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Letter from Henry Knox (1750–1806), Secretary of War, to Colonel Marinus Willett (1740–1830)

Author General Henry Knox American
dated May 27, 1786
Not on view
The tradition of Congressional presentation swords started during the American Revolution and continued through the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Civil War. In this formal, but heartfelt letter, Henry Knox, Secretary of War, presents Marinus Willett with a sword awarded to him by Congress in 1777 as an "illustrious testimony of your distinguished merit." After years of active military service, Willett held various political positions, including state assemblyman, sheriff, and mayor of New York from 1807 to 1808.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Letter from Henry Knox (1750–1806), Secretary of War, to Colonel Marinus Willett (1740–1830)
  • Author: General Henry Knox (American, Boston, Massachusetts 1750–1806 Thomaston, Maine)
  • Date: dated May 27, 1786
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: Ink on paper
  • Dimensions: 12 1/2 x 7 7/8 in. (31.7 x 20 cm)
  • Classification: Works on Paper
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2008
  • Object Number: 2008.314
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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