. 1. SI
1 1*v*
.-v *
4iii^b^
.nti
•* I^jC '<" *'- '*
VT'^t-^;
THE LIBRARY
OF
THE UNIVERSITY
OF CALIFORNIA
LOS ANGELES
GIFT OF
COMMODORE BYRON MCCANDLESS
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
JOURNALS OF THE
CONTINENTAL CONGRESS
1774-1789
EDITED FROM THE ORIGINAL RECORDS IN THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS BY WORTHINGTON CHAUNCEY FORD CHIEF. DIVISION OF MANUSCRIPTS
Volume II. 1775
May 10 -September 20
WASHINGTON
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
1905
library
PRINCIPAL CONTENTS
Page.
|
Prefatory note |
5 |
||
|
Credentials of delegates: |
|||
|
New Hamp.shire |
13, 252 |
||
|
MassachiiHctts Bay |
13,405 |
||
|
Rhode Island |
50 |
||
|
Connecticut |
15 |
||
|
New York . |
15 |
||
|
New Jersey |
. 7,396 |
||
|
Pennsj-lvania |
17,327 |
||
|
Delaware . |
18, 304 |
||
|
Maryland . |
18, 245, 440 |
||
|
Virgfinia |
19, 102, 242 |
||
|
North Carolina . |
19, 290 |
||
|
South Carolina . |
20 |
||
|
(jcorgia |
45, 192, 240 |
||
|
Letter from Coloni' Aoents |
22 |
||
|
Massachusetts Bay Papers |
24 |
||
|
Fortibyinc; New York |
59 |
||
|
Letter to the Canadians |
68 |
||
|
Letter from Massachusetts Bay Convention . |
76 |
||
|
Recommendation of Congress . , . . . |
83 |
||
|
Fast Day Resolution |
87 |
||
|
Washington's acceitance of the command of the C |
,^ONTI- |
||
|
NENTAL Ar:«Y |
92 |
||
|
Commission for (Ieneral Washington |
96 |
||
|
Instructions for General Washington |
100 |
||
|
Articles of War |
111 |
||
|
Declaration on taking arms: |
|||
|
Jeflerson's draft:s |
. 128 |
||
|
Dickinson's draft and final form . . . . |
. 140 |
||
|
Petition to the Ki |
NO . |
. 158 |
Principal Contents
Address to thk Inhabitants or Great Britain Lettkr to Lord Mayor, etc., of London .
Letters to Colony Agents
Constitution of Indian Departments Speech to the Six Nations of Indians Franklin's Articles of Confederation Franklin and Richard Henky Lee on Trade . Address to the Assembly of Jamaica Address to the People of Ireland Report on Lord North's motion
John Jay on trade
Instructions for committee to Cambridge camp
Rhode Island instructions on a navy
Report of Committee of the Whole on trade
Additional Articles of War ....
Instructions for committee sent to the Northward
Resolutions concerning prize courts
Rules for the regulation of the Navy
Reply to the ministerial proclamations .
Report on the instructions for the recess committee
Officers in the Navy
Report of the comshttee sent to the Northward Report on articles necessary for the Army . Report on untinished business .... John Adams's notes of debates ....
Bibliographical notes
Index
163 170 71, 391 174 177 195 200 204 212 224 268 270 274 292 331 339 371 378 409 430 443 446 453 454 471 507 517
PREFATORY NOTE
This volume includes the Journals of the Continental Congi'ess in its two sessions of 1775, transcribed from the original record of the Secretary, Charles Thomson, and illustrated by such historical material from other sources as was indicated in the prefatory note to the Journal of 1774. Many of the reports, petitions and memorials laid before this Congi'ess, and referred to in the Journals, have been lost or separated from the Papers of the Con- tinental Congi-ess ; the letter book of the President of the Congi-ess and the letters received from many of the Gen - erals of its armies, are not all to be found ; and the skel - eton record given by the Journals is often insufficient to give so much as a clue to their contents. The larger number of the surviving papers are printed in Peter Force's "American Archives," and it is safe to assume that if he did not include a letter or report in that monu- mental compilation, it was not to be found in the Papers of the Continental Congress in his day. The segregation of the larger collections of historical manuscripts in the Library of Congress has greatly facilitated the task of making this issue of the Journals more complete, and the Washington and Jefferson manuscripts have supplied matter of high historical interest.
Among the more important documents inserted under their jtroper dates in this volume may be named Frank -
6
6 Prefatory Note
lin's "Proposed Ai-ticles of Confederation;" the same member's proposal to throw open the ports to a free trade, with John Jay's report on trade, and Charles Thomson's minutes of the action of Congress on the trade resolves ; the Instructions prepared for General Washington, and Jefferson's memorandum on unfinished business; the resolutions on salt-petre (July 28), which were not entered in the manuscript Journal, or printed in any of the editions of the Journal, but were found in the pam- phlet on methods of making salt-petre, issued by order of Congress; Willing's report on necessaries for the army; Dickinson's draft of the " Declaration to the Army," and the two drafts of Jefferson's frame of the same paper. Comparison with the known editions of the Journal will show hai'dly a page that has not undergone important modifications of fact as well as of language. To complete the record of this session John Adams's notes of the debates have been added taken from the second volume of his writings. Although brief and fragmentary^ they throw much light upon the subject under discussion and the manner of conducting the debates. The bibliograph- ical notes are intended to cover the issues made under the direction or by order of the Congress.
Beginning with September 5, 1775, there is a second copy of the manuscript Journal, an edited transcript made by Charles Thomson, or his assistants from the original record. This transcript, of which all but a few sheets was written by Thomson, is contained in ten volumes, and terminates with the entry for Wednesday, January 20, 1779. It was made the basis of the printed Journals, and bears evidence of being the copy that passed through the various editing committees appointed from time to time for preparing the Journals for the press. The word - ing and text are, in general, those of the printed Journals,
Prefatory Note 7
certain paragi-aphs being omitted. On the fly leaf of the first volume is written the following :
N. B. — The passages and resolutions which in this and the follow- ing books are crossed were all passed hy Congress; But a coni[mittee] having been appointed to revise the .Journals for publication; such parts as the house deterniinod, on the report of their com[niittee] should not be published, were ordered to be crossed or marked so as not to be transcribed for publication. As the crossing defaced the minutes another mark was introduced, which was by dots in the
margin.
Cha. Thomson Secy
It would be neither convenient nor necessary to attempt to give all the variations in the two series of Journals. The double entries would only confuse, and the entries in the original Journal were full and suffered no editing or excision.
It is to be understood that the text of this reissue is that of the original Journals ; any marked difference is noted
by the insertion of parallels, thus, || 1|, which include
matter taken from the "Corrected Journal," not appear- ing in the original Journals. Should the reader still entertain a doubt, any one of the earlier printed editions of the Journals may be consulted, as they followed the text of this "Corrected Journal."
No suggestion of a removal from Philadelphia to a place nearer the center of disturbance, Boston, is found on the Journals oi- in the Papers of the Continental Congress. Yet it is known that such an idea was entertained and discussed almost from the first assembling of the Con- gress, and before it was fully organized for business. On May 21 ,1775, Deane could write. "I mentioned adjourn- ing to Hartford, but no motion has as yet been stirred or made public on the subject, and all is uncertainty." Three days later he added, "Our discourse about adjom-n- ing is somewhat abated;" l)ut the lieat of the summer
8 Prefatory Note
again brought forward a plan for a Committee to sit at Hartford or elsewhere near the scene of action, during the adjournment of Congress, and for the reassembling of Congress at the place chosen. Deane, on June 16, returns to the subject in a manner expressive of its increased importance. "Mi-. Lynch of South Carolina, desires me this day to engage him lodgings for himself, lady and daughter, near Hartford, conditionally. . . . The members talk more and more every day of a removal to Connecticut. . . . Probable it is to me, and 1 think it necessary, and shall in due time move it, that a part of the Congress remove to Hartford, as a Committee of the Whole, to direct and sui)erintend the movements." No decision was reached before the adjournment, and while the matter of adjourning to Hartford or Albany was again mentioned late in September, the removal was not seriously discussed.
WoKTHiNaTON Chauncey Fokd Chief of Division of Manuscripts
Editor Herbert Putnam
Librarian of Congress
JOURNALS 1775
JOURNALS OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS
1775
Philadelphia, Wednesday, 10 May, 1775
A number of delegates from the Colonies of New Hami)shire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Vir- ginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, agreeable to their appointment and the orders received from their respective Colonies, met at Philadelphia, viz, from
Netv Hampshire: Mr. John Sullivan and Mr. John Langdon .
Massac/uisetts: Mr. John Hancock, Mr. Thomas Cush- ing, Mr. Samuel Adams, Mr. John Adams and Mr. Robert Treat Paine.
Comiecticut: Mr. Eliphalet Dyer, Mr. Roger Sherman and Mr. Silas Deane.
New York: Mr. Philip Livingston, Mr. James Duane, and Mr. John Alsop.
Neiv Jersey: Mr. James Kinsey, Mr. Stephen Crane, Mr. William Livingston, Mr. John De Hart, and Mr. Richard Smith.
u
12 Journals of Congress
Pennsylvania: Mr. Edward Biddle, Mr. John Dickin- son, Mr. Thomas Mifflin, Mr. Charles Humphreys, Mr. John Morton, Mr. George Ross, Mr. Benjamin Franklin and Mr. Thomas Willing.
DeUmare Counties: Mr. Caesar Rodney, Mr. Thomas McKean and Mr. George Read.
Maryland: Mr. Matthew Tilghman, Mr. Thomas John- son, [Junior,] Mr. William Paca, Mr. Samuel Chase, and Mr. John Hall.
Virginia: Mr. Peyton Randolph, Mr. George Washing- ton, Mr. Richard Henry Lee, Mr. Edmund Pendleton, Mr. Benjamin Harrison, and Mr. Richard Bland.
North Carolina: Mr. William Hooper, Mr. Joseph Hewes, and Mr. Richard Caswell.
South Carolina: Mr. Henry Middleton, Mr. Thomas Lynch, Mr. Christopher Gadsden, Mr. John Rutledge and Mr. Edward Rutledge.
The Members being convened in the State House pro- ceeded to the choice of a president, when upon Motion
The Hon''.'^ Peyton Randolph was unanimously chosen president.
After the president was seated
Mr. Charles Thomson was unanimously chosen Secre- tary.
IIAndrew McNeare was also chosen door-keeper, and William Shed, messenger. ||
Ordered, That the Rev** Mr. Duche be requested to open the Congress with prayers to Morrow Morning and that Mr. [Thomas] Willing, Mr. [John] Sullivan and Mr. [Richard] Bland be a committee to wait on Mr. Duche and acquaint him with the request of the Congi-ess.
Adjourned till to Morrow Morning 10 o Clock.
May, 1775 13
THURSDAY, MAY ii, 1775
Agreeable to the order of yesterday the Congress was opened with prayers by the Rev'.' Mr. Duche.
After prayers the Congress according to adjournment proceeded to business.
The Delegates from the several Colonies produced their Credentials, which were read and approved, as follows :
Here insert.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
PnoviNCE OF New Hajipshike
At the Convention of Deputies appointed by the several Towns in the Province aforesaid, held at Exeter on the 25'" da}' of January 1775.
Hon'''" John Wentworth Esq'' In the Chair.
Voted, That John Sullivan and John Langdon Esq" be Delegates to Represent this Province in the Continental Congress, proposed to he held at Philadelphia on the tenth day of May next, and that they and each of them in the Absence of the other, have full and Ample Power, in behalf of this Province, to consent and Agree to all Meas- ures, which said Congress shall deem necessary to Obtain redress of American Grievances.
True Copy Attd' Meshech Weare
CV^ to the Convention^
MASSACHUSETTS BAY
Peovince of the Massachusetts Bay
In Provincial Congress Cambridge
Dccctnhcr 5"' 177^. Resohied, that the proceedings of the American continental Con- gress held at Philadelpliia, on the fifth day of September last, and Reported by the hon*"'" Delegates from this Colony, have with the deliberation due to their high importance been considered by us; and the American Bill of rights therein contained, appears to be foiTOod with the greatest Ability and Judgment; to be founded on the immu-
'The original is in the Papers of the Continental Conffrets, New Hampshire, Creden- tiaU of DeUgatei.
14 Journals of Congress
table Laws of Nature and reason, the principles of the English consti- tution, and respective Charters and constitutions of the Colonies, and to be worthy of their most vigorous support, as csscntiallj' necessary to liberty. Likewise the ruinous and eniquitous measures, which, in violation of these Rights, at present convulse and threaten destruction to America, appear to be clearly pointed out. and judicious plans adopted for defeating them.
Resolved, That the most grateful acknowledgments arc due to the truly honorable and patriotic Members of the Continental Congress, for their wise and able exertions in the cause of American Liberty; and this Congress, in their own Names, and in behalf of this Colony, do hereby, with the utmost Sincerity, express the same.
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esquires, Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine, Esquires, or any three of them, be, and they hereby are appointed and authorized to represent this Colony, on the tenth of May next, or sooner if necessary, at the American Congress, to be held at Philadel- phia, with full power, with the Delegates from the Other American Colonies, to concert, agree upon, direct and order such farther meas- ures, as shall to them appear to be best calculated for the recovery and establishment of American rights and Liberties, and for restoring harmony between Great-Britain and the Colonies.
A true copy of record,
Benjamin Lincoln, Secretary}
Province of the Massachusetts Bat
In Pkovincial Congress, Cambridge
February 6, 1775.
Resolved, That the Hon. John Hancock, Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esquires, Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine, Esquires, appointed by the last provincial Congress to represent this Colony, on the 10th of May next, or sooner if necessary, at the Amer- ican Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, be, and they hereby are authorized and impowered, with the Delegates from the other Ameri- can Colonies, to adjourn from time to time, and place to place, as shall be judged necessary, and to continue in being, as Delegates for this Colony, until the Thirty-first day of December next ensuing, and no longer.
A true copy of Record, Benjamin Lincoln, Secretary ?
'The original is in the Papers of the Comiintnial Congress, Massachusetts, OrederUiah oj Delegates.
May, 1775 15
CONNECTICUT
In the House of Representatives
of the colony of connecticut,
N^ovemhei' o, A. Doin. 1771},. This House proceeded to nominate, chooso. and appoint Delegates, to attend the General Congress, to be holdenat Philadelphia, on the 10th daj- of Maj'uext; and made Choice of the Hon[oraJble Eliphalet Dyer, and Roger Sherman, Esquires, Silas Deane, Titus Hosmer, and Jona- than Sturgess, Esqrs. to be their Delegates, an\' Three of Whom are authorized and empowered to attend said Congress, in behalf of this Colony, to join, consult and advise with the Delegates of the other Colonies in British America, on proper Measures for advancing the best Good of the Colonies.
William Williams, Speaker. A true Copy, extracted from the Journals of the House. Attested, Richard Law, Clerk.'^
NEW YORK
At a Provincial Convention formed of Deputies from the City and County of New York, the Citj- and County of Albany, and the Coun- ties of Dutchess, Ulster, Orange, West-Chester, King's, and Sutlolk, held at the City of New York, the twenty second day of April, one thousand .seven hundred and seventy five, for the purpose of appoint- ing Delegates to represent the Colony of New York, in the next Conti- nental Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, on the tenth Daj' of May next, Philip Livingston, Esq', .fames Duane, John Alsop, John Jay, Simon Boerum, William Floyd, Henry Wisner, Philip Schuyler, George Clinton, Lewis Morris, Francis Lewis, and Robert R. Living- ston, junior, Esquires, were unanimously elected Delegates, to rep- resent this Colony at such Congress, with full power to them, or any five of them, to meet the Delegates from the other Colonies, and to concert and determine upon such measures, as shall t)e judged most effectual for the preservation and re-establishment of American rights
'The original is in the Papers ofllie Gmtinentai Omgraa, Connecticut, OredentiaU of Dtlegatei.
16
Journals of Congress
and privilcdfrcs, and Britain and the Colon Leonard Lispenard Isaac Roosevelt Ab"? Walton Alex!' McDougall Ab. Brasher AbT Yates junf Ab"? Ten Broeck "Walter Livingston Morris Grahani Egb? Benson
fur the restoration of liarmonv between Great
les.
Levi Pawling Ch. D'Witt John Haring Peter Clowes Lsrael Derbj- A. Hawkes Haj' John Thomas jun' Rob' Graiiam Philip Cortlandt Ham! Drake
Stephen Waid John Van Dcrbilt Nath'.' WoodhuJl Jn° Sloss Hobart Phineas Fanning Thomas Tredwell Theod". Polhemus Rich' StillwelL'
We, the subscribers, do, in behalf of ourselves, and those Free- holders of Queen's-Countj', at whose request we attended the Conven- tion, signif}' our assent to, and approbation of, the above Delegation.
•lohn Talnian, Jacob Blackwell,
Zeb" Williams, Joseph Robinson.'
'The Assembly of New York liad, in February, discountenanced the measures of the first Continental Congress, and refused to send delegates to the second Congress. It prepared a Petition to the King, a Jlemorial to the Ix)rds Spiritual and Temporal, and a Representation and Remonstrance to the Commons of Great-Britain in Parlia- ment assembled. The three papers were dated March 25, 1775, and were signed by John Cniger, t^peaker. Copies are in the Papers of the Continental Congresn, No. 75, folios 121-152. The paper on which they are written has the water-mark of J. Whatman & Co., save the out.side sheet which has a wat«r-mark "Liberty and Prudence."
The "Town and Country Magazine" for 1775 haa the following:
"May 15th, 1775. M' [Edmund] Burke produced and read in his place a Remon- strance to the Parliament of Great Britain from the General Assembly of New York; he then moved for Leave to bring it up to the Table, and the Question being put by the Speaker, that this Remonstrance be now brought up, Lord North paved the way forgetting rid of the main Question by moving an amendment; that the Words 'which is derogatory to the Supreme Authority of the British Parliament' be added,
"Upon which a short Debate ensued, the House divided, for the Amendment 186, against it 67. Of course the main Question was lost."
The Duke of Manchester presented the Memorial in the House of Lords, where after a long debate, it was rejected. No answer to the Petition was given by the King.
Henry Cruger, writing to his son, Henry Cruger jr. on April 4, said: "The Assem- bly is adjourned for a month to prevent the troublesome party from endeavouring to consider the proceedings of the Continental Congress."
'The original is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, New York, Credmiials of Delegates.
Mmj, 1775 17
NEW JERSEY
In Assembly,
Pekth-Amboy, Txhesdmi^ January ^i, 1775. Etvolocdunan/iiKMidi/, Tliat James Kin.s(\y, Stephen ('nine, William Livingston, John D'Hart, and Richard Smith, Esquires, or any Three of them, be, and they are hereby appointed to attend the Continental Congres.s of the Colonies, intended to be held at the City of Philadel- phia, in May next, or at any other Time and Place; And that they report their Proceedings to the next Session of (Jenoral Assemblj-. A true Copy from the Journals,
RicHAKu Smith,
Clei'k of Assembly. '
PENNSYLVANIA
In Assembly,
Decemhr 15th, 177^, A. M. Upon Motion,
R('xt)liied, JS\ C. D. That the Honjorajble Edward Biddlc, Speaker, ilohn Dickinson, Thomas Mifflin, Joseph Gallo\va\, Charles Hum- phreys, John Morton, and George Ross, Esquires, be, and they are hereby appointed Deputies on the Part of this Province, to attend the General Congress, proposed to be held at the City of Philadelphia, on the 10 Day of May next; and that thej, or any four of them, do meet the said Congress accordingly, luiless the present Grievances of the American Colonies shall before that Time bo redressed. Extract from the Journals,
IJhaulks Moore, Clerk of Assembly.'
'The original is in the Papem of thr. Conlincntal Congrexs, New Jersey, Credentials of Dehijntes.
'Tlio original is in the I'apcris nf Ihe ConliuenUil Congregf, Pennsylvania, CredetUials nf DeUgales. The following paper was not ontoieil in the Journals:
In As«KMni,Y,
MiKj /.'«'', irrri. A. M.
Joseph (jallowuy Esqr having repeatedly moved to he exriise<l from serving aa a Deputy for this Province at the Continentjil Congress, the House this Day took his Motion into Consideration, and dr) agree to excuse him from that service. I'^xtraet from the Journals,
CuA'; MOORK, Clk of AiNtcmlilij. fi521— vni, ;
18 Journalii of Congress
In Assembly,
Mat/ 6, 1775, A. M. Resoloed, N. C. D. That Benjaiuiu Franklin, Est]!^, be, and he is hoiebj- added to the Deputies appointed by this House, to attend the Continental Congress, expected to meet the 10th instant, in this City. Resolved, N. C. D. That the Hon""' Thomas Willing of rhilade! phia, and James A\'ilson Esqf of Carlisle be also added to the said Deputies for this Province. Extract from the Journals,
Chaki,es Mooke, CUrk of Assembly. ^
LOWER COUNTIES ON DELAWARE
In Assembly,
TAurttdat/, March 16'^, 1775, A. M.
On Motion,
Resolved, vemme contradicente. That the Honorahl(> Ca?sar Rodney, Speaker, Thomas M'Kean, and George Read, Escjuires, be, and they are hereby appointed and authorized to represent this Government at the American Ci)ngress, proposed to be held at the City of Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, or at any other time or place, with full power to them, or any two of them, together with the Delegates from the other American Colonies, to concert and agree upon such further measures, as shall appear to them best calculated for the acconmioda- tion of the unhappy differences between Great-Britain and the Colo- nies, on a constitutional foundation, which the Hou.se most ardently wish for, and that they report their proceedings to the next Sessions of General Assemblj'.
I do certify the above to be a true copy of the Minutes of Assembly, David Thompson, CLrk to the AnxcmUy.^
MARYLAND
At a Meeting of the Deputies, appointed by the several Counties of the Province of Maryland, at the city of Annapolis, b^' Adjournment, on the 8th day of December, 1774, and continued till the 12th Day of the same month,
' See note 2, page 17.
' The original is in the Papers of the CotUinenlal Congress, Delaware, CredmUials of Delegates.
May, 1775 19
Resolved unanimously. That the Honourable Matthew Tilghman, and Thomas Johnson, juu., Robert Goldsboiouph, William Paca, Sam- uel Chase, John Hall, and Thomas Stone, Es(irs. or any three or more of them, be Delegates to represent this Province in the next Continental Congress, and that they, or any three or more of them, have full and ample power to consent and agree to all measures, which such Congress shall deem necessar}' and effectual to obtain a redi'ess of American grievances; and this Province bind tliemsclvos to execute, to the utmost of their power, all resolutions which the said Congress may adopt: And further, if the said Congress shall think necessary to adjourn, we do authorise our said Delegates, to represent and act for this province, in any one Congress to beheld by virtue of such adjourn- ment.
Signed by order,
John Duckett, C'Lrk.'^
VIRGINIA
At a convention of delegates for the counties and corporations in the colony of Virginia, at the town of Richmond, in the county of Henrico, on Monday, the 20th of March, 1775;
The convention proceeded to the election of delegates, by ballot, to represent this colony in general Congress, to be held at the city of Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, when the honorable Peyton Randolpli, George Washington, Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee, Edmund I'endleton, Benjamin Harrison, and Richard Bland, esqrs. were chosen for that purpose.
Peyton Ramxjlph, President,
JouN Tazewell, Clerk oftlw Convention.
NORTH CAROLINA
At a General meeting of Delegates of the Inhabitants of this Prov- ince, in Convention, at New Bern, the 5th day of April, 1775;
Present; The Hon[oraJble John Harvey, Esquire, Modei-ator, and sixty eight Members:
On Motion,
Resolced, That William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Cas- well, Esquires, be, and are hereby appointed Delegates to attend the
' The original i.s a printed broadside giving the proceedingH of the meeting in fnll.of whioli tliis is only ii parairraph. It is in the Papersofthe Oontitietital Conyroni, Mary- land, CredaUiaU of Ddegata.
20 Journals of Congress
General Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of Mas- next, or at anj' other time and place tiiat shall be appointed for that purpose, and they are hereby invested with such powers as maj' make any Acts done by thoni, oi- any of them, or consent given in behalf of this Province, obligatory, in honor, upon every Inhabitant thereof.
A true Copy from the Miimtcs,
John Harvey, ModeraUrr.^
Attested by Andrew Knox, Clk.
In the Assembly, 7th of April, 177o.
Resolved, that the House do highly approve of the Proceedings of the Continental Congress, lately held at Philadelphia, and that they are determined, as Members of the Community in General, that they will strictlj' adhere to the said Resolutions, and will use what influence they have, to induce the same observance in every Individual of this Province.
This House having received information, that William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Caswell, Esquires, were appointed b}' the Convention, held at New Bern, as Delegates to attend the meeting of the Continental Congress, soon to be held at Philadelphia;
Resolved, That the House approve of the Choice made by the said Convention.
Resolved, That the Thanks of the House be given to William Hooper, Joseph Hewes and Richard Caswell, Esquires, for the faithful and Judicious discharge of the Important Trust reposed in them a.s Dele- gates for this Colony at the late Continental Congress.
John Harvey, Speaker
New Bern, North Carolina. Above copy taken from the Journals of the House of Assembly for the Province aforesaid.
Ja' Green, Jun., ClkJ''
SOUTH CAROLINA
In the Commons House of Assembly,
Friday, February 3, 1776. Whereas the Continental Congress, held at the City of Philadelphia, in September last, amongst other things, recommended to the several
' The original is in the Papers of the Continental Congrest, No. 59, Vol. I, folio 9. ' The original is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 76, folio 1.
May, 1775 21
Colonies in North America, to chuse Deputies as soon as possible, to hold another Congress at the same place, on the tenth day of May next; and whereas, this House being fully satisfied with the conduct and fidelity of their late Deputies at the Congress; do herebj- nominate and appoint The Honorable Henry Middleton, Esquire, Thomas Lynch, Christopher Gadsden. .lohn Rutledge, and Edward Rutlodge, Esquires, Deputies for and in behalf of this Colony, to meet the Deputies appointed, or to be appointed, on the part and behalf of the other Colo- nies, at the Cit_v of Philadelphia, or an}' other place, that shall be agreed on by the said Deputies in General Congress, with full power and authority to concert, agree to, and effectually prosecute such meas- ures, as in the opinion of the said Deputies, and of the Deputies so to be Assembled, shall be most likely to obtain a redress of American Grievances.
Rexolved, That the Deputies hereb}' appointed on the part and behalf of this Colon}-, are authorised and empowered to agree. That the Con- tinental Congress may meet at any future time, and at such place, as shall be agreed on, and to adjourn from time to time; Provided it do not exceed Nine Months from the date of their meeting in May next.
Resolved, That this House will provide the sum of One thousand five hundred Pounds Sterling to pay the expence of the .said Deputies, going to said Congress.
Attested, Thomas Faer, jun!^, Olei'lc.
Extract from theJoui^als of the Provincial Congress of South Caro- lina, pvhlishedhy order (f the Congress, 11th of January, 177 ■'i. Jiesolved, That the Honforajble Ilenrj' Middleton, Esquire, Thomas L3'nch, Christopher Gadsden, John Rutledge, and Edward Rutledge, Esquires, or any three of them, be, and the}- are hereby ajipointed and authorized to Represent this Colony, on the 10th day of May next, or sooner, if necessary, at the American Congress, to be held at Phila- delphia, or elsewhere; with full Power to Concert, agree upon, tlirect and order such further Measures, as, in the Opinion of the .said Dep- uties, and the Delegates of the other American Colonies to be Assem- bled, shall appear to be nece.s.sary for the Recovery and Estal)lishmont of American Rights and Lil)erties, and for Restoring llainiony between Great Britain and her Colonies.'
' The original is in tlm Pttpert of thf Oontinetital Congrem, Sontli Carolina, (yedm- tiala of DelfgattJi.
22 Journals of Congress
Upon motion, Resolved, That the thanks of the Con- gress be given to the rev. Mr. Dnche, for performing divine service, agreeable to the desire of the Congi-ess, and for his excellent prayer so well adapted to the present occasion .
Ordered, That Mr. [Richard] Bland, Mr. [Thomas] Willing, and Mr. [John] Snllivan, be a committee to wait upon Mr. Duche, and return the thanks of the Congress, agi'eeable to the above resolution.
Circular letter from the Agcnto.
Upon motion, Resolved, That the doors be kept shut, during the time of business, and that the members con- sider themselves under the strongest obligations of honor to keep the proceedings secret, until the majority shall direct them to be made public.
A circular letter from the agents, William Bollan, Ben- jamin Franklin, and Arthur Lee, Esq'^, du-ected to the Speakers of several Assemblies, dated 5 Feb'-, 1775, with sundry papers therein referred to, was laid before the Congress and read ; the letter is as follows :
[here insert it]
" London, February 5, 1775. Sir,
Our last letter informed you, that the king had declared his inten- tions of laying the petition before hi.s two hou.ses of parliament. It has accordingly been laid before each house, but undistinguished among a variety of letters and other papers from America.
A motion made by lord Chatham, to withdraw the troops from Boston, as the first step towards a conciliating plan, was rejected; and the ministry have declared in both houses the determination to inforce obedience to all the late laws. For this purpose, we understand, that three regiments of foot, one of dragoons, seven hundred marines, six sloops of war, and two frigates, are now under orders for America.
We think it proper to inform you, that your cause was well defended by a considerable number of good and wise men in both
May, 1775 23
houses of parliament, though far troiii being a majority: and that many of tho commercial and niaiuifacturing parts of the nation, con- cerned in the American tiude, have presented, or, as we understand, are preparing to present, petitions to parliament, declaring their great concern, for the present unhappy controversies with America, and praying expressly', or in effect, for healing measures, a.s th(^ proper means of preserving their conuuerce, now greatly suffering or endan- gered. But the treatment the petitions, already presented, have hith- erto received, is such, as, in our opinion, can afford you no reliance on the present relief through their means.
As soon as we learnt that the petition of the Congress was before the house of commons, we thought it our duty to support it, if we might be permitted so to do, as there was no other opportunity for the numerous inhabitants of the colonies to be heard in defence of their rights: accordingly, we joined in a petition for that purpose. Sir George Saville kindlj' undertook to present it. But, on previously opening the purport of it, as the order is, a d^ibate arose on the pro- priety of receiving it, and on a division, it was rejected b)' a great majority.
The following extract of a letter from geneiiil Gage to lord Dart- mouth, as laid before parliament, we think it our dutj' to transmit, viz.
"Dec. 15, 1774. Your lordship's idea of disarming certain prov- inces, would dovibtless be consistent with prudence and safety, but it neither is, nor has been practicable, without having recourse to force, and being masters of the country."
It was thrown out in debate l)y a principal member of administra- tion, that it would !)(» propei' to alter the charters of Connecticut and Kliode-Island.
Inclosed, we send you a copy of the resolutions passed in a com- mittee of the whole house, on Thursday last, which are to be reported on Monday. It is said that these resolutions are to be the foundation of several ))ills to be brought in, but the purport of those bills we have not yet learnt with sufficient certainty.
We .send you likewise, a copy of lord Chatham's tirst motion in the house of lords, and of his plan of a bill for settling the troubles between Great-Britain and the colonies; both which were rejected on the lirst rea<ling.
With great respect, we are, .sir, your mo.stoi)edient, humble .servants, (Signed) Wu.i.iam Boli.an,
BkNJAMIN FliANKLIN,
ArrruLK Lek.
24 Journal of Congress
IIThe papers referred to in the foregoing letter, being published in the newspapers, it is not necessary to insert them. II
Mr. [John] Hancock produced and laid before the Con- gress a Letter from the provincial Congress of Massa- chusetts bay, together with certain resolutions formed by s"* Congress, and a Copy of a letter, sent by s'' Congress to their agent in England, and an address to the inhabit- ants of G'-Bn, on the late engagement between the troops under Gen! Gage, and the inhabitants of Massa- chusetts bay; on Wednesdaj'^ 18 ult: also a number of depositions, duly attested, relative to the commencement of hostilities, all which were read, and are as follows:
[here insert them] In Provincial Congrkss, Watertowx, May 3, 1775.
To tJve Honorable American Cmitinental Congress, to ie convened at PhUudel'phia, on the tenth of May Instant.
May it please your honours,
The Congress of this colony, impressed with the deepest Concern for their Countrj-, under the present critical and alarminj^ state of its pul)lic Affairs, beg leave, with the most respectful submission, whilst acting in support of the Cause of America, to recjuest the direction and assistance of 3'our respectalile Assembly.
The inclosed Packet, containing Copies of the Depositions, which we have despatched for London, also an Address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, and a Letter to our Colony Agent, Benjamin Franklin, Esq!" are huml>l}' submitted to your Consideration.
The sanguinary Zeal of the ministerial Army, to ruin and destroy the Inhabitants of this Colony, in the Opinion of this Congress, hath rendered the Establishment of an Arm}' indispensably necessary. We have accordingly passed an unanimous Resolve for thirteen thousand six hundred Men, to be forthwith raised bj^ this Colony; and propo- sals are made by us to the Congress of ^icw Hampshire, and Govern- ments of Rhode Island and Connecticut Colonies, for furnishing men in the same proportion. The sudden Exigenc}' of our public Afl'airs, precluded the possibilitj' of waiting for your direction in these important measures; more especiall}', as a consideraljle Reinforcement
Majj, 1775 25
from Great Britain is daily expected in this Colony-, and we are now reduced to the sad alternative of defending ourselves b}' arms, or sub- initting to be slaughtered.
With the greatest deference, we beg leave to suggest, that a power- ful Army, on the .side of America, hath been consider'd, by this Con- gress, as the only mean left to stem the rapid Progress of a tyrannical Ministry. Without a force, superior to oui- Enemies, we must reason- ably expect to become the Victims of their relentless fury: With such a force, we may still have hopes of seeing an immediate End put to the inhuman Ravages of mercenary Troops in America, and the wicked authors of our Miseries, brought to condign punishment, by the just Indignation of our Brethren in Great Britain.
We hope that this Colony vnW, at all Times, be ready to spend and be spent in the Cause of America. It is, nevertheless, a Misfortune greatly' operating to its Disadvantage, that it has a great Number of Sea Port Towns, exposed to the approach of the Enemy by Sea; from many of which, the Inhabitants have removed, and are now removing their Families and Effects, to avoid Destruction from Ships of AVar: These, we apprehend, will be generally distressed from want of sub- sistence, and disabled from contributing Aid for supporting the Forces of the Colony; but we have the greatest Confidence in the wisdom and ability of the Continent to support us, so far as it shall appear neces- sary for supporting the common cause of the American Colonies.
We also inclose .several Resolves for impowering and directing our Receiver (leueml to borrow the Sum of one hundred thousand Poiuids, Lawful Money, and to i.ssue his Notes for the same; it being the only measure, which we cou'd have recourse to, for supporting our Forces; And we request 30ur assi.stiince in rendring our measures effectual, by giving our Notes a currency through the Continent.
Joseph Wakren, Preddeiit, P. Z'
The papers inclosed, and referred to, in the above, are as follows :
In Provincial Conouess, Watertown, May •"/, 1775.
licsolvc J, That the Receiver (Jeneral be, and hereby is inipower'd
and directed to liorrow tlie Sum of One lIundnHl Thousimd Pounds.
lawful money, and i.ssue Colony Security for the same, payable, with
Annual Interest, at six ^ cent. June l.st., 1777, and that the Conti-
' Tlic original Ih in the I'npers of On- Contiurntal Ctm^rtM, N'«>. «.'), vul. I, folin 1.
2G Journals of Congress
neiital Congress be desired to recommend to the several Colonies, to give a cuirciu-y to such Securities. A true extract from the minutes,
Samuel Freeman, Secretary, P. T.
In Provincial Congress, Wateetown, May 3, 1775. Rcsolvcfl, That the Sc<-urities given by the Receiver Cleneral for the Monies l)orrowed by him, in pursuance of the aforegoing Resolve, be in the form following, viz.
(\)LONY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS BaY.
No. The Day of A. D. 177 Borrowed and received of
A. B. the Sum of lawful money, for the L'se and Service of the
Colonj' of the Massachusetts Bay, and in behalf of said Colony, J do hereby promise and oblige myself, and successors in the OfBce of Treas- urer, or Receiver General, to repa}' to the said or to his Order, the first Day of .June, 1777, the aforesaid Sum of , lawful Money, in Spanish Milled Dollars, at six shillings each, or in the several Species of Coined Silver and Gold, enumerated in an Act made and passed in the 23d Year of his late Majesty, King George the Second, intituled "An Act for ascertaining the Rates at which coined Silver and Gold, English half-pence and farthings, may pass within this Government:" and according to the Rates therein mentioned, with Interest, to be paid annually, at six per Cent. Witness vay hand A. B. C. D. E. F.
And whereas, Inconveniencies may aiise by the Receiver General's issuing Notes for small Sums: Therefore,
liijsohed. That the Receiver General be, and he hereby is directed, not to issue any Notes for a less Sum than four Pounds, lawful money.
A true extract from the Minutes,
Samuel Freeman, Secretary, P. T}
To the Hon. Benjamin Franklin, E&q. at London.'^
In Provincial Congress, Watertown, April 26, 1775. Sir,
From the entire Confidence we Repose in your faithfulness and Abilities, we consider it the happiness of this Colonj', that the impor-
' The original is in the Papers of Ihe Continental Congress, No. 74, folio 53. ^ Franklin was on his way to America when this letter was written; and it was given to Arthur Lee, acting agent in London.
May, 1775 27
taut trust of Agency for it, in this da}' of unequalled Distress, is devolved on your hands, and we doubt not, 3'our Attachment to the Cause and liberties of Mankind, will make ever^- possible Exertion in our behalf, a Pleasure to you; altho' our circumstances will compell us often to Interrupt your repose, by Matters that will surely give you Pain. A singular instance hereof is the Occasion of the present letter. The Contents of this Packet, will be our Apology for Troubling you with it.
From these, you will see, how and by whom we are at last Plunged into the horrors of a most unnatural war.
Our enemies, we are told, have despatched to G[reat] Britain a falla- cious Account of the Tragedy thev have begun; to prevent the opera- tion of which, to the Publick injury, we have engaged the Vessel that conveys this to you, as a Packet in the .service of this Colony, and we Roquf-st your Assistance in suppl3nng Captain Derby,' who com- mands her, with such Necessaries as he shall want, on the Credit of j'our Constituents in Massachusetts Bay.
But we most ardently wish, that the several papers herewith Inclosed, maj' be immediately printed, and Disperced thro' every Town in England, and especially communicated to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council of the city of London, that they may tjike such Order thereon, as they may think Proper. And we are Confident your tidelity will make such improvement of them, as .shall convince all, who are not determined to be in everlasting blindness, that it is the united effoi'ts of both Englands, that must save either. But that whatever Price our Brethren in the one, may be pleased to put on their constitutional liberties, we are authorized to assuie you. that the inhabitants of the other, with the Greatest Unanimity, are inflexibly resolved to sell theirs only at the Price of their lives.
Sign'd by order of the Provincial Congress,
.losKi'H AVarrkn, Pre-mfent, P. T.
A true Copy from the original Minutes,
Samuel Fkekman, Secretai'y, P. T.*
' Rielianl Derliy.
' "Orilered, that .AI'" I'residpiit, Hoct. Taylnr, Mr. Krivman, [lloiiry] Gardner, Ym\. anil Col. Stone, be a committee to draught a letter to our asent in Great Britain." Proviiiriiit Cotii/rrai, 26 .\pril, 1775. The letter was brought in and signed the same •lay. The vernion |>riiit«-d w taken from the Papers of the CoiUinnUal Cungresn, No. 05, Vol. I, folio 9.
28 ./ixtnidls of Congress
The depositions relative to the commencement of hos- tilities, are as follows:'
No. 1. Lexington, April £5, 1776.
Wo, Solomon Brown, Jonathan Lorin^f, and Elijah Sanderson, all of lawful Age, and of Lexington, in the County of Middlesex, and Collony of the Massachusett Hay, in New England, do testiiie and declare, that on the evening of the Eighteenth of April, Instant, being on the Road between Concord and Lexington, and all of us mounted on Horses, we were, about ten of the Clock, suddenly surprized by nine Persons, whom we took to be Regular Officers, who Rode up to us, mounted and armed, each having a Pistol in His Hand, and after Putting Pistols to our Breasts, and seizing the Bridles of our Horses, they swore, that if we stirred another step, we should be all Dead Men, upon which we surrendered our selves. Thej' Detained us until Two o'clock the next morning, in which time they searched and greatly abused us; having first enquired about the Magazine at Concord, whether any Guards were posted there, and whether the liridges were up, and said four or five Regiments of Regulars would be in Posses- sion of the stores soon; they then brought us back to Lexington, cut the Hor.ses Bridles and Girts, turned them Loose, and then Left us.
Solomon Brown, Jonathan Lokino, Eli.tah Sanderson.
' On April 22d. the Massachusetts Congress appointed a committee to collect testi- mony on the conduct of the British troops in their ro\ite to Concord, to be sent to England by the first ship from Salem. Mr. Gerry, Colonel Cushin}<, Colonel Barrett, Captain Stone, Dr. Taylor, Messi-s. Sullivan, Freeman and Watson, and Esquire Jonas Dix constituted this committee; and on the 23d, Gerry and Cashing were joined with Dr. Church to draw up an account of the " massacre " of the 19th. The report and narrative were submitted on the 26th, and a number of scribes named to make dui)licate copies. One set was entrusted to Captain Richard Derby, who was to ha,sten to London and deliver them to Franklin. On May 2d, Gerry, Warren, Dexter, Col. Warren and (ierrish were ordered to send a second set to the Southern colonies, to be transmitted to London, and a tliird set to the Continental Congress. The copies sent to the Congress are in Pnprrx nf tltr Omtinental Congrexii, No. 65, vol. J, folios 11-51.
These depositions were printed in the following pamphlet:
A / Narrative, / of the / Excursion and Ravages / of the / King's Troops / Under the Command of General Gage, / On the nineteenth of April, 1775. / Together with the / Depositions / Taken by Order of Congress, / To support the Truth of it. / Pub- lished by Authority. / Massachusetts-Bay: / Worcester, Printed by Isaiah Thomas, by order / of the Provincial Congress. / [1775.]. 8°. pp. 23. Copies are in the American Antiquarian Society.
May, 1775 29
Middlesex, ff. April 35, 1775.
Jon" Loring, Solomon Brown, and Elijah Sanderson, being duly cautioned to Testify the whole Truth, made solemn Oath to the Truth of the abox'C Deposition by them subscribed. Coram
William Kekd |
JosiAH Johnson [Just. Pacis.
Welliam StickneyJ
Lexington, Aj)ril 25, 1775. I, Elijah Saunderson, above named, do further testifie and declare, that I was on Lexington Conunon, the Morning of the Nineteenth of April, aforesaid, having been dismissed by the Officers abovemen- tioned, and saw a Large Body of Regular Troops advancing toward Lexington Company, many of whom were then dispersing. I heard one of the Regulars, whom I took to be an officer, sa}^ " Damn them, we will have them," and immediately the Regulars shouted aloud, Run and tired upon tlie Lexington Companj-, which did not tire a (hm before the Regulars Discharged on them; Eight of the Lexington Company were killed while they were dispersing, and at a Consider- able Distance from each other, and Many wounded, and altlio" a spec- tator, I narrowly Escaped with my Life.
Elijah Saunderson. Middlesex, //. April 25, 1775.
Elijah Saunderson, above named, being Duly Cautioned to Testify the whole Truth, made Solemn Oath to the Truth of the above Depo- sition by him subscribed. Coram.
William Reed |
JosiAii John.sqn [just. Paci.s.'
William StickneyJ
No. 2. Lexington, Ajml 23, 1775.
1, Thomas Rice Willard. of lawful ago, do Testify and Declare, tliat being in tlie House of Daniel Harrington,^ of said Lexington, on the Nineteenth Instant, in the morning, about half an hour before sun-
' Each (lejifiHition is swoni to before justiws of tlie jieace, an<l duly attested iH^forr Nathaniel (iorhani, notary and Tabellion public. I give only the naniefi of the jiLs- ticcs in each case, and at the end of the deiwipitions give an example of Oorham's attestation.
' tlarriunton's Uousc ia noted on plan in Drake's Middlest.r, 11, 10.
30 Journals of Congresn
rise, [1) looked out. at the window of said house, and saw (as I sup- ptosc) about four hundiT.d Royuiiirs in one Bod}', coming u[) the ro»<l, and marched toward tiic nortli part of the Common, back of tiic nicrting-house of said Lexington; and as soon as said Regulars were against the cast end of the meeting-house, the Commanding Officer said something, what I know not; but upon that tlie Regulars ran till they came within about eight or nine rods of about an Hundred of the Militia of Lexington, who were collected on said Connnon, at which time the Militia of Lexington dispersed; then the Officers made an huzza, and the private Soldiers succeeded them: Directly after this, an officer rode before the Regulars to the other side of the body, and hallooed after the Militia of said Lexington, and said, '• Lay Down your Arms, Damn you, why Don't you lay Down j'our arms?" and that there was not a (xun tired till the Militia of Lexington were Dispersed; and further saith not.
Thojias Rice Willard.'
No. 3. Lexington, April 25, 1775.
Simon Winship, of Lexington, in the Count}' of Middlesex, and prov- ince of Massachusetts Bay, New England, being of lawful age. testi- tieth and .saith, that on the Nineteenth of April Instant, about four o'clock in the Morning, as he was passing the Publick Road in said Lexington, peaceably and unarmed, about two miles and an half Dis- tant from the meeting-Housc in said Lexington, he was met by a Body of the Kings regular Troops, and being stop'd by some Officers of said Troops, was Commanded to Dismount; upon asking whj' he must dismount, he was obliged by force to Quit his Horse, and ordered to march in the midst of the Body, and being Examined whether he had been Warning the Minute Men, he answered No, but had been out, and was then returning to his fathers. Said Winship further testifies, that he marched with said Troops, untill he came within about half-a- Qnarter of a Mile of said meeting-House. where an Officer commanded the Troops to halt, and then to prmic and load: this being done, the said Troops marched on till they came within a few Rods of Captain Parkers Companj', who were partly collected on the place of parade, when said Winship observed an Officer at the head of said Troops, flourishing his Sword, and with a Loud Voice, giving the word fire, fire, which wa.s in.stantly followed bj' a Discharge of Arms from said
' Sworn to before William Reetl, Jonathan Ha.sting8 and Duncan lugraham.
Man, 1775 31
regular Troops, and said Winship is positive, and in the most solemn manner declares, that there was no Discharge of arms on cither side, till the word tire was given, by the said Officer as above.
Simon Winship.'
No. 4. Lexington, April^S, 1775.
I, John Parker, of lawful Age, and Commander of the Militia in Lexington, do testify and declare, that on the lyth Instant in the Morning, about one of the Clock, being informed that there were a Number of Regular Officers, riding up and down the Road, stopping and insulting People as they passed the Road; and also was informed that a Number of Regular Troops were on their March froui Hoston in order to take the Province Stores at Concord, ordered our Militia to meet on the Common in said Lexington to consult what to do, and concluded not to l)e discovered, nor meddle or make with said Regular Troops (if they should approach) unless they should insult or molest us; and, upon their sudden Approach, I immediate!}' ordered our Militia to disperse, and not to tire: — Immediately said Troops made their appearance and rushed furiously, fired upon, and killed eight of our Party without receiving any Provocation therefor from us.
John Pakkek.-
No. 5. Lexington, April £4-, 1775.
I, John Robins, being of lawful Age, do Testifyc and say, that on the Nineteenth Instant, the Company under the Command of Captain John Parker, being dniwn up (sometime before sun Rise) on the Green or Common, and I being in the front Rank, there suddenly appear'd a Number of the Kings Troops, about a Thousand, as I thought, at the distance of aliout ♦iU or 7() 3ards from us Huzzaing, and on a quick pace towards us, with three OBBcers in their fronton Horse Back, and on full Gallop towards us, the foremost of which crycd, throw down your Arms ye Villains, ye Rebels! upon which said Company Dispersing, the foremost of the three Officei"s order'd their Men, saying, fire, by (iod, fire! at which Moment we received a very heavy and close fire from them, at which Instnnt, being wounded, 1 fell, and several of our men were shot Dead by me. Captain Parker's men I believe had not then fired a (Jun, and further the Deponent saith not.
John Roiuns.'
'Sworn to liefore William Reed ami Josiah .lohnson.
'Sworn to before William Kocd, Jusiali Johnson, ami William Mtickney.
32 Journals of Congress
No. 6. Lkxinoton, April '25, 1775.
We, Benjamin Tidd, of Lexington, :uid Joseph Abbot, of Lincoln, in the County of Middlesex, audColonv of Mat-sachusetts Ba}-, in New England, of lawful age, do testif}' and Declare that, on the morning of tlic Nineteenth of April Instant, about 5 o"Cloek. being on Lexington (."oninion, and mounted on Horses, we saw a Bod}' of regular Troops Marching up to the Lexington Companj-, which was then dispersing: Soon after, the regulars fired, Krst, a few guns, which we took to be 7)istols from some of the Regulars who were motmted on Horses, and then the said Regulars fired a Volley' or two before any guns were fired l)y the Lexington Company; our Horses immediately started, and we rode oil'. And further say not.
Benjajun Tidd, Joseph Abbot.'
No. 7. Lextnoton, April, 'J5, 1775.
We, Nathaniel iMullikin, Phillip Russell, Closes Harrington, jun. Thomas and Daniel Harrington, William Grimes, William Tidd, Isaac Hastings, Jonas Stone, jun. James Wj'iuan, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chandler, Joshua Reed, jun. Joseph Simonds, Phineas Smith, John Chandler, jun. Reuben Lock, Joel Viles, Nathan Reed, Samuel Tidd, Benjamin Lock, Thomas Winship, Simeon Snow. John Smith, Moses Harrington the 3d, Joshua Reed, Ebcnczer Parker, .lohn Har- rington, Enoch Wellington, John Hosmer, Isaac Green, Phineas Stearns, Isaac Durant, and Thomas Headley," jun. all of Lawful age, and Inhabitants of Lexington in the Count.y of Middlesex, and Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, in New England, do testify and declare, that on the 19th of April instant, about one or two o'Clock in the morn- ing, being Informed that several officers of the Regulars had, the even- ing before, been riding up and down the Road, and had detained and Insulted the Inhabitants passing the same; and also understanding that a body of Regulars were marching from Boston towards Concord, with intent (as it was supposed) to take the Stores, belonging to the Colony, in that town, we were alarmed, and having met at the place of our Company's Parade, were dismissed by our Captain, John Par- ker, for the Present, with orders to be ready to attend at the beat of the drum. We further testify and declare, that about five o'Clock in
' Sworn to before William Reed, Joeiah Johnson and William Stickney. » Or Hadley.
May, 1775 33
the morning, hearing our drum beat, we proceeded towards the Parade, and soon found that a Large body of troops were marciiing towards us: Some of our Company were coming up to the Parade, and others had reached it; at which time the Company began to disperse: Whilst our backs were Turned on the Troops, we were tired on by them, and a number of our men were Instantly killed and wounded. Not a Ciun was fired, by any Person in our Company', on the Regulars, to our knowledge, before thej' fired on us, and they continued P'iring untili we had all made our Escape.
[Signed by each of the above deponents.] '
No. 8. Lexington, April So, 1775.
We, Nathanael Parkhurst, Jonas Parker, John Alunroc. juii. John Winship, Solomon Pierce, flohn Muzzj', Abner Meeds, ,Iohu Bridge, jun. Ebenezer Bowman, William Munroe the 3d, Micah Hager, Sanuiel Saunderson, Sanuiel Hastings, and James Brown, of Lexington, in the County of Middlesex, and Colony of the Massachusetts Ba^-, in New England, and all of Lawf uU age, do Testify and Say, that, on the Morn- ing of the Nineteenth of April Instant, about one or two o'ClocU, being informed, that a Nvmiber of Regular Officers had been Riding up and down the Road the evening and night preceding, and that some of the Inhabitants, as they were passing, had been Insulted tij^ the Officers, and stopped by them; and Iteing also Informed, that the Regular Troops were on their March from Boston, in order (as it was said) to take the Colony Stores, then Deposited at Concord, we met on the Parade of our Company in this town; After the Company had Col- lected, we were Ordered, by Captain Parker, (who Commanded us) to Disperse for the Present, and to be Ready to attend the beat of the Drum, and Accordingly' the Company went into houses near the place of Parade. We further Testify and Say, that, about five o'CIock in the morning, we attended the beat of our Drum, and were formed on the Parade; we were faced towards the Regulars then marching up to us, and some of our Company were comeing to the parade with their backs towards the Troops, and Others on the parade, began to Dis- perse when the Rc'gulars fired on the Company, l)efore a Gun wa.s fired by any of our company on them. They killed eight of our company, and wounded several, and contiiuied their tire, untili we had all made
our escape.
[Signed by each of the deponents. | '
'Sworn to before William Reed, Josiab Johnson ami William Stickney. «521— VOL 2—06 3
34 Journals of Congress
No. 9. Lexington, April 25, 1775.
1. Timothy Smith, of Lexington, in the County of Middlesex, and Colony' of Massiichusetts bay, in New Enghind, being of lawful age, do testify and declare, that, on the morning of the nineteenth of April instant, being at Lexuigton Common, as a spectator, I saw a large l)ody of regular troops marching up towards the Lexington conipan}', then dispersing, and likewise saw the regular troops fire on the Lexington company, before the latter fired a gun; I inmiediatoly ran, and a voi- le)' wa.s discharged at me, which put me in iuunincnt danger of losing my life; I soon returned to the Common, and saw eight of the Lex- ington men who were killed, and lay bleeding at a considerable dis- tance from each other; and several were wounded: And further saith
not.
Timothy Smith.'
No. 10. Lexinoton, Aj^'t'l 25, 1775.
We, Levi Mead and Levi Harrington, both of Lexington, in the County of Middlesex, and Colony of the Massachusetts bay, in New England, and of lawf ull age, do Testify and Declare, that on the morn- ing of the Nineteenth of April, being on Lexington Common, as spec- tators, we saw a Large body of Regular Troops marching up towards the Lexington Company, and some of the Regulars, on Horses, whom we took to be officers. Fired a Pistol or two on the Lexington Com- pany, which were then dispersing: These were the First Guns that were Fired, and they were immediately followed by several volleys from the Regulars, by which Eight men, belonging to said Company, were killed, and several wounded.
Levi Harrington, Levi Mead.'
No. 11. Lexington, April 25, 1775.
1, William Draper, of lawful Age, and an Inhabitant of Colrain, in the Coimty of Hampshire, and Colony of Massachusetts Bay, in New England, do testify and Declare, that, being on the Parade of said Lexington, April 19th Instant, about half an hour before sunrise, the King's Regular Troops appeared at the meeting House of Lexington. Captain Parkers Company, who were drawn up back of said meeting house on the Parade, turned from said Troops, making their escape,
' Sworn to before William Reed, Josiah Johnson and William Stickney.
M(iy, 1775 35
hj' dispersing; in the mean time, the Regular Troops made an huzza, and ran towards Captain Parkers Company, who were dispersing, and, inunediately after the huzza was made, the Commanding Officer of siiid troops (as I took him) gave the conunaiid to the said troops, " fire I tire! danm you, fircl" and immediately, they tirod before any of Cap- tain Parkei's Company fired, 1 then being within three or four Hods of said Regular Troo])s: And further say not.
William Draper.'
No. 12. Lexington, April 33, 1776.
1, Thomas Fessenden. of Lawful age, testify and Declare, that, being in a Pasture near the meeting house, at said Lexington, on Wednesday last, at about half an hour before sunrise, I saw a number of Regular troops pass speedily by said meeting house, on their way towards a Company of Militia of said Lexington, who were assembled to the number of about one hundred in a conipan}-, at the Distance of eighteen or twenty rods from said meeting house; and after they liad passed by said meeting house, I saw three Officers, on horseback, advance to the front of said Regulars, when one of them, being within six rods of the said Militia, cryed out, "Disperse, you Rebels, imme- diately," on which he Brandished his sword over his head three timers; meanwhiles the second Officer, who was about two rods behind him, fired a Pistol, pointed at said Militia, and the Regulars kopf huzzaing till he had finished brandishing his sword, and when he had thus fin- ished brandishing his sword, he pointed it Down towards said Militia, and immediately on which the said Regulars fired a Volley at the Militia, and then I ran off as fast as I could, while they continued firing, till I got out of their reach. I further testify, that a.s soon as ever the officer Cryed "Disperse, you rebels," the said Company of Militia dispersed every way, as fast as they could, and, while they were Dispersing, the regulars kept firing at them incessatitly: And further saith not.
Thomas Fessknuen.'
No. 13. Lincoln, Apri/ S-i, 1775.
L .John Bateman, belonging to the lifty -second regiment, com- manded by Colonel Jones, on Wednesday morning, on the nineteenth Day of April instant, was in the Party marching to Concord, being at
'Sworn to liefori- WilliHin Kci'il, Joaiali .lolniwm ami William Stickiicv.
rjf! Journals of Congress
Lcxinpton. in the ("ounty of Middlesex. liein<,' niffh tlie meetinfj house in said Lcxin{,'ton, there was a suiall party of men gathered together in that place, when our said troops marched by, and I Testify and Deelare. that 1 heard tiie word of roiniiuuid given to the Troops to tire, and some of sixid Troops Did tire, and I saw one of said small party lay Dead on the ground nigh said meeting house; and I testify, that I never heard any of the Inhabitants so much as fire one gun on said Troops.
John Bateman.'
No. 14. Lexington, April 23, 1775.
We, .Fohn Hoar, John Whithrad. Abraham Garfield, Benjamin Muiiroe. Isaac Parks. William Hosmer, John Adams, Gregory Stone, all of Lincoln, in the County of Middlesex, MaslSachusetts Bay, all of law full age, do testify and say, that, on Wednesda}' last, we were assembled at Concord, in the morning of said Day, in Consequence of information received, that a Brigade of Regular Troops were on their march to the said town of Concord, who had killed six men at the Town of Lexington; About an hour afterwards we saw them approach- ing, to the Number, as we Apprehended, of about Twelve hundred, on which we retreated to a Hill about Eighty Rods back, and the ssiid Troops then took Possession of the Hill, where we were first Posted; l)resontly after this, we saw the Troops moving towards the North Bridge, about one Mile from the said Concord Meeting House; we then immediately went before them and passed the Bridge just before a party of them, to the Number of about two hundred, arrived; They there left about one half of their two hundred at the Bridge, and pro- ceeded, with the rest, towards Col. Barretts, about two Miles from the said Bridge; we then seeing several tires in the Town, thought the Houses in Concord were in danger, and Marched towards the said Bridge; and the Troops that were stationed there, observing our api)ioach, inarched V)ack over the Bridg(> and then took up some of the Plank; we then hajitened our March towards the Bridge, and when we had got near the Bridge, they fired on our men, first three Guns, one after the other, and then a Considerable Number more; and then, and not before (having orders from our Commanding Officers not to fire till we were fired upon) we fired upon the Regulars and they Retreated.
' Sworn to before John Cummings and Duncan Ingraliam.
May, 1775 37
On their Retreat through the Town of Lexington to Charlestown, they Ravaged and destroyed private property, and burnt three Houses one Barn and one Shop.
[Signed bj' each of the above deponents.]'
No. 1.5. Lexington, April 23, 1775.
We, Nathan Barrett, Captain; Jonathan Farrar, Josejjh Butler, and Francis Wheeler, Lieutenants; -John Barrett, Ensign; .John Brown, Silas Walker, Ephraim Melvin, Nathan Buttrick. Stephen Hosiner, Jun'^ Samuel Barrett, Thomas -lones, Joseph ("handler, Pet(>r Wheeler, Nathan Peirce, and F^dward Richardson, all of Concord, in the County of Middlesex, in the province of the Massachusetts Bay, of Lawfull Age, Testify and Declare, that on Wednesday, the Nineteenth Instant, about an Hour after sun rise, we Assembled on a Hill near the meet- ing House, in Concord aforesaid, in consecpieuce of an information, that a number of regular Troops had killed six of our Countrymen, at Lexington, and were on their march to said Concord; and about an Hour afterwards, we saw them approaching, to the number, as we Imagine, of about Twelve Hundred; on which we retreated to a Hill about Eighty rods back, and the aforesaid Troops then took possession of a Hill where we were first posted. Presently after this, we saw them moving towards the North Bridge, about one mile from the said meeting House; we then immediately went before them, and passed the bridge just before a party of them, to the numl)er of about Two Hundred, ari'ived. They there left about one half of these two Hun- dred at the bridge, and proceeded with the rest towards Colonel Bar- ret's, about two miles from the said bridge. We then seing several fires in the Town, thought our houses were in Danger, and immediately march'd back towards said bridge, and the troops who were station'd there, observing our approach, march'd back over the bridge, and then took up some of the planks. We then hastened our Steps towards the bridge, and when we had got near the bridge, they fir'd on oui- men, tirst three guns, one after the other, and then a Considerable number more; upon which, and not before, (having orders from our Conmiand- ing Oflicer not to tire till we were fired upon) we fir'd upon tlie regu- lars, and they retreated. At Com^ord, and on their retreat thro' Lexington, they plunder'd many houses, burnt three at Lexington,
'Sworn to bfl'nif William Kivd, John Ciiminiiigs, Jonathan Hastiiiga autl IJunoau Iiigrubani.
38 Journals of Congress
together with a shop iind Imrn. and committed damage, more or less, to almost every House from Concord to Charlestown.
[Signed hy the abovo deponents.]
We. .lo.seph Butler, and Kpliruim Molvin. do testify and declare, that when tlie regular troops tirM upon our people, at the North Bridge, in Concord, as related in the foregoing depositions, the}' shot one, and we believe two, of our people before we fir'd a single gun at
them.
Joseph Butler, Ephraim Melvin.'
No. 16. Concord, Aj/inl S3, 1775.
1, Timothy Minot, Jun' of Concord, on the ninteenth day of this Instant, April, after that I had heard of the regular troops firing upon Lexington men. and fearing that hostillities might be Committed at Concord, thought it my incumbent Duty to Secure my family. After 1 iiad Secured my family, some Time after that, returning towards my own Dwelling, and finding that the bridge on the Northern part of said Concord, were guarded hy legular troops, being a Spectator of what had hapeued at said bridge, declare, that the regular troops Stationed on [said I bridge, after they saw the men that were collected on the westerly side of said Bridge, marched towards said bridge, then the Troops returned towards the easterly side of said liridge, and formed themselves, as I thouglit, for regular tight: after that they tired one gun, then two or three more, before the men that were stationed on the westerly part of said bridge tired on them.
Timothy Minot, .Tu\.
No. 17. Lexington, Aj/ril 23, 1775.
1, James Barrett of Concord Colonel of a Regiment of Militia in the County of Middlesex Do testify and say that on Wednesday- Morn- ing last about Day-break I was informed of the approach of a number of the liegular Troops to the Town of Concord where was some Maga- zines belonging to this Province, when there was assembled some of the Militia of this and the neighbouring Towns, when I ordcr'd them to march to the North Bridge (so called) which they had passed and were taking up, I ordered said Militia to march to said bridge and pass
' Sworn to before Jonathan Hastings, John Cunimings and Duncan Ingraham. 'Sworn to before William Reed, Jonathan Elatsiings, John Cummings and Duncan Ingraliain.
May, 1775 39
the same, but not to fire on the King's Troops unless they were first fired upon. We advanced neer said bridge, when the said troop.s fired upon our Militia, and killed two Men dead on the Spot and wounded several others, which was the first firing of Guns in the town of Con- cord. My Detachment then returned the fire which killed and wounded several of the King's Troops.
James Barrett.'
No. 18. Lexington, April 33, 1776.
We, Bradbury Robinson, Samuel Spring, Thaddeus Bancroft, all of Concord; and James Adams, of Lexington, all in the County of Mid- dlesex, all of Lawful age, do testitie and say, that on Wednesday morning last, near ten of the Clock, we saw near one Hundred of the Regular Troops, being in the Town of Concord, at the North Bridge in said Town (so called) and having passed the same, they were taking up said bridge, when about three Hundred of our Militia were advanc- ing toward said bridge, in Order to pass said Bridge, when, without saying an}' thing to us, they Discharged a Number of guns on us, which killed two men Dead on the spot, and wounded several others; when we returned the fire on them, which killed two of them, and wounded several, which was the Beginning of hostilities in the Town of Concord,
Bkadhuky Robinson, Samuel Si'kino, Thaddeus Bancroft, James Adams.'
Worcester, Ajn-t'l 36, 1775. Hannah Bradish, of that part of Cambridge, called Menotomj', and daughter of Timothy Paine, of Worcester, in the county of Worces ter, esq. of lawful age, testifies and says, that about five o'clock on Wednesday last, afternoon, being in her bed-chaml)er. with her infant chikl, about eight days old, she was surprised by the firing of the king's troops and our people, on their return from Concord. She being weak and iniable to go out of her house, in order to secure her- self and family, they all retired into the kitchen, in the back part of the house. She soon found the house surrounded with the king's
'Sworn to before William Reed, Joimtlimi Ilo^^tingn und I'uiieati Ingrahaiii. A facBUuile of this Jeposition is in Winsor, Nnrratire and t'rUiml Hhtory, VI, 177. 'Sworn to before William Ree<l, William Stickney and Jouathan Hastings.
40 Journals of Congress
troops; that upon observation made, at least seventy bullets were shot into the front part of the house; several bullets lodged in the kitchen where she was, sind oiio passed through an easj' chair she had just gone from. The door of the front part of the house was l)roken open; she did not see any soldiers in the house, but supposed, by the noise, they were in the front. After the troops had gone off. she missed the fol- lowing tilings, which, slie verii}' believes, were taken out of the house by the king's troops, viz: one rich brocade gown, called a negligee, one lutestring gown, one white quilt, one pair of brocade shoes, three shifts, eight white aprons, three caps, one case of ivoi y knives and forks, and several other small articles.
Hannah BuAmsH.
Province of the Massachusetts Bay,
Worcester, *<*. April 26, 1775. Mrs. Hannah Bradish, the above deponent, maketh oath before us, the subscribers, two of his majesty's justices of the peace, for the count}- of Worcester, and of the quorum, that the above deposition, according to her best recollection, is the truth. Which deposition is taken in perj)etuam rel mefrihoriam,
Thomas Steel, Timothy Paine.'
No. 19. Concord, Ajyrll 23, 1775.
I. James Marr, of Lawful age. Testify and Say, that in tiie evening of the Eighteenth Instant, 1 Received Orders from George Hutchin- son, Adjutantof the fourth Kegimentof the Regular Troops Stationed at Boston, to prepare and march : to which Order I attended, and marched to Concord, where 1 was ordered b}^ an ofEcer with about one Hun- dred Men, to guard a certain Bridge there; while attending that ser- vice, a Number of People came along, in Order, as I suppose, to Cro.ss said Bridge, at which Time a Number of the Regular Troops first fired upon them.
James Mark.''
No. 20. Medford, A2yril 25, 1775.
1, Edward Thoroton Gould, of his Majesty's own Regiment of Foot, being of lawful Age, do testify and declare, that on the Evening of
• The Papers of the Continental Congress do not contain this deposition. ' Sworn to before Duncan Ingraham and Jonas Dix.
Man, 1775 41
tlie 18th. In.stiiut, under the Orders of (leneral Gage, 1 embarked with the Light infantry and Grenadiers of the Line, eouimunded by Colonel Smith, and landed on the Marshes of Cambridge, from whence we proceeded to Lexington; On our arrival at that place, we saw a Bodj' of provincial Troops armed, to the Number of about sixty or seventy Men; on our Approach, they dispersed, and soon after tiring began, but which party fired tirst, 1 cannot cxactl}^ say, as our Troops rush"d on shouting, and huzzaing, previous to the firing, whi('h was continued b}' our Troops, so long as any of the provincials were to be seen. From thence we marched to Concord. On a Hill near the Entrance of the Town, we saw another Body of provincials assembled; the light Infantr}' Companies were ordered up the Hill to disperse thom; on our approach, they retreated towards Concord; the (irenadiers con- tinued the Koad under the Hill towards the Town. Six Companies of light Infantry were ordered down to take possession of the Bridge, wliich the provincials retreated over; the Company I coumianded was one: three Companies of the above Detachment went forwards about Two Miles; in the mean Time, the provincial Troops returned, to the number of about three or four hundred: We drew up on the Concord side [of] the Bridge, the provincials came down upon us, upon which we engaged and gave the tirst Fire; This was the first Engagement after the one at Lexington; a continued tiring from both paities lasted thro' the whole Day; I myself was wounded at the Attack of the Bridge, and am now treated with the greatest Humanity, and takenall possible Care of by the provincials at Medford.
Edward Thoroton Gould,
Lieut. King's own Regiment.
Province of Massachusetts Bay,
Middksex County, April Sr>, 1775. Lieut. Edward Thoroton Gould, aforenamed, personally made Oath to the Truth of the foregoing Declaration by him subscribed, before us.
Thad. Mason, JosiAH Johnson, Simon Tufts, Justices of tile peace., fw tlw County aforesaid, quorum unu.'i.
Prnvhice of Ma.'ixnehusettn-Bay, Charlestomi, .v,s.
1, Nathaniel Gorham, Notary and tabellion Publick, by lawful Authority duly admitted and swoin, licreby certify, to ;ill whom it
42 Journals of Congress
doth or luay concern, That Tluideus Mason, Josiali Johnson, and Simon Tufts, Es(irs. lire threo of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace {quoruin itnm) for the County of Middlesex; and that full faith and Credit is, and ought to be given to their Transactions, as such, both in Court and Out. In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed my name and seal, this twenty-sixth day of April, AiDto Doiirin!, one thousand seven hundred and seventy five.
Nathaniel Gorham, Notary Public. (L. S.)
In Provincial Congress, Watertown, April 26th, 1775.
To the fn habitants of Great Britaiv.
Friends and fellow sub.jects,
Hostilities are at length commenced in this Colon)' by the Troops under the Command of General Gage, and It being of the greatest Importance, that an earl\-, true, and authentic Account of this inhuman proceeding should bo known to you, the Congress of this Colony have transmitted tiie same, and from Want of a Session of tlie hon° conti- nental Congress, think it proper to address you on this alarming Occasion.
By the dearest Depositions, relative to this Transaction, It will appear that, on the Night preceding the nineteenth of April instant, a Body of the King's Troops, under the Command of Colonel Smith, were secretly landed at Cambridge, with an apparent Design to take or destroy- the military and other stores, provided for the Defence of this Colony, and deposited at Concord: that some Inhabitants of the Colony, on the Tsight aforesaid, whilst travelling peaceably on the Road between lioston and Concord, were seized and greatly abused b}' armed Men, who appeared to be Officers of General Gage's army: that the Town of Lexington, by these Means, was alarmed, and a Company of the Inhabitants mustered on the Occasion: that the regular Troops, on their Way to Concord, marched into the said Town of Lexington, and the said Company, on their Approach, began to disperse: that, not- withstanding this, the Regulars rushed on with great Violence; and first began Hostilities, l)y firing on said Lexington Company, wherebj' they killed eight and wounded several others: that the regulars con- tinued their Fire, untill those of said Compau} , who were neither
May, 1775 43
killed nor wounded, had made their Escape: that Col° Smith, with the Detachment, then marched to Concord, where a Number of pro- vincials were a<;iiin tired on by the Troops, two of thoni killed and several wounded, ttcfore the provincials fired on them: and that these hostile Measures of the Troops, produced an Engagement that lasted thro' the Day, in wliich many of the provincials, and more of the reg- ular Troops, were killed and wounded.
To give a particular Account of the Ravages of the Troops, as they retreated from Concord to Charlestown, would bo very difficult, if not impracticable. Let it .suffice to say, that a great Numb(;r of the Houses on the road were plundered, and rendered unfit for Use; sev- eral were burnt; Women in child bed were driven, by the Soldier\% naked into the Streets: old Men, peaceabh'^ in their Houses, were shot dead; and such Scenes exhibited as would disgrace the annals of the most uncivilized Nation.
Those, Brethren, are Marks of ministerial Vengeance against this Colon}-, for refusing, with her Sister Colonies, a Submission to Slavery: but they have not yet detached us from our royal Sovereign. We pro- fess to be his loyal and dutiful Subjects, and so hardly dealt with as we have been, are still ready, with our Lives and Fortunes, to defend hi.s person, Familj', Crown, and Dignity. Nevertheless, to the per- secution and Tyrannj- of his cruel Mitiistr}', we will not tamely sul)- niit. Appealing to Heaven for the Justice of our C-ause, we deter- mine to die or be free.
We cannot think that the Honour, Wisdom, and Valour of Britons, will suffer them to be longer inactive Spectators of Measures, in which the}' themselves are so deeply interested: Measures pursued in Oppo- sition to the solemn protests of many noble Lords, and |lliej expressed sense of conspicuous Commoners, whose Knowledge and Virtue have long characterized them as some of the greatest Men in tiie Nation: Measures executing contrary to the Interest, Petitions and Kesoht^s of many large, respectable and opulent Counties, Cities and Boroughs in (iroat Britain: Measures highly incompatible with .lustice, but still pursued witli a specious pretence of easing the Nation of its Burthens: Measures which, if successful, must end in the ruin and Slavery of Britain, as well as the persecuted American Colonies.
We sincerely hope, that the great Sovereign of the Universe, who hath so often appeared for the english Nation, will support you in
44 Jounia/s of Congress
pveiT nitioiml and manly Kxertion with these Colonies, for saving it from ruin, and that, in a constitutional Connection with the Mother Country, we simll soon be altogether a free and happy people. Per order, Joseph Warken, President, P. T.'
Ordered, That the Secretary have the above depositions and affidavits and the address to the iuhab'-'of G B pub- lished in the newspapers.'-
Resolved, un. That the Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America.
Ordered, That the Letter from the pro: Congress of Massachusetts bay be referred to that committee.
Adjourned till to Morrow at ten o'Clock.
FRIDAY, MAY 12, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment, and ad- journed till to Morrow at 10 o'Clock.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Present, the same as yesterday, and also M^ J. Jay from New York and Thomas Stone from Maryland.
The Congress being informed that Doct^ Lyman Hall attended at the door, as a delegate from the parish of St. John's^ in the colony of Georgia, and desired to know whether, as such, he may be admitted to this Congress;
Agreed unanimously, That he be admitted as a delegate from the parish of St. John's, in the colony of Georgia,
' The original, in the writinK of Elbridge Gerry, is in the Papers of the Conlineidal Congrett, No. 6.5, I, folio 5.
'They appear in the Pennsylvania Packet, 15 May, 1775.
' Became Liberty County iu 1777. A meeting at Savannah had declined to send any delegates to the Continental Congress, but tlie Parish of St. John dissented, and Hall waa chosen a delegate. See. White, iristoriml Collections of Georgia, 520.
May, 1775 45
subject to such regulations as the Congress shall deter- mine, relative to his voting.
M^ Lyman Hall being accordingly admitted, produced his credentials, which were read and approved, as follows :
Here insert them. '
To the Honourable Gentlemen of the Congress, designed to be held at Phlladdjphia^ on May Anno Domini 1775.
The Address of the Inhabitants of the Parish of St. John's, i?i the
Province of Oem'gia.
Gentlemen,
To give a particular Detail of our many Struggles in the Cause of Liberty, the nianj- Meetings thereby occasioned and held in this Parish, the Endeavours we have used to intluce the rest of this Province to concur with us, the Attendance of our Committee on the Provincial Congresses, held at Savannah, in this Province, and particular]}* that of the 18th of January last, with their Proceedings, and the Reasons of our Dissent from them, we think would be tedious to you; and there- fore send a summary Al)stract; which, with the Account, that may bo given by Lyman Hall, Esci"! appointed a Delegate to represent and act for this Parish in the General Continental Congress, to be held on May next, and the Testimonies of the honourable Delegates from South Carolina, we hope will be satisfactory.
Immediately upon our being honoured with an Answer to the Representation of our Case transmitted to the Honourable Congress, which sat at Philadelphia last Year, with a Cop}- of the Association there entered into, we had a Meeting, and our Proceedings then and since that Time, will, in Brief, appear from the following Aljstracts of an Addr(\ss from this Parish to the Committee of Correspondence ill Charles Town, South Carolina, which is as follows: "Gknii-emkn,
" Herewith will be communicated to you, the several Steps taken by this Parish in their Endeavours to conform, as near as possible, to the Resolutions entered into by the other C^olonies: and the particular Measures now adopted, for carrying into Execution the Continental Association, — which wo embraced the earliest Opportunity of acced- ing to, by subscribing it; on Condition that Trade and Commerce with
46 Journals of Congress
the other Colonies be continued to us the Subscribers; and thereupon, should have immediately sent to you for your Approbation and Indiil- pence, but were dohiyod by a Summons to attend a Provincial Con- gress in Savannah, on the 18th of January last, for the Purpose, as wo understood, of a General Association with the other Colonies, and rhnsinp Delegates: At which Time and Place we attended; and acquainted the other Parishes, assembled on that Occasion, that we had already acceded to the General Association, on condition as above- mentioned, and earnestly requested them to do the same. Had they acceded fully to the General Association, we should have had no Occasion to trouble you with this Address; but, as they did not, we now apply to you, to admit us, the Subscribers, to an Alliance with you, requesting that yo\i will allow Trade and Commerce to be con- tinued to us, the same to be conducted under such Regulations and Restrictions, as shall be consistent with the Continental Association, and which, on our Part, we engage, with all possible Care, to keep inviolate. As we of this Parish are a Body detached from the Rest (i. e. of this Province) by our Resolutions, and sufficiently distinc^t by local Situation, large enough for particular Notice, adjoining a par- ticuliu Port, and in that Respect, capable of conforming to the Gen- cj'al Association, if connected with yon, with the same Fidelity as a distant Parish of \'oiir own Province; we must be considered, as com- prehended within the Spirit and equitsible Meaning of the Continental Association, and hope you will not contemn the Innocent with the Guilty, especially when a due Separation is made between them.
"Give us Leave to add only, that we wait your Answer, shall be glad of your Advice, and are with P^steem,
"Gentlemen, your &c."
St. John's, 9th Februai-y, 1775.
To which we received the following Answer: "Gentlkmen,
"Your Letter, accompanying sundry Papers, having been laid before a very full Committee of this Colony, and undergone the most mature Deliberation, I am, by their Desire, to acquaint you, that the}' have the highest Sense of your arduous Struggles in Favour of the com- mon Cause of America; and most sincerely lament your present unhappy Situation; But would recommend a Continuance of your laudable Exertions, and the laying a State of j-our Case before the
May, 1775 47
ensuing Continental Congress, as the onlj^ Means of obtaining Relief, and to put you in the Situation j'ou wish, which this Committee appre- hend to be entirely ovit of their Power to do; as it is their Opinion, that the Parish of St. John, being a Part of the Colony of (icorgia (which, by not acceding to, has violated the Continental Association) falls under the 1-lth Article of the said Association, no Part of which any Committee can presume to do away, &c. &c."
Upon the Receipt of this Answer, it was seriously considered in what Manner to conduct in the present Situation; and proposed, whether we should immediately break off all Connexion and Com- merce with Savannah, and all other Inhabitants of this province, who have not full}^ acceded to the Continental Association.
It was considered, that as we were denied Commerce with anj- other Colony, and but one Merchant among us considerable for dry Goods, had signed our Association, and he insufficient for a present Supply, and we utterly unable at Present to procure Materials or Manufactures for Cloathing among ourselves, we must, by such a Res- olution, become extreaml}' miserable; it was therefore concluded, that till we could obtain Trade and Commerce with some other Colony, it is absolutely necessary to continue it in some Respects with our own, and determined that it be carryed on under the following Regulations:
I'* That None of us shall directly or indirectly purcha.se any Slave imported at Savannah, (large M umbers of which we understand are there expected,) till the Sense of the Congress shall be made known to us.
II'?' That we will not trade at all with any Merchant at Savannah, or elsewhere, that will not join in our Associating Agreement, otherwi.se than under the Inspection of a Committet;, for that Purpose appointed, and for such Things onl}' as thcj' shall judge necessar}', and when they shall think there arc necessary Rea.sons for .so doing.
A Committee was then nominated, and appointed to sit Weekly on Thursdays, for the Purposes aforesaid.
It was then resolved, that a Delegate bo .sent from this Parish to the Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, in Ma}' next, and that Tues- day, the 21st of March, be appointed for chusing one.
On the said 21st of March, at a full Meeting, Lyman Hall Ksq'^ was imanimousl}' chosen, to represent and act for the Inhabitants i>f this Pari.sh, as a Delegate at the (Jcneral Congress, to be had in Philadel- phia, in May next, who are determined faithfully to adhere to, and
48 Journals of Congress
iihidc hv tlip Determinations of liini, :ind the other Honourable Metn- bei-s of tho Same.
And are lIoiK)uiuble (jeiitliuicii your very Humble, very ol)edient Servantti.
Sijriicd by Order of the Iiihabita,nt.s by us of the Committee by thoui appointed.
Midway, St. John's Parish, in the Province of Georgia, 13th April, Anno 1775.
•John ^VINN James Maxwell
Pakmenas Way Edwaru Ball
Hkn.iamin Andrew John Bacon
Samuel Stevens John Elliott
Samuel Saltus William Bacon Jun'
J. Powell John Winn Jun'
William Peacock Nathan Bro\vnson
.Fames Sckeven James Dunwodt
John Stacy Joseph Oswald
Daniel Robekts John Stewart.'
John Stevens
A petition from the county of Frederic, in Virginia, addressed to the Congi-ess, was presented and read.
Agreed, That it be referred to the committee of the whole which is to sit on Monday.
II Adjourned till Monday at nine o'Clock.||
MONDAY, MAY 15, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment.
M^ [Henry] Wisner, M' [Philip] Schuyler, M^ [George] Clinton, M' L[ewis] Morris and M' R[obert] R. Living- ston from New York, M' James Wilson from Pensyl- vania and M' R[obert] Goldsborough from Maryland appeared and took their places as members of the con- gress."
'The original is in the Pnpen of the Cotitbienlal Congress, Georgia, Credentials of Delegaifs.
'The printed .Tnurnals pave also the names of John Jay of New York and Thomas Stone of Maryland, as attending. But see May 13, anU.
May, 1775 49
Upon motion,
Agreed, That the Sec^ be allowed to em])loy Timothy Matlack as a clerk he having first taken an oath or affirma- tion to keep secret and not to reveal any of the trans- actions [or secrets] of the Congress, that maybe intrusted to him, or may come to his knowledge.
The order of the day licing read
The prcijidont informed the Congrorja that ho hud ]iut into hia hands thiij morning a letter from Murro}"
containing u number of pajicrB which he wat; desired to lay before the congrcaa, the purport of them he did not know aa he had not had an opportunity of reading them.
Ordered to lye on the table That the prcaident look them over [and then lay them] before they are laid before the eongreaa.
The order of the day waa then read, after aome debate
Reaolvcd, N. C. D., That the order of the day be post poned .
KcHolved, N. C. D., That the oongresa will tomorrow reaolve itaelf into a committee of the whole to take into conaideration the state of America.
The City and County of New York having through the delegates of that Colony, applied to the congress for their advice how they ought to conduct themselves with re- gard to the troops expected there, — The congi-ess took the matter into theii- moat aerioua consideration, dxiring their deliberations it became necessary to take the opinion of the Congress by Colonies, upon which a question arose, whether the Delegate from the Parish of S- John's, in the Colony of Georgia, [Lyman Hall] could be admitted to ftp vote, after some debate on this question the Delegate from that Parish of S' Johns arose and after observing that the present distressful situation of American affairs had eom])elled tlic Coloniea induced a necessity of this
6521— VOL 2—05 1
50 Journals of Congress
Cougi-ess, which was composed of Delegates representinj; whole colonies tlicuijli thciv wun no [ ] law inipowcv iiitf till' ilclctratci-i to ivpivwnt tlu'ir pui'tieular provincca. jet iiuf.uiuich a!<; that as ho did not represent a whole colony ttti [was] eHtabliidicd b}" lns¥ hut only a part of it, he did not deaii'c insist on giving a vote as a colony, but was contented to hear and assist in the debates, and give his vote in all cases except when the sentiments of the Congress were taken by colonies.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the matter first under debate. During the debate, Samuel Ward, Esq'' one of the delegates from Rhode island, ap- peared and i)roduced his credentials, which being read and approved, he took his seat.
His credentials are as follows —
By the honorable the general Assembly of the English colony of Rhode island and Providence Plantations,, in New England,
^ ' m America. To the Aonorahle Stephen IIoj)kins, Estf- and the hontrrahle Samitd
WanK EK(f- Greeting:
Whereas the general assembly of the colony aforesaid, have nomi- nated and appointed you, the said Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward, to represent the peoi)le of this colony, in a general Congress of repre- sentatives, from this and the other colonies, to be holden in the city of Philadelphia, on the 10th of May instant, you are therefore hereby authorized to repair to the said city of Philadelphia, and there, in behalf of this colony-, to meet, and join with the commissioners, or delegates from the other colonies, in consulting upon i)roper measures to obtain a repeal of the several acts of the British Parliament, for levying taxes upon his Majesty's subjects in America, without their couseut; and upon proper measures to establish the rights and liber- ties of the colonies, upon a just and solid foundation, agreeable to the instructions given you by the general Assembly.
By virtue of an Act of the general Assembly, 1, Henry Ward, Esq', .secretary of the said (Colony, have hereunto set my hand and afhxed the Seal of the said Colony, this seventh day of May, A. D. 1775, and
May, 1775 51
in the fifteenth 3ear of the reign of his most sa«ied Majesty George the third, hy the grace of God, king of Great Britain, &c.
Signed, Henry Ward."
The matter under consideration being resumed, the Congress came to the following resolution,
' The original is in the Papers of the ConlimnUd Congress, Rhode Island, CredetdiaU of Delegates. Witli it is a copy of the Instructions, wliich wen- as follows:
At the General Assembly of the Governor and Company of the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England in America hegun and holden inConsequeni^eof Warrants issued by his Honor the Governor of Provideme within and for the said Colony on the First Monday in December in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy foiu- and Fifteenth of the Reign of His Most Sacred Majesty George the Third by the Grace of God King of Great-Britain &c.
Whereas the American Continental Congress held in the City of Philadelphia on the Fifth Day of September last recommended to the several Colonies to choose Deputies as soon as possible to attend a General Congress to be holden on the Tenth Day of May next in the said City of Philadelphia unless the Redress of American Grievances be obtained before that Time: And whereas this Assembly having the greatest Regard to the Recommendation aforesaid, and being determined to co-oper- ate with the other Colonics in every jiroper Measure for obtaining a Redress of the Grievances, and establishing the Rights and Liberties of all the Colonies upon an equitable and permanent Foundation have unanimously chosen and ajipointed the Honble Stephen Hopkins F/sq' and the Honble Samuel Ward Esq' Delegates to rep- resent this Colony: It is therefore unanimously Voted and Resolved,
First, That the said Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward Esqrs. be and they are hereby fully authorized and empowered to represent this Colony in a general Con- gress of Delegates or Representatives of the several Colonies to be holden at the Time and Place above mentioned or at such other Time and Place as shall be agreed upon by the major Part of the Committees from the several Colonies.
Second, That they be and hereby are fully authorized and empowered to consult and advise with the Representatives of the other Colonies an<l in Conjiuiction with them or the major Part of them to enter into and adojit in Behalf of this Colony all reasonable lawful and proper Measures for the SnpjKirt Defence Protection and Security of the Rights Liliertics and Privileges both civil and religious of all the said Colonies or any of them.
Third, That they be and hereby are, autliurized and empowered to adjourn from Time to Time and at any Time within the Space of One Year to be computed from the said Tenth Day of May next, and at any Place which they shall think proper.
Fourthly, That they be and hereby are directed to endeavour to procure a regular annual Convention of Delegates or Rei)re8entatives from all the Colonies to lie holden at such Time and Place a-s shall be by the Delegates agreed upon for the Pro- motion and Establishment of the Peace Welfare and Security of the said Colonies.
A true Copy duly examined.
Witness Henry Ward Secry
52 Journals of Congress
Resolved, That it be recommended for the present to the inhabitants of New York, that if the troops, w"*" are expected should arrive, the s'' Colony act on the defensive so long as may bo consistent with their safety and secu- rity: that the troops be permitted to remain in the bar- racks, so long as they behave thcmaclvca ])eaceably and quietly, but that they be not suffered to erect fortifica- tions or take any steps for cutting off the communication between the town and country; and that if they commit hostilities or invade private property, the inhabitants should defend themselves and their property and repel force by force ; that the warlike stores be removed from the town ; that places of retreat in case of necessity be provided for the women and children of New York ; and that a sufficient number of men be embodied and kept in constant readiness for protecting the inhabitants from insult and injury.^
M'.Willing laid upon the table.
Two memorials, one from S[amuel] Shoemaker, the other from James and Drinker, respecting some cargoes purchased by them, and intended for NfLand, but w"^"* are stopped by the Comm of this City, ||were laid before the Congi'ess, and read, and ordered to lie on the table. ||
Resolved, that a committee l)e appointed to consider what posts are necessary to be occupied in the Colony of New York, and by what number of troops it will be nec- essary they should be occupied guarded.
[Upon motion,]
'This resolution, with a letter of transmittal from the New York Delegates in the Congress, was printed in the Penmylvaniu Packet, 22 May, 1775. Bancroft eays: "All parties tacitly agreed to avoid every decision which should invite attack or make reconciliation impossible. In confonnity with this policy, Jay made the motion for a second petition to the King."— Hhtory of tlu' United Slates, IV, 192. This motion was seconded by John Dickinson. John .\dams, in his Diary [Writings, II, 409], merely states that Dickinson "made or procured to be made" a motion for a petition.
May, 1775 53
Resolved, That M^ [George] Washington, M' [Thomas] Lynch, M^ S[amuel] Adams, and the delegates from New York, be the committee for the above service, and that they be desired to report as speedily as possible.
Adjourned till to Moitow at 10 o'Clock.
TUESDAY, MAY i6, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The. President after cxi:>laining the nature of the lottoi' delivered to him yesterday.
A memorial from Robert and John Murray, of New- York, was laid before the Congress, and read.^
Ordered, That it lye up[ou] the table.
AgTeeable to the order of the day, the CongTess resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid- eration the state of America ;
Resolved that a committee be appointed to coniaidcr what posts arc neecsaary to be occupied and by what immljcr of foreoo it will be proper they ah'.' be guarded.
The ])rcaidcnt then left the chair and the hon'!'' Mat thcw Tilghman was called to it unanimously chosen to take the chair.
The order of the day ])cing then read, also the letter fron the provincial
The President having taken the chair
After some time spent thereon, the President resumed the chair, and Mr. [Matthew] Tilghman reported from the committee, that they had taken the matter referred to them into their consideration, debated upon it; but not having come to any resolution, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Whereupon Rrsolred, That the Congi-ess will to-morrow ||again|| resolve itself into a committee of the whole, to
'Se«> Xeir .Ti'mrii in-hirin, Firj't S«jries, X, p. 561.
54 Journals of Congress
tako into ||their fartheiil consideration the state of Auieiifu. Adjourned till to Morrow at 12 o'Cloek.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment, and the order of the day being postponed till to Morrow :
Upon motion,
Rcivjlvod, that the Congroni* will toniorvow ro^olyo itnolf into a committee of the whole to take into oonuiderution the gtato of America.
The Congi'coo then taking into couaideration the pro pricty of paiatjing a rouolvc to enforce the 11'' ' Article of the Aijoociutidii and tontop Bup])liea to Ne^^'fonndland and British tlahcricij on the l)anki< of Newfoundland and the American coaat and to army and na^y in N. A.
Upon entering into this debate M^ Willing laid before the ^hf — mcmovial — from S. Shoemaker and Janiea and Drinker were read. — The CongrcHH then resuming the consideration of the matter in debate came into the fol lowing Resolution
Resolved nnunimouslij. That all exportations to Quebec, Nova Scotia, the Island of St. John's, Newfoundland, Georgia, except the Parish of St. John's, and to East and West Florida immediately cease, and that no provisions of any kind, or other necessaries be furnished to the Brit- ish Fisheries on the American coasts until it be otherwise determined by the Congress.'
Ordered, That this be published immediately.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Cloek.^
'Printetl in Pennsylvania Packet, 29 May, 1775.
'"College op Philadblphia, May 17, 1776.
" This day the public Commencement for Graduates in the Arts was? held here, in the presence of the most illustrious a-ssembly this Seminary ever beheld.
''.\bout half an hour after nine o'clock, .agreeable loan invitation previously given to them, the Honorable Members of the Co.ntixental Congress were pleasetl to pro-
May, 1775 55
THURSDAY, MAY i8, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The Hon''!'' S[tephen] Hopkins, from Rhode island, and P[atrick] Henry, Esq", from Virginia, attended and took tlieir seats in Congress.
Upon Motion, Resolved., That the Rules of conduct to be observed in debating and determining questions laid down by the last Congress be adopted and observed by the present Congress.^
The president laid before the Congress, some impor- tant intelligence he I'eeeiv'? last night, by express from New York, relative to the surprising and taking of Ticon- derogo, by a detachment from Massachusetts bay and Connecticut, which was read as follows. [Here insert the letters.']
Upon motion. Agreed, That Mr. Brown,'' who brought the express, be called in to give an acco- of the disposition of the Canadians, the taking of Ticonderogo and the im- portance of that post. Whereupon he was called in — and having given the necessary information he withdrew. The Congress, taking the matter into consideratit)U came to the following Resolution,
Resolved, Whereas there is indubitable evidence that a
coed in a body from the Statc-HouMp to the College, where tlie_\' were reiei\eil at the gate by the Provost and conducted to the places prepureil for their reception m the Hall. As soon as they were seated, the y'riishe-t, with the Governor as President at their head, followed l)y the Provost, Vice-provost, Professors, Graduates and other Students, in their proper habits, entered the Hall, and took their places; the Gal- leries and other parts of the house lieing filled with as many of the respectable inhab- itants of the city as could find room." From the Ptitnuiilvtuiia I'tickvl, 22 May, ITTf).
In the Library Company of Philadelphiii is a ])amphlct of eipht pasjes entitled: An Exercise; containing, a Dialogue and Two Odes Set ti^ Music, for the Public i-oin- niencement, in the College of Philadelphia, May ITtli, 1775. Philadelphia: I'rintc.l by Joseph Crukshank, MDCCLXXV.
'See Journals, I, 24, 25, ante.
' The letters were not entered upon the Journals.
' Jolui Brown. The information he gave is summarized in the Pemvnjlran'ui Packet, 22 May, 1775.
56 Journals of Congress
design is formed by the British Ministry of making a cruel invasion from the province of Quebec, upon these colonies, for the purpose of destroying our lives and lib- erties, and some steps have actually been taken to carry the said design into execution. And whereas several inhal)itants of the northern colonies, residing in the vicinity of Ticonderogo, and immediately exposed to incursions, imj)elled l)y a just regard for the defence and preservation of themselves and their countrymen from such imminent dangers and calamities have taken pos- session of that post, in which was lodged a quantity of cannon and military stores, that would certainly have been used in the intended invasion of these colonies, this Congress earnestly recommend it to the committees of the cities and counties of New York and Albany, immedi- ately to cause the said cannon and militaiy stores to be removed from Ticonderogo to the south end of Lake George ; and if necessary to apply to the colonies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts bay, and Connecticut, for such an additional body of forces as will be sufficient to estab- lish a strong post at that place and effectually to secure the s"? cannon and stores or so many of them as it may be judged proper to keep there. — And that an exact inven- tory be taken of all such cannon and stores in order that they may be safely returned when the restoration of the former harmony between great Britain and these colo- nies so ardently wished for by the latter shall render it prudent and consistent with the overruling law of self preservation.
Upon motion Resolved, That the Congi-ess will to Morrow again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into [their farther] consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
May, 1775 57
FRIDAY, MAY 19, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment.
The CongrcflB agreeable to the oi-dci' of
The committee appointed to consider what posts are necessary to be occupied in the colony of New York, and by what number of troops it will be ncGcaaary proper they Siiould be guarded, bro' in their report, which being read was referred to the committee of the whole.
The Congress then Agreeable to the order of yesterdaj' lithe day, II the Congi-ess resolved themselves into a com- mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America. And after some time spent therein the Presi- dent resumed the chair and M": [Samuel] Ward from the committee reported, that they had taken the matter into consideration, but not having come to any resolutions they had desired him to move for leave to sit again to Morrow.
Resolved that this Congress will to Morrow again resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole to take into consideration the State of America.
Adjourned till to morrow at 9 o'Cloek.
SATURDAY, MAY 20, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment and agree- able to the order of the day again resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America and after some time spent therein the president resumed the chair and M' [Samuel] Ward from the committee reported that they had taken the matter into consideration, but not having come to any resolution, desired him to move for leave to sit again on Monday next.
Renolved, that this Congi'ess will on Monday next again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till Monday at 9 oClock.
58 Journals of Congress
MONDAY, MAY 22, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment and agi'ee- able to the order of the day again resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America, and after some time spent therein the president resumed the chair, and M^ [Samuel] Ward from the committee reported that they had proceeded in the business, but not having compleated it, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, that this Congress will to Morrow again re- solve itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Cloek.
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment and agi'ee- able to the order of the day resolved itself into a com- mittee of the whole to take into their farther consid- eration [the state] of America, and after some time spent therein the president resumed the chair and M- [Samuel] Ward reported from the Committee that they had pro- ceeded in the business, but not having compleated it, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, that this Congress will again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into farther considera- tion the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Cloek.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment, but the hon".'' Peyton Randolph, Pres*, being under a necessity of returning home' and having set out this Morning early,
' Lord Dunmore had called a session of the Assembly, in which Kandolph was the Speaker.
May, 1775 59
the chair was vacant. Whereupou on motion, the Hon'*'." John Hancock was unanimously chosen President.
The president having assumed the chau-, the Congress agi'eeable to tlie order of the day again resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther eon - sideration the state of America, and after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and M' [Sam- uel] Ward reported from the committee that they had proceeded in the business, but not having come to a con- clusion, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will to Morrow again re- solve itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o' Clock.
THURSDAY, MAY 25, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment and agi'ee- able to the order of the day again resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consid- eration the state of America, and after some tune spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and M' [Sam- uel] Ward reported from the committee that they had come to certain resolutions res])ecting New York, which he was desired to report, but not having gone through the rest of the business referred to them, the committee desired him to move for leave to sit again. The resolu- tions being severally read and agreed to are as follows :
1. Resolved, that a jjost bo immediately taken and for- tifyed at or near King's bridge in the colony of New York, that the gi-ound be chosen with a particular view to pre- vent the communication between the city of New York and the country fi-om being interrupted by land.
(id Journals of Congress
2. Resolved, that a post be also taken in the highlands on each side of Hudson's River and batteries erected in such manner as will most effectually prevent any vessels passing that may be sent to harrass the inhabitants on the borders of said river; and that experienced persons be immediately sent to examine said river in order to dis- cover where it wOl be most adviseable and proper to obstnict the navigation.
3. [^Resolved, '\ That the militia of New York be armed and trained and in constant readiness to act at a moments warning; and that a number of men be immediately Embodied and Kept in that city and so disposed of as to give protection to the inhabitants in case any insult should be offered by the troops, that may land there, and to prevent any attempts that may be made to gain pos- session of the city and interi-upt its intercourse with the country.
4. \^Re.solved,'] That it be left to the provincial congi-ess of New York to determine the number of men sufficient to occupy the several posts above mentioned, and also that already recommended to be taken at or near lake George, as well as to guard the City, provided the whole do not exceed the number of thi'ee thousand men, to be I'ommanded by such officers as shall be thereunto ap- pointed by said provincial congress ; and to be governed by such rules and regulations as shall be established by s** Congi'ess until farther order is taken by this Congi-ess; Provided also that if the s** provincial congi'ess should be of opinion that the number proposed will not be sufficient for the several services above recommended, that the s** congi-ess report then- sentiments upon this subject to this Congi'ess as soon as may be.
5. [Resolved,'] That it be recommended to the s" pro- vincial congress that in raising those forces they allow
May, 1775 61
no bounties or cloathiujj', and that their pay shall not exceed the establishment of the New England colonies.
6. {^Resolved,'] That it be further recommended to the provincial Congress afores** that the troops be enlisted to serve until the last day of December next, unless this Congress shall direct that they be sooner disbanded.
A motion being made for an addition to the foregoing Resolutions, a debate aroac — thereon — fte4 after some debate the same was referred till to Morrow, to which time Congress adjourned.^
FRIDAY, MAY 26, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
A Delegate from New Jersey laid before the Congress a Minute from the Journals of the Assembly of that prov- ince, together with a resolution of the Commons of G-B, which were read and is as follows :
Ne\7 Jersey, House of Assembly, May W, 1775.
Hi^ Excellency havini^ laid before the house, a Copy of the Resolu- tion of the Hon House of Commons of Great Britain, of the iOXh of February, 1775, containinfj a Plan formed for the Accommodation of the unhappy Differences ttetween our Parent Sttitc and the Colonies: which Plan, under the present Circumstances, this House could not comply with and adopt, and yet this House being desirous of making Use of all proper Means to effect a Reconciliation, do recommend it to their Delegates to lay the same Plan before the Continental Congress, for their Consideration.
A true Copy from the Journals,
RiciiAKi) .Smith. (Vcrkof AKSimibly.*
'The iiniiwdinp- from May I'J to May 2G were tliii.s suminarized in the [iriiiteil .Journals: "ami continni'il to do so, from day to day, till Wodneeday the 24tli, on which day the honorahlo Peyton Randolpli, president, beinpr under a nece.ssity of returniug home, and having set out this mornin;; early, the chair wits vai-iinf, where- upon. On motion, the honorable John Hancock, esq. was unanimously chf)8on prasident" "The original is in the Papers of (lie Continental Congreng, No. 68, folio 9.
G2 Jnurnah of Congress
Copy of a R,:ioIu.t!on of the Home of Commons, Fch" 20, 1775.^
Rcsobmi, That when the },'ovoiiior, couniil and Asscmbh, or {general ("ourt. of any of his Majesty's provinces, or colonics, in America, shall ]>ro|)()sc to make provision aei-oidin<^ to the condition, circumstances, and sitiiation of such province or colony, for contributing their pro- portion to the common defence, (such proportion to be raised under the authoi-ity of the j,'onoral court, or fionci-al assembly of such prov- ince or colony, and disposable by parliament,) and shall engage to make provision also for the support of the civil government, and the administnitioii of Justice, in such ])rovinceoi' colony, it will bo proper, if such proposal shall be apyjroved by his Majesty, and the two houses
'On the last day of Septemlier, 1774, writs were issued for a new election. The ai-tion was unexpected, and is believed to have been taken in order that the petition and other papers of the American Congress might not be received in a Parliament which, however favorable to the existing ministry, might be made even stronger in its interest. The King an<l Lord Xorth took the keenest interest in the elections for the new Parliament, ami the sy.stem of election admitted of such nianipulalion as to ensure a majority in favor of the government. Seats were at the commaml of the highest bidder, ami, costly as it wa.s, a House under the control of the niini.-try was obtained. The King desired the House to contain "gentlemen of landed proi)erty," as the "Nabobs, Planters, and other Volunteers are not ready for the battle." To lAtrd North, 24 August, 1774. The policy of the King had been determined. The colonies must submit or triumph. "I do not wish to come to severer measures, but we must not retreat; by coolness and an unremitted pursuit of the measures that have been iulopted I trust they will come to submit; I have no objection afterwards to their seeing that there is no inclination for the present to lay fresh taxes on them, but I am elear there must always bt' one tax to keep up the ricrht, and as such I approve of the Tea Duty." To Lor<l Xorth, 1 1 September, 1771.
The new I'arliaineiit iu".sembled November 30, 1774, and the King's speech spoke of the continued daring spirit of resistance to the laws in Americ^i, which in Massa- chusetts Bay liad broken forth in fresh violences of a very criminal nature, and was counUiuuiced and encouragi-d in other colonies. He declared his resolution to withstand every attem|)t to weaken or impair the supreme authority of the legisla- ture over all bis dominions, the maintenance of which he considered essential to the dignity, safety and welfare of the empire. It was at this time that Franklin wrote an "intended speech" for the opening of the Parliament (Aa/i'oii, 9 February, 1800). The address favorable to the Ministry was carried in V)oth houses, and the Parliament adjourned on December HI, to reassemble on January 19, 1775, when the Papers relating to the "Disturbances in North Americji" were laid before the House, by bis Majesty's command, and referred to the consideration of a committee of the whole House on January 26. In the Ix)rds the papers were received on January 20, and on the next day. Lord Chatham, without having consulted any of his party or followers, made his motion for with<lrawing the troops from Boston. The motion was
May, 1775 63
of Parliament, and for so long as such provision shall Iw made accord- ingly, to forbear, in respect of such province or colony, to levy an}'^ duty, tax or assessment, or to impose anj' further duty, tax, or assess- ment, except only such duties as it may be expedient to continue to levy, or to impose, for the regulation of commerce, the net produce of the duties, last mentiont^d, to be carried to the account of such prov- ince, or colony, respectively.
Ordered, That the above be referred to the committee for taking into consideration the state of America.
thrown out by a vote of 68 to 18, and early in February the l)ill for restraining the trade and commerce of the New England colonies was laid l)efore the Houw, and three Major-Generals hail been selected to lie sent to America. The Petition of Con- gress to the King had received no notice except to 1h' included in the ma^-s of papers gent to Parliament, and the well intentione<l effort." to <)l>tain from Franklin some definite propositions of compromise and his personal aid in urging them upon the Colonies ha^l produced no restilts.
Two days after Parliament had assembled, on January 21, the King's Cabinet had met at the house of the Earl of Sandwich, with the following members present: the Lord Chancellor; the Lord President, the Earlsof Sandwich, Dartmouth, Suffolk, Roch- ford and Ixird North. It was agreed " that an address be proposed to the two Houses of Parliament to declare that if the Colonies shall make suflicient and permanent pro- vision forthesupport of the civil government and administration of ju,«tiie, and for the defence and protection of the said Colonies, and in time of war contribute extraordi- nary supplies in a reasonable proportion to what is raised by (ireat Hritain, we will in that case desist from the exercise of the power of taxation, except for commercial purposes only, and that whcnevera projiosilion of this kind shall l>e made by any of the Colonies M'e will enter into the consideration of proper laws for that purpose, and in the mean while to entreat his Majesty to take the most effectual methods to enforce due obedience to the laws and authority of the supreme legislature of Great Britain." Minute of Meeting in Dnrtmouih Manu)trripls. This is the first form of what came Ui he known as L<)rd North's motion of reconciliation, adopted by Parliament on FeV)- rnarj- 20. Before that date Chatham had suliinittcd his plan of reconciliation to the Lords (February 1), and while it contained souk- features embodied in the Cabinet minute, it contained others that led to its rejection. Franklin's criticism on I.or(l North's motion are in his Wrilhujs ( Bigelow), V. 524. That the motion came in the form of a surprise to North's followers is shown in Donne, Oirrestpondniee of Oeonjc fflvtilh Lord North, I, 2.31. The Fisheries Bill beiiime a law and military prepa- rations against the Colonies engrossed the attention of government.
The motion was .sent to the Colonial (iovemors in a circular letter from Lord Dart- mouth, ;i March, 1775. This letter i.s printed in the Xew .lerseij Arrhins, First Series, \, 5.55. It wa.s submitted to the (ieneral .\ssembly of Pennsylvania by (iovernor .John Penn, 2 May, 177.">, ajid is printed, together with the reply of the Assembly, in the Peanm/h'ania Packet, 8 May, 1775.
64 Journn/s of Congress
The congress resuming the consideration of the addi- tion proposed yesterday, Resolved, that the following addition be made :
Resolved., that it bo recommended to the congress afores'.' to persevere the more vigourously in preparing for their defence, as it is very uncertain whether the earnest endeavours of the Congi-ess to accommodate the unhappy differences between G. Britain and the colonies l)y conciliatory Measures will be successful.
Ordered, That the above resolves respecting New York be transmitted by the president in a letter to the pro v. Congi-ess of New York, and that it be particularly recom- mended to s'^ Congress by the president not to piiblish the foregoing resolves, but to keep them as secret as the nature of the services require.
Upon motion agreed that M' [John] Jay, M' S[amuel] Adams and M' S[ilas] Deane be a committee to prepare and bring in a letter to the people of Canada.
The Congi-ess then resolved themselves into a commit- tee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America; after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. [Samuel] Ward reported from the committee, that they had come to certain resolutions respecting the state of America, which he was desii*ed to report, but not having finished the business referred to them desired him to move for leave to sit again.
The report from the committee being read, the Con- gi-ess came into the following Resolutions :
Resolved tmanimously, 1, That his Majesty's most faith- ful subjects, in these colonies, are reduced to a dangerous and critical situation, by the attempts of the british Min- istry to cany into execution, by force of arms, several unconstitutional and oppressive acts of the british par-
May, 1775 65
liament for laying taxes in Ameiica; to enforce the col- lection of those taxes, and for altering and changing the constitution and internal police of some of these colonies, in violation of the natural and civil rights of the colonists.
Unanimously 2. Hostilities being actually commenced in the Massachusetts bay, by the British troops, under the command of General Gage, and the lives of a number of the inhabitants of that colony destroyed, the town of Boston having not only been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy's country, but the inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to . be justifyed even towards declared enemies; large re-inforcements too being ordered and soon expected, for the declared purpose of compelling these colonies to submit to the operation of the s** acts; Resolved., therefore, that for the oxprcaa pur- pose of securing and defending these colonies, and pre- serving them in safety against all attempts to carry the s** acts into execution by force of arms, these colonies be immediately put into a state of defence.
Unanimously 3. But, as we most ardently wish for a restoration of the harmony foi-merly subsisting between our Mother country and these colonies, the interruption of which must, at all events, be exceedingly injurious to both countries. Resolved, that with a sincere design of contributing by all the means in our power, not incom- patible with a just regard for the undoubted rights and true interests of these colonies, to the promotion of this most dosireable reconciliation, an humble and dutiful petition be presented to his Majesty.'
'"On that same day [25th] Diiane moved in the committee of the whole, that 'tlie opening of a nopotiation to accommodati' the unhappy disputes subsistiiiR between Great Britain and the colonies he maile a part of the petition to the king.' After a warm debate of two days, it wa" nnininioiisly resolved [iis alxive]. ... To this the motion of Duane was added in spite of an unyielding opposition." Bancroft, Hiaorij of the (nittd StaUi>, IV, 200. 6621— VOL 2—05 6
66 Journals of Congress
4. Resolved, That measures be entered into for opening a Negotiation, in order to accommodate the unhappy dis- putes subsisting between Great Britain and these colo- nies, and that this be made a part of the petition to the King.
The Congress agree that the resohitions respecting New York be entered unanimously and inserted after the above.'
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into tlieir farther consideration the State of America; and after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and M' [Samuel] Ward reported from the committee that they had ])roceeded farther in the business, but not having come to a conclu- sion, desii'ed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to Morrow, again resolve itself into a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
SATURDAY, MAY 27, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congress a letter from the convention of New Jersey, which was read, and re- ferred to the committee of the whole. ^
Information being given, that there is a gentleman in town who can give the Congress a full and just account of the state of Affau-s in Canada ;
Ordered, That he be introduced, and he was accordingly introduced. After he withdrew the Congress agi'eeable
' These resolvea were those numbered 3 on p. 60 and the resolve on p. 64.
' Tlie original it- in the Papers of the Continental Omgreu, No. 68, folio 9. It inclosed a copy of the Resolution of the House of Commons, February 2Q, and was referred to the committee of the whole.
May, 1775 67
to the order of the day resolved itself into a eommittee of the whole and after some time spent therein,
The committee appointed to dra[ugh]t a letter to the inhabitants of Canada, informed the committee that they had performed that service, and as there was an oppor- tunity of sending it by the gentleman jiiot introduced by a safe conveyance in a few days, they desu-ed to have an opportunity of reporting the letter; whereupon the Presi- dent resumed the chair and the comm**'' reported their letter, w"*" was read, and after some debate, recommitted [to the same committee.]
Upon motion, Agreed, That M- [George] Washington, W. [Philip] Schuyler, M' [Thomas] Mifflin, M^ [Silas] Deane, M- [Lewis] Morris and M' S[amuel] Adams, be a committee, to consider of ways and means to stipply these colonies with Ammunition and military stores and to report immediately.
Upon motion. The Memorial of Robert Murray and John Murray, desiring to be restored to their foi'mer situation with respect to their commercial priviledgos, was taken into consideration, and after some time sptuit thereon,
Resolved, That where any person hath been or shall be adjudged by a committee, to have violated the continental association, and such offender shall satisfy the convention of the Colony, where the offence was or shall be commit- ted, or the committee of the parish of St. John's, in the Colony of Georgia, if the offence be committed there, of his contrition for his offence, and sincere resolution to conform to the Association for the future, the s'" conven- tion, or committee of the ])arish of St. John's afores*^, may settle the terms upon which he may be restored to the favour and forgiveness of the public, and that the terms be published.
68 Joiiniats of Congress
()nlrrr(f, Tli;it this be made public' WRr.soli'f'd, Tluit the order of the day be postponed till Monday. II Adjourned till Monday, at nine o'Clock.
MONDAY, MAY 29, 1775
The Conjjress met according to Adjournment.
The Committee, to whom the letter to the inhabitants of Canada, was recommitted, brought in a draught,^ which was readj and apj^roved, and is as follows:
To the oppressed LihahitaiitH of Cwiiada^
Frtknos and countrymen,
Alaimed by the designs of an arbitrary Ministry, to extirpate the Rights and liberties of all America, a sense of common danger con- spired with the dictates of humanity, in urging us to cull your atten- tion, by our late address, to this very important object.
Since the conclusion of the late war, we have been happ}- in con- sidering you as fellow-subjects, and from the commencement of the present plan for subjugating the continent, we have viewed yon as fellow -sufferers with us. As we were both entitled by the bounty of an indulgent creator to freedom, and being both devoted bv the cruel edicts of a despotic administration, to common ruin, we perceived the fate of the protestant and catholic colonies to be strongly linked together, and therefore invited you to join with us in resolving to be free, and in rejecting, with disdain, the fetters of slavery, however artfully polished.
We most sincerely- condole with you on the arrival of that day, in the course of which, the sun could not shine on a single freeman in all your extensive dominion. Be assured, that your unmerited degra- dation has engaged the most unfeigned pity of 3'our sister colonies; and we flatter ourselves you will not, by tamely bearing the yoke, suf- fer that pity to be supplanted by contempt.
' Printed in the Pcmmjlrama Paihl, 27 May 1775.
■■" Oraftf <1 by .lohn Jay.
' " Province of Quebec " was first written.
May, 1775 69
When hardy attempts are made to deprive men of rij^ht^, bestowed by the ahuighty, when avenues are cut thro' the most solemn compacts for the admission of despotism, wiien the plighted faith of govern- ment ceases to give security to loyal and dutiful subjects, and when the insidious stratagems and raanceuvres of peace become more terri- ble than the sanguinary operations of war, it is high time for them to assert those rights, and, with honest indignation, oppose the torrent of oppression rushing in upon them.
By the introduction of your present form of govei-nment, or rather present form of tyranny, 3^ou and your wives and your children are made slaves. You have nothing that you can call j'our own, and all the fruits of your labour and industry may be taken from you, when- ever an avaritious governor and a rapacious council may incline to demand them. You are liable by their edicts to be transported into foreign countries to fight Battles in which you have no interest, and to spill your blood in conflicts from which neither honor nor emolu- ment can be derived: Nay, the enjoyment of j'our very religion, on the present system, depends on a legislature in which you have no share, and over which you have no controul, and your priests are exposed to expulsion, banishment, and ruin, whenever their wealth and posses- sions furiiisli sufficient temptation. They cannot be sure that a virtu- ous prince will always till the throne, and should a wicked or a careless king concur with a wicked ministry in extracting the treasure and strength of your country, it is impossible to conceive to what variety and to what extremes of wretchedness you may, under the present establishment, be reduced.
We are informed you have already been calh^l upon to waste your lives in a contest with us. Should you, by complying in this instance, assent to your new establishment, and a war break out with France, your wealth luul your sons may be sent to perish in expeditions against their islands in the West indies.
It cannot be presumed that these considerations will have no weight with you, or that you are so lost to all sense of honor. We can nevi>r believe that the present race of Canadians are so degenerateil as to possess neither the .spirit, the gallantry, nor the courage of their ancestors. You cerbiinly will not piTinit the infamy and disgrace of .such pusillanimity to rest on your own heads, and the consequences of it on your children forever.
We, for our parts, arc determined to live free, or not at all; and
70 Journals of Congress
are resolved, that posterity shall never reproach us with having brought slaves into the world.
Permit us apiin to repeat that we are your friends, not your ene- mies, and be not imposed upon by tliose who may endeavour to create animosities. The taking the fort and military stores at Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, and the armed vessels on the lake, was dictated by the great law of self-preservation. They were intended to annoy us, and to cut off that friendly intercourse and communicatioji, which ha.s hitherto subsisted between you and us. We hope it has given you no uneasiness, and you raaj- rely on our assurances, that these colonies will pursue no measures whatever, but such as friendship and a regard for our nnitual sjifety and interest may suggest.
As our concern for your welfare entitles us to your friendship, we presume you will not, by doing us injury, reduce us to the disagree- able necessity of treating you as enemies.
We yet entertain hopes of 3'our uniting with us in the defence of our common liberty-, and there is yet reason to believe, that should we join in imploring the attention of our sovereign, to the unmerited and unpiiralleled oppressions of his American subjects, he will at length be imdeceived, and forbid a licentious Ministry any longer to riot in the ruins of the rights of Mankind.'
Ordered, That the above Letter be signed by the presi - dent.
Ordered, That Mr. [John] Dickmson, and Mr. [Thomas] Mifflin, be a committee to get the letter translated into the freneh language, and to have 1,000 copies of it, so trans- lated, ])rinted, in order to be sent to Canada, and disx)ersed among the Inhabitants there.
On motion, Resolved, That no provisions or necessaries of any kind be exported to the island of Nantucket, ex- cept from the colony of Massachusetts bay, the conven- tion of which colony is desired to take measures for effectually providing the s*^ Island, upon their applica- tion to purchase the same, with as much provision, as shall be necessary for its internal use, and no more.
'This address was printed in the Pennsylvania Packet, 19 June, 1775.
May, 1775 71
The Congress deeming it of great importance to North America, that the British fishery should not be furnished with provisions from this continent thro' Nantucket, ear- nestly recommend a vigilant execution of this resolve to all committees.'
Ordered., That the above resolve be immediately pub- lished.
As the present critical situation of the colonies renders it highly necessary that ways and means should be de- vised for the speedy and secure conveyance of Intelligence from one end of the Continent to the other,
Resolved, That Mr. [Benjamin] Franklin, Mr. [Thomas] Lynch, Mr. [Richard Henry] Lee, Mr. [Thomas] Willing, Mr. S[amuel] Adams, and Mr. P[hilip] Livingston, be a committee to consider the best means of establishing posts for conveying letters and intelligence through this continent.
WResolved, That the order of the day be postponed till to Mori'ow.ll
Adjourned till to Morrow, at 9 o'Clock.
TUESDAY, MAY 30, 1775
The Congi'ess met according to adjournment.
M' [Thomas] Willing, one of the delegates for Pen- sylvania, informed the Congress, that a gentleman was just arrived from London, who had brought with him a paper, which he says he rec? from Lord North, and which was written, at the desire of his Lordship, by Mr. Gray Cooper, Under-Sec*' of the Treasury; and he un- derstood it to be his Lordship's desire that it sho"? be communicated to the Congress. He had for that purpose
' These two resolutions were printed in the I'ennsyliaiiia Piicket, 5 June, 1775, but the date is wrongly stated as iK-ini; May 27.
72 Jourtials of Congress
put it into his hands. M' Willing observed, that he had shewn the paper to D' Franklin, who was well acquainted with the hand writing of M' Cooper, and that he verily believed the paper brought by the gentleman was written by M- Cooper.
The paper being read is as follows :
That it is earuestly hoped \>y all the real friends of the Americans, that the terms expressed in the resolution of the 20th of February last, will be accepted by all the eolonies, who have the least affection for their King and country, or a just sense of their own interest.
That these terms are honounible for Great Britain, and safe for the colonies.
That if the colonies are not blinded \>y faction, these terms will remove every tjrievance relative to taxation, and be the basis of a compact between the colonies, and the mother country.
That the peopl(> in America ought, on every consideration to he sat- isfyed with them.
That no further lelaxation can be admitted.
The temper and spirit of the Nation are so much against concessions, that if it were the intention of administration, they could not carry the Question.
liut administration liave no such intention, as they are fullj- and tirmlj' persuaded, that further concessions would be injurious to the colonies as well as to Great- Britain.
That there is not the least pi-obability of a change of administration.
That they are perfectly- united in opinion and determined to pursue the most effectual measures, and to use the whole force of the King- dom, if it be found necessary, to reduce the rebellious and refractory provinces and colonies.
There is so great a spirit in the nation against the Congress, that the people will })ear the tempoiur}' distresses of a stoppage of the American trade.
They may depend on this to be true.
\\ Ordered, To he on the table. ||
[Agi-eeable to the order of the day,]' the Congress re- solved itself into a committee of the whole, to take under
' Fii a writing other tli:m Thomson's.
Mmj, 1775 73
their farther consideration the state of America, and after some time spent therein the Pres' resumed the chair and M' [Samuel] Ward reported from the Committee that they had proceeded further in the consideration of the business referred to them, but not having yet come to a conclusion desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, that the Congi-ess will to Morrow again re- solve itself into a committee of the whole to take into then- further consideration the State of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 31, 1775
The congress met according to adjournment and agree- able to the order of the day resolved itself into a com- mittee of the whole to take into their further considera- tion the state of America. During the debate the dole- gatci3 from Pcnnaylvanin moved for leave to lay some papero before the Congroijis, which being granted After some time the President resumed the chair and the papers just received being read were referred to the considera- tion of the committee of the whole. Whereupon the committee sat again and after some time apcnt, the president resumed the chair, and M' [Samuel] Ward re- ported from the committee that they had proceeded farther in the business recommended to them, but not yet having finished, they have desii-ed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That the Congi'ess will, to Morrow, again re- solve itself into a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
A Letter from Col. Arnold, dated Crown Point, 23 May, 1775, was laid before the Congress, informing that he had certain intelligence, that "on the Ifith there were then 4(X) regulars at St. John's, making all jtossible prep-
74 Journals of Congress
aratious to crus.s the lake, aud expected to be joined by a iimuber of Indians, with a design of retaking Crown - point and Ticonderogo," and earnestly calling for a rein- forcement and supplies. This letter being taken into consideration,'
Resolved, That the Governor of Connecticut be requested immediately to send a strong reinforcement to the garri- sons of Crown Point and Ticonderogo, and that so maiiy of the cannon aud other stores be retained, as may be necessary for the immediate defence of those posts, until further orders from this Congress, and that the provincial Convention of New York be informed of this resolve, and desu-ed to furnish those troops with provisions and other necessary stores, and to take effectual care that a suffi- cient number of Batteaus be immediately provided for the lakes.
Ordered, That the above resolve be immediately trans- mitted in a letter by the pres', to Gov' Trumbull, and the convention of New York.
Ordered, That the president in his letter acquaint Gov' Trumbull, that it is the desire of Congress, that he sh** ap])oiut a person, in whom he can confide, to command the forces at Crown Point and Ticonderogo.
II Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.JI
THURSDAY, JUNE i, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to consider ways aud means to supply these colonies with ammunition and military stores, brought in their report, which was read, and re- ferred to the committee of the whole.
Upon Motion, Resolved, That it be recommended to the Government of Connecticut, or the general of the forces
' This letter is not in the Papers of the Continental Congress.
June, 1775 75
of that colony, to appoint Commissaries to receive at Albany and forward the supplies of provisions, for the forces on lake Champlain, fi'om the provincial Convention of New York, and that the s" Convention use theu- ut- most endeavours in facilitating and aiding the transpor- tation thereof, from thence to where the s'^ Commissaries may direct.
As this Congress has nothing more in view than the defence of these colonies,
Resolved, That no expedition or incursion ought to be undertaken or made, by any colony, or body of colonists, against or into Canada; and that this Resolve be imme- diately transmitted to the commander of the forces at Ticonderoga.
Ordered, That the above resolve be translated into the french Language and transmitted, with the letter, to the inhabitants of Canada — also,
Ordered, That the president transmit a copy of the above to New York, and the other colonies bordering on Canada; and tluit in hia letter to G-ovr. Trumbull ac([uaint him that it iij the dcairo of the CongroLJii that lie appoint a proper poraon in whom he can contidc t(j oonimaud the forccij at Crown Point and Ticonderoga.
The Congress then, agreealjle to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America, and after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. [Samuel] Ward reported from the Committee, that they had taken the matters referred to them, into considera- tion, but not having yet come to a conclusion, desired liini to move foi- leave to sit again.
Resolved , That this Congress will, to Morrow, again resolve itself into a ('(mmiittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
7(j Journals of Conf/ress
A petition from "the Committee represeutiug the peo- ple ill that part of Augusta county, in the colony of Vir- ginia, on the west side of the Allegeny Mountain," being laid before the Congi-ess and read, intimating fears of a luptiive with the Indians on Acco' of IV Dunmore's hw- pi'udcnt conduct, and desiring "commissioners from the colony of Virginia, and province of Pensylvauia, to attend a meeting of the Indians at Pitsburgh, on behalf of these colonies." Aluo a reaolvo of the o*^ committee in thcoo words, vIm. — -That the uiiL^ettlcd boundary between this colony and the province of Pcnsylvuniu in the ocou- aion of many diaputca." '
Ordered, That the above be referred to the delegates of the colonies of Virginia and Pensylvania.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o' Clock.
FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congi-ess a letter from the prov: Convention of Massachusetts, w''" was read and is as follows :
In prov. Congress, Watertmon, May 16, 1775.
Resolved, That Doct' Benjamin Church be ordered to go innnedi- ately to Philad" and deliver to the president of the Hon''l° American Congress there now sitting, the following application to be b}' him connniinicated to the members thereof: and the s'.' Church is also directed to confer with the s*! Congress, respecting such other matters as maj' be necessary to the defence of this colony and particularly the state of the army therein.
Maj' it please y"^ Honours.
That system of colonj* administration, which in the most firm, duti- ful and loyal manner has been in vain remonstrated against by the representative body of the united colonies, seems still, unless speedily and vigourously opposed by the collected wisdom and force of all America to threattMi ruin and destruction to this continent.
'The petitiiiii liom \'irginia is not in the Papers of the Cunl'tTtenlal i\mgress.
J^^ne, 1775 11
For a lonp time paat. this colony lias, by a corrupt administration in Great Britain and here, been deprived of the exeni.se of those pow- ers of Government, without which a people can be neither rich, happy or secure. The whole continent saw tlie blow pcndin<(, which if not warded ofl', nuist inevitjibly have subverted tiie freedom and happiness of each colony; the principles of self defence, roused in the breasts of freemen by the dread of impending slavery, caused to be collected the wisdom of America, in a Conj^ress composed of men, who through time must in every land of freedom be revered among the most faith- ful assertors of the essential rights of human nature.
This colony was then reduced to great dirticulties, being denied the exercise of civil government according to our charter, or the funda- mental principles of the English constitution and a formida>)le navy and army (not only inimical to our safetj', but flattered with the pros- pect of enjoj'ing the fruit of our industry) were stationed for that pur- pose in our Metropolis. The prospect of deciding the (juestion between our Mother country and us, by the sword, gave us the great- est pain and anxiet}'; but we have made ail the preparation for our necessary defence that our confused state would admit of; and as the question equally affected our sister colonies and us, we have declined though urged thereto by the most pressing necessity to assume the reins of civil government, without their advice and consent; but have hitherto borne the many difficulties and distressing embarrassments necessarily resulting from a want thereof.
We are now compellt^d to raise an Anuy, which with the assistance of the other colonies, we hope under the smiles of heaven, will bo able to defend us and all America from the further butcheries and devasta- tions of our implacable enemies. — But as the sword should in all free states be subservient to the civil powers and as it is the duty of the Magistrates to support it for the peoples necessaiy defence, we trem- ble at having an arm\- (although consisting of our countrymen) estab- lished here without a civil power to provide for and controul them.
We are happ\- in having an opportunity of laying our distressed state before the representative body of the continent, and humbly hope you will favour us with your most explicit advi<e respecting the taking up and exercising the powers of civil government, w"!" we think absolutely necessary for the Salvation of our country and we shall readily submit to such a general plan as you may direct for the colo- nies, or make it our great study to establish such a form of govern- ment here, as shall not only most promote our advantage Init the union and interest of all America.
78 Journals of Congress
As the Army now coUectinf,' from different colonies is for the gen- eral defence of the right of America, we w? beg leave to suggest to 3'r cflnsidonitioii the propriety of y' talving tlie reguliition iind general direction of it. that the operations may more effectually answer the
purposes designed.
Signed, Jos: Warren
rresidcnt P. T.
Ordered to lye on the table.
The above letter referring to Doct. Church, on motion, agreed that he be introduced.
After he withdrew, an express arriving from Massa- chusetts bay, the president laid before the Congress Let- ters from the conventions of Massachusetts bay, and New Hampshire, also a letter from Gov' Trumbull, all whi('h were read.'
U])on motion. Resolved, That no bill of Exchange, draught, or order of any officer in the army or navy, their agents or contractors, be received, or negotiated, or any money supplied to them by any person in America ;
That no provisions or necessaries of any kind be fur- nished or supplied to, or for the use of, the British army or navy, in the colony of Massachusetts bay; and^
That no vessel employed in transporting British troops to America, or from one part of North America to another, or warlike stores or provisions for said troops, be freighted or furnished with provisions or any Necessaries, until further orders from this Congress.'
Ordered, That the above resolves be immediately pub- lished.
Resolved, that this Congi-ess will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into theii- further consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
' None of these communications can be identified in the Paper) of the Continental Coii'jreiii'. 'This resolution was printed in the Pennsylvania Packet, 5 June, 1775.
JuiiP, 177.5 79
SATURDAY, JUNE 3, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
A Letter from the prov. Convention of New York, together with sundry Letters and papers enclosed, ||from Albany, II were laid before the Congi-ess and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Ujion motion Resolved, That a committee of live persons be chosen to take into consideration the letter from the Convention of Massachusetts bay, dated the 16 of May, and report to this Congress what in their o])iuion is the proper Advice to be given to that Convention.
The following persons were chosen by ballot, to com- pose that committee, viz. M- J[ohu] Rutledge, M": [Thomas] Johnson, M' [John] Jay, M' [James] Wilson, and M- [Richard Henry] Lee.
Upon motion Resolved, That a committee be appointed for the purpose of borrowing the sum of six thousand pounds for the use of America ; for the repayment of which \v\t\v interest, the Congress will make full and ample pro- vision, and that the s'' com[mittce] apply the s'' sum of money to the purchase of gunpowder for the use of the Continental Army.
That the Delegates for Pensylvania compose s"' Com- mittee, with power as well to borrow the money as to apply it to the purpose intended.
tjpon motion Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to draught a petition to the King.
That a committee ||of thrce|| be api)ointed to report an address to the people of Great Britain.
Also a committee ||of four be appointed!) to report an address to the people of Ireland.
Also a committee ||of three be appointed|| to draught a letter to the inhabitants of Jamaica.
That the three last committees consist each of three.
80 Joiirnnh of Congress
That Ji Comuiitlee [of live] be appointed to bring in an estimate of the money necessary to be raised.
That this committee consist of 5 persons.
That tlie committee to report a petition to the King bf W rJolm] Dickinson, M^ [Thomas] Johnson, M^ J[ohn] Kixtledge, M' [John] Jay, and M": [Benjamin] Franklin.
That the Committee to report an Address to the inhab - itants of Great Britain be M' [Richard Henry] Lee, M- R[o])ert] R. Livingston and M' [Edmnnd] Pendleton.
That M^ [James] Duane, iM^ Will. Livingston and M' S[amuel] Adams and M- J[ohn] Adams be y" com[mit- tee] to report an Address to the people of Ireland.
That M' [William] Hooper, W [eLnmes] Wilson and [Thomas] Lynch be a committee to draught a Letter to the inhabitants of Jamaica.
That M' [George] Washington, M^ [Philip] Schuyler, M' [Silas] Deane, M' [Thomas] Gushing, and M' [Joseph] Hewes be a committee to bring in an estimate of the money necessary to be raised.
Resolved, That this Congress will on Monday resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into theii- farther (-onsideration the State of America.
Adjourned till Monday at 9 o'Clock.^
' "The Congress, tho' not numerous, are yet a very imwieldy Body, in their very nature, as no iimtion or resolution lan be started or proposed but what must be sub- ject to mucli canvassing before it will pass with the unanimous approbation of Thir- teen Colonies, whose situation and circumstances are various. And Unanimity is the basis on which we mean to rise; and I thank God, it hitherto prevails to a most sur- prising degree. Besides, our business has run away with us, as I may say, for though the Northern Kxpedition met with a warm approbation, yet the resolutions necessary to be formed respecting tho.se pasts put by the forming a general plan of operation, which, had it been previously laid, every such manfleu^Te would, of course, have been provided for at once." .S'lVa.'! Deanc to his irlfe, 3 Jime, 1775.
AVriting to l><^ird Dartmouth, 7 June, 1775, Lieutenant Governor Golden, of New York, said; "In this gloomy Prospect of Affairs the Friends of Government have received a glimpse of Hope upon hearing that Mr. Duane, a Delegate from New York, has moved in the Continental Congress to introduce a Plan of Accommodation which produced a warm debate, but was carried in favour of the motion." Collections of the Nar York Historicnl Soclehi, 1K77, p. 421.
June, 1775 81
MONDAY, JUNE 5, 1775
The pi'csidont and A number of the members met according to adjournm' But several of the colonies not being represented the president adjourned the Congi-ess till to Morrow at 9 o'Ciock.
TUESDAY, JUNE 6, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment but the several committees not being ready to report adjom-ned till to Morrow at 9 o'Ciock.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The Committee appointed to make an estimate of the money necessary to be raised, brought in a report, tfe«t* they had prepared which was read and ordered to lie on the table referred to the committee of the whole.
On motion, Resolved, That Thursday the 20th of July next, be observed ||throughout the twelve United Colo- nies, |i as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer: and that Mr. [William] Hooper, Mr. J[ohn] Adams, and Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, be a committee to bring in a resolve for that purpose.
The committee appointed to prepare advice in answer to the letter from the convention of Massachiisetts bay, dated IG'!' of May &(•. brought in their report, wliicli was read, and ordered to lie on the table ||foi' consideration. ||
The Congress agi-eeable to the order of the day, resolved themselves into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America ; after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair; and M"^ [Samuel] Ward reported, from the coniniittee that they had pro- ceeded in the business refen-ed to them, but not having
6&2I— VOL 2—05 — 6
82 Journals of Congress
come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to Morrow, again resolve themselves into a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of America; and that this be a standing order till the business is com - pleated.
I| Adjourned till to Morrow at nine o'Clock.||
THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 1775
The Congi'ess met according to adjournment.
The Congress being informed, that a major [Philip] Skeeue, with some other officers, werearrived ||lasteveniug, in a vesselll from London, and were, with their papers, now in the custody of the troops of this city and that the said Major Skeene has been lately appointed governor of the forts of Ticonderoga, and Crown Point ; that one of the officers a lieutenant has commission in the regular troops, now in the province of Quebec ; and moreover, that the s** Skene had declared, he had authority to raise a Regiment in America; from all this, apprehending that the said Skene from hia appointment is a dangerous par- tizan of Administration, and that his papers may contain intelligence of Ministei'ial designs against America, very important to be known.
Resolve, That a committee be appointed to examine in the presence of the s** Skene and lieutenant, all the papers in their possession.
That this committee consist of Mr. J[ohn] Adams, Mr. [Silas] Deane, and [Thomas] Mifflin:
That the s"^ committee be upon honor to conceal what- ever of a private nature may come to their knowledge by such examination; and that they communicate, to this Congi-ess, whatever may relate to the present dispute, between Great Britain and America.
June, 1775 83
The congi'ess then resolved themselves into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consideration the state of America, after some time spent therein the presid ' resumed the chair and M' [Samuel] Ward reported from the committee that not having yet eompleated the Imsiness referred to them desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this congi-ess will to Morrow again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Resolved, That the consideration of the report of the committee, w*'-'' yesterday was ordered to lie on the table, be taken up as the first business to Morrow morning.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Agfocablc to the order of the day
The report of the committee, on the Letter from the convention of Massachusetts bay, being again read, Con- gi-ess came to the following resolution :
Resolved, That no obedience being due to the Act of parliament for altering the charter of the Colony of Massa - chusetts bay, nor to a Governor, or a lieutenant -Governor, who will not observe the directions of, but endeavour to subvert that charter, the gov' and lieutenant -gov' of that Colony are to be considered as absent, and these offices vacant; and as there is no council there, and the incon- veniences, arising from the suspension of the powers of Government, are intollerable, especially at a time when Gen! Gage hath actually levied war, and is carrying on hostilities, against his Majesty's peaceable and loyal sub- jects of that Colony; that, in order to conform, as near as may be, to the spirit and substance of the charter, it be recommended to the provincial Convention, to write
84 Jourtmh of Congress
lettei's to the inhabitants of the several j>laces, which are intitnh>d U^ representation in Assembly, requesting them to chuse such representatives, and that the Assembly, when chosen, do elect counsellors; which assembly and council should exercise the powers of Government, until a Governor, of his Majesty's ai)pointment, will consent to govern the colony according to its charter.
Ordered., that the president transmit a copy of the above to the convention of Massachusetts bay.
Upon Motion
Resolved, That this Congi-ess will to Morrow take into consideration the ways and means of raising Money.
Resolved : That the Provincial Convention of New York be requested to convey as soon as possible to Providence in Rhode island, or to any port in the governm' of Massa- chusetts bay, five thousand barrels of flour for the use of the Continental Army.
Resolved: That the Committee of correspondance at Providence and in the government of Massachusetts bay where the s** flour may be carried, be desired to receive and forward it to the camp before Boston as soon as may be, and to lodge such part thereof as cannot be immedi- ately sent thither in places of security.
Resolved: That this Congi-ess will make provision for defraying any expence incurred for this service.
Ordered: That a copy of the above resolves be immedi- ately transmitted by the President, to the convention of New York.
Adjom-ned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
SATURDAY, JUNE lo. 1775
The Congi'ess met according to adjournment. Several letters, from Massachusetts Bay, Ticonderoga, Crown Point, &c. were laid before the Congress, and
Jane^ 1775 85
read; ||aud the same being taken into consideration, the Congress came to the following resolutions :||
Upon motion the Congress came to the following reso- lutions :
Resolved: That it be, and is hereby earnestly recom- mended to the several Colonies of New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut and the interior towns of Massachu- setts baj% that they immediately furnish the American army before Boston with as much ])Owder out of their town, and other publick stocks as they can possibly spare; keeping an exact account of the quantities supplied, that it may be again replaced, or paid for by the Continent; this to be effected with the utmost secrecy and dispatch.
That it be recommended to the committees of the sev- eral towns and districts in the colonies of the Massachusetts bay, New Hampshu-e, Rhode Island, and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New York, and the eastern division of New Jersey, to collect all the salt petre and brimstone in their several towns and districts, and trans- mit the same, with all possible despatch, to the provincial Convention at New York.
That it be recommended to the provincial Congress ||convention|| of the colony of New York, to have the powder Mills, in that colony, put into such a condition as immediately to manufacture, into gun powder, for the use of the Continent, whatever materials may be procured in the manner above directed.
That it be recommended to the committees of the west- ern division of New Jersey, the colonies of Pensylvania, lower counties on Delaware and Maryland, that they, without delay, collect the salt petro and sul]t]iur in their respective Colonies, and transmit the same to the com- mittee for the city and liberties of Philadelphia; to the end, that those articles may be immediately manufactiired into gun powder, for the use of the continent.
86 Journals of Congress
That it be recommended to the conventions and com - mittees of the colonies of Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, that they, without delay, collect the salt petre and sulphur in their respective colonies, and procure these ai'ticles to be manufactured, as soon as possible, into gun powder, for the use of the Continent.
That it be recommended to the several inliabitants of the united colonies, who are possessed of salt petre and sulphur, for their own use, to dispose of them for the pui-pose of manufacturing gun powder.
That the salt petre and sulphur, collected in conse- quence of the resolves of Congress for that purpose, be paid for out of the continental fund.
Resolved, That Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, Mr. [Richard Henry] Lee, Mr. [Benjamin] Franklin, Mr. [Philip] Schuyler and Mr. [Thomas] Johnson, be a committee to devise ways and means to introduce the manufacture of salt petre in these colonies.
||The committee for examining governor Skene's letters, &c. having communicated to Congress what they found relative to the dispute between Great Britain and these colonies; II
Resolved, That Gov' [Philip] Skene, lieutenant Mon- criefEe, and Mr. Lundy be released from their present con- finem\ and suffered to go at large any where within eight miles of this city, between Delaware and Schuylkil, on their parole of honor, not to pass those limits, and that they will hold no correspondence with any person what - soever, on any political subject.
That Mr. [Christopher] Gadsden be added to the com- mittee for examining gov' Skene's papers, and that Ijsaid committee have it in charge to execute the above resolve. || they enlarge them upon their parole agreeable to the above resolve.
June, 1775 87
Resolved, that the order of the day be postponed until Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday at 9 o'Clock.
MONDAY, JUNE 12,1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee, appointed for })reparing a resolve for a fast, brought in a report, which, being read, was agi-eed to as follows :
As the great Governor of the World, by his supreme and universal Providence, not only conducts the course of nature with unerring wis- dom and rectitude, but frequently influences the minds of men to serve the wise and gracious purposes of his providential government; and it being, at all times, our indispensible duty devoutly to acknowledge his superintending providence, especially in times of impending danger and public calamity, to reverence and adore his imnmtable justice as well as to implore his merciful interposition for our deliverance:
This Congress, therefore, considering the present critical, alarming and calamitous state of these colonies, do earnestly recommend that Thursday, the 20th day of July next, be observed, by the inha>)itants of all the English colonies on this continent, as a day of public humilia- tion, fasting and prayer; that we may, with united hearts and voices, unfeignedly confess and deplore our many sins; and ofl'er up our joint supplications to the all-wise, omnipotent, and merciful Pisposer of all events; hurabl}' beseeching him to forgive our iniquities, to remove our present calamities, to avert those desolating judgments, with which we are threatned, and to bless our rightful so\('reign, King George the third, and [toj inspire him with wisdom to discern and pui-sue the true interest of all his subjects, that a speedy end may be put to the civil discord between Great Britain and the American colonies, without farther effusion of blood: And that the British nation may be intluenced to regard the things that belong to her peace, before they are hid from her e^'cs: That these colonies may be ever under the care anil protec- tion of a kind Providence, and be prospered in all their interests; That the divine blessing may descend and rest upon all our civil rulers, and upon the repnvsentatives of the people, in their several assemblies and conventions, that they may be directed to wise and effectual mea.s-
88 Journals of Congress
ures for preserving the UDion, and securing the just rights and privi- l(>dt,'i's of the colonies; That virtue and true religion may revive and Houri.sh throughout our land; And that all America may soon behold a gracious interposition of Heaven, for the redress of her many griev- ances, the restoration of her invaded rights, a reconcilation with the parent state, on terms constitutional and honorable to both; And that her civil and religious pri viledges may be secured to the latest posterity. And it is recommended to Christians, of all denominations, to assem- ble for public worship, and to abstain from servile labour and recrea- tions on said day.
Ordered^ That a copy of the above be signed by the president and attested by the Sec^ and published in the newspapers, and in hand bills.'
On motion ordered that the letter to the Inhabitants of Canada be published in English.
The order of the day being read, after some debate the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the ways and means of raising money. After some time the president resumed the chair, and M^ [Samuel] Ward reported from the Committee that they had proceeded in the business referred to them but not having come to a conclusion desu"ed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved that the Congi-ess will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the ways and means of raising money, and also the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 1775
The Congress met and agreeable to the order of the day resolved itself in a committee of the whole to take
' It was printed in the Penngylvmiia Packet, 19 June, 1775. A portion of one of the original liroadsiile issues is in the Papers of the Continental CongiVKS, No. 23, folio 5. The entry in the Journal of this resolve is in the writing of Timotliy Matlack.
June, 1775 89
into consideration the ways and means of raising money and also the state of America. After some time spent therein the president resumed the chau- and M' [Samuel] Ward reported that the committee not having come to a conclusion desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, that this Congi'ess will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the ways and means of raising money, and also the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14, 1775
The Congress met and agi-eeable to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration &c . After some time spent thereon , the president resumed the chair, and M' [Samuel] Ward reported, that not having yet come to a conclusion they desu-ed him to move for leave to sit again. At the same time they desired him to report some resolutions which they had come into.
The resolutions being read, were adopted as follows:
Resolved, That six companies of expert rifflemen, be immediately raised in Pensylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia; that each company consist of a captain, three lieutenants, four Serjeants, four corporals, a drum- mer or tnimpeter, and sixty -eight privates.
That each company, as soon as conipleated, shall march and join the army near Boston, to be there employed as light infantry, under the command of the chief Officer in that army.
That the paj' of the Officers and privates be as follows, viz. a ca])taiu (ai 20 dollars j)er month; a lieutenant (^ i;ij dollars; a serjeant (fv 8 dollars; a corporal (aj 1^ ili>l
90 Journals of Congress
lars; drummer or [trumpeter] (Tl 7^ doll. ; i)rivates @ 6§ dollars; to find their own arms and cloaths.
That the form of the enlistment be in the following words :
I have, this day, vohintarilj' enlisted myself,
lus a soldier, in the American continental iirniy, for one year, unless sooner discharged: And I do Jiind myself to conform, in nil instances, to such rules iind regulations, as arc, or sliall be, established for the government of the sa*! Army.
Upon motion. Resolved, That Mr. [George] Washing- ton, Mr. [Philip] Schuyler, Mr. [Silas] Deane, Mr. [Thomas] dishing, and Mr. [Joseph] Hewes be a com- mittee to bring in a dra't of Rules and regulations for the government of the army.
A letter from the convention of New York, dated 10 June, ]77r), respecting a vessel which is stopt there, on suspicion of having provisions on board for the army and navy at Boston, was read and referred to the delegates of Massachusetts bay, Connecticut, and New York.
Resolved, That the Congress will, to Morrow, resolve itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid- eration the ways and means of raising money, and the state of America. This to be a standing order, until the business is compleated.
Adjoui-ned till to Morrow at 9 o'Cloc^k.
THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 1775 '
The congi'ess met according to adjournment.
The committee, to whom the letter from the convention of New York was referred, brought in their report, which being read.
Resolved, That the thanks of this congress be given to the convention of New York, for theu" vigilance in the case of Capt. Coffin's vessel, and that it be recommended
June, 1775 91
to them that the vessel be unloaded, aud the cargo safely stored, uutil all just suspicions, concerning the destination of it, shall be removed.
Ordered., That this be transmitted, by the Pres', in a letter to the chairman of the convention of New^ York.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the ways and means of raising money and the state of America; after some time spent therein the president resumed the chair, and Mr. [Samuel] Ward I'eported, that the committee had come to certain resolu- tions, which they desired him to report, but not having yet come to a conclusion ordered him to move for leave to sit again.
The report of the committee being read and debated.
Resolved, That a General be appointed to command all the continental forces, raised, or to be raised, for the de- fence of American liberty.
That tive hundred dollars, per month, he Jillowed for his pay and expences.
Tlie Congi-ess then proceeded to the choice of a general, ||by ballot, II when George "Washington, Esq. was unani- mously elected.*
Resolved, that the Congress will to Morrow again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid - eration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Moitow ||at eight o'clock. l|
FRIDAY, JUNE i6, 1775
The congi'ess met according to adjournment.
The president from the chair informed Geo: Wash-
'ThcMf resolutions were printed in l\\c I'fintsijlvanin I'ackel, II December, ITTri. \Va.shini;ton \va.s nominuted by Thoniaa Jcihnson of Maryland, and the election was unanimous. The attitude of the Confireps and the causes leailiu); to this choice are fully ilescribed in the Diary and later Cllrl•e^^pondcnce of John Adams.
92 Journals of Congress
ingtou Esq' that he had the order of the Congress to acq[aiii]t him, that the Congress had by a unauimous vote made choice of him to be general and eom[mauder] in chief to take the supreme command of the foi'ces raised and to be raised, in defence of American Liberty, and desired his acceptance of it. Whereupon Colonel Wash- ington, standing in his place, spoke as follows: "Mr. President,
" Tho' I am truly sensible of the high Honour done me, in this Appointment, yet I feel great distress, from a con- sciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important Trust: How- ever, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the mo- mentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
'' But, lost some imhicky event should happen, unfavour- able to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered, by eveiy Gentleman in the room, that I, this day, declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the Command I am honored with.
"As to pay. Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congi-ess, that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to have accepted this arduous employment, at the ex- peuce of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any proffit from it. I will keep an exact Account of my expences. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I desire.'"
Upon motion Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to draught a commission and instructions for the general.
'This reply, in the writing of Edmund Pendleton, witli a single line added by Washington, is in the Papers of Uos CmiUneiilal Congress, No. 152, vol. I, folio 1.
June, 1775 93
The committee, to consist of the following Mr. [Rich- ard Henry] Lee, Mr. E[dward] Rutledge, and J[ohnJ Adams.
Upon motion Resolved una: That a committee of 5 be ujipointed to take into consideration the papers trans- mitted from the convention of New York relative to In- dian affairs, and report what steps, in their opinion, are necessary to be taken for securing and preserving the friendship of the Indian Nations.
That the committee consist of the following persons, viz, Mr. [Philip] Schuyler, Mr. [Patrick] Henry, Mr. [James] Duane, Mr. [James] Wilson, and Mr. P[hilii)] Livingston.
Agreeable to the order of the day the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the state of America. And after some time spent therein the president resumed the chair and M' [Samuel] Ward reported that the committee had come to certain resolutions, which they had ordered him to re^iort but not having come to a conclusion they desired him to move for leave to sit again.
The resolves of tlu^ committee being read, the Congress came to the following Resolutions: —
Resolved, That two' major generals be appointed for the American army.
That the pay of each of the Major generals be one hun- dred and sixty -six dollars per month.
That when any of these act in a separate de]iartment, he be allowed, for his pay and expence, three hundred and thirty -two dollars per month.
That there be eight'-' Brigadiers general. That the ])ay of each be one hundred and twenty-five dollars per month.
' In the ms. thenriginal record stotxl ii>r three; this wan chunge<l to/</Hr. and tiimlly to two. 'The original record called iorjiie.
04 Jovrnals of Congress
That, there be one jidjutant General, and his pay one hundred and twenty -five dollars per month.
That there be one Commissary general of stores and ])i-ovisions, and that his ])ay l)e eighty dollars per month.
That there be one quarter master general tor the grand ai-my, and a deputy, under him, for the separate army. That the pay of the quarter master general be eighty dol- lars per month, and that of the deputy forty dollars per month.
That there be a pay master general, and a deputy under him, for the army in a separate department; that the pay, for himself, be one hundred dollars per month, and for the depi;ty pay master, under him, fifty dollars per month.
That there bo one chief engineer at the gi-and army, and that his pay be sixty dollars per mouth.
That two Assistants be employed under him ; that the pay of each of them be twenty dollars per month.
That there be a chief Engineer for the army, in a separate department, and two assistants under him ; that the pay of the chief engineer be sixty dollars per month, and the pay of the assistants each, twenty dollars per month.
That there be three aid de camps and that their pay be thirty -three dollars per month each.
That there be a secretary to the general ; and his pay sixty -six dollars per month.
That there be a secretary to the Major general, acting in a separate department ; and that his pay be thirty -three dollars per month.
That there be a commissary of the musters, and that his pay forty' dollars per month. '^
• Originally twerUij ilnllars.
■ The resolutions passed this day were printed in the Pennsylvania Packet, 11 De- cember, 1775. John Adauis thus commented on the pay: "The pay vliith has been voted to
June., 1775 95
A Letter from the Convention of New York, rec** by express, was laid before the Congress and read, which being taken into consideration,
Resolved., That the provincial convention of New York, be desired immediately to apply to Governor Trnmbull to order the Connecticut troops, now stationed at Greenwich, Stamford, and parts adjacent, to march towards New York, and that part of them occupy such posts upon that Island as the s'? provincial Convention shall .judge best adapted to prevent the communication between the town and country from being cut off, the remainder of the troops to be employed in securing the navigation of Hud - son's river by erecting Batteries at such places as the s"? Convention shall judge most proper to answer that purpose.
Resolved, that this Congress will to Morrow again resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into their further consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
all the officers, which tlie Continental Congress intends to choose, is so larpp, that I fear our people will think it extravagant and be uneasy. Mr. Adams, Mr. Pairu-, atid myself, used our utmost endeavors to reduce it, bvit in vain.
"Those ideas of e(inality, which are so agreeable to us natives of New England, are very disagreeat)le to many gentlemen in the other colonies. They had a great opinion of the high importance of a continental general, and were determined to place him in an elevated point of light. They think the Massachusetts establish- ment too high for the privates, and too low for the officers, and they wouhl have their own way." John Adamn to Elhridge Gerry, IS .fune, 1775. Works, IX, 358. See also his letter to Joseph Hawley of Novembor 25, in the same volume.
96 Journals of Congress
SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 1775
The Congress met accordinj? to adjom-nment.
The committee api)ointed to draught a commission to the general, reported the same, which, being read by par- agraphs and debated, was agi-eed to and is as follows :
IN CONGRESS
TTie delegates of the United Coloniet) af New Hampshire, Massachusetts hay, Rhode Island, Connectl^nit, Nero York, New Jersey, Pensyl- mniit, the Counties of New- Cattle, Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Viryinia, North Carolina, and South Carolina: To George Washin</tfm., Esq.
We, reposing special trust and confidence in your patriotism, valor, conduct, and fidelity, do. l)y these presents, constitute and appoint you to be General and Coniniander in chief, of the army of the United Colonies, and of all the forces now i-aised, or to be raised, by them, and of all others who shall voluntarily offer their service, and join the said Army for the Defence of American liberty, and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof: And you arc hereby vested with full power aud authority to act as 3'ou shall think for the good and wel- fare of the service.
And we do hereby strictly charge and require all Officers and Sol- diers, under j'our command, to be obedient to your orders, and diligent in the exercise of their several duties.
And we do also enjoin and require you, to be careful in executing the great trust reposed in you, by causing strict discipline and order to be observed in the army, and that the soldiers be duh* exercised, and pro- vided with all convenient necessaries.
And you are to regulate your conduct in even' respect b}- the rules and discipline of war, (as iicrcwith given you.) and punctually to observe and follow such orders and directions, from time to time, as j'ou shall receive from this, or a future Congress of these United Col- onies, or conmiittee of Congress.
This commission to continue in force, until revoked by this, or a future Congress.
By order of the Congress.'
Dated, Philad" June 17, 1775.
' The original is in the Library of Congre.«s. It was printed in the Pennxt/hania Packet, 11 December, 1775, together with the Congress pledge and list of oflBcers of
June, 1775 97
Ordered, ||That the same be fairly transcribed, || to be signed by the president, and attested by the secretary, and delivered to the General.
Resolved Knanimoudy upon the question, Whereas, the delegates of all the colonies, from Nova -Scotia to Georgia, in Congi'ess assembled, have unanimously chosen George Washington, Esq. to be General and commander in chief, of such forces as are, or shall be, raised for the mainte- nance and preservation of American liberty; this Con- gress doth now declare, that they will maintain and assist him, and adhere to him, the said George Washington, Esq', with their lives and fortunes in the same cause.
The Congress then ])roceeded to the choice of the Offi - cers in the army by ballot : when
Artemus Ward, Esq. was chosen fii'st major-general and accond in command.
Horatio Gates, Esq. was unanimously <'hoBcn adjutant general.
Resolved, That Horatio Gates, now chosen adjutant general, shall have the rank of a Brigadier general.
Charles Lee, Esq. was unanimously choacn second Major general to bo third in command.
Resolved, that this congi-ess will <>n Monday resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the state of America.
Adjourned till Monday next at 9 o'Clock.
MONDAY, JUNE 19. 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congress sundry letters
this day. At the \Va.-hington IIcadquartiTs, Morristown, New Jersey is a paper which purports to l>e this commin«ion, or its earliest form. It waa found in a ehoe- iiiaker'H shup l>y David Anus Wells, and he jrave it to George WiU-hinnton Childs, from whom it pa.-wd to Ferdinand J. Dreer, who presented it to the Headquarters. It is of doubtful value.
6521— VOL 2— 05 7
98 Journals of Congress
from the conventions of Massachusetts bay and New York, which were read.
Upon motion Ordered, That Mr. [Patrick] Henry, Mr. [Thomas] Lynch, and Mr. J[ohn] Adams, be a committee to wait upon Gen' Lee, and to inform him of his appoint- ment, and request his answer, whether he will accept the command.
Committee retiirned and reported, that they had waited on Gen' Lee, and informed him of his appointment, and that he gave for answer: That he cxpR'aacd a high aontjc of the honour done him and ut^BUi'od them ho wtuj ready to i-endoi' America all Hei"iieoii in hia power, but deaired as the nituntion of hie affairs waa ix-culiar, to have an opi)ortu- nity of had the highest sense of the honor conferred upon him by the Congress ; that no effort in his power shall be wanting to serve the American cause. — But before he en- tered upon the service he desired a conference with a committee to consist of one delegate from each of the associated colonies, to whom he desired to explain some particulars respecting his private fortune.
Where upon M' [John] Sullivan, M' S[amuel] Adams, M' [Stephen] Hopkins, M^ [Eliphalet] Dyer, M^ P[hilip] Livingston, M' W[illiam] Livingston, M' [George] Ross, M'. [Caesar] Rodney, M'. [Thomas] Johnson, M'. [Patrick] Henry, M' [Richard] Caswell and Mr. [Thomas] Lynch were appointed a committee to confer with Gen' Lee.
The committee returned and reported that they had conferred with Gen' Lee, who had communicated to them an estimate of the Estate he risqued by this service; Whereupon,
Resolved, That these colonies will indemnify General Lee for any loss of property which he may sustain by en - tering into their service, and that the same be done by
June, 177 n 99
this or any future Cougi-ess as soon as sut'h loss is ascer- tained.
Upon motion, resolved una:
IIThe letters from Massachusetts bay beinjr taken into consideration, the Congi-ess come to the following resolve: II
That the governor of Connecticut be requested to direct all the forces raised in that Colony, not employed at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, or recommended by this Congress to be marched into the pi'o\incc of towards New York, to be immediately sent to join the combined aimy l:)efore Boston: And it is earnestly recommended to the colony of Rhode island, and the provincial Con- vention of New Hampshire, to send immediately to the Army before Boston, such of the forces as are already embodied, towards theu- quotas of the troops agreed to be raised by the New England Colonies.
Resolved, ThatMv. [Richard Henry] Lee, Mr. E[dward] Rutledge, and Mr. J[ohn] Adams, be a committee to pre- pare the form of a commission for the Major generals, and also for the brigadier generals, and other officers in the army.
Resoli'/'d, That there be four Major generals.
The Congress then proceeded to chuse the two remain- ing Major generals, when upon taking the votea Philip Schuyler. Esq. was chosen third Major General.
Israel Putnam, Esq. was unnniniously chosen 4"' Major General.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a Com- mission reported the same, which wasreadand agreed for the major generals and brigadier generals, and ordered to be engi-ossed.
(Here insert the commissions.')
'None of these commissions were entered u|K)h the Jounialc
100 Journals of Corigress
Ordered, That the secretary get a number of commis- sions printed, with proper blanks, for the other officers.
The committee appointed to prepare a petition to the king, reported the same.
Resolved that this Congress will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take under consid- eration the state of America'
Adjourned till to Morrow 9 o'Clock.
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1775
The Congi-ess met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to draught instnictions to the general, reported the same, which being read, were agreed to, and are as follows :
To George Washington Esq"".
This Conjjress having appointed you to be General and Commander in chief of the Army of the united Colonies and of all theforce.s raised or to be raised by them and of all others who shall vohintarih' offer their service and join the said army for the defence of American liberty and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof, you sire to repair with all expedition to the colony of Massachusetts bay and take charge of the army of the united colonies.
For 5'our better direction
1" You are to make a return to us as soon as possible of all forces which you shall have under your command together with their military stores and provisions. And also as exact an Account as you can obtain of the forces which compose the British Armj' in America.
2""^ You are not to disband any of the men \'ou find raised until fuilher direction from this Congress and if you shall think their num- bers not adequate to the pui-pose of securitv, you may recruit them to a number you shall think sufficient, not exceeding double that of the enemy.
S** In all cases of vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of a Colonel or other inferior officer, you are by brevet or warrant under your seal to appoint another person to fill up such vacancy until it shall
' Some of the resolutions of this day were printed in the Pennsylvania Packet, 11 December, 1775.
June, 1775 101
be otherwise ordered by the provincial Convention or Assembly of the colony from whence the troops in which such vacancy liappen, shall direct otherwise.
4. You are to victual at the continental expence all such volunteers a.'^ have joined or shall join the united Army.
5. You shall take ever\- method in your power consistent with pru- dence, to destroj' or make prisoners of all persons wlionow are or \slio hereafter shall appear in Arms against the good people of the united colonies.
6. And whereas all particulars cannot be foreseen, nor positive instructions for such emergencies so before hand given but that many things must be left to your prudent and discreet management, as occur- rences may arise upon the place, or from time to time fallout, you are therefore upon all such accidents or any occasions that may happen, to use your best circumspection and (advising with 5'our council of war) to order and dispose of the said Army under your command as may be most advantageous for the obtaining the end for which these forces have been raised, making it your special care in discharge of the great trust committed unto you, that the liberties of America receive no detriment.
Resolved, that this Congress will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o Clock.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21. 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Mr. Thomas Jefferson appeared as a delegate for the Colony of Virginia, and produced his Credentials, which were read and approved, and are as follows:
At a Convention of Delegates for the Counties and Corporations in the Colony of Virginia, at the Town of Richmonil, in the County of Henrico, on Monday the twenty seventh Day of March 1775
On a Motion made.
Resolved that Thomas Jefferson, Ks(iuire, Im- appointed a Deputy to represent this (jolony in General Congress, in the Room of the honor-
102 Journals of Congress
able Peyton Randolph. Esquire, in Case of the Non-attendance of the said Peyton Randolph, Esquire, a Copy Test: John Tazewell
Clerk ofttie Convent hv.
At a General Assembly begun and held at the Capitol in the City of Williiim.shurtj onTliursday. the first daj' of June, in the fifteenth Year of the Reign of our Lord Geokoe the third, by the (irace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, defender of the Faith, die. Annoque Domini 1775.
Monday, the 5th of June 15 Geo: UI. 1775. Resolved, nemlne contradicente, that this House dotli intii-ely approve of the Proceedings and Resolutions of the Convention of Del- egates for the Counties and Corporations in the Colony of Virginia, held at Richmond Town, in the County of Henrico, on the twentieth day of Marcli, 1775. And that it be recommended to all the good People of this Colony strictly to conform and observe the same. By the House of Burgesses.
Peyton Randolph Speak'.
Mr. [Patrick] Henry informed the Congress, that the general had put into his hand sundry queries, to which he desired the Congi-ess would give an answer.
The Queries being read Hand debated, ||
Resolred, That a committee of five be appointed to take into their consideration the s*? queries and report their opinion with regard to the answers proper to be given.
That the committee consist of the following persons, viz:
Mr. [Silas] Deane, Mr. [Patrick] Henry, Mr. J[ohn] Rutledge, Mr. S[amuel] Adams, and Mr. [Richard Henry] Lee.
Upon motion. Resolved, That the Generals be allowed three aids de camp.
That each of the major generals have two aids de camp.
That the pay of the aids de camp of the Major general be twenty thirty -three dollars per month.
June, 1775
10.'}
Resolved, that this Cougi'ess Yidll to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consider- ation the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o' Clock.
THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The Committee appointed to take into consideration the Queries of the general and report thereon, brought in theu' report, which was read and considered.
Resolved, That the number of Brigadier generals be augmented to eight : The Congress then proceeded to the choice of the Brigadiers, viz :
Seth Pomeroy, Esq. first. Richard Montgomery, Esq. sec- ond. David Wooster, Esq. third. W'illiaui Heath, Esq. fourth.
Joseph Spencer, E.'sq. fifth. John Tiiomas, Esq. sixth. John Sullivan, Esq. seventh. Nathanael Greene, Esq. eighth.
Resolved, That the troops, including the Volunteers, be furnished with camp Equipage, and blankets, where ue(;- essary, at the Continental expence.
Resolved, That the officers, now in the Army, receive their new commissions through the hands of the general.
Resolved, That a sum not exceeding two millions of Spanish milled dollars be emitted by the Congress in bills of Credit, for the defence of America.
Resolved, That the twelve confederated colonies be pledged for the redemption of the bills of credit, now di- rected to be emitted.'
Rcaolvcd, Tlmt the pay of thc-nida kV^ cnm]i of the majoi'ti goucml be inci'eu^cd to thirty thtvc dulliii'n pri'
^The list of Brigadiers and the resolution on bills of credit wtTe printwl in the PnnwiUnnia Packd, 11 Di'cuuiber. 1775.
104 Journals of Congress
Resolved, That the colony of Pensylvania raise two more companies of rifflemen, and that these, with the six before ordered to be raised by them, making eight com- panies, be formed into a battalion, to be commanded by such field officers, captains and lieut**, as shall be recom- mended by the Assembly or convention of the above colony.
Resolved, that this Congi-ess will to Morrow resolve itself into a Committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
FRIDAY, JUNE 23, i775
The Congi'ess met according to adjournment.
A letter from the officers of Crown Point, dated Jime 10, 1775 was laid before the Congi-ess.
Information being given, that Col. Allen and Capt" Seth Warner who brought the letter were at the doov, ||and had some things of importance to communicate, ||
Ordered, That they be called in. After they withdrew, the Congi'ess took the letter and information into consid- eration.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the Officer com- manding in the New York department, to procure, as soon as possible, a list of the men employed in taking and gar- risoning Crown Point and Ticonderogo, and keeping jjos- session of the lakes, and also of their disbursements, in order that they may be paid.
Resolved, That their pay be the same as that of the officers and privates in the American Army ; the highest of the officers not to exceed that of a captain, and that the pay commence the thii'd day of last May, and continue until they are discharged.
June, 1775 105
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New York, that they, consulting with General Schuyler, employ in the army to be raised for the defence of Amer- ica, those called Green Mountain Boys, under such officers as the s'' Green Mountain Boys shall chuse.
Upon motion, Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to draw up a declaration, to be published by General Washington, upon his arrival at the Camp before Boston.
That the committee consist of the following members, viz : Mr. J[ohn] Rutledge, Mr. W[illiam] Livingston, Mr. [Benjamin] Franklin, Mr. [John] Jay, and Mr. [Thomas] Johnson.
Agreeable to the oi-der of the day the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into further consideration the state of America, and after some time spent therein, the pi-esident resumed the chair, and Mr. [Samuel] Ward reported that the committee had come into certain resolutions which they desired him to report, but not having yet finished, they had ordered him to move for leave to sit again.
The report of the Committee being read,
Resolved, That the Number and <lenoniination of the bills to be emitted be as follows, viz :
|
49,0()0 billB of |
8 dollars each- |
-392,000 |
|
|
49,(X)0 do. |
of |
7 dollars eacli- |
-:M3,000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
6 dollarn each- |
-294,000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
5 dollars eacli- |
-24r),000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
4 dollars eaoli- |
-190,000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
3 dollars eiu:li- |
-147,000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
2 dollars each- |
- 98,000 |
|
49,000 do. |
of |
1 dollars earli- |
- 49,000 |
|
11,800 do. |
of |
20 dollars each- |
-23t>,00() |
403,800 2,000,000
106 Journals of Congress
Resolved, That the form of the bills be as follows, viz :
CONTINENTAL CURRENCY
No. Dollar.
This bill entitles the bearer to receive
Spanish Milled dollars, or the value thereof in gold or silver, according to the resolutions of the Congress, held at Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May, A. D. 1775.
Resolved, That Mr. J[ohn] Adams, Mr. J[ohn] Rut- ledge, Mr. [James] Duane, Doctor [Benjamin] Franklin, and Mr. [James] Wilson, be a committee to get proper plates engraved, to provide paper, and to agree with printers to print the above bills.
Resolred, that this Congress will to Morrow again re- solve itself into a committee of the whole to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Upon motion. Ordered, That the first and second re- solves passed 26 May be published.
Upon motion. Resolved, That a Committee of seven be appointed to devise ways and means to put the Militia of America in a proper state for the defence of America.
The members chosen Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, Mr. [Benjamin] Harrison, Mr. [Roger] Sherman, Mr. [Stephen] Hopkins, Mr. [William] Floyd, Mr. [Christo- pher] Gadsden, and Mr. [John] Dickinson.'
The Committee appointed to prepare a declaration to be published by Gen' Washington, upon his arrival at the Camp before Boston, reported the same, which was read
' The comniitt<« appears to have been chosen on June 26, for an entry to this effect is erased on that liav.
June, 1775 107
and debated, and referred for farther consideration till Monday next.
Resolved, that this Congress will on Monday resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the State of America.
Adjourned till Monday at 9 o'Clock.
MONDAY, JUNE 26, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
A letter from Governor Trumbull was read, and referred to the committee appointed to devise ways and means foi- introducing the manufacture of salt petre into these colonies.'
1 1 The state of North Carolina being taken into consid- eration, the Congi'ess came to the following resolutions :||
Whereas it is represented to this Congress, that the enemies of the liberties of America are pursuing measures to divide the good people of the colony of North Carolina, and to defeat the American Association ;
Resolved, That it be recommended to all in that Colony, who wish well to the liberties of America, to associate for the defence of American liberty, and to embody them- selves as militia, under proper officers.
Resolved, That in case the Assembly or Convention of tliat Colony shall think it absolutely necessary, for the support of the American Association and safety of the colony, to raise a Ixxly of forces not exceeding one thou- sand men, this Congress will consider them as an Amer- ican army, and provide for their ]>ay.'^
The Congress then resumed the considei-ation of the
'X'lis letter, ilatnl June 20, is in the I'npers of the I'onliumlnl Omyrtw, Ni>. liti, I, folio i>.
■•' Here were iiii^ertinl and stricken out the Damet< of tlif connnittee on llie iletrlHra- tion to Ik- pnlilistieil by Oeiieral Wnsliinuton. already civen on .luni- -1.
108 Journals of Congress
Declanition, and after some debate, the same was re- committed, and Mr. [John] Dickinson and Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson were added to the Committee.
A letter from the Committee of Albany rec"? by express was laid before the Congress and read.'
The Committee for Indian affairs bro't in their report, which was read.
Upon motion. Resolved, That the delegates of Pensyl- vania be appointed from this Congress to wait on the Committee of this City and to request of them that a supx)ly of powder be immediately furnished for the use of the fortifications of Ticonderoga and Crown point, and sent forward immediately.
Ordered, That the President write to Governor Trumbul and inform him that the Congi-ess had appointed George Washington Esq', Commander in chief of all the forces raised or to be raised for the defence of America.
Ordered, that the President also write to the provincial conventions of Massachusetts and New Hampshire and to the government of Rhode island, and inform them of the same appointment.
Resolved, tliat tliis cougi'ess will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Cloek.
TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Upon motion. Resolved, That Gov- [Philip] Skene be sent under a guai'd to Weathersfield, or Middletown, in the Coimty of Hartford, in Connecticut, there to be con- fined on his parole, not to go out of the bounds prescribed to him by Gov' Trumbull.
' This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 67, I, folio 9.
June, 177n 109
Ordered, That the Delegates for Pennsylv" take meas- ures to have the above resolve carried into execution.
A letter from the Convention of Massachusetts bay, dated 20"' June received by express, together with several other letters by the same conveyance were laid before the Congress and read.'
The Congi-ess resumed the consideration of the letter from Albany, and after some debate the Congi-ess came to the following resolutions :
Resolved, That Major General P. Schuyler be directed to repair as soon as conveniently he can to the posts of Ticonderoga and Crown point, to examine into the state thereof, and of the troops now stationed there, and how they are supplied with provision and necessary stores — into the state also of the sloop and other navigation on the lakes — also to obtain the best intelligence he can of the disposition of the Canadians and Indians of Canada. That he confer with Col. Hinman and Col. Arnold, on the subject of Col: Arnold's letter to this Congress, and report, as soon as possible, the state of the whole as near as it can be ascertained, to this Congress. And that he give orders for the necessary pi-eparation of boats and stores for seeming to the United Colonies the command of those waters adjacent to Crown point and Ticonderoga.
Resolved, That as Governor Carl [e] ton is making prep- arations to invade these colonies and is instigating the Indian Nations to take up the Hatchet against them, Major Gen' Schuyler do exei't his utmost power to destroy or take all vessels, boats or floating batteries, prei)aring by s? Govr or by his order, on or near the watei-s of the lakes.
Resolved, That if Geneial Schuyler finds it ])ra<'ticabU\ and that it will not be disagi-eeable to the Canadians, he
' Tlie.%' ]ia|K'i-^ iiro ni)t in the Papers o/ (he <hiitin'nlal Con^resf.
no Journals of Cotigress
do immediately take possession of S' Johns, Montreal, and any other parts of the country, and pursue any other measures in Canada, which may have a tendency to pro- mote the peace and security of these Colonies.
Resolved, that if General Schuyler shall have occasion for a larger quantity of readj'^ money and ammunition for carrying on such an expedition, than he can in convenient time procure from the provincial Convention of the Col - ony of New York, that he do in such case apply to the Governor of Connecticut for such supplies as may be nec- essary, and can be furnished by that Colony; and that Governor Trumbull be desired to furnish such supplies, and that this Congress will make provision for reimburs- ing the same.
The Committee appointed to draw up an address to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, reported the same, which was read.
Resolved, That this Congress will to Morrow resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take into consid- eration the state of America.
Adjourned till to Morrow at 9 o'Clock.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment, and re- sumed the consideration of the Articles of War. After some debate the farther consideration of them was put off till to Morrow.
The order of the day put off till to Morrow.
Adjoui'ned till to Morrow at 9 o' Clock.
THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 1775
Tlie Congress met according to adjournment. A number of Letters and speeches from the Chiefs of the Stockbridge Indians to the Congress, also copy of a
Jtine, 1775 111
Message from s'^ Indians to the Canada Indians and their answer were laid before the Congress and read.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the rules or Articles of War. After some debate the same was deferred till to Morrow.
The order of the day put off and adjourned till to Mor- row 9 o'C.
FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 1775
The Congress met according to adjournment. The consideration of the articles of war being resumed, Congress agreed to the same :
Rtdes and Retjtdatwnn '
VV^hereas his Majesty's most faithful subjects in these Colonies are reduced to a dangerous and critical situation, b}' the attempts of the British Ministr}', to carrj^ into execution, by force of arms, several unconstitutional and oppressive acts of the British parliament for lay- ing taxes in America, to enforce the collection of those taxes, and for altering and changing the constitution and internal police of some of these Colonies, in violation of the natural and civil rights of the Colonies.
And whereas hostilities have been actual!}' commenced in Ma.ssachu- setts Bay, by the British troops, under the command of General Gage, and the lives of a number of the iniiabitants of that Colony destroyed; the town of Boston not onl\' having been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy's country, but the inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to be justified even towards declared enemies.
And whereas large reinforcements have been ordered, and uro soon expectofi, foi- tlic (icclared purpose f)f coiiiiiclIiMg these Colonics to sub- mit to the operation of tlie said acts, whicli iiath rendered it necessary, and an indispensable duty, for the express pui-pose of securing and dof(>nding tliese Colonies, and preserving them in safety against all attempts to carry the said ads into execution; tliat an armed force bo
' Tlieso rules and rppulations wi-re not entcretl in the Manusorijit Journal, and I have followi'il the text printetl in the Penngylixmia Packet, 17 July, 177.5. Sou Biblio- graphical Notes, pott.
112 Journals of Congress
raised sufficient to defeat such hostile designs, and preserve and defend the lives, liberties and immunities of the Colonists: for the due regu- lating and well ()r<lorin(r of which ;-
Rewlrrd, That the following Rules and Orders be attended to, and observed by such forces as are or may hereafter be raised for the pur- poses aforesaid. •
Article 1. That every officer who shall be retained, and every sol- dier who shall serve in the Continental Army, shall, at the time of his acceptance of his commission or inlistniont, subscribe these rules and regulations. And that the officers and soldiers, already of that army, shall also, as soon as may be, subscribe the same; from the time of whi('h subscription every officer and soldier, shall be bound by those