Autographs
1779 Revolutionary War General “James Wilkinson” Autograph Letter Signed Regarding

“truly Deplorable health of the Troops in the Army”

He Demands Immediate Supply!
JAMES WILKINSON (1757-1825). American Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Soldier, Served Twice as the Commanding General of the United States Army, and as the First Governor of the Louisiana Territory.
October 12, 1779-Dated Autograph Letter Signed, “James Wilkinson”, 1 page on a four page sheet with Integral Cover, measuring 6” x 7.25” at Raritan (New Jersey), Choice Very Fine. Expected folds from use and address cover, having traces of prior mounting on the outer edge corners of the address leaf and not affecting any text. The huge full signature “James Wilkinson” measures 3” long, well written in rich brown upon clean, laid period paper.

When the United States government reorganized the Army as the Legion of the United States, George Washington was faced with the decision of whom to name as its Commanding General. The two major candidates for this promotion were James Wilkinson and Anthony Wayne. In the end, the cabinet chose Wayne due to Wilkinson's suspected involvement with the Spanish government. The Cabinet promoted Wilkinson to Brigadier General as a consolation prize, since Washington was well aware of Wilkinson's fragile ego. Wilkinson also served as the Commanding General of the Army from June 15, 1800 until January 27, 1812 when former Secretary of War Henry Dearborn was promoted over Wilkinson to Major General. Wilkinson remained senior officer of the United States Army under President Thomas Jefferson. Along with Governor William C. C. Claiborne, Wilkinson shared the honor of taking possession of the Louisiana Purchase Territory on behalf of the United States in 1803.

Here, General Wilkinson writes to Moore Furman, the Continental Army Deputy Quartermaster General for New Jersey. Complaining of the “truly Deplorable health of the Troops in the Army” he demands immediate supply! This historic Letter reads, in full:

“Sir --- The present situation of the Army for want of Shoes is truly deplorable. The health of the Troops & the grand Objects the General has in view under our immediate Supply. Highly important. I must therefore intreat you to furnish Mr. Nicholson every assistance in your Power in forwarding to New Burgh (New York) the Stock which he may have on Hand, as well as that which me may hereafter procure. --- I am Sir, -- Your Most Obd’t Servt --- (Signed) James Wilkinson - Com. General”.

Address notation at lower left reads: “Moore Furman Esq. DQMG.” Docket on fold portion of the Integral Cover reads: “J. Wilkinson Oct. 12. 1779”. Integral Address Cover reads: “To - Moore Furman Esq. DQMGenl. - Pitts Town”.