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June 17, 1775 Revolutionary War Letter by Elizabeth – Boston, British Troops, Lt Patton Mention
Description Opening
Original Revolutionary War-era manuscript letter written by a woman named Elizabeth and dated June 17, 1775. Written during the opening months of the American Revolution, the letter discusses the conflict between "our countrymen & His Majesty's Troops," reports from Boston, military affairs, and Lieutenant Patton "whose horse was shot under him at the engagement." The letter concludes, "Believe me your very affectionate Aunt, Elizabeth."
The key passage:
"...the misunderstanding between our countrymen & His Majesty's Troops will be the means of much blood..."
For a letter dated June 17, 1775, that statement is striking. Whether or not Elizabeth knew of Bunker Hill, she was writing on the very day that one of the bloodiest battles of the Revolution was being fought.
Elizabeth discusses:
The deteriorating relationship between "our countrymen & His Majesty's Troops."
Reports from Boston.
Military news and casualty rumors.
A Lieutenant Patton whose horse was shot under him at the engagement.
Virginia affairs and political developments.
Family news (deaths, marriages, relatives).
The combination of family correspondence and firsthand-era political commentary is exactly what collectors of Revolutionary manuscripts look for.
The Patton Reference
The wording suggests that Elizabeth is repeating information from a recent correspondent:
"Lieutenant Patton whose horse was shot under him at the engagement..."
That is not a generic newspaper report. It sounds like information circulating through family or social networks.
