Washington's Gen. HENRY KNOX Signed Letter Orders Military Hat for Artillerists!

Title:
1794 Henry Knox ALS to Samuel Hodgdon — Signed Letter Ordering Pattern Hat for Artillerists and Engineers

Description:
(Philadelphia): War Department, July 14, 1794. One-page Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by Henry Knox, written in a secretarial hand with Knox’s bold signature at the conclusion ("H Knox"). Measuring 12 ½ x 8 in. (317 x 203 mm), this historically significant communication is addressed to Samuel Hodgdon, Superintendent of Military Stores. In the letter, Knox requests the creation of a “pattern hat” for the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers, specifying:

“Sir.
I request that you will please to have made a pattern hat, suitable for the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers—It must be cocked in a military form.

I am Sir,
Your obt Servt
H Knox”

The letter exhibits creasing from original folds, minor edgewear, and light ink offsetting at Knox’s signature due to folding. A small abrasion on the lower right does not affect the text.

Historical Context:
Henry Knox (1750–1806) served as the first U.S. Secretary of War (1789–1794) under President George Washington, after distinguishing himself during the American Revolutionary War as a trusted general and artillery expert. This letter was penned during the formative years of the U.S. Army, when uniform and military identity were being standardized.

The recipient, Samuel Hodgdon (1745–1824), was a critical figure in American military logistics. He served as Principal Field Commissary under Knox during the Revolution, later becoming Quartermaster General and, by 1794, the first Superintendent of Military Stores — a role created during a period of military reorganization following the Indian Wars and in response to growing tensions on the frontier.

This letter underscores the early War Department’s efforts to professionalize and standardize military appearance, particularly within specialized corps like the Artillerists and Engineers. It is also emblematic of Knox’s final months in office, as he resigned later that year.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This original 1794 letter, signed by Revolutionary War hero and Founding Father Henry Knox, represents a direct connection to the earliest days of the United States military establishment. With ties to two prominent figures — Knox and Hodgdon — and referencing a rarely documented subject in military outfitting, this piece offers collectors a fascinating glimpse into the logistical decisions that shaped the young Republic's armed forces. A remarkable and desirable acquisition for collectors of early American history, War Department documents, or Revolutionary War-era figures.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.