John Trumbull to Henry Knox discussing joining the Society of the Cincinnati - American History 1493-1945 - Adam Matthew Digital

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Field name	Value
Collection Reference Number	GLC02437.02171
From Archive Folder	The Henry Knox Papers [0059] June 1783
Title	John Trumbull to Henry Knox discussing joining the Society of the Cincinnati
Date	20 June 1783
Author	Trumbull, John (1756-1843)
Recipient	Knox, Henry
Document Type	Correspondence
Content Description	The brother of George Washington's secretary Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., and the celebrated painter of 'The Battle of Bunker Hill' and 'The Declaration of Independence', expresses his regret on failing to meet the three years' service required to join the Society of the Cincinnati, but hopes that he might possibly be considered as an applicant anyway. Also writes in praise of the society and asks that, if he is admitted, he may have his brother sign on his behalf. Place was added in another hand and at a later date.
Subjects	Society of the Cincinnati Revolutionary War Revolutionary War General Military History Continental Army Fraternal Organization Art, Music, Theater, and Film
People	Knox, Henry (1750-1806) Trumbull, John (1756-1843)
Place written	Lebanon, Connecticut
Theme	The American Revolution
Sub-collection	The Henry Knox Papers
Copyright	The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module	Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
Transcript	Show/hide Download PDF [draft] Sir, It was with the most sensible pleasure that I lately read the institutions of the Society of the Cincinnati, & it is with no less regret that I find myself excluded from becoming regularly a member by that Article which requires three years service. - I serv'd but two years. - yet I flatter myself that the principle on which I quitted the Army, & which tho at that early day little acted upon, is now acknowledg'd to be the Basis of Military Character. will be consider'd as a full justification of my retirement. - I cannot therefore restrain myself from soliciting admission to the Society, since the letters rather than the spirit of the institution appears to exclude me. If my wishes can be gratified, I have requested my Brother who delivers this to sign my name, & to include my subscription in his Draft on the Pay Master General. In an institution so truly noble, a degree of dignity should be diffus'd thrg' all its parts. & I cannot reconcile myself to the Idea of a tasteless & ill executed medal. - I expect soon to see our justly celebrated countryman [Mr.] West & if the Idea meets with approbation, I will engage him to give the designs. & see the execution of the Dyes. With much Respect. I have the Honor to be Lebanon 20.th June 1783 Sir Your most Humble Servant Hon.b Major General Knox. Jn.o Trumbull [address] Honorable Maj.r General Knox. West Point. Fav.d by, Coll Trumbull [docket] From Colonel Jno Trumbull 20th June 1783

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