Scope and Contents note

Series 2 consists of correspondence and papers relating to the land holdings, merchant business, and military career of William Alexander (Lord Stirling). Letters sent by William Alexander are arranged alphabetically by recipient, except in cases where the recipient is unknown. In those cases, the letters are arranged chronologically. Most of the correspondence in this series consists of letters received by William Alexander. Letters that were not specifically addressed to William Alexander, but which are docketed in his handwriting, are for purposes of this arrangement considered as being addressed to him, and are in Series 2. Letters received by William Alexander are arranged chronologically. Separate folders contain William Alexander's correspondence to and from his brother-in-law John Stevens. At least one letter discusses the sale of slaves. Other frequent or noteworthy correspondents include Thomas Bartow, John Hancock, Peter van Brugh Livingston, and Henry Laurens.

William Alexander's business papers contain accounts, bills receipts, etc. pertaining to his contract to supply General Shirley's 1755-1756 expedition to Oswego during the French and Indian War, and accounts, bills receipts accrued during his trip to London in 1756. Other business papers pertain to William Alexander's interest in the Hibernia mine and Hibernia furnace in northern New Jersey, his interest in the snow Unicorn and his joint business ventures with [Henry] Livingston.

Among the legal papers specific to Series 2 are indentures (1764-1774) of servants to William Alexander.