George Washington to Alexander McDougall introducing a military engineer - American History 1493-1945 - Adam Matthew Digital

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Field name	Value
Collection Reference Number	GLC04215
From Archive Folder	Documents Relating to 1778
Title	George Washington to Alexander McDougall introducing a military engineer
Date	21 March 1778
Author	Washington, George (1732-1799)
Recipient	McDougall, Alexander
Document Type	Correspondence; Military document
Content Description	Introduction of French engineer, Colonel Louis des Hayes de la Radiere, who was to superintend fortifications on the North (Hudson) River. Washington appointed de la Radiere to oversee the construction of the Hudson's Highlands in late 1777, but a dispute with General Israel Putnam, commander at the Highlands, caused de la Radiere to return to Washington's camp. Putnam went on leave in March of 1778 and General McDougall assumed his command. Shortly thereafter, Washington sent de la Radiere back.
Subjects	President Revolutionary War Revolutionary War General Military History Continental Army Fortification Building Construction Immigration and Migration France Valley Forge
People	McDougall, Alexander (1732-1786) de la Radiere, Louis (fl. 1778) Washington, George (1732-1799)
Place written	Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Theme	The American Revolution; The Presidency; Industry; Science, Technology, Invention
Sub-collection	The Gilder Lehrman Collection, 1493-1859
Additional Information	Notes: Published in Fitzpatrick, John C. The Writings of George Washington. v. 11: 119 -20. Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Copyright	The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module	Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
Transcript	Show/hide Head Quarters 21st March 1778. Dear Sir This will be delivered to you by Colonel de la Radiere of the Corps of Engineers, who was employed to superintend the fortifications on the North River - but from some misunderstanding between him and the late commanding Officer, in which he thought his own honour and the Public Interest were committed, he determined to renounce the work, and return to Camp - I can safely recommend him to you as an Officer who understands his profession, and make no doubt of his giving you satisfaction, both in projecting and executing the works required for the defence of the River. I have given instructions to Major General de la Fayette, to order Van Shoiks Regiment to march and join you without loss of time. With great regard I am Dear Sir Your most obedt Servt. Go: Washington Major General McDougall. [docket] Genl Washingtons of 21st March 1778 on Col Dela Radiere 94 copied WWH [address] (on Public Service) Major General McDougall Go: Washington

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