Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

There are no restrictions.

Use Restrictions

There are no restrictions.

Preferred Citation

Daniel Morgan. Papers, 1763-1800. Accessions 24718, 24719. Personal papers collection. The Library of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia.

Acquisition Information

Purchased from Parke Bernet Galleries, Inc., New York, New York, 23 October 1957.

Biographical Information

Daniel Morgan was born in 1736, probably in New Jersey. After quarreling with his father, Morgan moved to the Shenandoah Valley. After working several years as a laborer and a teamster, Morgan became an independent wagoner and in that role accompanied Edward Braddock's futile expedition against Fort Pitt in 1755. Morgan later served as a lieutenant during Pontiac's Rebellion. Commissioned a captain of a rifle company 22 June 1775, Morgan took his command and joined the Continental Army outside of Boston, Massachusetts. He joined Benedict Arnold's expedition against Quebec and assumed command after Arnold was wounded. During an assault on Quebec, Morgan surrendered after other troops failed to support his advance. After his release, Morgan was appointed a colonel 12 November 1776. He served ably under Washington and with Horatio Gates at the battle of Saratoga, New York. He retired in 1779, but returned to active duty in 1780 with a brigadier-general's commission. He commanded the American troops at the battle of Cowpens 17 January 1781, defeating the British in a major engagement. Shortly after, he retired due to poor health. After the Revolution ended, Morgan helped several of his former soldiers who were in need. He commanded the Virginia militia during the Whiskey Rebellion and was later elected to Congress in 1797 and served one term. He married Abigail Bailey and had two daughters. Morgan died 6 July 1802 in Winchester, Virginia, and is buried at Mount Hebron Cemetery.

Scope and Content Information

Papers, 1763-1800, of Daniel Morgan (1736-1802) of Frederick County, Virginia, consisting of correspondence, bonds, and other legal papers. Correspondence concerns Morgan's business dealings in purchase of land, legal matters, and salt. Bonds and legal papers concern matters in which Morgan was involved.

Arrangement

Items are arranged chronologically.