New York State Library
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Selected Primary Documents on the War of 1812

The New York State Library holds many documentary resources for the study of New York's pivotal role in the War of 1812. Manuscript holdings include diaries, letters, orderly books, pension claim documents, and personal papers. Additional primary documents include contemporary broadsides, maps, printed ballads and songbooks, prints, and newspapers, as well as contemporary published memoirs and histories of the conflict. Secondary resources include published federal and state document sets, genealogical resources, academic journals, and printed histories.

For more documents and books related to the War of 1812, search the Library's online catalog. For access to primary documents call the Manuscripts and Special Collections Research Room at 518-474-6282 or send e-mail to mscref@nysed.gov. For the main library Reference section, call 518-474-5355, or email refserv@nysed.gov.

Manuscripts | Prints | Broadsides | Maps | Broadside Ballads | Published Accounts | Newspapers | NYS Session Laws

I. Manuscripts

NOTE: Be advised there are many collections in the New York State Library that may contain War of 1812-related material but because that material is miniscule compared to the bulk of the collection, there is no mention of it in the finding aids. Depending on your research topic, you may want to look at collections where the date range of the collection precedes and succeeds the dates 1812 to 1814.

Key:

  • A.D. = Autographed document;
  • A.D.S. = Autographed document signed;
  • A.L. = Autographed letter;
  • A.L.S. = Autographed letter signed;
  • D.S. = Document signed.
More acronyms

Account of the Battle of Lake Champlain, September 11, 1814. 2 pages
New York State Library call number: 10

Provides a detailed description of the battle. Included are the names of ships participating, names of naval officers involved and a description of maneuvers executed by the vessels involved. The author is unidentified.

Albany (N.Y.) Common Council. Tribute of Respect to Stephen van Rensselaer, October 31, 1812.
New York State Library call number: 763

A broadside copy of a resolution adopted by the Albany Common Council to pay tribute to Major General Stephen van Rensselaer and the troops under his command for the "gallantry and valor they displayed in the attack upon Queenston Heights" during the War of 1812. The tribute came in the form of a reception at the home of the widow Douw and an escort to Van Rensselaer's home.

Anderson, Elbert, Jr.
Abstract of provisions received in deposit, on account of U.S. under contract of Elbert Anderson, Jr., February 25, 1813. A.D. (printed form) 1 page
New York State Library call number: 13314

The chart indicates "with whom [the provisions were] stored and the condition of the provisions. Items listed are pork, beef, flour, whiskey, soap, candles, vinegar and salt.

See also: Anderson, Elbert. Claims on the United States by the Late Contractor for the State of New-York, &c., for Services during the Late War (New York: s.n., 1824). New York State Library call number: N,973.52,A546

Anonymous.
Adjutant and inspector general office [memorandum book/diary]. 10 pages
New York State Library call number: 14572

This memorandum book (diary) contains brief summaries of encounters between American and British forces between August 12 and November 30, 1813.

Barclay, Thomas. Certificate of exchange of war prisoner Gordon Waterman, "late mate of the American vessel Union." New York, November 9, 1813. D.S. (printed form), 1p.
New York State Library call number: 7204

Thomas Barclay was "his Britannic Majesty's agent for the relief of British subjects detained in the United States of America, and for carrying on exchanges of prisoners of war."

Bathurst, Henry. Letter to Thomas Pelham, 2d earl of Chichester. Brighton, Eng., December 15, 1807.A.L.S. 3 pages (copy)
New York State Library call number: 10806

Discusses prison reform, trade conditions and possibility of war with the United States.

Bellinger, Christopher P., Lieut. Col. Papers. May 11-Aug.28, 1812. 4 items.
New York State Library call number: 13217

Division orders, letters, discharge paper, etc., concerning War of 1812. Includes letters from Gov. D.D. Tompkins and Gen. Jacob Brown.

Bevier, Benjamin. Extracts taken from a copy of the muster rolls of four companies of detached militia commanded by Captains Louis Bevier, Peter van Gaasbeek, Jr., Peter P. Wynkoop, and John Gillespie. October 26, 1819. D.S. 1p. (78 x 24.5 cm.)
New York State Library call number: 8735

The document, signed by battalion commander Lt. Col. Benjamin Bevier, lists the names of the men, their rank, the commencement of and expiration of their service in 1814, and the amount of pay due each man. Also listed are the drum major and fife major attached to Bevier's battalion.

Bishop, Richard W. Papers, 1810-1814. 1 box (0.25 cu.ft.)
New York State Library call number: SC22714

Richard W. Bishop of Columbia, Herkimer County, New York, served in the New York Militia, 29th Volunteer Infantry. The papers include a diary and letters related to Bishop's military experiences during the War of 1812. The diary contains a detailed account of the Battle of Chateauguay, and a letter from Rufus Green to Abigal [sic] Bishop concerning the circumstances of her husband's death.

Bleecker, Harmanus. Letter to Abraham Van Vechten, Washington, D.C., May 4, 1812. A.L.S.
2(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 6140

Bleecker writes he will do what he can to obtain a commission in the army for Van Vechten's son, Philip. Bleecker also writes that he doubts there will be "any vigorous offensive war" and that "the war will soon be over" despite the desire for war on the part of "[t]he western people."

Bleecker, Harmanus. Letter to ____. Washington, D.C., May 18, 1812. A.L.S. 2(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 6141

In commenting on the possibility of war, Bleecker writes that "[w]ar is certainly a dangerous experiment."

Bleecker, Harmanus. Papers, 1715-1872.
New York State Library call number: SC9902, Boxes 3 and 4

This collection documents the life of Harmanus Bleecker and his varied career interests as a lawyer and prominent citizen in Albany, N.Y., a state congressman and the United States charge d'affaires at The Hague. A number of letters written between 1812 and 1814 reference the War of 1812; the letters for those years are in Boxes 3 and 4. Ask a librarian for a copy of the finding aid.

Bleecker, Harmanus. Papers, 1779-1849.
New York State Library call number: SC9578

A small collection of letters, mainly to Bleecker and his business associate, Theodore Sedgwick, covering a wide variety of business, personal and diplomatic affairs. Contains a letter from Sterling Goodenow, Albany, dated December 19, 1812, (A.L.S., 1 page) concerning "army rumors."

Bleecker, John N. Papers, 1704-1870.
New York State Library call number: SC10431

During the Revolutionary War, John N. Bleecker was involved in the removal of cannon and supplies from Fort Ticonderoga. Subsequently he became assistant deputy commissary general of stores and provisions in the New York Department. Bleecker was actively involved in Albany city and county government, serving as city and county treasurer, clerk of the board of supervisors and member of the Committee of Correspondence. Included are letters to and from his son, Nicholas Bleecker, stationed at Fort Richmond, Staten Island, in September of 1812 (Box 1, Items 112, 113 and 114). Ask a librarian for a copy of the finding aid.

Boyd, John Parker. Letter to Stephen van Rensselaer, August 11, 1813, Fort George, N.C. A.L.S.
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 7.

Boyd is writing a letter of introduction about "Lieut. Col. Myers of the British army, a prison of war on parole," saying that from Boyd's "acquaintance with him in England, and knowledge of this gentleman and officer like conduct since his captivity, I feel an assurance that you will take pleasure in shewing him those attentions which are due to a meritorious stranger."

Brown, Jacob Jennings. Letter, November 22, 1812. 3 pages.
New York State Library call number: 1177 (Also, MB/FM,973.309,D285,99-18510, Item 6)

Letter to General Henry Dearborn regarding the recruitment of militia troops to replace those under his command whose tours of duty had expired. Brown makes some suggestions as to how additional troops could be recruited. He also comments on the promotion of several subordinate officers. Written at Ogdensburgh, N.Y.

Clinton County, New York. Documents, ca. 1811-1839. 1 box (0.25 cu.ft.)
New York State Library call number: SC20251

This collection consists entirely of documents related to the history Clinton County 1811-1839. Included is a folder of assorted documents including a "map of the Battle of Plattsburgh." Folders 4-7 contain private papers of Joseph Watson of Washington, D.C., who acted as an agent to obtain documentation against the United States for damages incurred or services provided by various residents of Clinton County during the War of 1812. The documents contain graphic details of the impact of the civilian population of military movements and engagements in Clinton County during the War of 1812. These documents include letters, affidavits, account statements, vouchers, and receipts, dated circa 1813-1818.

DeRidder, Simon. Papers, 1763-1890.
New York State Library call number: SC13302

Correspondence, personal and military, some of which concerns courts martial and military strategy for the War of 1812. Also included are N.Y. State Militia returns for 1803. Ask a librarian for a copy of the finding aid.

Includes a letter from Gov. Daniel D. Tompkins, Albany, June 26, 1812 (A.L.S., 3 pages) concerning the war, and a letter from David Woods, Whitehall, September 9, 1814 (A.L.S., 1(4) pages), both in Folder 1.

Detroit Public Library. Burton Historical Collection. A Notable Gift from General Eisenhower.
Detroit. 1946. Typescript. 7 pages.
New York State Library call number: 11860

Contains Macomb family letters and records, including accounts of Maj. Gen. Alexander Macomb, Jr.'s service in War of 1812 and his description of the White House in 1825.

Dodge, Stephen. Papers, 1812-1813.
New York State Library call number: 22592

Personal copies of records related to Dodge's service in the New York Militia during the War of 1812.

Douglass, John H. Letter, May 8, 1812, New York to William Eustis, Washington.A.L.S. 3(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 16758

"I am still of opinion that the immediate nomination of Madison & Clinton at Washington would secure the election of both to their respective stations that Mr. Clinton & his friends would yet be satisfied by the arrangement that any further delay or division will ensure the election of federal candidates, and that Mr. Clinton will be nominated by several of the republican states in the course of all this month & June – should the administration intend to send out Dispatches to either France or England this summer I should have no objections to be the bearer of them."

Faulkner, James A. Letter, April 20, 1814. 
New York State Library call number: 771

Letter, written at Martinsburg, Virginia, to Virginia Governor James Barbour offering his services as an officer in the Virginia militia. Faulkner states "there is an expectation that the enemy will make an attack on Norfolk this season. I will, if your excellency and the honorable Council of State thinks proper, resume my former command, under the impression that my knowledge of the country and the little experience I gained in tactics would enable me to act with more effect against the enemy, than a person who never was in service."

Fleming, R. Requisition for powder, flints and cartridges "for the use of the Indian warriors."
Buffalo, September 9, [1814?)]. D.S. 2(4)p.
New York State Library call number: 9746

Fort Niagara. Orderly book. Fort Niagara, Nov. 15, 1812-December 16, 1813. Photocopy;
original at New York Public Library.
New York State Library call number: 12279

Contains lists of British prisoners (sheets 50-54).

Gardner, Charles Kitchell. Papers. 7 boxes (3.0 cu.ft.)
New York State Library call number: SC12914

Charles Kitchell Gardner was Inspector General of the Army during the War of 1812. The papers include correspondence, general orders, captured British military papers, an order book of the U.S. Army, Left Division, April 7, 1814-July 24, 1814, regarding the campaign on the Niagara Frontier, and a diary of General Orders, July 27-September 8, 1814, at Kingston, Montreal and Fort Erie.

Diary of general orders, 1814 (Box 1, Folder 12) also available in microfiche (MB/FF 973.52 G226 200-5116).

Orderly book, 1814 (Box 5, Folder 1) also available on microfilm (MB/FM 973.52 G226 206-10018)

Gilder, R., Capt. Letter concerning prisoners of war. Plattsburgh, April 7, 1815. A.L.S. 1(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 160

Harding, Micajah. Subsistence account of Capt. Micajah Harding of Col. Hugh W. Dobbins
Regt. N.Y. Volunteers ... April 1-November 8, 1814.D.S. (printed form) 1 page.
New York State Library call number: 11420

Hathaway, Joshua. Family papers, 1793-1862. 110 items.
New York State Library call number: SC13762

Chiefly correspondence of Joshua and Jay Hathaway, 1806-1850. Included are the papers of Joshua Hathaway while superintendent of the arsenal at Rome, N.Y., 1812-1818, and a statement of muster concerning the War of 1812. Ask a librarian for a copy of the finding aid.

Includes a letter from Gouverneur Morris to Lewis B. Sturges, Morrisania, February 12, 1814, in which Morris discusses peace prospects and the fall of Bonaparte, and criticizes American conduct in the War of 1812. A.L.S., 4 pages. (Item 6)

Herkimer, John. Orderly Book, 1812-1813. 1 volume (216 pages)
New York State Library call number: BD 09

John Herkimer was an officer in New York State Militia. This volume contains general orders related to his command of a battalion of militia volunteers during the War of 1812. His troops were involved in the Battle of Sackets Harbor.

Hoops, Robert. Report of a Meeting with the Seneca Nation Council, July 17, 1812. 4 items.
New York State Library call number: 125

Hoops was sent as an emissary to the Seneca Indians in order to persuade them to remain neutral in the war with Great Britain. The documents relate to Hoops's meeting with the Senecas and their chief, Cornplanter. Two of the documents are speeches: one made by Hoops to the Senecas asking for their neutrality and discussing the circumstances of the war; the other Cornplanter's reply (in Hoops's hand). The third document is a report sent by Hoops to Major Van Campen, dated July 22, 1812, regarding the meeting. The final document is a letter dated May 23, 1836, to Solomon van Rensselaer from Hoops. The letter transmits the other three documents and details the circumstances surrounding their creation for Van Rensselaer.

Irvine, Callender, Commissary General. Statement of cost of army clothing. Philadelphia, Pa.,
October 19, 1812. D.S. (printed form) 4 pages.
New York State Library call number: 4518

Jenkins, Lemuel. Letter to Maj. Gen. Moore. Albany, September 19, 1814.A.L.S. 1 page.
New York State Library call number: 1445

Letter of introduction presenting himself by order of the commander- in-chief as judge advocate of the militia under Moore's command.

Jenkins, Lemuel. Papers. 1812.14 items.
New York State Library call number: 1431-1444

Jenkins served as paymaster of the regiment commanded by Lieut. Col. B.M. Van Buren (First regiment first brigade, detached militia of the State of New York). These documents consist of receipts for pay and supplies.

Lansing, John, Jr. Letter, December 8, 1817, Albany, to Rufus King, n.p. A.L.S. 3(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 14677

Recounts the naval career of his nephew, Edward Antill Lansing, and recommends him for promotion.

Lewis County cemetery record of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 soldiers. N.d. 11 sheets (27 x 19 cm.).
New York State Library call number: 10556

Typed list of names with, for the most part, birth and death dates of soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War (3 sheets) and the War of 1812 (8 sheets). The names are grouped according to the cemetery in which the men were buried.

Lovett, John.

During the War of 1812, John Lovett served as Stephen van Rensselaer's military secretary. He was wounded at the Battle of Queenston Heights.
June 23, 1812, John Lovett, Albany, to Stephen van Rensselaer, Watervliet,  [N.Y.]. A.L.S. New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 4
Writes his thoughts on "the honorable or rash character of the war into which we are plunging," and offers "my humble service to my country in the division of her army to be honored with your personal command in the ensuing campaign."
October 30, 1812, John Lovett, Buffalo, to Stephen van Rensselaer, Watervliet, [N.Y.]. A.L.S. New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77,
Folder 5
Includes comments on the Battle of Queenston Heights.
November 6, 1812, John Lovett, Buffalo, to Stephen van Rensselaer, Watervliet, [N.Y.]. A.L.S. New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77,
Folder 5
Writes about "the scenes of purgatory on the Niagara" and "the motly group of Indians, upstarts, vagabonds, ragamuffins, rapscallions … who poured in."
October 29, 1813, John Lovett, Albany, to Stephen van Rensselaer, New York. A.L.S. New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 7
Writes about the suffering of the troops and mentions the St. Lawrence, Kingston and Sacketts Harbor battles.

McClure, George. General Order to Lt. Col. Samuel Hopkins to order a corporal guard to march down to the provision contractors. N.p., September 27, 1813. A.D.S. 1 page.
New York State Library call number: 12874

McDonald, John. Letter to Martin I. Townsend describing service in the War of 1812. Salem, [N.Y.?], May 6, 1878 [sic]. A.L.S. 4 pages.
New York State Library call number: 9768

Written when McDonald was 84 years old, the letter describes how he came to enlist and his term of service as a member of the "Regimental Band of Musick."

McIntire, Rufus. Letters, 1813-1815. 13 items
New York State Library call number: SC4510

McIntire commanded a company of United States artillery for eighteen months in the campaign in New York and Canada during the War of 1812. The collection consists of letters from Captain Rufus McIntire to John Holmes of Alfred, Maine, who was then a state senator and later a United States Senator and attorney general. The letters were written from various locations throughout New York State during the War of 1812 and describe camp life, developments in the war and military actions with which McIntire was involved. All letters have been transcribed.

McKillip, David. Correspondence, etc. Albany, etc. 1856, 1869-1872. 6 items.
New York State Library call number: 14519

Chiefly concerns pensions of the War of 1812. There is also a letter from a niece in Georgia and a receipt concerning land in the town of Ausable.

Melvill, Th. Letter concerning prisoners of war, Pittsfield, March 26, 1815. A.L.S. 2(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 159

Mooers, Benjamin, Major General. Letter to Brig. Gen. Daniel Wright, ordering him to assemble
the militia, Plattsburgh, August 31, 1814.D.S. 1(4) pages. Four signatures.
New York State Library call number: 6290

Mooers, Benjamin. Letter to Lemuel Jenkins. Plattsburgh, September 26, 1814. A.L.S. 1(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 1446

Mooers is responding to a letter from Jenkins in which Jenkins has offered his services as "a volunteer aid." Mooers says he "will avail [him]self thereof."

Mott, Thomas B. [War of 1812 songs and ballads, 1814-1821]
New York State Library call number: BD11128

Manuscript volume of songs composed by seaman Thomas B. Mott and other U.S. prisoners of war at Melville Island Prison, Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Dartmoor Prison in England, during the War of 1812. Common subjects include prison life and conditions, and the progress of the war. Mott was a privateersman from New York and served on the prisoners' representative committee at Dartmoor Prison.

Muster roll and inspection return of Capt. Benjamin Rudd, company of militia in the regiment detached from the militia of the State of New-York, for the service of the United States, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher P. Bellinger in the 5th Brigade commanded by Brigadier-General Jacob Brown. August 18, 1812. D.S., 1 page.
New York State Library call number: 13234

In addition to the names of officers and privates, the report lists the number of swords, espontoons, drums, fifes, bugle-horns, muskets, bayonets, cartridge boxes, steel rods, scabbards & belts, flings, wires & brushes, knapsacks, rifles, pouches, powder horns, ball-cartridges, loose balls, pounds of powder, and worms the company had on August 18, 1812. The document is signed: Benjamin Rudd, Captain.

New York (State). Adjutant General. General Orders, April 21, 1812.
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 84, Folder 4

"In conformity with instructions from the President of the United States … the Commander in Chief directs that thirteen thousand five hundred of the Militia of this state, including officers, be forthwith detached from" the 40 brigades of infantry, the three brigades of cavalry and the three brigades of artillery. The order goes on to note that "[c]ompanies and troops shall consist, as nearly as may be practicable, of seventy-five men each, officers included, four of these will constitute a battalion or squadron. A regiment of infantry, or artillery is to comprise two battalions; and a regiment of cavalry two squadrons …"

New York (State). Adjutant General. Orderly book, Plattsburgh, August 1, 1814. 1 volume (ca. 170 pages)
New York State Library call number: BD10015

The first 36 pages of this volume contain copies of general orders primarily dispatched from headquarters of the Northern Army at Chazy and Plattsburgh, New York, August 1814.

New York (State). Militia. 9th Brigade. List of men transferred from the 144th Regiment. August 13, 1813. A.D. 1p.
New York State Library call number: 11598

The list includes the men's occupations, the "armes and accoutrements" [sic] (muskets, cart[ridge] boxes, bayonets and bay[onet?] belts) and the place of residence. All but three of the men were from Halfmoon, N.Y.; the other three were from Waterford, N.Y.

New York (State). Militia. Infantry. 2nd Regiment. Muster roll of a company of detached militia under the command of Capt. Thomas Floyd Jones in the 2nd Regiment of the New York State Infantry commanded by Lieut. Col. Daniel Bedell from the 15th November 1814, when last mustered, to the 28th November, 1814 in the service of the United States. Near Fort Greene, November 28, 1814. D.S. 2p. (Photostats)
New York State Library call number: 12305

The "remarks" field indicates who was sick, on guard, or absent without leave.

New York (State). Militia. 18th Regiment. Muster roll and inspection return. July 1, 1812. A.D. 1p.
New York State Library call number: 12413

Other than the list of names, the chart has not been filled in.

New York (State) Volunteers. 71st Regiment. Paymaster. Pay and forage voucher for surgeon's
mate Samuel Howe. D.S.
New York State Library call number: 14486

The payment is for May 1-July 31, 1814. Signed by Howe and by Paymaster P. Adams. The regiment was raised in Ontario County.

New York (State) Volunteers Infantry. 6th Regiment. Payroll, April 6-June 30, 1814. D. (partially printed)
New York State Library call number: 14487

Contains the names of 60 soldiers. The regiment was raised in Genesee County.

New York (State) Volunteers. Infantry. 6th Regiment. Subsistence account, July 26, 1815, for
Lt. Asa Castle.D.S.
New York State Library call number: 14488

Castle served on the Niagara Frontier July 1-August 31, 1814. Signed by Castle and Paymaster P. Adams. Regiment was raised in Genesee County.

Ogden, David A. Letter to Major General Stephen van Rensselaer, Hamilton, N.Y., October 30, 1812.
New York State Library call number: 773

Ogden makes several complaints regarding the lack of defense that the United States government was providing for Hamilton, N.Y., despite the fact that the government stored a significant amount of supplies there. The letter also inquires whether Van Rensselaer was willing to allow the Hamilton Turnpike Company to construct a section of its road through Van Rensselaer's land in exchange for company stock.

Parish, David.

Letter from Parish, in Philadelphia, to Stephen van Rensselaer, in Albany, March 25, 1812. A.L.S.
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 4

Writes that he has heard that the Senate "will vote against the war, & that there is no danger of its taking place."

Letter from Parish, in Philadelphia, to Stephen van Rensselaer, in Albany, June 10, 1813.
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 7.

Writes that "Several [members of Congress] who did not believe in peace when they arrived at Washington have changed their opinions."

Payroll. [photostat]. November 28, 1812. A.D. 1p.
New York State Library call number: 12787

At head of document: "Received from John Gott three dollars & six cents being the amount due to each of us respectively for our back rations including eleven days rations issued in money by the contractor for our transportation home. November 28th, 1812."
The document contains the signatures of 33 men.

At bottom of document: "John Gott and all those who have signed their names to this paper were citizens of the City of Albany, New York State. They were stationed on Governors Island and at the close of the war, they were mustered out of the service, and each one of them was paid the sum [$3.06] set opposite their name respectively."

Porter, Peter B. Letter to Col. Caleb Hopkins. Canandaigua, March 28, 1814.A.L.S. 1 page.
(photostatic copy, in 2 sheets).
New York State Library call number: 11202

Accompanying the letter is a broadside (photostat) of order and address referred to in letter: To the Inhabitants of the Western District (Canandaigua 1814). Concerns raising of corps of volunteers to be brought to Canandaigua for protection of western part of state.

Porter, Peter B. Papers at Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society, 1810-1844.
New York State Library call number: MB/FM,974.797,P847 Reel 1-12

Included are papers of Peter B. Porter related to his activities during the War of 1812.
Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society. Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Peter B. Porter Papers in the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society ([Buffalo, N.Y.]: The Society, 1968) New York State Library call number: R,974.797 qP847b

Prior, John, Lieutenant Colonel. Orderly book (fragment) Sept. 1-13, 1812. D. 3 pages.
New York State Library call number: 4333

Orders detailing movement of Lieutenant Colonel Prior's detachment from Schenectady to Caughnawaga and Little Falls "with ... camp equipage, stores and baggage on board of forty boats."

Rensselaerwyck Manor (N.Y.) Records, 1630-1899
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folders 4-8

Letters addressed to Stephen van Rensselaer, 1812-1815.
A long-time member of the New York State militia, Stephen van Rensselaer led the militia in the battle for Queenston Heights in October 1812.

Robinson, Sir Frederick Philips. Warrant, July 20, 1815, Kingston, [Ontario] to John McGill,
A.D.S. 1 page.
New York State Library call number: 14086

Robinson was acting as major general and provisional lieutenant governor of the province of Upper Canada. Warrant to make a pension payment to Mrs. Frances Murray. Also signed by Edw. MacMahon, secy.

Rolls of British Prisoners Delivered to Capt. Stiegler of the Watterville Regiment, 1815.
New York State Library call number: 157-160

A letter and two rolls listing British and Canadian prisoners transferred for eventual return to the British. The letter details the plans for the movement of the prisoners and their eventual exchange. The two rolls list 355 prisoners. The rolls record the name, regiment and rank of the prisoners.

Thompson, William. Letter Copy Book, 1810-1813. 1 vol. (55 pages)
New York State Library call number: 17618

William Thompson was a journeyman who lived in Watertown and later Champion, N.Y. The letters mainly concern religious reflections. In a letter dated Dec. 19, 1813, Thompson writes "...We have on this lake a small navy consisting of about ten sail, the largest is a brig mounting 14 guns. Our navy have not ventured from the harbor since the declaration of war until about 6 weeks ago and have done nothing except the taking of two small merchant vessels of small value. ... The inclemency of the season will probably cut off all further operations this winter on our northern frontiers and our campaign must be broken up without having affected anything but to brand the American arms with infamy and disgrace." In the letter dated Feb. 26, 1813, Thompson describes Benjamin Forsyth as "...a man killing idiot would perhaps be an unwarrantable aspertion against his character but his conduct has been such as every honest man must condemn, ..."

Tompkins, Daniel. Military commissions signed by Gov. Daniel Tompkins. 1809-1816.
New York State Library call number: 9682

Consists of several commissions signed during the War of 1812, including one for a surgeon's mate.

Tompkins, Daniel D. A.L.S., 10 June 1812, Daniel D. Tompkins to Stephen van Rensselaer.
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 4

The document is a list of the names of cavalry majors Tompkins sent Van Rensselaer, asking him to choose "three whom you will select to command the three squadrons of the Detached Regiment of Cavalry."

Townsend, Isaiah and John
Papers, 1795-1914, bulk 1795-1854
New York State Library call number: SC10441

Isaiah Townsend and his brother, John, were merchants, iron manufacturers and politicians in the Albany, New York, area. Folders 2 and 3 of Box 1 contain letters related to the War of 1812, including instructions, dated October 25, 1814, to agents concerning the slaughtering and packing of cattle and the making of tallow for the northern army of the United States. One letter indicates the Townsends were "contractors for supplies & provisions for the U.S. Northern Army" during the war.

Townsend, John. Letters to Isaiah Townsend. Watertown and Utica, October 25 and 30, 1814.
A.L.S. 2 items.
New York State Library call number: 13315

Concerns supplies.

United States. Army. Infantry. 6th Regiment. Records, 1809-1815. 1 box (0.25 cu.ft.)
New York State Library call number: SC161-222

The 6th Regiment was stationed at Greenbush (1812-1813), Sackett's Harbor (1814), and Champlain (Plattsburgh, 1815). Included are muster rolls, orders, returns, requisitions, accounting records, inspection reports and appointment records of the regiment. These records contain information on individual soldiers such as date of birth, duty activities, and wounds received.

United States. Army. Infantry. 6th Regiment.

Records. 1812-1822. (24 items)
New York State Library call number: 10398 (item 19 is oversize)

Papers relating mainly to recruiting for the 6th Regiment of the U.S. Infantry by Henry R. Wendell [Schenectady, N.Y.].

Includes an agreement signed by Peter Olsaver on April 30, 1812, in Schenectady, "to play on the fife" in the 6th Regiment of the U.S. Infantry [New York State Militia] for 30 days from this date "for the valuable consideration of eight dollars [per] month and one ration [per] day." (Item 3)

Also includes charts (Items 11 and 12) with names of soldiers and their signatures (or, as in most cases, their marks) acknowledging receipt of "several articles of public clothing, arms and accoutrements": hats & trimmings, coats, vests, woolen overalls, linen overalls, shirts, socks, short stockings, pair of shoes, stocks and clasps, blankets, frocks, trowsers [sic]; musket & bayonet, cartouch boxes, swords, knapsacks, canteens, drums, fifes, gaiters.

United States. Department of the Interior. Office of Commissioner of Pensions. Certificate stating Phebe F. Hoyt, widow of David B. Hoyt, is entitled to 40 acres for her husband's service in the War of 1812. November 16, 1854. D.S. (printed form) 1p.
New York State Library call number: 13062

David B. Hoyt was a private in the New York militia.

United States Quarter Master General. Ninth District. Correspondence and miscellaneous
papers, 1813-1818.23 items. A.L.S., A.D.S.
New York State Library call number: 13133

Concerns War of 1812 supplies at Albany, Plattsburgh, Sackett's Harbor, etc. Included is correspondence with Robert Alsop, Elbert Anderson, Jr., Peter Sailly, and Isaiah and John Townsend.

Van Antwerp Family. Papers, 1744-1844.
New York State Library call number: SC10373

Personal and business correspondence of the family. Included are military records of Cornelius Van Antwerp, as an officer during the War of 1812.

Van Rensselaer, Solomon. Letter, Mount Recess, October 29, 1818
New York State Library call number: SC7079, Box 77, Folder 8

Opens the letter by writing: "As General Wilkinson will no doubt touch upon the Battle of Queenston, I wish to give him a fair and candid statement of that affair."

Wadsworth, William. Letter, December 30, 1812.
New York State Library call number: 124

Letter, written at Geneseo, N.Y., to Stephen Van Rensselaer regarding the state of the militia since Van Rensselaer's resignation from command. Wadsworth discusses the epidemic that has affected a large number of the troops as well as a number of the local civilians.

War of 1812 Military documents, 1813-1818. 15 items
New York State Library call number: 16367

A small collection of military documents mainly related to proceedings against delinquents (militia soldiers seeking to avoid service). Papers include:

  • Letter by G. Steddiford to Col. Reynolds, 1813, asking for reports on delinquents in order to try by courts-martial.
  • A record book of disciplinary proceedings against delinquents. Cases evaluated are listed by individual soldiers' names in each company (according to the names of commanding officers). Most records indicate circumstantial excuses (medical, marital, financial and social) and, in many cases, indicate sums of money paid to avoid service or hire a replacement.
  • Group of eight letters and documents from the files of Major N.A. Freeman, Boston, 1813-1816, concerning operations of the Massachusetts Militia.
  • Group of five letters and documents pertaining to operations of the New Jersey Militia, Jersey City, Sandy Hook, and Trenton, 1814-1816, including a letter by Col. Wm. Colfax to Gen. N. Gray about Captain Cook's Cavalry.

Watson, Winslow C., Jr. Papers, 1856-1880.
New York State Library call number: SC21141 (Box 3)

Pension and bounty claims filed on behalf of veterans of war service (War of 1812 and Civil War) by attorney Watson as pension claim agent at Keesville, Essex County, New York. Also some related correspondence and broadsides.

Wedd, Ruby. Sarah Pennoyer [poem]. Richmond Hill, N.Y. [ca. 1958 sic].Typescript.
New York State Library call number: 14052

Poem commemorates Sarah's saving her house from being burned by the British during the War of 1812.

Wendell, Henry R. Orderly book, 1814-1815. 1 volume (ca. 200 pages)
New York State Library call number: BD14775

Book contains true copies of general and special orders dispatched to Lieutenant Henry R. Wendell of the New York State Militia, 6th Regiment of Infantry. The orders indicate his troops were originally garrisoned at Sackets Harbor, New York, but during the summer of 1814 the troops were transferred to Fort Moreau, near Plattsburgh, New York.

Wendell, Henry R. Papers, ca. 1709-1834.
New York State Library call number: SC9831

A large collection of records related to the business and military interests of Henry R. Wendell. Included are papers relating to Wendell's War of 1812 military service. These include correspondence, medical and pension records, company requisitions and orders, inventories and receipts. Ask a librarian for a copy of the finding aid.

Henry Wendell was commissioned as an ensign in the Sixth New York Militia Regiment of Infantry on January 3, 1812, and placed in charge of a recruiting office at Schenectady. In July 1812 he was ordered to close the recruiting station and join Captain George Nelson's company, which was then stationed with other troops at Greenbush. Soon after, the entire command was ordered to the Niagara frontier. Wendell served at Black Rock, Queenston, Lewiston, and Fort Niagara, and later at Plattsburgh and Sackett's Harbor. He was promoted to second lieutenant January 12, 1812, and to first lieutenant March 27, 1814. He stayed in the military until August 1815.

Includes an inventory of barracks citing deficiencies of house, barn and fences, April 20, 1812 (D., 2 pages). Box 3, Folder 45

Item 279 (letter to Henry Dearborn, March 30, 1813) is also available on microfilm MB/FM,973.309,D285,91-18510,Item 9.

Wheeler, Amos. Papers. 1811-1818. 1 box (0.25 cu.ft.)
New York State Library call number: SC20914

Amos Wheeler was a seaman from Stonington (New London County), Connecticut. The papers are related to the seafaring activities of Wheeler, especially when he was on the crew of a private mercantile ship commissioned by the U.S. Navy for military duty during the War of 1812. The papers include letters, diaries, and legal documents concerning Wheeler's capture by British authorities and subsequent imprisonment at Halifax, Nova Scotia. Included are logbooks, inventories, contracts, notes, and other financial records related to voyages of the cargo ships Saratoga, Yankee, Nabby and Young Hornet, as well as affidavits and other legal documents concerned with the indictment of Giles Slocum II for financial losses incurred when cargo ships he chartered were seized by the British.

White, James. Enlistment in the United States Army, May 11, 1813, New York. D.S. (printed
form) 2(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 14573

Wool, John Ellis, 1784-1869. Papers, 1810-1869.
New York State Library call number: SC15361

John Ellis Wool raised and headed a company of volunteers in Troy, New York, and on April 14, 1812, he was commissioned a captain in the 13th Infantry. His troops fought in the battles of Queenstown and Plattsburgh. Between the battles he was promoted to a major in the 29th Infantry on April 13, 1813, and was brevetted a lieutenant colonel on September 11, 1814.

Wool's papers are related primarily to his long and varied career in the United States Army. Included are letters between Wool and his wife Sarah and correspondence with friends, relatives and associates. These letters are invaluable in providing insights into Wool's military career from a personal perspective. Included are correspondence and reports from the War of 1812.

Boxes related to the War of 1812: 1, 4, 7, 21, 22, 24, 47 and 48.

Wylie, David. Letter, December 7, 1813, New York, to John Hamilton, Philadelphia.A.L.S.
1(4) pages.
New York State Library call number: 18523

"... the news reach'd here this morning that Admiral Warren has issued a proclamation at Halifax declaring all the ports in the Sound South of New London to be in a rigorous state of Blockade ... the Sound trade will entirely be done when Neutrals will not be permitted to come in or go out of New Haven, etc. - ..."

II. Prints

[15 images related to the War of 1812 from Harper's New Monthly Magazine]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4432

Dalzell's Night Attack and Defeat [at the Siege of Detroit] (March 1861, page 452); Attack on the Schooner [Pontiac] (March 1861, page 447); Up the Maumee to Turkey Point from Fort Meigs (August 1863, page 291); Battle-Flag of the Twenty-seventh Regiment [of the Maryland Militia] (March 1864, page 445); Indian Camp Taken by Colonel Sibley [Civil War] (June 1863, page 20); Up the Maumee from Maumee City (August 1863, page 293); Winchester's Headquarters (July 1863, page 156); Battle-Ground of River Raisin (July 1863, page 157); The Breakfast on the Prairie [Civil War?] (June 1863, page 13); Put-In-Bay, (August 1863, page [289]); Tippecanoe Battle-Ground (July 1863, page [145]); View at Lundy's Lane, 1860 [sic] (January 1864, page [145]); Ruins of Fort Miami (August 1863, page 290); View at Tippecanoe Battle-Ground (July 1863, page 148); Barney's Spring (March 1864, page 440)

The New York State Library has a paper copy of Harper's New Monthly Magazine (J,051,qH29m) and a subscription to the online version. You will have access to the records for both formats if you search the online catalog on harper's new monthly magazine as periodical title. There are many more images illustrating the articles in the magazine than have been gathered in this collection, including portraits of military men and statesmen. For example, the images in this collection related to the Siege are Detroit are only two of the nine images illustrating the article on the siege. (The portraits in the online version appear to be distorted.)

Attack on Oswego [War of 1812]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4429

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine: Ships in background on right; fort in background on left; soldiers coming ashore in boats and marching toward fort; dead and wounded soldiers in foreground. (January 1864, page 149)

Battle at Sandy Creek [War of 1812]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4430

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine: River winds from foreground to background; man in rowboat in foreground; sailboat in mid-ground; cows grazing to the right of the river. (January 1864, page 151)

Battle of Lake Champlain – McDonough's Victory. (1866)
New York State Library call number: PRI 3709

Engraved from the original painting by Chappel. Macdonough standing on a ship surrounded by men in the throes of the battle; in the background can be seen ships.

The Capture of the Macedonian by the United States. [This print shows the H.M.S. Macedonian and the U.S.S. United States engaged in battle, October 25, 1812.]
New York State Library call number: PRI 5268+

[Images of Thomas Macdonough and of his victory on Lake Champlain]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4434

Two images glued to a sheet of paper. One image is a portrait of Thomas Macdonough, U.S.N., from the painting by Jarvis. The other shows Macdonough standing on a ship surrounded by men in the throes of the battle; in the background can be seen ships.

Last building on the grounds of the Greenbush cantonment where regiments were organized and trained for the War of 1812.
New York State Library call number: PRI 1989

The troops fought on the Canadian border. Print from pen-and-ink sketch by Van Guysling.

M'Donough's Vict[or]y on Lake Champlain. (New York: N. Currier, 1846)
New York State Library call number: PRI 2078

Hand-colored lithograph showing two ships, almost all of a third ship and parts, mostly masts, of several other ships. Includes a few statistics: number of guns on each side (American, 86; British, 95) as well as number killed (American, 52; British, 84) and wounded (American, 58; British, 110).

Macdonough's Victory on Lake Champlain, and Defeat of the British Army at Plattsburg by Genl. Macomb, Septr.11th 1814.
New York State Library call number: PRI 3441+

Macdonough's Victory on Lake Champlain. (S.l.: s.n ., [1856])
New York State Library call number: PRI 3646

Engraved by Peirce from a drawing by A. Hill.

Naval Heroes of the United States. (New York: Nathaniel Currier, pub., 1845)
New York State Library call number: PRI 0943+

Color lithograph of medallion head-and-shoulder images of six naval heroes of the War of 1812; in the center of the plate is an image of the Battle of Lake Champlain. Pictured are Thomas Macdonough, Isaac Hull, Jacob Jones, Joshua Barney, William Henry Allen and Charles Stewart.

[Oliver Hazard Perry and the Battle of Lake Erie]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4433

Two images pasted to a sheet of paper. One is an almost-full-portrait of Oliver Hazard Perry standing in front of a flag. The other shows Perry transferring the flag from the sinking Lawrence to the Niagara. During this stormy passage the hero stood upright in the little boat in the midst of shot and shell and was unharmed

Perry's Quarters at Erie [War of 1812]
New York State Library call number: PRI 4431

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine: Man in foreground approaching two-and-a-half-story building with addition or separate building behind it. (August 1863, page 297)

[Photograph of a painting of Commodore Thomas MacDonough by G. Freeman] (S.l.: s.n., s.d.)
New York State Library call number: PRI 0860

Original in Delord house on Cumberland Avenue, Plattsburgh, N.Y.

Thackara, J. Gazette Extraordinary, or the American Wasp Spoiling Johnny Bull's Frolick [October 15, 1812].
New York State Library call number: PRI 5269+

Cartoon of a wasp eyeing a paunchy Brit; the two ships – Wasp and Frolic – in background. On scroll in foreground: "Gazette Office, London. Distressing Intelligence. It is with extreme pain we announce the capture of his B.M.B. Frolick of 22 guns by an American line of battle ship called the Wasp of …….. 16 guns!!!!! J. Thackara, fec't.

III. Broadsides

Union of the States, Sailors' Rights & Free-Trade. General Republican Meeting. (New York: s.n., [1813])
New York State Library call number: BRO 0986+

To the Inhabitants of the Western District ([S.l.: s.n.], 1814)
New York State Library call number: BRO 1551

Affidavit of Captain Thomas Brownell Relating to Captain J.C. Elliott's Conduct in Battle of Lake Erie (Thomas Brownell, 1813)
New York State Library call number: BRO 1660+

Adjutant-General's Office (New York: Smith & Faimen, Print., 1812)
New York State Library call number: BRO 2591+

British Account of the Capture of the Chesapeake Frigate (Boston, Mass.: British, 1813)
New York State Library call number: BRO 2684

Important: From the Utica Gazette Extra (New Haven, Ct.: Utica Gazette, July 9, 1814)
[Victorious battles against British Merceneries]
New York State Library call number: BRO 2747+

The Lord's Prayer Paraphrased into an Acrostic by Thomas Sturtevant, Jr., a Soldier in the Twenty-sixth Regiment United States Infantry, and a Prisoner of War in the Province of Upper Canada, June 7, 1812. (S.l.: s.n., 1812)
New York State Library call number: BRO 4409

Scenes in the Life of General Scott.
New York State Library call number: BRO 5296+

Consists of images and a narrative summary of war-related events in the life of Winfield Scott during the War of 1812 and the Mexican War, including an image Scott on a horse. War of 1812 scenes: Battle of Fort George; Scott Tearing Down the British Flag; Scott Attacked by Two Indian Chiefs; Scott Addressing the Irish Prisoners; Charge at Chippewa; Battle of Lundy's Lane; Scott Badly Wounded, and Scott Meeting the Irish Prisoners.

IV. Maps

Eddy, J.H. Map of the Straights of Niagara from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, 1813. (New York:
Published by Prier & Dunning, 1813).
New York State Library call number: (74799) 1813 99-6440

Map of the Northern Part of the State of New York Compiled from Actual Survey by Amos Lay, 1812.
New York State Library call number: (747) 1812

Lewis, Samuel. The State of New York. (Philadelphia: M. Carey, 1814).
New York State Library call number: (747) [1814] 99-6409

Plan of the Siege of Plattsburg and Capture of the British Fleet on Lake Champlain, the 11th. Septr. 1814, to Accompany B. Tanner's Print of MacDonough's Victory. ([United States?: s.n., 1814?])
New York State Library call number: (74754) 1814 99-6421

V. Broadside Ballads

Another Glorious Victory. (S.l.: N. Coverly, Jun., [1813])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1658 [photostat]

Re: British Packet Morgiana.

Back Side Albany, or, Battle of Plat-te-bug (Boston: s.n., 1814)                                        )
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 119B

Woodcut illustration of naval action on Lake Champlain. Second ballad on sheet: Jack of Gunea.

Battle of Plattsburgh and Victory on Lake Champlain in Which 14,000 British Myrmidons Were Defeated and Put to Flight by 5000 Yankees and Green-Mountain Boys on the Memorable Eleventh of Sept. 1814. (Windsor, Vt.: Printed for the Flying Booksellers, 1815)
New York State Library call number: V,SCO BRO 1772

The Battle of Queenston …. October 13, 1812. By a Pompey Volunteer. [Geneva: James Bogert, 1812]
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1633A

Brilliant Naval Victory on Lake Champlain: Com. M'Donough Has Captured the Whole British Fleet on Lake Champlain (S.l.: Printed by N. Coverly, Jun., [1814?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1673 [photostat]

Brilliant Naval Victory. Yankee Perry, Better Than Old English Cider. [S.l.: Printed by N. Coverly, Milk-Street, s.p.)
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1662 [photostat]

Capt. Paul Jones's Victory. (S.l.: s.n., [181-?].)
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1665 [photostat]

"Capt. Paul Jones of the ship called the Poor Richard, of 40 guns, took an English ship called the Serapis of 44 & 2 20 gun ship called the Lion, at one engagement."

Capture of Little York, or Dearborn Victorious in Canada. (S.l.: s.n., [1813?]) [photostat]
New York State Library call number: SCO BRO 1674

Capture of Washington. (Boston: Printed by Nathaniel Coverly, Jun., Milk-Street, [1814?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1671 [photostat]

Cash in Hand, Occasioned by the Capture of the British Packet Swallow, by Commodore Rodgers, with 260,000 Dollars, in Gold and Silver on Board. (Boston: Printed by Nathaniel Coverly, Jun., corner Theatre-Alley (S.l.: s.n., [1813?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1670 [photostat]

The Constitution and the Guerriere (Boston: s.n., [181?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BRO 173

A Happy New-Year to Commodore Rodgers, or, Huzza for the President and Congress. A Song Composed on the Arrival of These Frigates in Boston, Yesterday (December 31, 1812,) with a Good Supply of the Ready Reino. ([Boston?], Printed by N. Coverly, Jun., [1813])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1661 [photostat]

Liberty and Peace. A Song. (S.l.: s.n., [1815?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1666 [photostat]

Illustration showing the American eagle bearing shield and banner.

Noble Lads of Canada (Boston: Deming, [181?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BRO 1460

Offset for the Chesapeake, or the Capture of Fort George, and Repulse of the Enemy from Sacket's Harbor (S.l.: s.n., [1813?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1675 [photostat]

Order of Performances at the Third Public Celebration of the Washington Benevolent Society of Massachusetts, April 20, 1814. (S.l.: s.n., [1814?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1656 [photostat]

Order of Performances for the First Celebration of the Washington Benevolent Society of Massachusetts, April 30, 1812. (S.l.: s.n., [1812?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1657 [photostat]

Pat's Observations on Harrison's Victory (S.l.: s.n., [181-?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1664 [photostat]

Re: Harrison, Tecumseh

Peace on Honorable Terms to America, Signed by Our Commissioners at Ghent, Dec. 24, 1814 … Ratified by the President and Senate, of the United States, Feb. 17, 1815. (S.l.: s.n., [1815?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1667 [photostat]

Peace! Peace. Peace between Great-Britain and the United States of America (Boston: Printed by Nathaniel Coverly, [1815?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD1653 [photostat]

Sixth Naval Victory. (S.l.: s.n., s.p.)
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1660 [photostat]

Re: U.S. Brig Enterprize.

Song on Washington's Birth Day, and the Restoration of Peace, February 22, 1815 (Newburyport [Mass.?]: Wm. B. Allen & Co., [1815?])
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1668 [photostat]

Unparralleled [sic] Victory. (Boston: Printed by Nathaniel Coverly, Jun., Milk-Street, 1815]
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1663 [photostat]

Wasp Stinging Frolic, or Engagement Between the American Sloop of War Wasp, of 18 Guns, and the British Sloop of War Frolick of 20 Guns. (S.l.: Printed by Nathaniel Coverly, Jun., [1812?]) (2 copies)
New York State Library call number: SCO BD 1672 [photostat]

VI. Contemporary Published Accounts and Rare Books

Andrews, Charles. The Prisoners' Memoirs, or Dartmoor Prison; Containing a Complete and Impartial History of the Entire Captivity of the Americans in England, from the Commencement of the Late War Between the United States and Great Britain, Until All Prisoners Were Released by the Treaty of Ghent. Also, a Particular Detail of All Occurrences Relative to That Horrid Massacre at Dartmoor, on the Fatal Evening of the 6th of April, 1815. The Whole Carefully Compiled from the Journal of Charles Andrews, a Prisoner in England, from the Commencement of the War, Until the Release of All the Prisoners. (New-York: Printed for the Author, 1815)
New York State Library call number: N,973.5271,A56

Brackenridge, H. M. History of the Late War, Between the United States and Great Britain: Containing a Minute Account of the Various Military and Naval Operations; Illustrated with Plates (Baltimore : Published and sold by Cushing & Jewett, 1818)
New York State Library call number: N,973.52,B79

Brown, Samuel R. Views of the Campaigns of the North-western Army, &c. Comprising, Sketches of the Campaigns of Generals Hull and Harrison, a Minute and Interesting Account of the Naval Conflict on Lake Erie, Military Anecdotes, Abuses in the Army, Plan of a Military Settlement, View of the Lake Coast from Sandusky to Detroit (Troy, N.Y., Printed by Francis Adancourt, 1814)
New York State Library call number: N,973.52,B87

Buel, James W. Behind the Guns with American Heroes: An Official Volume of Thrilling Stories ... Containing Also Many Exciting Reminiscences of Our ... War of 1812 ... (Chicago: International Pub. Co., [c1899])
New York State Library call number: N,973.89,B928,200-4234

Clinton County Military Association. The Battle of Plattsburgh. 11th September, 1814: An Account of the Celebration of the Anniversary of the Battle of Plattsburgh ...(Plattsburgh: R.G. Stone, Republican Office, 1843)
New York State Library call number: N,973.5256,C641,93-19783

Cobbett, William. The Pride of Britannia Humbled, or, The Queen of the Ocean Unqueen'd by "the American Cock Boats" and "the Fir Built Things, with Bits of Striped Bunting at Their Mast Heads" ... / by William Cobbett; to Which Is Added a Glimpse of the American Victories on Land, on the Lakes and on the Ocean with a Persuasive to Political Moderation ... (New York: T. Boyle, 1815)
New York State Library call number: N,973.52,C65pr

Davis, Paris M. Authentick History of the Late War Between the United States and Great Britain ... (Ithaca, Davis & Saunders, 1829)
New York State Library call number: N,973.52,D26a

Documents in Relation to the Difference Which Subsisted Between the Late Commodore O.H. Perry and Captain J.D. Elliott. (Washington : Boston: s.p., 1821 : 1824)
New York State Library call number: N,973.5254,D637

Fay, Heman Allen. Collection of the Official Accounts, In Detail, Of All the Battles Fought by Sea and Land, Between the Navy and Army of the United States and the Navy and Army of Great Britain, During the Years 1812, 13, 14, & 15.  (New York: Printed by E. Conrad, 1817)
New York State Library call number: N,973.523,F28

Granger, Erastus. Public Speeches Delivered at the Village of Buffalo on the 6th and 8th Days of July, 1812, by Hon. Erastus Granger, Indian Agent, and Red Jacket, One of the Principal Chiefs and  Speakers of the Senaca [sic] Nation, Respecting the Part the Six Nations Would Take in the Present War Against Great Britain. (Buffalo [N.Y.]: Printed and sold by S.H. & H.A.  Salisbury, 1812 )
New York State Library call number: V,815.29,G75 (Also on microfiche: MB/FF,810.8,E12,87-028530,no. 25553)

Hough, Franklin Benjamin. A History of St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties, New York, from the Earliest Period to the Present Time (Albany: Little & Co., 1853)
New York State Library call number: N,974.756,H83

Latour, Arsène Lacarrière. Historical Memoir of the War in West Florida and Louisiana in 1814-15 with an Atlas. (Philadelphia: Published by John Conrad and Co. : J. Maxwell, printer, 1816)
New York State Library call number: N,973.523,L35

Levy, Lester S. Grace Notes in American History: Popular Sheet Music from 1820-1900 (Norman : University of Oklahoma Press, [1967])
New York State Library call number: A,784.8,L668

Lossing, Benson J. The Pictorial Field-book of the War of 1812, or Illustrations, by Pen and Pencil, of the History, Biography, Scenery, Relics, and Traditions of the Last War for American Independence (New York: Harper & Bros., [1896])
New York State Library call number: N,973.52,qL88

Melish, John. A Military and Topographical Atlas of the United States; Including the British Possessions & Florida: Comprehending 1. Map and Description of the Seat of War in North America, Including the British Possessions, Accompanied with Small Maps of the Straits of Niagara, of the East End of Lake Ontario, and a Map and Plan of Montreal. 2. Map and Description of the Southern Section of the United States, Including Florida, &c. 3. Map of the American Coast, from Lynhaven Bay to Narraganset Bay. 4. Map of Detroit River and Adjacent Country. 5. Map of Quebec and Adjacent Country; with the Official Documents Relative to the Operations of the British Army in Reducing the Canadas. To Which Is Added, a List of the Military Districts, a Register of the Army, and a List of the Navy of the United States. (Philadelphia: Printed by G. Palmer, 1813)
New York State Library call number: V,912.73,M523,1813

New York (State). Plattsburgh Centenary Commission. Pageant of the Champlain Valley … in Connection with the Centennial Celebration of the Battle of Plattsburgh. ([Plattsburgh? N.Y.: s.n., 1914?])
New York State Library call number: N,973.5256,N532,86-33892

O'Connor, Thomas. An Impartial and Correct History of the War Between the United States of America, and Great Britain Declared by a Law of Congress, June 18, 1812, and Concluded by a Ratification and Exchange of a Treaty of Peace, at the City of Washington, Feb. 17, 1815. Comprising a Particular Detail of the Naval and Military Operations, and a Faithful Record of the Events Produced During the Contest (New York: J. Low, 1815)
New York State Library call number: C,973.52,O18a3

Peterson, Charles Jacobs. The Military Heroes of the War of 1812 with a Narrative of the War (Philadelphia: W.A. Leary, 1848)
New York State Library call number: C,973.509,Ap

Richardson, John. The War of 1812 (London: The Musson Book Co., Limited, [1902])
New York State Library call number: N,973.5241,R52

Sonneck, Oscar George Theodore. Report on "The Star-spangled Banner," "Hail Columbia," "America," "Yankee Doodle" (Washington : Govt. Print. Off., 1909)
New York State Library call number: A,784.71973,S699,92-4039

_____. Report on "The Star-spangled Banner," "Hail Columbia," "America," "Yankee Doodle" (New York, Dover Publications [1972])
New York State Library call number: A,784.4 S69,1972

Thomson, John Lewis. Historical Sketches of the Late War, Between the United States and Great Britain Blended with Anecdotes, Illustrative of the Individual Bravery of the American Sailors, Soldiers & Citizens; Embellished with Portraits of the Most Distinguished Naval & Military Officers and Accompanied by Views of Several Sieges & Engagements. (Philadelphia: Published by Thomas Desilver, 1816)
New York State Library call number: C,973.52,T48

United States. Congress. House. Committee Appointed to Enquire into the Spirit and Manner in Which the War Has Been Waged by the Enemy. Barbarities of the Enemy, Exposed in a Report of the Committee of the House of Representatives of the United States Appointed to Enquire into the Spirit and Manner in Which the War Has Been Waged by the Enemy. And the Documents, Accompanying Said Report. (Troy, [N.Y.] : Printed by Francis Adancourt, 1813)
New York State Library call number: N,973.5241,U582

United States. War Department. Message from the President of the United States Transmitting a Letter from the Secretary of War … Requesting Such Information As May Tend to Explain the Causes of the Failure of the Arms of the U. States on the Northern Frontier, February 2, 1814. (-----)
New York State Library call number: N,040,B,v.108

Viger, Jacques. Reminiscences of the War of 1812-14. Being Portions of the Diary of a Captain of the "Voltigeurs Canadiens" While in Garrison at Kingston, etc. (Kingston: News Printing Company, 1895)
New York State Library call number: N,971.034,V674

"Translated from the French by F.L. Hubert Neilson, M.D. …"

The War [weekly newspaper] (New York: S. Woodworth & Co., 1812-[1817])

"Being a faithful record of the transactions of the war between the United States of America and their territories, and the United kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and the dependencies thereof; declared on the eighteenth day of June, 1812."

Holdings:

  • Hard Copy (N,973.529,qW25) Vol. I-II : June 27, 1812-June 14, 1814, with "Index to the Principal Events…"; Vol. III: June 21, 1814-Feb. 24, 1817 [lacks No. 15. Note in the 1817 issue indicating publication was suspended for a time])
  • Microform (MC/FM,071,E12,84-25695) Microfilm has issues for 2 titles: War (New York, N.Y.) June 27, 1812-Feb 1817; and Military Monitor and American Register, Aug 17, 1812-Nov 6 1813.

Waterhouse, Benjamin. A Journal, of a Young Man of Massachusetts, Late a Surgeon on Board an American Privateer, Who Was Captured at Sea by the British ... and Was Confined First, at Melville Island, Halifax, Then at Chatham, in England, and Last at Dartmoor Prison; Interspersed with Observations, Anecdotes and Remarks, Tending to Illustrate the Moral and Political Characters of Three Nations; to Which Is Added, a Correct Engraving of Dartmoor Prison, Representing the Massacre of American Prisoners; Written by Himself. (Boston: Printed by Rowe and Hooper, 1816)
New York State Library call number: N,973.5271,W32

VII. Newspapers

The New York State Library has paper and microfilm copies of newspapers published between 1812 and 1815. A periodical title search in the online catalog will generally lead to information on whether the State Library has copies of a particular title for a particular date.

Through a subscription to America's Historical Newspapers, researchers at the State Library have access to digital images of these newspapers and more.

VIII. Session Laws of New York State.

The laws passed by the New York State Legislature in a given year are called the session laws. Each bill proposed by a legislator that becomes a law is given a session number, beginning with Chapter 1 each year. The New York State Library has copies of all the war-related and non-war-related session laws passed for the years of 1812 through 1815. Each collection of session laws includes an index for that year and there are cumulative indexes.


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Last Updated: February 9, 2024