The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
CultureAmerican
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.8
Not on view
DescriptionOne of collection of 200 silver medals.The 1783 medal: Washington Takes Leave of His Officers
The definitive treaty of peace had been signed on September 3, 1783, and British troops had already left except in New York. Washington issued a "Farewell Address to the Army" on November 2 and on November 3 Congress ordered the army disbanded. The war had lasted eight years.
Following the evacuation of the British, Washington took leave of his officers at Fraunces Tavern in New York on December 4. Tables were laden with food for a banquet but it became more like a funeral. "Such a scence of sorrow and weeping I had never before witnessed, and hope I may never be called upon to witness again," wrote Major Benjamin Tallmadge, Washington's Chief of Intelligence.
Washington paid tribute to his officers and bid them farewell: "With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your later days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable."
He then asked each of his officers to come and take him by the hand. General Henry Knox, his artillery chief during the entire war, came and embraced him, followed by the others, one by one. It was a sad moment; the Cincinnatus of American was departing.
