Guide to the John Gilchrist Letters , SC 01085

Special Collections Research Center

William & Mary Special Collections Research Center
Earl Gregg Swem Library
400 Landrum Dr
Williamsburg, Virginia
Business Number: 757-221-3090
spcoll@wm.edu
URL: https://libraries.wm.edu/libraries-spaces/special-collections

Finding Aid Authors: Special Collections Staff.

Administrative Information

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Preferred Citation:

John Gilchrist Letters, Special Collections Research Center, Swem Library, College of William and Mary.

Acquisition Information:

Gift

Biographical Information:

John Gilchrist served in the British Royal Navy during the American Revolution. Further information about this individual or organization may be available in the Special Collections Research Center Wiki: .

Scope and Contents

Letters, 1778-1781, of John Gilchrist to 'Peggy' while on board the Galatea and the Loyalist while serving in the Royal Navy. Letters discuss sailing conditions, meeting a French Squadron near Rhode Island, being escorted by the Charon into the Chesapeake Bay, impressions of his ship captains, and other.

Container List

Mixed Materials Small Collections Box 74 folder: 1 id4350

Letters

1778-1781

Scope and Contents

31 July circa 1778. John Gilchrist, Galatea, off New London, Connecticut, to Peggy, Describes rowing in Huntington Bay looking for Mr. McClellan; Captain Southard is current "masmate" strong winds have kept his ship from schedule; mentions meeting the "French Squadron" near Rhode Island. 18 December 1780. John Gilchrist to Peggy. Lengthy discussion centering on her excuses for not writing; describes the new uniform of Captain R. John Gilchrist, "Loyalist, Sandy Hook," New Jersey, to Peggy, New York. Has stayed longer than expected, an indication of the "uncertainty of Councils and Resolutions amongst the great"; tells of his ships upcoming schedule, including being escorted into the Chesapeake Bay by the Charon; sentiments of love and affection.