GEORGE WASHINGTON

TO GENERAL DAVID FORMAN SEEKING THE MILITIA’S HELP IN ACQUIRING CATTLE TO HELP FEED WASHINGTON’S CONTINENTAL ARMY  ~ 4 SEPTEMBER 1780

WASHINGTON, GEORGE.  (1732-1799).  First President of the United States.  Revolutionary War-date, Manuscript Letter Boldly Signed, “G. Washington”, as Commander of the Continental forces.  One full page, folio.  “Head Quarters Bergen County  / 4th Septem[be]r 1780.”  To General David Forman. The text in in the handwriting of Tench Tilghman, Washington’s longtime aide and secretary.  Lightly toned, with one small chip in right margin missing effecting one word, else fine condition.  Washington writes:

 “Dear Sir

I have recd your favr of the 1st Inst. I perceive by a letter from you, of the same date, to Colonels Blaine and Steward, that you had collected about two hundred Cattle more, and that a further number might be obtained, if you were furnished with parties to cover the collectors.  You may apply to the Officer commanding the detachment of the State Regiment in Monmouth for this purpose, and altho’ I cannot of right command the services of the Militia, you may, in my name, let the commanding Officer know how distressed the Army has been and is likely ⟨to⟩ be for provisions, and that it will be rendering an essential service to us, and distressing the Enemy to remove the Cattle from those parts of the Coast which furnish the York Markets.  I am with great Regard,  Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt,   Go: Washington”.

 

The feeding and supply of Washington’s Continental troops, and the denial of the same to the British, was a major limiting factor in any success they might have had.  As this letter illustrates, Washington was engaged with the issue almost continually, and the successful resolution of the supply issues, helped the Americans win their Independence.  War dated letters are always eagerly sought, and this is a fine example for any Presidential collection. 

 

$37,500.00