Letter from James Madison to Thomas Jefferson (1787): Attendance at the Constitutional Convention

by James Madison
  • May 15, 1787

Although Washington initially declined his appointment as a delegate, he was ultimately persuaded to attend the Constitutional Convention. How did the delegates react to Washington’s arrival at the Convention? In what ways might his presence have influenced both the delegates' and public perceptions of the Convention?

By the time of Madison’s letter, many delegates had not yet arrived at the Constitutional Convention. What might this reveal about the delegates’ understanding of their responsibilities and the Convention’s objectives? Beyond Madison’s perspective, what other factors could account for their delayed arrival?
Constitutional Convention

 “From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 15 May 1787,” Founders Online, National Archives. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Madison/01-09-02-0229.

...Monday last was the day for the meeting of the Convention. The number as yet assembled is but small. Among the few is Genl. Washington1 who arrived on Sunday evening amidst the acclamations of the people, as well as more sober marks of the affection and veneration which continues to be felt for his character. The Governor2, Messrs. Wythe3 and Blair4, and Doct. McClurg5 are also here. Col. Mason6 is to be here in a day or two.  There is a prospect of a pretty full meeting on the whole, though there is less punctuality in the outset than was to be wished.  Of this the late bad weather has been the principal cause. I mention these circumstances because it is possible, this may reach you before you hear from me through any other channel, and I add no others because it is merely possible. Adieu.

 

Footnotes
  1. 1. George Washington (1732–1799), delegate from Virginia.
  2. 2. Edmund Randolph (1753-1813), governor of Virginia elected in 1786 and delegate at the Convention.
  3. 3. George Wythe (1726–1806), delegate from Virginia.
  4. 4. John Blair (1732–1792), delegate from Virginia.
  5. 5. James McClurg (1746–1823), delegate from Virginia.
  6. 6. George Mason (1725–1792), delegate from Virginia.
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