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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

JAY TO THE EDITOR OF “THE AMERICAN.” - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 4 (1794-1826) [1893]

Edition used:

The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, ed. Henry P. Johnston, A.M. (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890-93). Vol. 4 (1794-1826).

Part of: The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, 4 vols.

About Liberty Fund:

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JAY TO THE EDITOR OF “THE AMERICAN.”

Bedford, Westchester County, N. Y.,
8th January, 1822.

Sir:

On Saturday last I received a printed paper (which I had not before seen), taken from one of the numbers of the American, in these words—viz.:

“We state as a historical Fact, that the present Constitution of this State was actually adopted by the Convention then Sitting at Kingston on Sunday—and the adjournment from the Saturday to Sunday was, if we are correctly informed, on motion of John Jay.”

In 1776 my father removed with his family from Rye to Fishkill. On the 17th day of April, 1777, my mother died there. Notice of that afflicting event was immediately sent to me; I thereupon went without delay from Kingston to Fishkill, where I attended my mother’s funeral, and where (for obvious reasons) I remained some time with my father and family. The Constitution was adopted during my absence from Kingston,—viz.—on the 20th day of that same month of April.

Be pleased to publish this letter in your next paper.

I am, sir,
Your obedient servant,

John Jay.