Giles, approximately 1750- (Postilion)

Scope and Contents PA list of accounts addressed to His Excellency Gen. Washington Esq. from the firm of Pope and Cadle, who sold lace, silk, and other hosiery at 12 William Street, New York. The document shows that on April 30, the day of his inauguration, Washington purchased 3 hat tassels. In May, he purchased 3 pairs of white silk hose and 28 yards livery lace. A note at the bottom states that one pair of hose was for Tobias Lear, who paid for them separately.It is likely that the hat tassels...

Scope and Contents

The significance of this letter to Martha’s niece Fanny is the mention of several specific slaves in the Presidential household. Martha complains about the sewing work of Charlotte and Caroline and gives her condolences regarding Giles, an enslaved coach driver who was apparently injured in an accident. She also mentions Hercules, the enslaved Washington cook who several years later would run away from the household. Misdated as '1790.' Autograph letter signed, 3 pages.