13 August 1782

Byers, James, fl. 1767-1784

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes, "I have the honour to inform you of my being at this place, for the purpose of erecting a brass ordnance foundry - the want of fire brick occasions some delay, as thay must be had from Boston, Col. Hatch has engaged them and I expect that they will come on in about ten days." Comments that since "every thing will be new, & workmen strange," when the foundry is ready he will first work on some light metal, like 5 1/2 inch howitzers. Will try to get the work done as quickly as possible, because he "shall wish to return to New York, when it is in our possession, where I should be…

GLC02437.01526

February 13, 1783

Byers, James, fl. 1767-1784

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the casting of new artillery, namely howitzers.

GLC02437.01917

19 February 1783

Byers, James, fl. 1767-1784

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses casting howitzers, making shells for the howitzers, and impressing or embossing the "arms of the United States," possibly on howitzers. Also mentions that he needs someone to help repair the weapons. See GLC02437.01957 for Knox's response to this letter.

GLC02437.01935

29 March 1783

Byers, James, fl. 1767-1784

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the casting of new cannon and artillery, particulary the howitzers in regards to size and length and placement of "the dolphins."

GLC02437.02039

25 August 1784

Byers, James, fl. 1767-1784

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Byers, who had a contract with Congress to cast brass ordnance during the Revolutionary War, complains of difficulty receiving pay for his services. Asks Knox to intervene on his behalf, requesting a certificate from Knox attesting to his service. Plans to send the certificate with a petition to Congress. Encloses a copy of the last letter he received from Robert Morris on the subject (GLC02437.03037).

GLC02437.03044