Lot #5006

George Washington Revolutionary War-Dated Letter Signed: "From the intelligence I have just received, it would seem that the Enemy mean to evacuate"

Description

Following 'Mad' Anthony Wayne's daring raid on the Hudson, Gen. Washington conveys optimistic battlefield intelligence: "It would seem that the Enemy mean to evacuate their posts at Stony and Verplanks points"

Revolutionary War–dated LS signed “G:o Washington,” one page, 7.25 x 11.75, July 21, 1779. Significant letter to General William Woodford, sent from New Windsor, Connecticut, conveying optimistic intelligence on British troop movements on the Hudson River in New York. In full: "From the intelligence I have just received, it would seem that the Enemy mean to evacuate their posts at Stony and Verplanks points. If you have not removed the baggage of the two brigades from Sufferans—you will let it remain till further orders. The body of the Enemy, that was moving up has fallen down again." In very good to fine condition, with very subtle dampstaining, and light toning from prior display. Accompanied by an engraved portrait featuring Washington's facsimile signature.

Published in The Writings of George Washington, Vol. 15, edited by John C. Fitzpatrick.

Just five days earlier, on July 16th, 'Mad' Anthony Wayne had earned his sobriquet by leading a brilliant, bloody assault on Stony Point—a daring, bayonet-only overnight charge in which the Americans killed 20 British defenders, wounded 74, and captured almost 500. But just across the river, at Verplanck's Point, the British still held Fort Lafayette. British commander General Henry Clinton rushed reinforcements up from the Kingsbridge garrison in the Bronx, and sent several warships up the Hudson. Washington realized that Wayne's force could not hold out against a strong counter-attack and decided to withdraw after burning Stony Point and removing 15 captured cannons.

In his July 24th report to Congress, Washington no longer anticipated a British withdrawal: 'The enemy…seem to have repossessed Stony Point in earnest and have since been fortifying with great industry' (Fitzpatrick 15:471). In spite of this, Washington remained elated about Wayne's victory, saying: 'The event will have a good effect upon the minds of the people—give our troops greater confidence in themselves and depress the spirits of the enemy proportionably.' (Fitzpatrick 15:451). For his exploits, Wayne was awarded a medal by Congress, one of the few issued during the Revolution.

Lack of good intelligence continued to frustrate Washington, and until the British intentions became clear, he decided to hold his force in a strong defensive position at West Point. Clinton ultimately abandoned the site in October in order to mount a major expedition in the southern states.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Remarkable Rarities
• Dates: September 04, 2024 - September 28, 2024

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