Conservation, Manuscripts

$175

The Henry Clinton Papers need your help. Sir Henry Clinton served under Thomas Gage and William Howe between 1775 and 1778, and was commander-in-chief of the British forces in North America from 1778 to 1782. His extensive papers offer an unparalleled view of the day-to-day operations of the British Empire in North America during the height of the Revolutionary War.

The Henry Clinton Papers are currently housed in custom boxes and folders made for the collection in the mid 20th century. Each individual manuscript is tipped onto larger, acidic heavy stock paper and enclosed in its own acidic folder. In order to digitize the collection and assure the long-term safety of the Henry Clinton Papers, the Clements Library will be undertaking a massive re-housing project.

Special Notes About this Grouping

In addition to content about raising regiments, constructing barracks, securing posts in South Carolina, and other high-level military planning, this volume includes a letter written from a son to his mother that was intercepted by the British Army. Addressed to Mrs. Eliza B. Baker “in a Great hurry,” her son discussed wartime vessels near Charleston, South Carolina, and how the British traversed the rivers at night, “but the noise of oars in the water betray ‘em.” This poignant letter is a reminder of the family stories embedded within the military archive and how first-hand experiences of the Revolution can be studied and preserved with your support.