Phillips, Samuel, 1752-1802 to Henry Knox

GLC02437.05079

A larger version of this object is available to teachers and students for free. Others can subscribe for $25/year.

Larger images are also available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription or click here for more information.

GLC#
GLC02437.05079-View header record
Type
Letters
Date
22 July 1791
Author/Creator
Phillips, Samuel, 1752-1802
Title
to Henry Knox
Place Written
Boston, Massachusetts
Pagination
2 p. : Height: 32.5 cm, Width: 19.7 cm
Primary time period
The New Nation, 1783-1815
Sub-Era
The Early Republic

Says that for the past several years he has been trying to make gunpowder "to as great a degree of perfection as I was able." Claims he supplied large amounts to the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War. States the "Essaymaster for this state" determined it was equal in quality to English gunpowder. Notes Israel Holt, the bearer of this letter, will offer some samples. Knows that Knox wants "to promote the manufacture of an article so essential to our national safety, and the Interest of your native State in particular..." Can give a small quantity now and a larger amount in September or October. Says he will try to fulfill any contract he wants to make with Holt. Asks if Knox has any advice for further improvement in the powder.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources