The Writings of George Washington, Volume 13

What it is

This volume is part of a large printed edition of George Washington's writings, gathered from original manuscript sources and published in 1936 under the direction of a bicentennial commission set up by Congress. The editor listed on the title page is John C. Fitzpatrick. This volume covers correspondence from October 1778 to January 1779.

Why it matters

Editions like this let historians and students read Washington's own words without needing access to the original manuscripts. The front matter shows how later generations organised and celebrated Washington's legacy, long after his death.

Look closer

• Why might a government commission want to publish Washington's writings on the 200th anniversary of his birth?
• What does the detailed front matter (editors, commission members) tell you about how this book was produced?
• How is reading an edited, printed collection different from reading an original letter?