Hamilton’s Final Act

On July 11, 1804, one of the most infamous duels in history took place, which led to the death of one of America’s Founding Fathers – Alexander Hamilton. The Fenimore marks the 212th anniversary of this tragic occurrence with the new exhibit Hamilton’s Final Act. The exhibit focuses on the letters between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr that led to the eventual confrontation in Weehawken, New Jersey. The museum possesses 34 original documents relating to the events, including original correspondence, drafts of correspondence, and reports. Examples from this collection will be on display.

“These insightful letters offer you the chance to watch the duel unfold through authentic historical documents, once touched by Hamilton and Burr themselves,” said Dr. Paul S. D’Ambrosio, President and CEO of Fenimore Art Museum.

In addition to the letters, the exhibit displays items relating to Hamilton and Burr including a lock of Hamilton’s hair, clipped from his head by his wife on the day he died. Paintings and other personal artifacts will be on view. The exhibit also features painted circles on the museum floor, indicating the exact distance between the men during the final moments of the duel.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.