To James Madison from John H. Hall, 21 February 1811 (Abstract)
§ From John H. Hall
21 February 1811, Portland. Claims to have made an improvement in the construction of firearms which will increase the strength of the militia. “This improvement I wish to introduce to the notice of the American Government & that those to whose cognizance it more particularly belongs may properly investigate & ascertain its value.… Presuming upon the interest which you appear to take in every thing tending to promote the improvement of the militia I have address’d this letter to you requesting your assistance.” Requests a response.1
RC (DNA: RG 107, LRRS, H-291:5). 1 p. Docketed by a War Department clerk as received 4 Mar. 1811.
1. JM forwarded the letter to the secretary of war, who wrote to Hall on 4 Mar. 1811, asking him to communicate examples of his improvement to gentlemen acquainted with firearms and, if their opinions were favorable, to send them to the War Department for consideration (DNA: RG 107, LSMA).