To Alexander Hamilton from William Neilson, 12 November 1798
From William Neilson1
New York, November 12, 1798. “From the conversation we had on the Subject of field Artillery I made several experiments on this metal while at Salisbury.…2 I am now fully persuaded that guns can be made there … even lighter than brass.… I would request some discussion may be had before you leave the Seat of Government.…”
ALS, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
1. Neilson was a New York City merchant and financier and a director of the New-York Insurance Company.
2. During the American Revolution, munitions were produced in Salisbury, Connecticut, from iron mines and forges located in the town.