![The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Print Collection, The New York Public Library. “Nath [Nathanael] Greene.” New York Public Library Digital Collections.](https://www.thenmusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2025-11-28-at-10.35.07-AM-1.png)
![Artillery in the Snow [at Valley Forge]. National Park Service](https://www.thenmusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/be7f9191-ad2f-40dd-a500-e2d3f5c4d122Original.jpg)
The Patriot army faced serious supply problems when it moved into winter quarters at the end of 1777. To deal with the crisis, Washington appointed one of his proven battlefield commanders, General Greene, to become the Quartermaster General of the Continental Army. Greene proved to be an excellent choice, skillfully reorganizing the supply department and building a solid logistical foundation to support future operations.
"I do therefore Authorise impower & Command you forthwith to take Carry off & secure all such Horses as are suitable for Cavalry or for Draft and all Cattle & Sheep fit for Slaughter together with every kind of Forage that may be found in possession of any of the Inhabitants within the Aforesaid Limits Causing Certificates to be given to each person for the number value & quantity of the horses Cattle Sheep & Provender so taken....All Officers civil and military, Commissaries, Quarter masters &ca, are hereby Orderd to obey and assist you in this necessary business."
Gen. George Washington to Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, 12 February 1778www.founders.archives.gov