lengthy speech to both houses, it was a very good one, and well received, the question has frequently been asked, who wrote it." Mentions when Samuel Sewall took his seat in the Massachusetts legislature he was rejected from all quarters of the House "because he was a district Judge of the United States." A debate took place and Sewall's supporters included William Eustis and James Bowdoin, but they were in the minority. Writes, "many good Federalists are sorry that Judge Sewall made a question of this business." Talks about the favorable…

GLC02437.04841

7 March 1789

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes that he received Knox's last letter: "I rejoice with you & your family in the prospect of your being so soon well & a perfect cure effected." After reading his letter, showed it to Ben [Hichborn], who declared he has written to Knox about their business. Writes, "On Wednesday morning the Bells in this Town were set a Ringing in Honor of the Day - the Birth Day of the New Government, and a [general] joy ran through the whole of the inhabitants of this City - I believe there is not a more Federal Spot in Union. - We are momently expecting an Express from New York, announcing…

GLC02437.04138

15 August 1785

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Colonel Henry Jackson writes to his close friend General Henry Knox on a variety of topics. Writes "I have been Lasey it is true, but cool weather is coming on & I shall be more attentive in future." Discusses the sale of some hardware goods Knox had obtained and the price for which they have been selling in England. Mentions matters of local politics, including letters between the governor and Congress and also disparaging remarks against "our friend B." made in the newspaper. Comments on difficulties with new currency at the bank. Discusses a local dinner party. Finally, describes the…

GLC02437.03179

12 December 1785

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes on a variety of subjects. Reports that Governor [John] and Mrs. Hancock will set out in a week for New York, and that he dined with them last week at their mutual friend Ben Hichborn's. Showed Hichborn the letter he received from Knox detailing Hichborn's appointment, and "his heart was filld with gratitude for your particular attention to him he said many things of my friend that was very pleasing to me." Reports that [Samuel] Shaw will leave tomorrow and that he will write a letter for Knox to be carried by Shaw. Sends his love to Mrs. Lucy Knox, their children, and Knox's brother…

GLC02437.03224

19 December 1785

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes on several topics. Mentions that [Samuel] Shaw will leave soon for New York and that Jackson has delivered to Shaw all of Henry Knox's brother William's luggage. Mentions that Governor [John] Hancock, his wife and family, and several others will depart the next day for New York, and that while most of them will take other methods of transportation, he intends to "proceed all the way by Land, the season of the year & the roads must be much against him." Discusses financial matters, particularly bank notes of his and Knox's which he has not yet disposed of because of their current…

GLC02437.03226

February 25, 1787

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the arrangement of troops and an established military uniform he received from Major [William] North. Asks Knox to decide which of the two majors will be assigned to him so he can appoint a field officer at the Castle. Goes into further detail about his new recruits and funding for the uniforms. Notes General [Benjamin] Lincoln remains in Pittsfield, Massachusetts (one of the areas where Shays' Rebellion took place). Writes, "...the heart of the Rebellion is broken up, and have dispersed to all quarters - but if the government Troops were withdrawn, from that quarter, the same…

GLC02437.03469

4 March 1787

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the arrival of mutual friends, Mr. and Mrs. [James] Swan, in New York City. Shares the Swans' gratitude for the warm welcome Knox and his wife Lucy are showing them. Mentions steps he has taken to fill orders for military supplies, such as clothing for soldiers. Continues with military matters concerning the stationing of men throughout Massachusetts, as well as his attempts to recruit men. Also discusses his fears about Congress disbanding his regiment. Relates the appointment of delegates for the Federal Convention, including Francis Dana, Nathaniel Gorham, Caleb Strong, Rufus…

GLC02437.03482

11 March 1787

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the sale of the "Eastern lands." Relates the membership of the committee chosen to represent Massachusetts at the Society of the Cincinnati meeting in May (members include General [Rufus] Putnam and Doctor [William] Eustis). Mentions petitioning the General Court of Massachusetts for funds to support the troops and provide uniforms. Asks about specifics concerning the uniforms, such as whether or not swords should be hung at the waist or from the shoulder, what officer rank should have each style of epaulette, or this length or amount of bullion fringe. Includes a small sketch of…

GLC02437.03489

18 March 1787

Jackson, Henry, 1747-1809

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses uniforms and informs Knox that "I intend my Regiment shall be the best Cloathed [sic] and as perfectly Uniform as any that has ever been in the American Army, or indeed any other Army - " Mentions that Colonel Hull has written to Knox regarding his rank (see GLC02437.03493) and calls him a "Charming fellow." Discusses problems of rank with his ensigns as they do not have an actual rank, but would like one. Feels he will be able to recruit the state quota with help from the government. Wants colours for his regiment, asks Knox for the device to make them so he can execute them.…

GLC02437.03494