HELPING A FRENCH CANADIAN WHO IS
“A GOOD FRIEND TO THE UNITED STATES” DURING THE REVOLUTION

ARTEMAS WARD. Letter Signed as Major General in the Continental Army to Joseph Whipple, Boston [MA], 8 January 1777. 1 page, 11¾" x 8".

A Revolutionary War general who had a lifelong career in Massachusetts politics, Artemas Ward was named commander-in-chief of the state militia in 1775. He led American forces around Boston from April 1775, following the battle of Lexington and during the battle of Bunker Hill in June, until the arrival of George Washington in early July. By that time, Ward had been appointed a major general in the Continental Army. Although aggrieved at being reduced to second-in-command under Washington, he continued at his post, capturing Dorchester Heights and helping force the British evacuation of Boston in March 1776. Ward then offered his resignation, but at Washington’s request, he stayed on as head of the Eastern Department of the Continental Army for another year.

While still in charge of the Eastern Department, Ward wrote this letter to Joseph Whipple, probably the brother of William Whipple, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Hampshire. Ward intercedes for a French Canadian who needs a pass to travel back home.

"The Marquis de Lotbiniere and Monsieur de Veillon, mentioned the circumstances of a French Gentleman to me (whose name I take to be L'Eglise) who is a Canadian, and desirous to return home," Ward explains. "They assured me that he is an honest Man and a good Friend to the United States; in consequence of which I advised him to go to New Hampshire and to get a Pass with Col. Long's Regiment to Ticonderoga, from thence he might get a Pass into Canada." Fort Ticonderoga was in U.S. hands at this date. He has signed in full, “Artemas Ward.”

The left blank margin has a neat repair, and there are old mounting traces on the verso. The letter is in very good condition overall. $2500.00

Return