George Washington, former Commander-in-Chief, of the Continental Army, writes to Tench Tilghman, a contract agent from Baltimore, Maryland, regarding work that he wants done on his Mount Vernon estate:
I am informed that a Ship with Palatines [Germans] is gone up to Baltimore, among whom are a number of Tradesmen. I am a good deal in want of a House Joiner & Bricklayer, (who really understand their profession) & you would do me a favor by purchasing one of each, for me. I would not confine you to Palatines. If they are good workmen, they may be of Assia [sic], Africa, or Europe. They may be Mahometans [Moslems], Jews, or Christian of any Sect—or they may be Athiests [sic].
[added 7/12/2026]
Subsequent Events:
References:
Paul Johnson, A History of the American People, (New York: HarperPerennial, 1997), 206.
From George Washington to Tench Tilghman, 24 March 1784
founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/04-01-02-0174
Current U.s. National Debt:
