Letter Signed by George Washington to Israel Putnam, October 15, 1777

George Washington led the Continental Army as commander-in-chief during the American Revolutionary War. On October 15, 1777, Washington signed this letter discussing two recent events -- the loss of Fort Montgomery and a victory over British General Burgoyne -- in New York, where Major General Israel Putnam was stationed. Just two days later, Burgoyne surrendered his army to American forces.