Washington's Farewell to His Officers

Washington's farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern in lower Manhattan

On December 4, 1783, about a week after the British troops evacuated New York, Washington arranged to say farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern on Pearl St. in lower Manhattan.

The always dignified commander-in-chief was overwhelmed with emotion. He filled a glass with wine and toasted his officers saying, "With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now take

leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable."

Seeing General Knox, Washington's eyes filled with tears. Memories of the "noble

train of artillery," the freezing night on the Delaware River, battles at Trenton, Princeton, Monmouth and Yorktown flooded his mind.

Unable to speak, he embraced Knox and then did the same to every other officer in the room.

Without a word being spoken, they marched to the Whitehall wharf where Washington boarded a barge and waved a final goodbye.

Learn more about Washington's invaluable General Henry Knox here. #AmericanRevolution