Lot 34
Revolutionary War Letter. The timing of this letter is worth noting in that it occured on the heels of a defeat of the American forces by General Cornwallis and only a few weeks before British Major John Andre was captured carrying Benedict Arnold's plans for the surrender of West Point.
Letter shows moderate browning with a few dark stains, as well as weakened folds (some silked and/ or archivally strengthened). It has been very boldly signed by General Washington on the verso. 1st President of the United States, 1789-1797.
Letter Signed. Two pages, recto/verso, Folio, "Head Quarters Orange Town August 12, 1780." By the time this letter was written in 1780, the Continental Army was in dire straits. However, it was beginning to meld into a well- trained fighting force thanks to the influence of European officers. As result of its French allies, it endured and marched to ultimate victory at Yorktown, Virginia one year after Washington wrote this letter to General Daniel Brodhead, who was then Commander of the Western Department of the Army.
In full (errors intact): "Dear Sir: I have recieved your favours of the 29th June and 21st July - Col. Bowmans apprehension of the force expected from Canada is cetainly groundless, as what men can be spared from the Garrisons of the upper Country - St. Johns, Montreal and Quebec are now acting in conjunction with the Indians upon the Mowhawk River where they have lately done considerable mischief. The distress on the store of provisions has not been confined to you alone, but has been severly experienced in every quarter and I think you will be very happy if you can adopt any expedient to supply yourself without depending wholly upon the Commissary in a regular way. I am pleased to hear of the success of the parties under Captain Brady and McIntire, to whom you will be pleased to express my thanks for their conduct. These affairs tho apparently small have a considerable influence upon Indians… The first division of the French Fleet, & Army consisting of 8 Ships of the line and 5000 men are yet at Rhode Island, waiting the arrival of the second division now hourly expected. We look for very important news from the West Indies, the whole combined force of France and Spain, in those Seas, having gone down it is said against Jamaica. I am Dear Sir with great esteem & regard, Your most Obedient Humble Servant George Washington".
Estimated Value $50,000-UP.
Ex Superior's Paul Richards Estate Sale, Feb 2, 1994, Lot 345.
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