01/15/97

Source: Presidential papers Microfilm

George Washington Papers

Series 7: Abercrombie-Cockle Reel 119

V6-108: Alexander Contee Hanson to George Washington

1790/08/02

"Mr. Jospeh Clark of this city, being desirous of an employment as architect, surveyor or master-builder of the humble work, which he supposes, are about to be erected for the general government, has requested me to recommend him, so far as in my opinion, his merits will justify.

Mr. Clark, as I have been informed, was regularly traded to his profession in England; but on that circumstance I lay very little stress; as I consider the public works which in this city he has planned, superintended, and constructed to be monuments of superior haste, judgement, and skill. From those works: from his drawings; which I have seen; from his activity & attention to business, which I have frequently remarked; from the manner in which he executed his authority; from the attachment and obedience of his workmen; in short, from every thing which I have seen or heard, I do not ( illegible) to declare, that I believe no man on the continent better qualified than Mr. Clark to act in that line, in which he is ambitious of serving the United States.

As I have always considered it my duty, ath the request of my fellow citizens, to give my testimony of those qualifications concerning which I have had the opportunity to judge for myself or to be accurate by informed others I have taken the liberty of addressing you, and have the honour to be with profound veneration.

Your most obedient servant,

A C Hanson

Annapolis

August 2, 1790

2. Alexander Contee Hanson to George Washington

1790/11/10

vol. 6 109

Sir,

Some time ago I did nyself the honor of writing to you in recommendation of Mr. Joseph Clark ofthis city. He still entertains the ambition of being employed in the erection of the public building in the proposed federal city and waits upon you for the purpose of laying before you his plans and proposals. I take th liberty of introducing him to your notice and of repeating, that in my opinion, there is no person in America better qualififed for executing the trust or employment which he solicits.

With profound respect and veneration I have the honor to be

Your most obedient servant,

AC Hanson

Annapolis Nov 19, 1790.

Alexander Contee Hanson Letter

Alexander Contee Hanson Letter Image 2

Aelxander Contee Hanson Letter Image 3