September 3, 1783. "This peace was negotiated on the part of the United States by John Adams, John Jay, and Benjamin Franklin, Esquires. The independence of the United States was then acknowledged by all the foreign dominions." Gen. Gansevoort to Philip Van Rensselaer. September 3, 1783. "This peace was negotiated on the part of the United States by John Adams, John Jay, and Benjamin Franklin, Esquires. The independence of the United States was then acknowledged by all the foreign dominions." Sir: Gen. Gansevoort to Philip Van Rensselaer. Albany 12th April, 1783. Please deliver Lieut. Ford four hundred Weight of Powder for the use of firing Cannon on the day the Proclamation of Peace shall be announced and proclaimed. Guns and Cartridge Paper. PETER GANSEVOORT B. Genl. To Mr. Philip Van Rensselaer, Store Keeper. On April 18th, the commander-in-chief thus addressed the army on the cessation of hostilities: "The commander-in-chief orders the cessation of hostilities, between the United States of America and the king of Great Britain, to be publicly proclaimed to-morrow at twelve o'clock, at the New Building; and that the proclamation which will be communicated herewith, be read to-morrow evening, at the head of every regiment and corps of the army; after which, the chaplains, with the several brigades, will render thanks to Almighty God for all his mercies, particularly for his overruling the wrath of man, to his own glory, and causing the rage of war to cease among the nations." "On the completion of eight years from the memorable battle of Lexington, the proclamation of the congress for a cessation of hostilities was published at the door of the public building, followed by three huzzas; after which, a prayer was offered to the Almighty Ruler of the world, and an anthem was performed by voices and instruments. Though the proclamation extends only to the prohibition of hostilities, and not to the annunciation of a general peace, it gives sincere satisfaction." Sir: Philip Van Rensselaer to Timothy Pickering. Albany, 13th October, 1783. An Account was handed to me this day By a Gentleman of your family of £25 11. Being for One Anchor and one Coil of Rigging delivered to me in May last. Soon after I had received the articles I requested Major Quackenboss to Settle for the Same, as he had Taken my Sloop in the fall of 1781 to go With Troops to the Highlands, and Lost my Anchor and part of a new Cable for which I have had his promise to return me again. But could never accomplish it for he stood in need of them. I have not received any pay for the Service of the Sloop, and wish that the Account may be charged to Major Quackenboss as part of payment to me for the use of the Sloop and Loss of my Anchor and Cable. With respect and Esteem I am Sir, your Most Obedt. Humble Servt. PHILIP VAN RENSSELAER. The Honble. Timothy Pickering, Esq., Q. Master General, Fishkill. Many of the troops had gone home on furlough and this year General Washington, having leisure, proceeded up the Hudson with Governor George Clinton to visit the principal fields of military operations at the north. He passed over the battle ground at Stillwater, with Generals |