The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Feb. 4, 1776
Fielding Lewis, Gen. George Washington‘s brother-in-law, writes from Fredericksburg. Virginia is raising new regiments, repairing muskets, building powder mills, and even experimenting with heavy rifles designed to drive British warships from narrow rivers.
However, funding remains a critical problem.
Lewis was a commissioned colonel in the American Revolution and the brother-in-law and second cousin of Washington through their shared great-grandfather, Augustine Warner II. The Lewis family was well known and respected in Virginia society as merchants, owning extensive tracts of land in and around Fredericksburg.
Lewis built the mansion on his property, which is known today as Kenmore. He is remembered for his dedication to the patriotic cause and his close personal ties to Washington.
ON THIS DAY: WASHINGTON HAS NO ANSWERS FOR MONIES NEEDED TO FUND THE WAR AS CONGRESS DELAYS
In New York City, two generals, one American and the other British, arrive almost simultaneously. Maj. Gen. Charles Lee comes to organize the city’s defense just as British Gen. Henry Clinton lands.
Clinton says he is merely visiting William Tryon, NYC’s former royal governor.
Lee is doubtful.
