Distinguished major general in the Continental Army (1737–1814) who organized and trained the undisciplined forces at Cambridge before the Battle of Bunker Hill. LS signed “W. Heath MG,” one page, 7.5 x 12.25, March 27, 1777. Heath writes to Colonel Wigglesworth of the 13th Massachusetts Regiment. In part [spellings retained]: “In consequence of the orders this day received from his Excellency George Washington part of the troops raising in the State of Massachusetts Bay, and heretofore destined to Tyconderoga [sic] are to rendezvous at Peekskill. You will therefore imediately order all such recruits belonging to your regiment, as are armed and equipt to march to Peekskill under the command of a field officer and other proper officers in proposition to their numbers. Sgtrict orders & discipline are to be observed in the march. Your men may draw provisions at the different stores on the rout, and they assistant Q[uarter] M[aster] G[eneral] will furnish the necessary trains &c. When the detachment arrives at Peekskill the officers will apply to the commanding officer there and receive his directions. Such as have not had the small pox are to be inoculated there. Such ;of your regt. as have not had that disorder & are not armed & equipt are to be immediately inoculated here....” Light scattered soiling and a few spots, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
