With the onset of the War of 1812, Armstrong received a commission as brigadier general in the U.S. Army, marking his first stay with the Army since his service as aide-de-camp to General Horatio Gates during the Revolutionary War. Armstrong accepted an appointment from President James Madison to become secretary of war in 1813. However, many observers blamed Armstrong for the Army’s early failures in the war, practically forcing him to retire in 1814 after only one year of service. War-dated LS written from the War Department, one page, 8 x 10, July 14, 1814. Letter to Kentucky governor Isaac Shelby. In full, “Your Excellency’s letters of June 15th inst. have been received. I take the liberty to request your Excellency to convey to General Adair the enclosed appointment of Commissioner to treat with the North-Western Indians. I have the honor to be very respecfully Sir, your Excellency’s obt. servt.” In fine condition, with light edge toning and mirroring of text from premature folding. R&R COA.
