Exhibits a letter written by Alexander Hamilton in 1780 and believed to have been stolen from an archive in Massachusetts decades ago.
The founder's father's letter will be featured at the Federal Museum's annual exhibition on July 4, says Federal Secretary William Galvin's office. It is the first time that the public has the opportunity to see it since it was returned to the state after a long court battle.
Introduced with an original copy of the Massachusetts Declaration of Independence.
Hamilton, the Treasury Secretary , who has gained new attention in recent years with the hit of his eponymous Broadway musical , wrote to Marquis Lafayette of France. A nobleman who served as a general of the Continental Army.
Dated July 21, 1780, details the imminent British threat to French troops on Rhode Island.
"I just received advice from New York through various channels that the enemy is on board to threaten the French fleet and army," Hamilton wrote. "It is said that 50 transports climbed the sound to accept the troops and proceeded directly to Road Island."
"Yr. Most Obet, A. Hamilton, Aidede Camp."
The letter was forwarded from General William Heath of Massachusetts to state leaders, with the request of the army to support France's allies, Galvin's office said.
This letter was believed to have been stolen by state archive workers during World War II and then sold personally.
It reappeared a few years ago when a Virginia auctioneer received it from his family who wanted to sell it. The auction house determined that it had been stolen and contacted the FBI. The Federal Court of Appeals ruled in October that it belonged to the state.
The Federal Museum is open from 9am to 4pm. on monday.
