I included the preface so that all understand there is some doubt to the authenticity. Personally, I believe it's based on a real life event. Numerous unexplainable events are evident in Washington's life. For instance, he survived numerous close calls with death that seem miraculous when you read about them.
Several bits of evidence which contribute to my belief of the accuracy is the date of the earliest publication (sometime before the end of the Civil war), how well the vision fits the circumstances surrounding, and final outcome, of the Civil war, and finally the named countries involved in the final battle in the vision.
Early copy of Washington's Vision available on-line:
Note date document was recorded (1864). I've read accounts of even early copies but have not found any actual copies online.
The section of the vision dealing with the Civil War:
Again, I heard the mysterious voice say, "Son of the Republic, the end of the century cometh, look and learn." At this the dark shadowy angel turned his face southward, and from Africa I saw an ill omened specter approach our land. It flitted slowly over every town and city of the latter. The inhabitants presently set themselves in battle array against each other. As I continued looking I saw a bright angel, on whose brow rested a crown of light, on which was traced the word "Union," bearing the American flag which he placed between the divided nation, and said, "Remember ye are brethren." Instantly, the inhabitants, casting from them their weapons became friends once more, and united around the National Standard.
Countries involved in the final battle:
"And again I heard the mysterious voice saying "Son of the Republic, look and learn." At this the dark, shadowy angel placed a trumpet to his mouth, and blew three distinct blasts; and taking water from the ocean, he sprinkled it upon Europe, Asia and Africa.
I believe the countries listed may represent Russia, China, and Islam. More to the point, how would anyone living during that particular time frame, have ever foreseen Asia or Africa as a future threat without divine inspiration?
dear amorphus,
i reiterate, I had read that printing of the vision, in the 70’s, in a book of quotes of famous people, that was sitting on a shelf in the base library.
There was no ‘snopes’ then. There was no world wide web then ... DARPAnet, yes. This was when Jane’s books were still the cited reference for anything military.