Our Collection

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, William, 1756-1795 to Henry Knox

Order a pdf of this item here.

A high-resolution version of this object is available for registered users. LOG IN

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.01701 Author/Creator: Knox, William, 1756-1795 Place Written: Amsterdam, Netherlands Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 November 1782 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 22.8 x 19 cm. Order a Copy

Written by William to his brother Major General Henry Knox. Fears that Henry is worried about him as he has not written since he was in Rochefort (William spells it Rochfort), France. While there he sent some linen, epaulets, sweetmeats, and some other things for Lucy. Has been in ill health lately, which has caused some problems with his business plans. The plan involved a Mr. Soderstroom from Gothensburgh, Sweden, who was going to work with a Mr. Sears, a Mr. Smith, and himself. It fell through when William was not able to go to Sweden as Soderstroom wanted. Has not given up all hope though, as he might try to make the trip in the spring. Mentions some details of shipping goods to the United States. Says Henry will be surprised to learn that his expenses have been about £200. Signed twice by William, once at the close of the letter and again at the address.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources