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to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter by Washington condoling Knox on the death of his son. Copied 3 February 1854 according to note at top of first page.

GLC02437.09318

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, informing Knox that he will arrive later than he expected to or had hoped for in Philedelphia. States that his later than expected arrival means he will have very little time to prepare for his...

GLC02437.09319

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter in which he informs Knox that he has sent him the draft of a letter to Captain Brandt, allowing him to let stand any corrections he may chose to make. Along left margin, "Recd from Lt. Henry Knox Thatcher Aug 9 1855 by mail."

GLC02437.09320

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, thanking Knox for his valuable public service, as Knox is about to retire as Secretary of War. Copied from original 7 February 1854 according to note on first page.

GLC02437.09321

to Henry Knox

Later copy of original. Asks Knox to gather materials and help prepare scientific experiments for military purposes planned by Mr. De Granger. With Washington's name at the bottom, signed in another hand. On blue paper. Original Washington signed...

GLC02437.09322

to Henry Knox

Later copy of original. Preparations for a seige in New York early in the year. Informs Knox he expects 20,000 men for the seige of New York. Asks Knox to prepare a plan for artillery during the seige, and requests advice on planning the seige....

GLC02437.09323

to Henry Knox

Later copy advising Knox to speak to his colleague about his association and manner of speaking with another person. Writes that "I have every reason short of positive proof to believe the person here meant, is a Traitor to this Country, that he is...

GLC02437.09324

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter to Henry Knox, discussing many issues regarding the military and Congress. Among the issues discussed are compensation from Congress for officers who served during the revolution, his affection for these officers, the division...

GLC02437.09325

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter to Henry Knox regarding possible peace settlement and the office of Secreatary of War. Asks Knox if he would be interested in becoming Secretary of War, and discusses the views of Congress opinion on a "Peace Settlement," with...

GLC02437.09326

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, advising Knox in detail on how he might arrange for the Defense of the Western Territories. Also congratulates Knox on becoming "Secretary at War," discusses Congress' plans for the Western Territories...

GLC02437.09330

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 the "disorders which have arisen in these States." Discusses the variosu hardships and difficulties facing the young nation, and requests Knox's thoughts on the subject. Worries about...

GLC02437.09332

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter by Washington to Knox, discussing the potential Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, which he does not plan to attend. Believes the current national government is terribly flawed, but that maintaining it may be the best...

GLC02437.09333

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter by Washington to Knox, discussing Shay's rebellion. Greatful that the rebellion has been supressed. News of the rebellion, and fear of further upheaval, helped spur Washington to agree to attend the Constitutional Convention...

GLC02437.09334

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing whether or not he should attend the Constitutional Convention. Debates pros and cons of the convention, and requests Knox's opinion on the matter. Copy made 3 February 1854.

GLC02437.09335

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing the Society of the Cincinnati, and "the light in which it is viewed in France." Copy made 3 February 1854.

GLC02437.09336

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, reporting on events at the Constitutional Convention. Copy made 1 February 1854.

GLC02437.09337

to Henry Knox

Later copy. Discussing the voting in each state as to whether or not to adopt the new Constitution. Copy made 3 March 1854.

GLC02437.09338

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing the vote on whether to adopt the Constitution in Massachusetts and Virginia. Copy made 8 February 1854.

GLC02437.09339

to Henry Knox

Later copy of original letter. Discussing support for the Constitution in various states, notably New Hampshire. Copy made 4 March 1854.

GLC02437.09340

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter written by Washington to Knox, discussing the Anti-Federalists and debate in each state over ratifying the Constitution. Copy made 3 March 1854.

GLC02437.09341

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, discussing an expedition against the Wabash Indians. Expresses disappointment in General [Josiah] Harmer. Expected little from Harmer, after hearing he was a drunkard. Instructs Knox to present other...

GLC02437.09343

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, which transmitted a letter from the President of the Society of the Cincinnati of South Carolina (possibly William Moultrie). Relates that the enclosed letter pertains to a resolution of the Society....

GLC02437.09344

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, instructing Knox not to disclose information regarding the nomination of General Officers and a bill that has not yet passed. Copy made 1 February 1854. Original of this letter is GLC02437.09424.

GLC02437.09345

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing the case of General St. Clair (possibly Arthur St. Clair), noting that he wishes to answer St. Clair's letters with a reply that can be published. Comments that saying neither too much nor...

GLC02437.09346

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, discussing General Israel Chapin's negotiations with the Six Nations (possibly referring to the Canandaigua Treaty of 1794). Notes that the Treaty should take place apart from British agents and spies...

GLC02437.09348

to Henry Knox

Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, discussing a letter recently received from Knox "with great pleasure." Comments on Knox's home in Maine (Knox retired to his estate, Montpelier, in 1795, located near the St. George River in Thomaston...

GLC02437.09349

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

Later copy of the final portion of a letter from Washington to Knox. This section discusses private matters related to the Secretary of War. Also worries about "The loss of our independence or the Subjugation of our Goverment both of which are...

GLC02437.09351

[List of letters written by Washington to Knox]

A record of the letters in this collection written by Washington to Knox, listed by date.

GLC02437.09352

to Henry Knox

Realizes that supplies are badly needed in many locations, but wishes to transport supplies as little as possible. Also mentions how well Knox has performed as superintendent of his division. Washington's signature has been clipped out of the...

GLC02437.09353

to Henry Knox

Transmits a requisition from New York for ammunition and says to send only what stock is deficient to Fort Schuyler. Written at "Head Quarters." At bottom, a note in the hand of Samuel Shaw reads, "Answered and the papers returned to the man who...

GLC02437.09354

to Henry Knox

Discusses the possible evacuation of New York and various issues regarding supplies. Requests an estimate of articles needed for Knox's department and asks Knox to attend to supplies needed by General Clinton and Captain Moodie. "I have only to...

GLC02437.09355

to Henry Knox

Does not yet know the route Colonel Lamb's regiment will take, and has ordered the sappers and miners to West Point. "I am so totally in the dark at this Time, respecting the scene of our operations for the ensuing Campaign, that I cannot at present...

GLC02437.09356

to Henry Knox

Requests Knox's opinion on the "proposed arrangement of the office of Field Commissary of Military Stores." Includes an extract from a letter by the Secretary of War at the end of his letter, which he wants Knox's opinion on. The extract is...

GLC02437.09357

to Henry Knox

Proposes use of prisoners as armorers, discusses trial of Sergeant Spinoza [Spinosa] for treason, requests help organizing the Department of the Commissary of Military Stores and wonders if "it be possible to get the field pieces directed to be...

GLC02437.09358

to Henry Knox

Refuses to grant leave to Captain Machin while he is on trial. "Captain Machin being under Arrest there would be an impropriety in his transacting any public business - or in granting him leave of absence from Camp. His Trial must soon come on in...

GLC02437.09359

to Henry Knox

Suggesting stationary duty for an Invalid Regiment. Instructs Knox to "keep Van Schaick's Artificers," and fill the rest of his need for artificers with carpenters and Masons;. Also discusses movement of materials from Fishkill, condition of "the...

GLC02437.09360

to Henry Knox

Suggests the Fourth Connecticut Regiment be used to lay wood for a hospital being built. Written at "Head Quarters." Washington's signature clipped.

GLC02437.09361

to Henry Knox

Enclosing a note regarding a case that he wishes Knox to deal with. "You will be pleased to take up the matter in question, have a fair investigation made into the Merits of it, and cause justice to be done to the Individual concerned, as well as...

GLC02437.09362

to Henry Knox

Requests that Knox "furnish me with an Estimate of every thing in the Ordnance and Artillery Department which will be necessary to carry on an Offensive and vigorous Campaign - considering also the Seige of New York as a probable Operation." Written...

GLC02437.09363

to Henry Knox

The wives and children of soldiers in the New York Artillery regiment who are living in camp are to be provisioned by the army, in order to make sure they do not leave and take their soldier husbands with them. This provision only applies to women...

GLC02437.09364

to Henry Knox

Discusses the distribution of artillery at American garrisons, now that most hostilities have ceased. Written at "Head Quarters." Washington's signature clipped.

GLC02437.09365

to Henry Knox

Tells Knox to order "that a stop should be put to the movement of the Troops & Stores which were destined for the Western Posts." Also asks him to forward letters he has enclosed. Washington's signature clipped.

GLC02437.09366

to Henry Knox

States that while some men do not have proper winter clothing, Congress does not want to lose manpower, so they should remain in camp. Instead hopes to get as much use out of men whose enlistments expire soon, and then send them home. Also encloses...

GLC02437.09367

to Henry Knox

Comments on "The splendid display of Fireworks last evening" and wishes Knox to pass along his compliments to those in charge. With an signed endorsement on the verso by Samuel Shaw, Knox's aide de camp, sending the letter to Brigadier Generals...

GLC02437.09368

to Henry Knox

Washington, Commander in Chief of Continental forces, orders Knox to examine the state of Continental artillery. Instructs Knox to travel to New York City and Ticonderoga, and even to Quebec if necessary, to procure necessary artillery articles....

GLC02437.09369

to Henry Knox

General Washington writes to Knox, Chief of Artillery for the Continental Army. Informs Knox he will soon be called to a council of War, and will be asked his opinion on several issues: whether the Continental Army should engage in a general attack...

GLC02437.09370

to Henry Knox

Expresses the need for supplies for Mr. De Granger to carry out Military experiments. Docketed by Samuel Shaw, Knox's aide.

GLC02437.09371

to Henry Knox

General Washington writes a letter marked "private" to Knox, Chief of Artillery for the Continental Army. Recently consulted the Count de Rochambeau, a French General, and through France's aid, the Continental Army may be able to gain naval...

GLC02437.09372

to Henry Knox

Encloses request for ammunition from the State of New Jersey, and requests Knox's opinion on how much ammunition can be granted to the state. Docketed in Knox's hand. "On public service" written on address leaf with no signature.

GLC02437.09373

to Henry Knox

Sending Knox an extract of a letter he has received from the Board of War, regarding funds for Knox. The Board states that it has petitioned Congress for the funds Knox needs for military stores and transportation, but has not yet received the funds...

GLC02437.09374

to Henry Knox

Hopes General Lincoln can carry out a successful surprise attack on York Island (Manhattan) that night. Gives details on the plans for this attack, and what will be done to follow it up, including Knox reinforcing the position. Also discusses...

GLC02437.09375

to Henry Knox

Appointing Knox in command of West Point "and its Dependencies." Notes matters requiring specific attention, including "visit the Redoubts frequently" and keep them furnished with supplies, call the rolls often. Also requests that Knox deal with...

GLC02437.09376

to Henry Knox

Writes regarding the release of a prisoner. Informing Knox that "As Mr. Corne was ignorant of the regulations respecting Flags, when he came out, he may be permitted to return with the other Prisoners." Written at "Head Quarters." Docketed by...

GLC02437.09377

to Henry Knox

Wondering if armourers and materials can be sent from West Point to Washington's camp to repair damaged heavy Arms. Washington's forces lack the men, forges, and supplies to repair these Arms. Written at "Head Quarters." Docketed by Samuel Shaw...

GLC02437.09378

to Henry Knox

Will soon inform Knox "whether the field pieces or royal Howitzers, will be most acceptable to Count de Rochambeau." Also tells Knox that a certain inscription should be in Latin and says Captain Doughty is "appointed fort Major of West point & its...

GLC02437.09379

to Henry Knox

Consents to stopping work on the magazine and instead having the men work on the barracks. "I shall inform the Secretary at War, who seemed to have the completion of the Magazine much at heart, of the reasons which have hindered us from proceeding."...

GLC02437.09380

to Henry Knox

Orders Knox to inquire about the repeated theft of artillery stores at Kings Ferry. Written at "Head Quarters."

GLC02437.09381

to Henry Knox

Requests a non-commissioned officer to expedite messages back and forth between Head Quarters and Dobbs Ferry. Written at "Head Quarters." Docketed by Samuel Shaw, Knox's aide.

GLC02437.09382

to Henry Knox

Enclosing a summary of documents recently sent to him by the Marquis de Lafayette. Also notes that a Congressman has assured him that the army is in fine shape. Letter written at "Head Quarters." Docketed in Knox's hand.

GLC02437.09383

to Henry Knox

Encloses a letter from yesterdays post, and asks Knox his thoughts on the letter's subject. Instructs Knox to obtain General Huntington's thoughts on the subject of the enclosed letter (possibly Jedediah Huntington). Docket states "From Colonel...

GLC02437.09384

to Henry Knox

Due to an announcement of the cessation of hostilities (between the United States and Great Britain) Washington instructs Knox to permit any citizens of New York or the United States to pass and repass his post (West Point) with vessels, boats, or...

GLC02437.09385

to Henry Knox

Washington writes to Knox, commander at West Point. Supports Knox's approval of officers' court martial of rioters. Writes, "I am loth at this time to consent to the absence of Officers from their Corps,- wanting their influence as much as possible...

GLC02437.09386

to Henry Knox

Washington answers a question from Knox. States that under a resolution of Congress of 23 April 1783, musicians are not entitled to take firearms home with them on furlough or disbandment. Notes that they should be allowed to take their drums &...

GLC02437.09387

to Henry Knox

Responds to a letter sent by Knox enclosing instructions issued by the Secretary at War (Benjamin Lincoln) regarding the construction of an arsenal and magazines at West Point. Calls the plan "an eligible one." Relates that as soon as he is...

GLC02437.09388

to Henry Knox

Emphasizes the priority of garrisoning the posts which will soon be ceded to the United States from the British in the "Western Waters," (referring to the Great Lakes region, specifically the posts at Oswego and Niagara, in present-day Western New...

GLC02437.09389

to Henry Knox

Encloses resolves of Congress. Instructs Knox to publish the resolves for the army. Expresses great pleasure in Congress's commendation of General [Robert] Howe and his detachment (for their role in suppressing the Philadelphia mutiny of 1783)....

GLC02437.09390

to Henry Knox

General Washington discusses supplying troops with clothing during the winter. Instructs Knox to call for returns of such articles as will be necessary, and to forward him a return as soon as possible.

GLC02437.09391

to Henry Knox

Reports receiving a letter from Knox, delivered by Captain Shaw (possibly Samuel Shaw, Knox's aide-de-camp). Informs Knox, commanding at West Point, he has been impatiently waiting for Congress to decide the number of troops to be stationed at West...

GLC02437.09392

to Pierre Charles L'Enfant

Grants permission to Major L'Enfant, of the Corps of Engineers, to be absent from his Corps until the first day of May 1784, so L'Enfant may travel to France for "his own private affairs." Includes the original red seal of what appears to be the...

GLC02437.09393

to Henry Knox

Writes, "The arrival of the Definitive Treaty and the evacuation of New York- have been so long delayed as to interfere very materially with our arrangements for the Celebration of Peace..." Has decided that the celebration will be deferred until...

GLC02437.09394

to Henry Knox

Notes that a previous reply he had written to Knox was stolen from the post office, along with other copies of letters sent to Colonel Varick (Richard Varick was Washington's recording secretary). Discusses military specifics regarding the soldiers...

GLC02437.09395

to Henry Knox

Transmits a letter (not included) and asks Knox's advice regarding the Society of the Cincinnati. Notes that all papers of the Society are in the care of the Society's Secretary General, thus he cannot answer Mr. Jefferson's questions (possibly...

GLC02437.09396

[Proclamation regarding the violation of treaties made with the Choctaw and Chicksaw tribes]

President Washington warns citizens of the United States against violating certain treaties previously negotiated with Native American tribes. Instructs civil and military officers of the United States to govern themselves according to the treaties...

GLC02437.09397

to Henry Knox

Countersigned by Henry Knox. Instructs Knox regarding his conduct (notes that the principles imparted are to remain secret). Indicates that the Government of the United States are determined that their administration of Indian Affairs shall be...

GLC02437.09398

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 Henry Knox

General Washington discusses a "character" (possibly Loyalist Henry Van Schaack) present with Knox in Elizabethtown, New Jersey. Instructs Knox to guard his colleague (possibly Gouverneur Morris) against freely discussing matters with this person...

GLC02437.09400

to Henry Knox

Expresses gratitude for Knox's praise of Washington in the context of Congress's resolution "That an equestrian statue of General Washington, be erected at the place where the residence of Congress shall be established," passed on 7 August 1783 (and...

GLC02437.09401

to Henry Knox

Mentions the return of General Benjamin Lincoln. Hopes the transition to a peacetime military establishment will commence without further delay. Does not think Congress intends to abolish the Office of Secretary at War (which Lincoln held from 1781...

GLC02437.09402

to Henry Knox

Marked "Duplicate" at the top by George Washington. Mentions the return of General Benjamin Lincoln. Hopes the transition to a peacetime military establishment will commence without further delay. Does not think Congress intends to abolish the...

GLC02437.09403

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 encloses letters "under flying Seals" to the Count de Rochambeau and the Marquis de Chastellux "introductory of Mr. Swan." Also includes certificates for Lieutenants Seaver and Henley (no documents included). Discusses suspending a...

GLC02437.09405

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

Congratulates Knox on his appointment (on March 8, 1785) to the post of Secretary at War. Encloses a certificate of service for Major Sergeant (not included). Hopes to receive limestone for use in construction. Discusses the Virginia Assembly's...

GLC02437.09407

to Henry Knox

Discusses trade between Indians and the British stationed on the American side of the territorial line (in the Northwest Territory). Reports criticism of the Society of the Cincinnati, including a pamphlet, Considerations sur l'ordre de Cincinnatus...

GLC02437.09408

to Henry Knox

Lamenting Shays' Rebellion, writes "I feel, my dear Genl. Knox, infinitely more than I can express to you, for the disorders which have arisen in these States. Good God! who besides a tory could have foreseen, or a Briton predicted them!" Alludes to...

GLC02437.09409

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

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

Relates reasons for not wanting to attend the Constitutional Convention, including the possibility that all states might not attend (rendering representation partial). Notes that if all Delegates attend with the power to address and cure the defects...

GLC02437.09412

to Henry Knox

Transmits a copy of an excerpt from a letter (see GLC 02437.03338) sent by Mr. Jefferson (Thomas Jefferson). Notes that the excerpt pertains to a translation of the article "Cincinnati," from the Encyclopedie Methodique, and reflects the way the...

GLC02437.09413

to Henry Knox

Discusses the Constitutional Convention, and cannot predict the result. Hopes Congress, the states' legislatures, and the community at large will adopt the government agreed upon in the Convention. Is convinced that such government is the best that...

GLC02437.09414

to Henry Knox

Discusses which states are ratifying the Constitution, and predicts its success. Notes "The determination of New York, of all others, seems most problematical; and yet, I can hardly entertain an idea that she will be disposed to stand alone..."...

GLC02437.09415

to Henry Knox

Expresses regret that "the important question" Massachusetts is deliberating "stands on such precarious ground" (referring to ratification of the Constitution; Massachusetts ratified 6 February 1788). Predicts that Virginia will choose to ratify...

GLC02437.09416

to Henry Knox

Relates that he received a letter from Knox, and that Mr. Madison informed him Knox had recovered from a "severe indisposition." Discusses ratification of the Constitution at state conventions, commenting that New Hampshire's behavior has baffled...

GLC02437.09417