Call Number:

C0243

Repository:

Princeton University Library: Manuscripts Division

Extent:

• 2 boxes
• 1.6 linear feet

Language:

English

Date:

1756-1846 (inclusive)

Creator:

Tallmadge, Benjamin, 1754-1835

Form:

Correspondence. and Diaries -- 18th century.

Abstract:

Consists mostly of papers from a family album of American Revolutionary intelligence officer Benjamin Tallmadge (1754-1835) relating to his Revolutionary War experience.

A graduate of Yale College in 1773, Benjamin Tallmadge was a classmate of American Revolutionary War patriot Nathan Hale. Tallmadge was a major in the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons, and he eventually became the chief intelligence officer for George Washington. After the war, he settled in Litchfield, Connecticut, and served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1801 till 1817.

The collection consists mostly of Tallmadge's papers relating to the Revolutionary War, including correspondence with George Washington during his involvement in the secret service, a photostat of his code used then, letters to David Humphreys, Timothy Pickering, and William B. Sprague, and letters and newspaper extracts dealing with the Major Andre affair. Also present are family letters, a deed signed by William Floyd (a signer of the Declaration of Independence), documents signed by Alexander Hamilton, Tallmadge's will, a diary of his journey to Marietta in 1795, photographs of family portraits, and miscellaneous material.