Chief engineer (1710-1796) in the New England Provincial Army who laid out the defenses on Breed's Hill, was wounded at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and directed the construction of the fortifications on Dorchester Heights. Exceedingly rare ALS signed “Rich'd Gridley,” one page, 6.25 x 2.75, July 3, 1775. Handwritten letter from Cambridge, Massachusetts, in full: "It is highly necessary that a painter be imployed to paint all the carriages for cannon & mortars, canvas for ammunition carts, bell tents, covering for ammunition boxes, &c &c." In fine condition. On the same day, George Washington arrived in Cambridge to take command of the Continental Army. He would soon appoint Gridley, renowned as one of the most distinguished military characters of New England, as his chief engineer.
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