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Biographical / Historical

Alexander Hamilton, Jr. was the grandson of Alexander Hamilton who was killed in a duel with Aaron Burr. His father, James A. Hamilton, was Secretary of State to President Andrew Jackson and later U.S. District Attorney for southern New York. Alexander Hamilton, Jr. was a lawyer and secretary to the American writer, Washington Irving.

Scope and Contents

Four letters from Hamilton to his father, James A. Hamilton and his sister, Eliza. They are dated 10 July 1832; July 11, 1832; 9 September 1833; and 22 October 1833.

Hamilton wrote the letters while a Cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point. In a letter to his father, dated July 10, 1832, he discusses possibly sexual relationships between male Cadets as "petting" and plans to steer clear of this practice. He also mentions "pets in the Corps" who are "held in great contempt."

Hamilton also mentions cholera outbreaks in New York City, the heavy summer rains, his daily events and academics, his enjoyment of Drawing classes, and inquires after the health of his father, grandmother. He also mentions family and friends, including his uncle William Hamilton, grandmother Eliza Hamilton, and friend Henry McKavitt.

The letters demonstrate a close relationship with his father.

Subjects and Indexing Terms

• Cholera--United States
• College life
• Male college students
• United States Military Academy

General

Some of the letters have pencil annotations, done by an anonymous hand.