Papers of the War Department · Collection · Papers of the War Department

Request for Issue of Powder & Cannon Implements for Fourth of July

Directs issue of powder and cannon implements for use by the Philadelphia militia in Fourth of July celebrations.

The duty of this post is considerable...

Captain Kalteisen discusses his many burdonsome responsibilities at Fort Johnson and advises Hodgdon that he has been sick and absent from his post so he cannot be blamed for any mistakes that were made.

Ammunition Needed for the Fourth of July Celebration

Knox directs Hodgdon to comply with General Proctor's request for ammunition to be used in the celebration of the Fourth of July.

Fourth of July Celebration Powder

In the enclosed letter Thomas Proctor has been instructed by the Governor of Pennsylvania to provide an estimate of the powder needed for the coming 4th of July celebration. The order should be granted to Capt. Jeremiah Fisher of the State Artillery. Stagg sends the letter to Hodgdon with instructions from the Secretary of War that the requested powder be provided.

Return of public stores

Letter to Secretary Knox. Directs public stores forwarded to West Point; discusses artillery field pieces. The artillery pieces were delivered to Colonel Tilinghast by order of General Sullivan during the expedition at Rhode Island in 1778. Permitting the artillery to them with this company will be productive of much good, as they take pride in exhibiting a martial appearance. With the Cincinnati, they commemorate the anniversary of the Independence of the country on the fourth of July.

Request to deliver a trumpet to Mr Oeller

By order of Secretary of War, John Stagg requests that William Knox deliver a trumpet to Mr Oeller. He says it shall be returned. Knox reports that Andrew Martin will deliver a trumpet.

Fourth of July Celebration

Knox is directed to furnish Col. Thomas Proctor for the celebration of the Fourth of July: 47 flannel cartridges for cannon, 188 pounds of powder, six portfires, and a portion of tubes.

Describes Plans for July 4th Celebration

Refers to bounty lands and the land business. Speaks of 4th of July celebrations, when the President will attend. Describes street repairs and a new building.

Regarding the Forwarding of Stores, Equipment Alterations & Powder Cask Contract

Reports forwarding of stores for New Jersey recruits and for Fourth of July celebration. Discusses alteration of bayonet belts and powder cask contract.

Discussion of Condition of Military Stores in Rhode Island & Unauthorized Use of Powder

Encloses return of public stores deposited in Rhode Island. Discusses discrepancies between previous returns of stores and the ones just completed, also notes that much of the stores are in poor condition. Mentions unauthorized use of public powder.