The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Jan. 20, 1776

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Gen. George Washington issues orders directing regimental commanders to send their officers into the countryside to purchase any serviceable firearms for their men, as the shortage has become critical.

“The Colonel, or commanding Officer of each Regiment, is forthwith to send out one, or two, prudent and sensible Officers, to buy up such Arms as are wanted for his regiment, These Officers to be also good Judges of arms, and they are directed to purchase none, but such as are proper and in the best repair, and if possible to get them with Bayonets, but not to refuse a good Firelock without—The Officers going upon this duty, are to be furnish’d with Cash, from their respective Colonels, or Commanding Officers, out of the Money designed for the Month’s advance pay, for the Recruits, which money will be replaced as wanted—The Names of the Officers sent upon this business, with Sums advanced them, are to be........

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