Description
A collection of the professional,
personal, and political papers and correspondence of American statesman James
McHenry.
Background
James McHenry (1753-1816) was an American statesman, soldier, and physician. Native of
Ireland, McHenry settled in Philadelphia in 1771 and studied medicine under Benjamin Rush.
From 1775 to 1778, he served as a surgeon in the Continental Army in the American
Revolution. Captured by the British at Fort Washington on Harlem Heights, New York, he was
exchanged in the spring of 1778. From 1778 to 1780, he served as secretary to George
Washington, and in 1780 to 1781, as an aid to Marquis de Lafayette. From 1796 to 1800, he
served as the Secretary of War but as a Federalist, McHenry found himself in conflict with
John Adams who demanded his resignation. McHenry retired to his estate near Baltimore,
Maryland, where he died in 1816, at the age of 63.
Extent
2.5 Linear Feet
(2 boxes and 1 oversize folder)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.