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Washington's historic farewell orders to the military...
Washington's historic farewell orders to the military...
Item # 705429
December 27, 1783
THE LONDON CHRONICLE, England, Dec. 27, 1783
* George Washington's Farewell
* Address to his Continental Army
* Revolutionary War General
Certainly the most notable content is a full text printing on page 4 of: "General Washington's Farewell Orders to the Armies of the United States", a very historic & notable document datelined: "Rocky Hill, near Princetown, Nov. 2, 1783."
It reads in part: "A contemplation of the compleat attainment (at a period earlier than could have been expected) of the object for which we contended, against so formidable a power, cannot but inspire us with astonishment and gratitude--The disadvantageous circumstances on our part, under which the war was undertaken, can never be forgotten--The singular interpositions of Providence in our feeble condition were such as could scarcely escape the attention of the most unobserving, while the unparalleled perseverance of the armies of the United States, thought almost every possible suffering & discouragement, for the space of eight long years, was little short of a standing miracle...". The full text is confirmed by several websites.
Following this historic document is a response from the various officers of the Army to General Washington, dated at West Point, Nov. 15, 1783.
As if this content was not sufficient, nearly half of the front page has news headed: "America" with reports from the 'New York Royal Gazette'. One item notes: "From New Jersey we learn that the legislature of that state have unanimously elected his Excellency Wm. Livingston to be governor. General Thomas Mifflin is chosen President of Congress for the ensuing year in the room of Elias Boudinot whose term of delegation is expired, and this honourable body stands adjourned to the 26th inst. then to meet at Annapolis for the dispatch of public business."
Then a report: "His Excellency General Washington, by Proclamation, bearing date the 4th inst. and in compliance with a resolve of Congress of the 29th day of Oct. last, has discharged all the troops in the service of the United States, that are now in Pennsylvania...".
Also on the front page is: "A Proclamation" by the governor of New York, George Clinton, concerning: "...his Britannic Majesty's forces will be withdrawn from certain parts of the Southern district of this state on Friday the 21st and from the remaining part of the said district...on the 22d inst..." with more relating to this (see). And also "Garrison Orders" from West Point begins: "The Definitive Treaty being concluded, and the city of New York to be evacuated on the 22d inst....proposes to celebrate the peace...on Monday...by a display of fireworks and illuminations..." and more.
Eight pages, never bound nor trimmed, 9 by 12 inches, very nice condition.
AI notes: On November 2, 1783, George Washington delivered his Farewell Address to the Army at Fraunces Tavern in New York City, a pivotal moment marking the end of the Revolutionary War and Washington's imminent retirement from military life. In this heartfelt speech, he expressed deep gratitude to his soldiers for their loyalty, resilience, and sacrifices throughout the war, acknowledging the hardships they had endured and the critical role they played in securing American independence. Washington urged the army to remain united, emphasizing that the nation's survival depended on the preservation of this unity in the face of potential threats and internal divisions. He also conveyed a strong message about the importance of supporting the newly established civilian government, warning that the military should never be used as a political tool. Washington reassured his troops that the country would thrive even in his absence, stressing his desire to return to civilian life and relinquish power voluntarily, thereby setting a precedent for future leaders. The address reflected Washington's commitment to democratic ideals, his vision for a peaceful republic, and his resolve to prevent any concentration of military or political power in the hands of one individual.
Category: Revolutionary War
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