2009 March Grand Format Rare Manuscripts Auction
| Sale Number: | 6019 |
| Location: | Heritage Auctions - Dallas 3500 Maple Ave 17th Floor Dallas, TX 75219 |
| Auction Date: | March 6th at 11 AM CT through March 7th |
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Session 1
Autographs
Charles, Lord Cornwallis Autograph Letter Signed, "Cornwallis". One page, 7.25" x 8" (sight), September 21, 1771, Culford. Cornwallis apologizes to the unknown recipient for his troubles in resolving a business matter and promises a swift and satisfactory resolution. In part: "You may depend on my doing every thing in my power to settle it to your satisfaction. I am very sorry that you had so much trouble about it." The letter is attractively framed with a hand-tinted engraving of Cornwallis (24.5" x 17" overall).
Charles Cornwallis, 1st Marquess Cornwallis, is best remembered as one of the leading British generals in the American Revolutionary War. His 1781 defeat by a combined American-French force at the Siege of Yorktown is generally considered the end of the war, as the bulk of British troops surrendered with Cornwallis, although minor skirmishes continued for two more years. Later, Cornwallis served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and two terms as governor general of India. Culford Park was the Cornwallis family's country house. Folds and two small tears on the left side, else fine.
Charles Cornwallis, 1st Marquess Cornwallis, is best remembered as one of the leading British generals in the American Revolutionary War. His 1781 defeat by a combined American-French force at the Siege of Yorktown is generally considered the end of the war, as the bulk of British troops surrendered with Cornwallis, although minor skirmishes continued for two more years. Later, Cornwallis served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and two terms as governor general of India. Culford Park was the Cornwallis family's country house. Folds and two small tears on the left side, else fine.
Patrick Henry Land Grant Document Signed "P. Henry," as governor of Virginia. One vellum page, 14.5" x 13", partly printed, Richmond, April 18, 1786, granting James Newport, William Kay, John Shields, John Redman, and Robert McKnight ten thousand acres. Folds as expected, with some light stains. The blind embossed seal has been removed, but remnants of wax remain. Ink a bit light, but still very legible. Overall, near fine.
[Revolutionary War] Benjamin Hickok Autograph Document Signed, a Receipt of Weapons. One page, 6.25" x 7.5", Danbury CT, July 6, 1776. Being a handwritten receipt weapons and other supplies issued to Captain William Hubbell's Company "in Col. Gould Sillick Silliman's Regiment," and signed by Lieutenant Benjamin Hickok. Docketed on verso.
On July 3, 1776, British troops landed on Staten Island. Over a period of six weeks, British troop strength increased to more than 32,000 by the end of August. Meanwhile, General Washington was preparing his men as well as he could under the circumstances. Washington was hampered by the British control of the sea, which allowed them to conceivably attack either Long Island or Manhattan. Washington decided to defend both vulnerable areas, and directed that his troops be suitably outfitted for the looming battles. Three days after the British landed on Staten Island, Lieut. Benjamin Hickok recorded the receipt of: "One Purchased Gun . . . two Purchased Bayonets with Belts and Scabbards . . . and four new Cartouch [sic] Boxes, all and Every of the Above mentioned Articles Rec'd for the Use of my Company." Three days after this receipt was drawn up, General Washington ordered that the newly issued Declaration of Independence be read before the American army in New York, to inspire and encourage them to defend their new nation. Penned on rough paper, the document is in exceptional condition and is perfect for prominent display. Very fine and desirable!
On July 3, 1776, British troops landed on Staten Island. Over a period of six weeks, British troop strength increased to more than 32,000 by the end of August. Meanwhile, General Washington was preparing his men as well as he could under the circumstances. Washington was hampered by the British control of the sea, which allowed them to conceivably attack either Long Island or Manhattan. Washington decided to defend both vulnerable areas, and directed that his troops be suitably outfitted for the looming battles. Three days after the British landed on Staten Island, Lieut. Benjamin Hickok recorded the receipt of: "One Purchased Gun . . . two Purchased Bayonets with Belts and Scabbards . . . and four new Cartouch [sic] Boxes, all and Every of the Above mentioned Articles Rec'd for the Use of my Company." Three days after this receipt was drawn up, General Washington ordered that the newly issued Declaration of Independence be read before the American army in New York, to inspire and encourage them to defend their new nation. Penned on rough paper, the document is in exceptional condition and is perfect for prominent display. Very fine and desirable!
Miscellaneous
[Marquis De Lafayette] Dinner Invitation Issued to Elias Hasket Derby. Partly-printed document completed in manuscript, one page, 6.5" x 8.25". Paris, February 3, 1787. In English. In full: "Marquis de la Fayette's Compliments Wait upon Mr Derby and Begs the Honour of His Company, at Dinner on Monday next. Paris Fe 3th 1787. The favour of an Answer is Requested." The text is contained within a 4" x 6.25" double-bordered printed rectangle. Accompanied by the front panel of the original 4" x 2.75" envelope, addressed in an unknown hand to "Monsieur Derby" in Paris. Fine condition.
Also included in this lot is a partly-printed Document Signed "Jos. Hiller" as Naval-Officer, one page, 12.5" x 7.5". Salem, December 6, 1787. A "Bill of Health" for Elias Hasket Derby's ship Grand Turk bound for the Isle of France (today, Mauritius). This document certifies "there is not in the said Port of Salem any Pestilence or contagious Distemper whatever." Fine embossed Naval Office seal at left. Joseph Hiller (1748-1814) was a silversmith when he enlisted to fight in the Revolutionary War, rising to major. In 1789, President George Washington appointed Hiller the first Collector of the Port of Salem; he served until 1803. Fine condition with professional repair to top right corner.
American merchant and ship owner Elias Hasket Derby (1739-1799) of Salem, Massachusetts is often referred to as America's first millionaire. He actively engaged his fleet of ships in privateering during the American Revolution. Derby's business continued to prosper after the war as he actively explored new trade routes; he was instrumental in opening American trade to the Indian Ocean and China.
Also included in this lot is a partly-printed Document Signed "Jos. Hiller" as Naval-Officer, one page, 12.5" x 7.5". Salem, December 6, 1787. A "Bill of Health" for Elias Hasket Derby's ship Grand Turk bound for the Isle of France (today, Mauritius). This document certifies "there is not in the said Port of Salem any Pestilence or contagious Distemper whatever." Fine embossed Naval Office seal at left. Joseph Hiller (1748-1814) was a silversmith when he enlisted to fight in the Revolutionary War, rising to major. In 1789, President George Washington appointed Hiller the first Collector of the Port of Salem; he served until 1803. Fine condition with professional repair to top right corner.
American merchant and ship owner Elias Hasket Derby (1739-1799) of Salem, Massachusetts is often referred to as America's first millionaire. He actively engaged his fleet of ships in privateering during the American Revolution. Derby's business continued to prosper after the war as he actively explored new trade routes; he was instrumental in opening American trade to the Indian Ocean and China.
Autographs
Marquis de Lafayette Autograph Endorsement Signed. Two page holographic document, front and verso, 8.25" x 12.75", August 6, 1830, Paris, in French. The document is a request by Adolphe Forel to His Excellency the Secretary of the Interior to be named to the sub-prefecture of Remiremont (Département of the Vosges). The document is endorsed by a relative of Forel's, Georges Mouton, comte de Lobau, a senior aide-de-camp to Emperor Napoleon I and political figure who rose to the rank of Marshal of France. Lafayette's endorsement, like Lobau's, is on the front page and reads (in translation) "I join with [illegible] the recommendation of my colleague. The [illegible] and merits of Mr. Forel are well known to me. I have had close relations with him in less happy times and I consider it my duty and pleasure to express my [illegible] for him. Lafayette." Water stain on left edge, aged masking tape on extreme edges all around the verso, some mild toning and light wrinkling, otherwise good condition.
Gilbert du Motier, the marquis de la Fayette, was a French military officer and aristocrat who participated in both the American and French revolutions. Lafayette served in the American Revolutionary War both as a general and as a diplomat becoming an intimate associate of George Washington. He served entirely without pay in both roles, which he was able to do due to his family's immense wealth as feudal landowners. Later, he was to prove a key figure in the early phases of the French Revolution, serving in the Estates General and the subsequent National Constituent Assembly. He was a leading figure among the Feuillants, who tried to turn France into a constitutional monarchy, and commander of the French National Guard.
Accused by Jean-Paul Marat of responsibility for the Massacre of the Champ de Mars, Lafayette was subsequently forced out of a leading role in the Revolution by Jacobin-Terror anarchists. In August 1792 the Jacobin party seized control of Paris and the National Assembly, ordering Lafayette's arrest. He fled France and was arrested by the Austrian Army in Rochefort, Belgium. Thereafter, he spent five years in various Prussian and Austrian prisons. He was eventually released in 1797; however, Napoleon did not want Lafayette to return to France and hoped he would live in the United States. After three years in exile Lafayette quietly returned to France and continued to be active in French and European politics until his death in 1834.
Gilbert du Motier, the marquis de la Fayette, was a French military officer and aristocrat who participated in both the American and French revolutions. Lafayette served in the American Revolutionary War both as a general and as a diplomat becoming an intimate associate of George Washington. He served entirely without pay in both roles, which he was able to do due to his family's immense wealth as feudal landowners. Later, he was to prove a key figure in the early phases of the French Revolution, serving in the Estates General and the subsequent National Constituent Assembly. He was a leading figure among the Feuillants, who tried to turn France into a constitutional monarchy, and commander of the French National Guard.
Accused by Jean-Paul Marat of responsibility for the Massacre of the Champ de Mars, Lafayette was subsequently forced out of a leading role in the Revolution by Jacobin-Terror anarchists. In August 1792 the Jacobin party seized control of Paris and the National Assembly, ordering Lafayette's arrest. He fled France and was arrested by the Austrian Army in Rochefort, Belgium. Thereafter, he spent five years in various Prussian and Austrian prisons. He was eventually released in 1797; however, Napoleon did not want Lafayette to return to France and hoped he would live in the United States. After three years in exile Lafayette quietly returned to France and continued to be active in French and European politics until his death in 1834.
Philip Schuyler Draft Autograph Letter to George Washington. Eight pages, two sided, 7.25" x 12", n.p. [Morristown, NJ], May 28, 1780. Following a severe winter and devastating losses by American forces at Charleston, Philip Schuyler resigned from his position as one of the four major generals in the Continental Army, a position he'd held for five years. He continued to serve, however, as a U.S. Senator from New York and a regular correspondent with General Washington, sharing the latest intelligence and offering strategic advice on troop movements and military tactics. Schuyler drafted this lengthy letter in that same vein, offering fascinating insight into the many considerations that must be taken into account in fighting the British. Penned in draft form and unsigned, the letter is filled with corrections and strikeouts, and is so poorly penned as to be nearly indecipherable.
The final copy of this letter is held in the George Washington Papers at the Library of Congress (Series 3f Varick Transcripts), and it reveals that Schuyler has gone to such lengths to enumerate his thoughts and suggestions because he was specifically asked to by General Washington. From the final copy, Schuyler open his letter thusly: "The queries which your Excellency has stated, and on which you have done me the honor to request my opinion, are on a subject so exceedingly Interesting and Important that I feel my inability to consider it is extensive. As you wish, I shall, however, attempt to state my Ideas on the occasion, and to regard it in every point of view I am able."
The previous month, the British had begun their attack on Fort Moultrie at Charleston; on May 6, 1780, British forces captured Charleston and its 5400-man garrison, along with four American ships and a military arsenal. It was this hopeless situation at Charleston to which Schuyler first turns his attention. He begins: "To save Charles Town to prevent the garrison falling into the hands of the Enemy . . . and expose the British to risk the loss of their Army are objects of such great magnitude that I should not hesitate . . . to advise commencing our operations in the Southern Quarter." However, Schuyler realized the futility of attempting to overcome the British to retake Charleston, and related his doubts to Washington: "In preparing the Transports for the reception of the horses . . . in procuring the necessary provisions for these troops (supposing it procurable) and in completing the voyage to Charles Town that it appears . . . certain either the town would be reduced before our force could arrive . . . or the siege be raised . . . I doubt whether the force we could send would be sufficient to act with any probable prospect of success either for the recovery of the Town or in an attack."
Schuyler then goes on to suggest that, rather than expend time and energy sending troops south to Charlestown to engage in what appeared to be a fruitless endeavor, Washington should instead focus his energy on making an unexpected move against the British at New York, which was the political and military center of British operations in North America at the time. Schuyler discusses the pros and cons of his plan to move troops and naval transports into Sandy Hook bay, and reminds Washington that "[We] probably risk losing by operating in the first instance to the southward. . . . In preference have a march on N. York . . . equal time will be lost . . . whether we operate here or go South. Yet much time will be otherwise saved as no provisions need be made for Transports of horses." Schuyler then considers the possibility of assistance from the French in that endeavor: "But admitting the French troops are to come up the Sound, provision must be made for dislodging the Enemy from Staten Island. . . . The remainder of the Army now in this quarter . . . can be put in position [on] the North river and occupy the heights between [unintelligible] & Kings Ferry from whence the troops move being provided with crafts down the river and or cover of a Frigate or two to be sent from the fleet. . . . It is to be observed that if our forces together with the French . . . scarcely number that of the Enemy, a division of it may expose us to a patent disaster, as they may easily combine . . . either on Long or York Island and make a push at us."
This outstanding draft letter is moderately age toned and bears minor damage to folds on the final two pages. Docketed in an unknown hand on the verso of the last page. Incredible military content connecting two of our greatest Revolutionary War leaders!
The final copy of this letter is held in the George Washington Papers at the Library of Congress (Series 3f Varick Transcripts), and it reveals that Schuyler has gone to such lengths to enumerate his thoughts and suggestions because he was specifically asked to by General Washington. From the final copy, Schuyler open his letter thusly: "The queries which your Excellency has stated, and on which you have done me the honor to request my opinion, are on a subject so exceedingly Interesting and Important that I feel my inability to consider it is extensive. As you wish, I shall, however, attempt to state my Ideas on the occasion, and to regard it in every point of view I am able."
The previous month, the British had begun their attack on Fort Moultrie at Charleston; on May 6, 1780, British forces captured Charleston and its 5400-man garrison, along with four American ships and a military arsenal. It was this hopeless situation at Charleston to which Schuyler first turns his attention. He begins: "To save Charles Town to prevent the garrison falling into the hands of the Enemy . . . and expose the British to risk the loss of their Army are objects of such great magnitude that I should not hesitate . . . to advise commencing our operations in the Southern Quarter." However, Schuyler realized the futility of attempting to overcome the British to retake Charleston, and related his doubts to Washington: "In preparing the Transports for the reception of the horses . . . in procuring the necessary provisions for these troops (supposing it procurable) and in completing the voyage to Charles Town that it appears . . . certain either the town would be reduced before our force could arrive . . . or the siege be raised . . . I doubt whether the force we could send would be sufficient to act with any probable prospect of success either for the recovery of the Town or in an attack."
Schuyler then goes on to suggest that, rather than expend time and energy sending troops south to Charlestown to engage in what appeared to be a fruitless endeavor, Washington should instead focus his energy on making an unexpected move against the British at New York, which was the political and military center of British operations in North America at the time. Schuyler discusses the pros and cons of his plan to move troops and naval transports into Sandy Hook bay, and reminds Washington that "[We] probably risk losing by operating in the first instance to the southward. . . . In preference have a march on N. York . . . equal time will be lost . . . whether we operate here or go South. Yet much time will be otherwise saved as no provisions need be made for Transports of horses." Schuyler then considers the possibility of assistance from the French in that endeavor: "But admitting the French troops are to come up the Sound, provision must be made for dislodging the Enemy from Staten Island. . . . The remainder of the Army now in this quarter . . . can be put in position [on] the North river and occupy the heights between [unintelligible] & Kings Ferry from whence the troops move being provided with crafts down the river and or cover of a Frigate or two to be sent from the fleet. . . . It is to be observed that if our forces together with the French . . . scarcely number that of the Enemy, a division of it may expose us to a patent disaster, as they may easily combine . . . either on Long or York Island and make a push at us."
This outstanding draft letter is moderately age toned and bears minor damage to folds on the final two pages. Docketed in an unknown hand on the verso of the last page. Incredible military content connecting two of our greatest Revolutionary War leaders!
John Sullivan Document Signed. One page, 8.25" x 4", "Wyoming Head Quarters July 17th, 1779." On May 31, 1779, General George Washington ordered General John Sullivan to launch a campaign "against the hostile tribes of the Six Nations of Indians, with their associates and adherents. The immediate objects are the total destruction and devastation of their settlements." The resulting campaign, much of it in and around Pennsylvania's Wyoming Valley, was known as the Sullivan Expedition, a scorched-earth campaign against the Iroquois towns that had taken up arms against the American revolutionaries.
Here, Sullivan writes to Quartermaster John Davis regarding horses and supplies for his troops. In part: "Dear Sir, Being informed that a number of Horses are arrived loaded with provisions at Sunbury from Carlisle, I request that the Horses with the Provisions be sent on and in the Detachment for this place." Signed "Jno Sullivan." Document is lightly age toned with a faint wax seal stain. Matted and framed to an overall size of 13" x 9".
Here, Sullivan writes to Quartermaster John Davis regarding horses and supplies for his troops. In part: "Dear Sir, Being informed that a number of Horses are arrived loaded with provisions at Sunbury from Carlisle, I request that the Horses with the Provisions be sent on and in the Detachment for this place." Signed "Jno Sullivan." Document is lightly age toned with a faint wax seal stain. Matted and framed to an overall size of 13" x 9".
[Battle of Rhode Island] John Sullivan Document Signed and Signature. Two pages, front and verso, 8" x 13", February 19, 1779, Providence [Rhode Island]. Also, a 4.75" x 8" sheet signed "John Sullivan's". The document is a request for payment of "five hundred and eighty three Pounds, Seventeen Shillings and two pence" for rations for "Col. James Livingston's Regiment". The payment covers the rations for the period from July 23, 1778 to October 31. 1778, that includes the August 29, 1778, Battle of Rhode Island (also known as the Battle of Quaker Hill). Colonel Livingston's regiment, the 1st Canadian Regiment, recruited in Quebec for the invasion of Canada along with other units of the Continental Army, attempted to recapture the island of Rhode Island (now known as Aquidneck Island), from British forces. The battle ended inconclusively, but the Continental Army had to give up its goal of capturing the island and securing Narragansett Bay for American and French ship traffic. Modest toning and soiling, with folds, else near fine.
John Sullivan, an American major-general in the Revolutionary War and a delegate in the Continental Congress. He served as president of New Hampshire. His military record is mixed with the failed invasion of Canada, the Battle of Trenton, and the Battle of Long Island. He led a failed attempt to retake Staten Island, followed by American losses at Brandywine and Germantown. In early 1778 he was transferred to the unimportant post of Rhode Island where he commanded the unsuccessful Battle of Rhode Island in August 1778. In the summer of 1779, Sullivan led the Sullivan Expedition, a massive campaign against the Iroquois in western New York. Sullivan retired from the Army in 1779 and returned to New Hampshire.
John Sullivan, an American major-general in the Revolutionary War and a delegate in the Continental Congress. He served as president of New Hampshire. His military record is mixed with the failed invasion of Canada, the Battle of Trenton, and the Battle of Long Island. He led a failed attempt to retake Staten Island, followed by American losses at Brandywine and Germantown. In early 1778 he was transferred to the unimportant post of Rhode Island where he commanded the unsuccessful Battle of Rhode Island in August 1778. In the summer of 1779, Sullivan led the Sullivan Expedition, a massive campaign against the Iroquois in western New York. Sullivan retired from the Army in 1779 and returned to New Hampshire.
Benjamin Tallmadge Inscribed and Signed Pamphlet, "B. Tallmadge". The document is a 32 page pamphlet (including paper covers), 6" x 9.25", untrimmed, entitled, "An Oration, Spoken at Hartford, in the State of Connecticut on the Anniversary of American Independence, July 4, 1798" by Theodore Dwight. Tallmadge's signature is in the upper right corner of the cover. Tallmadge, a graduate of Yale college in 1773, was a classmate of Nathan Hale. During the American Revolution, Tallmadge was promoted to the rank of colonel and became the chief intelligence officer for George Washington. Major John André, Benedict Arnold's captured British contact, was placed in Tallmadge's custody until Andre's execution. After the war, Tallmadge served first as treasurer and eventually as secretary of the Society of the Cincinnati. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from 1801-1817 as a member of the Federalist Party. Tradition has it that Tallmadge was considered one of the most handsome men of the American Revolution. Water staining, toning, and chipping at the uncut edges, else very good.
[Revolutionary War] Henry Ward Manuscript Document Signed as Rhode Island Secretary of State. One page, two sided, 7.5" x 11.75", Rhode Island, February 1779. Henry Ward, of Newport, was Rhode Island's secretary of state from 1760 to 1797, at which time he signed this unusual civic directive.
Outstanding document from the papers of the General Assembly of Rhode Island, which discuss the purchase and supply of grain for the residents of 14 towns, the money for which is to be raised by the townsfolk. In part: "It is therefore Resolved that the Several Towns hereinafter mentioned be and they are hereby empowered to raise the sums of Money set against each town, or any part thereof, in such manner as they shall thing proper [sic] and pay the same to the said John Updike within fifteen Days after the rising of this Assembly." The document goes on to name those towns now tasked with raising money to purchase much-needed grain in a time of great shortage and sacrifice, including: Providence, Greenwich, Bristol, Westerly, Charles Town, and Warwick. The document is signed by Ward as a witness on verso, and bears a few period ink stains. Lightly age toned and in fine condition, this interesting item would make a fine addition to any Revolutionary War collection.
Outstanding document from the papers of the General Assembly of Rhode Island, which discuss the purchase and supply of grain for the residents of 14 towns, the money for which is to be raised by the townsfolk. In part: "It is therefore Resolved that the Several Towns hereinafter mentioned be and they are hereby empowered to raise the sums of Money set against each town, or any part thereof, in such manner as they shall thing proper [sic] and pay the same to the said John Updike within fifteen Days after the rising of this Assembly." The document goes on to name those towns now tasked with raising money to purchase much-needed grain in a time of great shortage and sacrifice, including: Providence, Greenwich, Bristol, Westerly, Charles Town, and Warwick. The document is signed by Ward as a witness on verso, and bears a few period ink stains. Lightly age toned and in fine condition, this interesting item would make a fine addition to any Revolutionary War collection.
Miscellaneous
[Henry Ward] Rhode Island Revolutionary War Broadside. One page, one sided, 8.75" x 13.75", Providence Plantations, July 2, 1780. With the publication and distribution of this broadside, the General Assembly of the state of Rhode Island notified its citizens of "An Act for proportioning, upon the several Towns within this State, the monthly Supplies to be raised for the Support of the Army." The notice goes on to document the minimum amount of supplies to be raised by each municipality. It states, in part: "Be it therefore Enacted by the General Assembly . . . that the following Towns . . . shall monthly supply the Commissary-General of Purchases of the State with the Quantity of Seventy-one Thousand Six Hundred and Seventy-five Pounds Weight of good merchantable Beef, and Two Thousand Two Hundred and Eighty-five Bushels of good merchantable Indian Corn, Rye, Oats, or Barley, for and during the Months of July, August, September, and October." The notice then details the various fines and/or punishments to be meted out should one of the towns mentioned fail to raise the required supplies. Document is signed in print by Henry Ward, as Rhode Island Secretary of State. Moderate age toning, with a few small chips along the edges. Lengthy docketing on verso. Generally fine and perfect for prominent display!
[Henry Ward] Rhode Island Revolutionary War Broadside. One page, 6.5" x 8.75", Providence Plantations, February 1782. Issued in response to military recruitment bounties and the misuse thereof, Rhode Island Secretary of State Henry Ward issued this small broadside which states, in part: "Whereas great Frauds have been committed, and the recruiting Service greatly injured, by designing Persons engaging Recruits for the Continental Service, whereby they were enabled to receive the Bounties, and to convert the Whole or the greater Part thereof to their own use." The notice goes on to say that the penalty for such abuse of recruitment bounties would result in the "Penalty of Ninety Pounds Lawful Money." In addition, the order states "That the officers in the Continental Battalions, and all other Persons, are hereby called upon to give information to lawful Authority, of any Person guilty of a Breach of this Act." Signed in print by Henry Ward as Rhode Island Secretary of State. Minor water stains along right edge; two moderate chops along left edge. Ink bleedthrough from docketing on verso. A rare Revolutionary War broadside in very good condition.
Autographs
Joseph Warren Partly Printed Document Signed as chairman of the Committee of Correspondence. One page, 8" x 9", Cambridge, Massachusetts, April 21, 1775. An American doctor and soldier, Joseph Warren is best remembered as an important Boston patriot, and for his death as a volunteer private soldier while also serving as chief executive of the revolutionary Massachusetts government.
As Boston's conflict with the British government came to a head in 1773-75, Warren was appointed to the Suffolk Committee of Correspondence. These committees were organized by the local governments of the original thirteen colonies for the purpose of coordinating written communication outside of the colony. They served an important role by disseminating the colonial interpretation of British actions to foreign governments, by rallying opposition on common causes, and by establishing plans for collective action against British rule. These committees were the beginnings of a formal political union among the colonies.
While serving as Chairman of the Suffolk County Committee of Correspondence, Warren drafted the Suffolk Resolves which denounced the Intolerable Acts, or Coercive Acts, that had recently been passed by the British Parliament. Warren's well-received proclamation specifically resolved to boycott British imports, curtail exports, and refuse to use British products; to pay "no obedience" to the Massachusetts Government Act or the Boston Port Bill; to demand resignations from those appointed to positions under the Massachusetts Government Act; to refuse payment of taxes until the Massachusetts Government Act was repealed; to support a colonial government in Massachusetts free of royal authority until the Intolerable Acts were repealed; and to urge the colonies to raise militias of their own people. With the success of the Suffolk Resolves, Warren was appointed president of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, the highest position in the revolutionary government.
On April 18, 1775, after receiving intelligence about British troop movements, Warren sent William Dawes and Paul Revere on their famous "Midnight Rides" to warn Hancock and Adams in Lexington about the approaching troops. Warren slipped out of Boston early the following morning, and during that day's Battle at Lexington and Concord, he coordinated and led militia into the fight. During this fierce battle Warren was nearly killed, a musket ball striking part of his wig.
He then turned to recruiting and organizing soldiers for the Siege of Boston, and true to the Suffolk Resolves, prepared this partly-printed directive to local resistance leaders empowering them to raise a militia. It reads, in full: "In Committee of Safety; Cambridge, Apr. 21st 1775. To Sir, You are hereby empowered immediately to inlist [sic] a Company, to consist of 56 able-bodied and effective Men, including Serjeants [sic], as Soldiers in the Massachusetts Service, for the Preservation of American Liberty; and cause them to pass Muster as soon as possible. Jos. Warren, Chairman."
Two months later, Warren was appointed a Major General by the Provincial Congress. His commission had not yet taken effect when the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought. But never willing to let others do his own fighting, Warren served as a volunteer private against the wishes of General Israel Putnam and Colonel William Prescott, who requested that he serve as their commander. Taunting the British, Warren reportedly declared: "These fellows say we won't fight! By Heaven, I hope I shall die up to my knees in blood!" Warren fought valiantly, remaining until the British made their third and final assault on the hill, when he was killed instantly by a musket shot to the head, fired by British Captain Walter Laurie, who later claimed that he "stuffed the scoundrel with another rebel into one hole, and there he and his seditious principles may remain." Warren's body was exhumed ten months later by his brothers and Paul Revere, who identified the remains by an artificial tooth, making this possibly the first recorded instance of post-mortem identification by forensic odontology in America.
This important Revolutionary document is moderately age toned and brittle, with many chips along the edges and a few small areas of separation at fold edges. Framed and matted to an overall size of 14" x 16". Very good condition and very desirable!
As Boston's conflict with the British government came to a head in 1773-75, Warren was appointed to the Suffolk Committee of Correspondence. These committees were organized by the local governments of the original thirteen colonies for the purpose of coordinating written communication outside of the colony. They served an important role by disseminating the colonial interpretation of British actions to foreign governments, by rallying opposition on common causes, and by establishing plans for collective action against British rule. These committees were the beginnings of a formal political union among the colonies.
While serving as Chairman of the Suffolk County Committee of Correspondence, Warren drafted the Suffolk Resolves which denounced the Intolerable Acts, or Coercive Acts, that had recently been passed by the British Parliament. Warren's well-received proclamation specifically resolved to boycott British imports, curtail exports, and refuse to use British products; to pay "no obedience" to the Massachusetts Government Act or the Boston Port Bill; to demand resignations from those appointed to positions under the Massachusetts Government Act; to refuse payment of taxes until the Massachusetts Government Act was repealed; to support a colonial government in Massachusetts free of royal authority until the Intolerable Acts were repealed; and to urge the colonies to raise militias of their own people. With the success of the Suffolk Resolves, Warren was appointed president of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, the highest position in the revolutionary government.
On April 18, 1775, after receiving intelligence about British troop movements, Warren sent William Dawes and Paul Revere on their famous "Midnight Rides" to warn Hancock and Adams in Lexington about the approaching troops. Warren slipped out of Boston early the following morning, and during that day's Battle at Lexington and Concord, he coordinated and led militia into the fight. During this fierce battle Warren was nearly killed, a musket ball striking part of his wig.
He then turned to recruiting and organizing soldiers for the Siege of Boston, and true to the Suffolk Resolves, prepared this partly-printed directive to local resistance leaders empowering them to raise a militia. It reads, in full: "In Committee of Safety; Cambridge, Apr. 21st 1775. To Sir, You are hereby empowered immediately to inlist [sic] a Company, to consist of 56 able-bodied and effective Men, including Serjeants [sic], as Soldiers in the Massachusetts Service, for the Preservation of American Liberty; and cause them to pass Muster as soon as possible. Jos. Warren, Chairman."
Two months later, Warren was appointed a Major General by the Provincial Congress. His commission had not yet taken effect when the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought. But never willing to let others do his own fighting, Warren served as a volunteer private against the wishes of General Israel Putnam and Colonel William Prescott, who requested that he serve as their commander. Taunting the British, Warren reportedly declared: "These fellows say we won't fight! By Heaven, I hope I shall die up to my knees in blood!" Warren fought valiantly, remaining until the British made their third and final assault on the hill, when he was killed instantly by a musket shot to the head, fired by British Captain Walter Laurie, who later claimed that he "stuffed the scoundrel with another rebel into one hole, and there he and his seditious principles may remain." Warren's body was exhumed ten months later by his brothers and Paul Revere, who identified the remains by an artificial tooth, making this possibly the first recorded instance of post-mortem identification by forensic odontology in America.
This important Revolutionary document is moderately age toned and brittle, with many chips along the edges and a few small areas of separation at fold edges. Framed and matted to an overall size of 14" x 16". Very good condition and very desirable!
[Revolutionary War: Battle of Ridgefield] Major General David Wooster Letter Signed. Two pages including integral address leaf, written on recto of first page only, 6.25" x 7.5", "Reading, 26th April, 1777, 5 o Clock a.m." An American general in the American Revolutionary War, David Wooster died on April 27, 1777, while commanding American forces during the Battle of Ridgefield, Connecticut, near the modern-date city of Danbury.
In preparation for an engagement Major General William Tyron's British forces at Ridgefield, Major General Wooster sent this brief letter to "Brigadier Gen. Wadsworth at Dunham," advising him of the enemy's movements and ordering additional troops for a battle which was to commence the following day. It reads, in full: "I am just arrived here with six hundred Men, the Enemy passed thro [sic] here at 1 o Clock this afternoon, their numbers, from the best [illegible] are about two thousand. We have every reason to apprehend they will destroy our Magazine at Danbury as there is very few Men there. It is thought they will return this way or take the road leading to Norwalk as there is a quantity of Stores at Wilton which lies on the Road. You will muster half your Brigade in detachments, as fast as they come in, to Saugatauck [sic] Bridge between Fairfield and Norwalk, & take posts on each side of the River. I am Sir, your Humble Svt, David Wooster, Major General." Along the left edge of the page he has added this post script: "A smoke arises this moment over Danbury which we supoze [sic] is from stores on fire."
The Battle was a tactical victory for British forces. It also served as a strategic victory for American forces, due to the resulting extraction of British troops from the area and increased Patriot support. Following Wooster's death, James Wadsworth became Major General of Militia and the second-highest ranked militia officer in Connecticut. He served later as a delegate to the Continental Congress (1784).
Wooster's letter, surely one of his last, is in remarkable condition, with minor wear at folds and faint soiling of address leaf. Matted and framed to an overall size of 19" x 14", this important battle letter is in very fine condition and ready for prominent display!
In preparation for an engagement Major General William Tyron's British forces at Ridgefield, Major General Wooster sent this brief letter to "Brigadier Gen. Wadsworth at Dunham," advising him of the enemy's movements and ordering additional troops for a battle which was to commence the following day. It reads, in full: "I am just arrived here with six hundred Men, the Enemy passed thro [sic] here at 1 o Clock this afternoon, their numbers, from the best [illegible] are about two thousand. We have every reason to apprehend they will destroy our Magazine at Danbury as there is very few Men there. It is thought they will return this way or take the road leading to Norwalk as there is a quantity of Stores at Wilton which lies on the Road. You will muster half your Brigade in detachments, as fast as they come in, to Saugatauck [sic] Bridge between Fairfield and Norwalk, & take posts on each side of the River. I am Sir, your Humble Svt, David Wooster, Major General." Along the left edge of the page he has added this post script: "A smoke arises this moment over Danbury which we supoze [sic] is from stores on fire."
The Battle was a tactical victory for British forces. It also served as a strategic victory for American forces, due to the resulting extraction of British troops from the area and increased Patriot support. Following Wooster's death, James Wadsworth became Major General of Militia and the second-highest ranked militia officer in Connecticut. He served later as a delegate to the Continental Congress (1784).
Wooster's letter, surely one of his last, is in remarkable condition, with minor wear at folds and faint soiling of address leaf. Matted and framed to an overall size of 19" x 14", this important battle letter is in very fine condition and ready for prominent display!
Photography
[Revolutionary War] David Wooster, Esq'r. Commander in Chief of the Provincial Army Against Quebec Mezzotint, 10.5" x 15.5" sight size, attractively framed (16" x 21" overall). The mezzotint print shows David Wooster, three-quarter-length portrait, standing, facing left, wearing military uniform, and holding pike in right hand, left hand resting on cannon. Executed by Joh. Martin Will, the print was "Published as the Act directs by Thos. Hart, 1776 March 26". Very fine.
Autographs
[Battle of Ridgefield] Jonathan Trumbull Letter Signed as Governor of Connecticut. One page, 8" x 13", Lebanon CT, April 26, 1777. American patriot and politician Jonathan Trumbull Sr. was the first Connecticut governor to serve in a true executive capacity. A close friend and advisor to George Washington, Trumbull gave his all to the American cause, going so far as to personally supply about 60% of the manpower, food, clothing, shoes, and munitions for the Continental Army. Trumbull's store in Lebanon, once the headquarters for his mercantile business, became a meeting place for the Connecticut Council of Safety that assisted him (1775-1783), and was referred to as "the War Office." During the Revolution, Governor Trumbull and the Council of Safety held more than eleven hundred meetings there.
In this letter, Trumbull discusses militia preparations and readiness for the Battle of Ridgefield with Brigadier General James Wadsworth, who would soon become the Major General of Militia, the second-highest ranking officer in the state. The Governor writes, in full: "Sir, I have received your Letter of this morning with the enclosed Letters from Generals Wooster & Silliman and approve the Orders you have issued to your Brigade to hold themselves in readiness to march on the Shortest notice, would have the same Orders issued to the Alarm Companies, if not already done. As the Information I have received of the Numbers of the Enemy is imperfect & their Designs unknown can give no particular Orders for your Government. Have wrote General Wooster, who is on the spot & directed him to call to his aid such part of the Militia & Alarm Lists as he shall find necessary."
The day after this letter was written, the battle was on. Continental Army Major General David Wooster, Brigadier General Gold S. Silliman, and Brigadier General Benedict Arnold commanded a combined force of roughly 700 Continental Army regular and irregular local militia forces. Near the Connecticut town of Ridgefield, they engaged a British invasion force of 2000 commanded by Major General William Tryon. When the battle was over, American forces reportedly killed or wounded 200 British soldiers and captured 40 more; American losses included 20 killed and 80 wounded. Although Tryon's raid on Danbury and actions in Ridgefield were British successes, the influx of American forces in the area would deter the British from ever again attempted a landing by ship to attack any inland colonial strongholds. Letter is lightly age toned. Red wax seal and resulting seal tear; small paper loss at extreme lower left corner. Trumbull's letter has been matted and framed to an overall size of 14" x 19.5", and is in fine condition. A wonderful Revolutionary War letter about a decisive battle!
In this letter, Trumbull discusses militia preparations and readiness for the Battle of Ridgefield with Brigadier General James Wadsworth, who would soon become the Major General of Militia, the second-highest ranking officer in the state. The Governor writes, in full: "Sir, I have received your Letter of this morning with the enclosed Letters from Generals Wooster & Silliman and approve the Orders you have issued to your Brigade to hold themselves in readiness to march on the Shortest notice, would have the same Orders issued to the Alarm Companies, if not already done. As the Information I have received of the Numbers of the Enemy is imperfect & their Designs unknown can give no particular Orders for your Government. Have wrote General Wooster, who is on the spot & directed him to call to his aid such part of the Militia & Alarm Lists as he shall find necessary."
The day after this letter was written, the battle was on. Continental Army Major General David Wooster, Brigadier General Gold S. Silliman, and Brigadier General Benedict Arnold commanded a combined force of roughly 700 Continental Army regular and irregular local militia forces. Near the Connecticut town of Ridgefield, they engaged a British invasion force of 2000 commanded by Major General William Tryon. When the battle was over, American forces reportedly killed or wounded 200 British soldiers and captured 40 more; American losses included 20 killed and 80 wounded. Although Tryon's raid on Danbury and actions in Ridgefield were British successes, the influx of American forces in the area would deter the British from ever again attempted a landing by ship to attack any inland colonial strongholds. Letter is lightly age toned. Red wax seal and resulting seal tear; small paper loss at extreme lower left corner. Trumbull's letter has been matted and framed to an overall size of 14" x 19.5", and is in fine condition. A wonderful Revolutionary War letter about a decisive battle!
George Washington War-Dated Pay Warrant Signed. Partly printed document, one page, 8" x 13", n.p. [New Windsor, NY], May 1, 1781. Being a warrant ordering payment be made to Lt. Col. Marinus Willett in the amount of $2,219.
Marinus Willett was an American soldier, patriot, and political leader from New York. He was characterized by historian Mark M. Boatner as "one of the truly outstanding American leaders of the Revolution." Willett served in the militia during the French and Indian War, and commanded and fought bravely in numerous Revolutionary War battles, including the Battle of Oriskany, the Battle of Monmouth, the attack on Onondaga, the Sullivan Campaign, the Battle of Sharon Springs, and the Battle of Johnstown.
In September of 1780, Willett was one of three officers of the New York Line who presented grievances to the New York legislature, complaining that they had not been paid since January and asking for compensation in the form of land. The New York legislature took its time making a decision on the case. Finally, eight months after Willett made his plea, the case was settled in his favor. By that time, General Washington was headquartered at New Windsor, NY, at the home of William Ellison, a large landholder and merchant, and issued the following warrant:
"To John Pierce Esq; Pay-Master General of the Forces of the United States of America, Pay to Lt. Col. Marinus Willet for pay & Sub[sistence] as Lt. Col. Of the 3d Regt. New York from the 1st of May to the last of July. Also Extra Pay & Sub[sistence] as Lt. Col. Com.dr of the 5th Regt. From the 22 Decem. To the Last of July 1780 - in the Old Emission - the Sum of Two thousand two hundred nineteen Dollars, and ______ nineteenth parts of a Dollar, agreeable to the account certified to me by the Auditors of accounts, and charge the same to the account of the United States, for which this shall be your warrant. Given at Head-Quarters, this 1st day of May A.D. 1781. By His Excellency's command: G:Washington."
Beneath this is the signature of Tench Tilghman, General Washington's Aide de Camp, followed by: "This may certify, that this Warrant has been entered in our books, and the Accounts and Vouchers returned into this Office. Ja.s Johnson, Auditors."
After the war, Willett accepted several public service appointments. He was elected to the New York State Assembly for the terms 1780-1784. The following year he was appointed sheriff of New York City, serving in that capacity from 1784-1787 and again from 1791-1795. In 1801, Willett was appointed superintendent of construction of the fortifications of New York. Following his success in this position, he served as Mayor of New York (1807-1808), upon De Witt Clinton's removal from office.
This historic and highly desirable item bears light age toning, and faint bleedthrough of ink from docketing on verso. It has been professionally strengthened at fold edges and is in fine condition. Matted and framed to an overall size of 14.25" 19.25". A remarkable item connecting two remarkable men!
Marinus Willett was an American soldier, patriot, and political leader from New York. He was characterized by historian Mark M. Boatner as "one of the truly outstanding American leaders of the Revolution." Willett served in the militia during the French and Indian War, and commanded and fought bravely in numerous Revolutionary War battles, including the Battle of Oriskany, the Battle of Monmouth, the attack on Onondaga, the Sullivan Campaign, the Battle of Sharon Springs, and the Battle of Johnstown.
In September of 1780, Willett was one of three officers of the New York Line who presented grievances to the New York legislature, complaining that they had not been paid since January and asking for compensation in the form of land. The New York legislature took its time making a decision on the case. Finally, eight months after Willett made his plea, the case was settled in his favor. By that time, General Washington was headquartered at New Windsor, NY, at the home of William Ellison, a large landholder and merchant, and issued the following warrant:
"To John Pierce Esq; Pay-Master General of the Forces of the United States of America, Pay to Lt. Col. Marinus Willet for pay & Sub[sistence] as Lt. Col. Of the 3d Regt. New York from the 1st of May to the last of July. Also Extra Pay & Sub[sistence] as Lt. Col. Com.dr of the 5th Regt. From the 22 Decem. To the Last of July 1780 - in the Old Emission - the Sum of Two thousand two hundred nineteen Dollars, and ______ nineteenth parts of a Dollar, agreeable to the account certified to me by the Auditors of accounts, and charge the same to the account of the United States, for which this shall be your warrant. Given at Head-Quarters, this 1st day of May A.D. 1781. By His Excellency's command: G:Washington."
Beneath this is the signature of Tench Tilghman, General Washington's Aide de Camp, followed by: "This may certify, that this Warrant has been entered in our books, and the Accounts and Vouchers returned into this Office. Ja.s Johnson, Auditors."
After the war, Willett accepted several public service appointments. He was elected to the New York State Assembly for the terms 1780-1784. The following year he was appointed sheriff of New York City, serving in that capacity from 1784-1787 and again from 1791-1795. In 1801, Willett was appointed superintendent of construction of the fortifications of New York. Following his success in this position, he served as Mayor of New York (1807-1808), upon De Witt Clinton's removal from office.
This historic and highly desirable item bears light age toning, and faint bleedthrough of ink from docketing on verso. It has been professionally strengthened at fold edges and is in fine condition. Matted and framed to an overall size of 14.25" 19.25". A remarkable item connecting two remarkable men!
Books
[Revolutionary War Pamphlet] Samuel Woodward: "A Sermon Preached at Lexington, April 19, 1779" Signed by Lexington Battle Participant John Chandler. Twenty-nine pages, 5.5" x 8.75", (Boston: Printed by John Gill, in Court Street, 1779). Signed "J Chandler" at top right of half title page imprinted "Mr. Woodward's/ Sermon,/ delivered/ April Nineteenth/ M.DCC.LXXIX." Penned in unknown hand across top: "Mr. Woodwards 19 April/ No 7 P." and penciled: "A.D. 1779." The title page records that Samuel Woodward, A.M., Pastor of the Church in Weston, delivered the sermon "In Commemoration of the great Distress and wonderful Deliverance of God's People on the Nineteenth of April, 1775; where Hostilities begun, and when the bloody War between Great-Britain and her Colonies commenced." After quoting from Samuel, 7.12, Rev. Woodward's sermon begins "To commemorate the Nineteenth of April, 1775, when this distressing war began - To sympathize with the friends of those who fell the first victims to British tyranny in this place..." After numerous biblical references, Rev. Woodward concludes by addressing Chandler and "the military companies, who appear in arms to aid and honor this solemnity. My friends, it is owing to the help of the Lord, - to his sparing distinguishing mercy, that you escaped, that day when your neighbors and fellow-soldiers slept in death!..." An oblong portion measuring 4" across x 0.5"-1" high has been cut from the title page beneath Woodward's name, above the printing information. Two leaves are creased, not affecting legibility. The original gray covers are present, but detached, and the pages show various degrees of foxing. There are tears at the string binding at the edges, and pages 23-29 are loose. The upper right corner of page 21 has been torn off, affecting six lines on page 21 and seven lines on page 22. Overall condition is fair. [Sabin 105164, Howes W663]
John Chandler (1731-1810) was one of the eighty Lexington men who stood on the Green at 5:00 AM on April 19, 1775, as the colonists faced the British and the Revolutionary War began. He had held a commission under Colonial Governor Francis Bernard as "Coronet of His Majesty's Blue troop." Rev. Samuel Woodward (1727-1782), a 1748 graduate of Harvard, had been ordained on September 25, 1751 in Weston, Massachusetts, and was the pastor of the church, known today as the First Parish Church in Weston, from 1751-1782.
John Chandler (1731-1810) was one of the eighty Lexington men who stood on the Green at 5:00 AM on April 19, 1775, as the colonists faced the British and the Revolutionary War began. He had held a commission under Colonial Governor Francis Bernard as "Coronet of His Majesty's Blue troop." Rev. Samuel Woodward (1727-1782), a 1748 graduate of Harvard, had been ordained on September 25, 1751 in Weston, Massachusetts, and was the pastor of the church, known today as the First Parish Church in Weston, from 1751-1782.
[Boston Massacre Pamphlet] William Tudor: "An Oration, Delivered March 5th, 1779, at the Request of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston; to Commemorate the Bloody Tragedy of the Fifth of March, 1770, By William Tudor, Esquire." Eighteen pages, 5.25" x 8", (Boston: Printed by Edes & Gill, in Court-Street, 1779). Signed at the top of the first page of the oration, "Thos Jackson April 15 1801." Each year since 1770, at a town meeting held in Faneuil Hall, a person was asked to deliver an oration to mark the anniversary of the Boston Massacre. William Tudor (1750-1819), Harvard Class of 1769, was one of John Adams' law clerks when Adams was defending the British soldiers accused of the massacre. Tudor began his own practice in 1774. From 1775-1777, Capt. Tudor served as the chief legal officer on Gen. George Washington's staff at Cambridge and later in New York City. Lieutenant Colonel and later Colonel, Tudor returned to Boston in 1777 and resigned his commission in 1778. Some passages are underlined and there are cross-outs and corrections. For example, in the phrase "Cromwell granted their request - and became sole tyrant of three kingdoms," Jackson, most probably, crossed out "kingdoms," replacing it with "countries." Referring to Sweden's King Gustavus III, Tudor calls him "so wise, so good a King." "King" is crossed out and replaced with "Man." The back page is numbered "20" and the word "Our" appears at the bottom right indicating that at least a twenty-first page beginning with "Our" is missing. Some pages closely cut affecting the last letter of some lines. Soiling and minor foxing. Pages tied together with thread. Very good condition. [Evans 16500, Sabin 97404]
Autographs
Samuel Adams Document Signed as governor of Massachusetts and countersigned by "John Avery Sec[retar]y". One page, 14.5" x 9", July 18, 1796. This document was an official notice that "William Adams, Gentleman" was to be "appointed Captain of a Company in the Seventh Regiment of the Second Brigade Third Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth."
Prior to the American Revolution, Samuel Adams opposed the oppressive British taxes laid on the American colonies. He urged colonists to refrain from buying British goods and most likely participated in the Boston Tea Party. He was elected to the Continental Congress and was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, yet he refused to attend the Constitutional Convention. He later served as governor of Massachusetts from 1793 to 1797. Avery was secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from 1780-1806. This attractive document contains an embossed Massachusetts seal in upper left; underneath the seal is Adams' signature. Some restoration has been done on the verso affecting the seal and only slightly affecting Adams' signature. Docketed on verso and signed by Revolutionary War veteran and U.S. Congressman Colonel Joseph B. Varnum ("J. B. Varnum Colonel"); possibly a secretarial signature. Toned; very good.
Prior to the American Revolution, Samuel Adams opposed the oppressive British taxes laid on the American colonies. He urged colonists to refrain from buying British goods and most likely participated in the Boston Tea Party. He was elected to the Continental Congress and was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, yet he refused to attend the Constitutional Convention. He later served as governor of Massachusetts from 1793 to 1797. Avery was secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from 1780-1806. This attractive document contains an embossed Massachusetts seal in upper left; underneath the seal is Adams' signature. Some restoration has been done on the verso affecting the seal and only slightly affecting Adams' signature. Docketed on verso and signed by Revolutionary War veteran and U.S. Congressman Colonel Joseph B. Varnum ("J. B. Varnum Colonel"); possibly a secretarial signature. Toned; very good.
Josiah Bartlett Autograph Document Signed Twice. One page, 7.75" x 12.5", Rockingham County, New Hampshire, January 12, 1778. Josiah Bartlett was a physician and a lifelong public servant, serving variously as a delegate to the Continental Congress, a signatory of the Declaration of Independence, a Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Superior Court and finally Governor of the state.
Here, acting as a judge in New Hampshire's Court of Common Please (despite his never having obtained a license to practice law), Bartlett hears the testimony of one Loruhanna Bean, "Single woman & Spinster. Taken on oath before Josiah Bartlett Esqr., Justice of the Peace." Ms. Bean tells the court that "John Leavit . . . has frequently visited her at her father's House in Brentwood for ten or Eleven months past; that sometime [around] the Beginning of August last past He the said John Leavit by Wheedlings & promises of Marriage then & there in her said father's House had carnal knowledge of her Body and Did Beget her with Child, with which she is now pregnant which is likely to be born a Bastard."
The testimony, entirely in Bartlett's hand, bears an addendum at the bottom in another hand, which requests that "a Warrant may issue to apprehend the said John Leavit that he may be brought before you or some other Justice of the Peace to be examined concerning the promises & Dealt with according to Law." This interesting and unusual document is moderately age toned; small piece of paper loss at extreme lower right corner. Fine condition.
Here, acting as a judge in New Hampshire's Court of Common Please (despite his never having obtained a license to practice law), Bartlett hears the testimony of one Loruhanna Bean, "Single woman & Spinster. Taken on oath before Josiah Bartlett Esqr., Justice of the Peace." Ms. Bean tells the court that "John Leavit . . . has frequently visited her at her father's House in Brentwood for ten or Eleven months past; that sometime [around] the Beginning of August last past He the said John Leavit by Wheedlings & promises of Marriage then & there in her said father's House had carnal knowledge of her Body and Did Beget her with Child, with which she is now pregnant which is likely to be born a Bastard."
The testimony, entirely in Bartlett's hand, bears an addendum at the bottom in another hand, which requests that "a Warrant may issue to apprehend the said John Leavit that he may be brought before you or some other Justice of the Peace to be examined concerning the promises & Dealt with according to Law." This interesting and unusual document is moderately age toned; small piece of paper loss at extreme lower right corner. Fine condition.
[Declaration Signers] Abraham Clark and John Hart Document Signed "Abra: Clark" and "John Hart". One page, 7.5" x 5.5", March 2, 1776, addressed to the Treasurers of the Provincial Congress and certifying "that Caleb Camp hath attended as a Deputy in Provintial Congress in New jersey [sic], sixty three days in this and a siting [sic] at Trenton in October last for which he is intended to receive Nineteen pounds twelve shillings..." Dated in Clark's hand "Mar 2, 1776" directly above his signature. On the verso, the docket has been signed by Silas Condict, New Jersey member of the Continental Congress and by Jesse Hand. Beneath their docket is an Autograph Document Signed by Camp acknowledging the receipt of the money. A nice grouping of important signatures on a document giving evidence of the transition of government from colonial legislative assemblies to independent state legislatures and gives evidence of the dawning realization that the goal of the colonies was to seek complete independence from Britain. The document has been professionally strengthened on verso at right margin affecting a single word, otherwise very clean with bold ink. Ex: Sang Collection.
John Hancock Document Signed as governor of Massachusetts. One page, 9" x 14.75", Boston, November 12, 1783. From 1780 to 1785, Hancock served as governor of Massachusetts, at which time he graced this handsome document with his large and impressive signature. It is an appointment, naming James Sullivan as a delegate to the 1783 Congress of the Confederation. It reads in part: "Whereas the General Court of the Commonwealth aforesaid did on the twenty eighth day of June A.D. 1783 . . . appoint The Hon'ble James Sullivan Esq.r a Delegate to represent this Commonwealth in the Congress of the United States of America."
John Hancock was a Massachusetts merchant and prominent patriot of the American Revolution. He served as president of the Second Continental Congress and was the first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and is perhaps most famous for his prominent signature on the United States Declaration of Independence.
James Sullivan was a career public servant, acting variously as a judge, congressman, state attorney general, and Massachusetts governor. At this time in his life, Sullivan was an attorney and justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court - a very busy man - which may explain why he failed to attend even one session of the 1783 Congress of the Confederation.
This beautifully calligraphed appointment is bright and clean, with a large blind stamped paper seal affixed with wax at upper left and docketing on verso. Somewhat fragile because of the separations which exist at the folds, though most have been repaired with tape. One repaired fold runs through Hancock's impressive, bold signature. Fine condition. A must for any American history or signers of the Declaration collection!
John Hancock was a Massachusetts merchant and prominent patriot of the American Revolution. He served as president of the Second Continental Congress and was the first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and is perhaps most famous for his prominent signature on the United States Declaration of Independence.
James Sullivan was a career public servant, acting variously as a judge, congressman, state attorney general, and Massachusetts governor. At this time in his life, Sullivan was an attorney and justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court - a very busy man - which may explain why he failed to attend even one session of the 1783 Congress of the Confederation.
This beautifully calligraphed appointment is bright and clean, with a large blind stamped paper seal affixed with wax at upper left and docketing on verso. Somewhat fragile because of the separations which exist at the folds, though most have been repaired with tape. One repaired fold runs through Hancock's impressive, bold signature. Fine condition. A must for any American history or signers of the Declaration collection!
John Hancock Partly Printed Ship's Bill of Lading Filled out Entirely in His Hand, Including his Name, "John Hancock". One disbound page, 9" x 4.25", Boston, October 31, 1767. Here we offer a partly printed bill of lading for one of John Hancock's ships, destined for London. It reads in part: "Shipped by the Grace of God, in good Order and well Condition'd, by John Hancock in and upon the good ship called the Charming Polly, whereof is Master, under God, for this present Voyage, James Smith, and now riding at Anchor in the Harbor of Boston . . . and by God's Grace bound for London, to say, Three Hundred and eighty four Casks of oyle . . . to be deliver'd in the like good Order, and well Condition'd, and the aforesaid Port of London (the Danger of the Seas only excepted) unto George Haley Esqr . . . paying Freight for the said Goods Forty shillings Sterling."
Upon the death of his uncle Thomas, a wealthy Boston merchant, John Hancock inherited a profitable shipping business with important import-export contracts with the British Empire. Following the issuance of the Stamp Act in 1765, Hancock's dissatisfaction with British rule grew, and he soon began using his money and influence to defy the Crown. With the issuance of oppressive duties through the Townsend Acts in 1767, Hancock joined other Bostonians in calling for a boycott of British imports until the duties were repealed. This did not, however, stop Hancock from exporting items to the British Isles.
Customs officials targeted and harassed Hancock for his defiance of British import duties, eventually accusing him of smuggling. Six months after this bill of lading was issued, two British customs officials boarded Hancock's brig Lydia in Boston harbor but were refused admittance below decks to inspect the ship's holds. Later, one of the British officials was able to sneak below, but Hancock's men forced the man back on deck. Customs officials wanted to file charges, but the case was dropped when Massachusetts Attorney General Jonathan Sewell ruled that Hancock had broken no laws. Later, Hancock's admirers would call this incident the first act of physical resistance to British authority in the colonies, and credit Hancock with initiating the American Revolution. Document is moderately age toned with a rough left edge, but is quite attractive and in very fine condition. An outstanding document marking the earliest beginnings of the Revolution!
Upon the death of his uncle Thomas, a wealthy Boston merchant, John Hancock inherited a profitable shipping business with important import-export contracts with the British Empire. Following the issuance of the Stamp Act in 1765, Hancock's dissatisfaction with British rule grew, and he soon began using his money and influence to defy the Crown. With the issuance of oppressive duties through the Townsend Acts in 1767, Hancock joined other Bostonians in calling for a boycott of British imports until the duties were repealed. This did not, however, stop Hancock from exporting items to the British Isles.
Customs officials targeted and harassed Hancock for his defiance of British import duties, eventually accusing him of smuggling. Six months after this bill of lading was issued, two British customs officials boarded Hancock's brig Lydia in Boston harbor but were refused admittance below decks to inspect the ship's holds. Later, one of the British officials was able to sneak below, but Hancock's men forced the man back on deck. Customs officials wanted to file charges, but the case was dropped when Massachusetts Attorney General Jonathan Sewell ruled that Hancock had broken no laws. Later, Hancock's admirers would call this incident the first act of physical resistance to British authority in the colonies, and credit Hancock with initiating the American Revolution. Document is moderately age toned with a rough left edge, but is quite attractive and in very fine condition. An outstanding document marking the earliest beginnings of the Revolution!
John Hancock Signature. One page, 4.5" x 1", March 27, 1780, n.p., excised from a larger document. This signature of the president of the Second Continental Congress and most iconic signer of the Declaration of Independence is very attractively framed (18" x 14" overall) with a 1783 engraving of Hancock. The bold signature is laid on a compatible mounting paper, else near fine.
John Hancock Partly Printed Ship's Bill of Lading Filled out Entirely in His Hand, Including his Handwritten Surname, "Hancock". One disbound page, 9" x 4.5", Boston, June 9, 1762. This handsome document identifies the cargo aboard Thomas Hancock's ship, the Charming Molly. John Hancock, then working at his uncle's mercantile firm, lists (in his holograph) the cargo on board: "...Thirty Thousand of Bricks, Ten Thousand feet of Boards, Twenty Three Hogsheads of Corn, Five Hogsheads of Bran, One Hogshead of Sand, Two Carts Compleat, One pair Trucks Compleat, One Boat, Sails & Oars Compleat, Thirty Three bundles of Hay & Two Horses . . . to be deliver'd [printed] . . . unto William Jeffray Esq.r, storekeeper to the Hon'l Board of Ordinance."
Thomas Hancock was the uncle of American patriot John Hancock. As a merchant in colonial Boston, Thomas Hancock got his start in the book trade, later expanding into importing and exporting throughout the British Empire. He was also a smuggler, evading the British Navigation Acts by trading with Holland, which was forbidden at the time. Thanks to lucrative contracts with the British government during King George's War and the Seven Years' War, Hancock became one of Boston's wealthiest men. John Hancock began working for his upon his graduation from Harvard in 1755.
This particular bill of lading includes a handwritten notation invoking the name of Sir Jeffery Amherst, who was at the time the first Governor General of British North America. Two years later, Hancock's health failed and he passed his business and fortune to his nephew John, who used his power and wealth to further the cause of independence from Great Britain. Document is moderately age toned with a rough left edge, but is quite attractive and in very fine condition.
Thomas Hancock was the uncle of American patriot John Hancock. As a merchant in colonial Boston, Thomas Hancock got his start in the book trade, later expanding into importing and exporting throughout the British Empire. He was also a smuggler, evading the British Navigation Acts by trading with Holland, which was forbidden at the time. Thanks to lucrative contracts with the British government during King George's War and the Seven Years' War, Hancock became one of Boston's wealthiest men. John Hancock began working for his upon his graduation from Harvard in 1755.
This particular bill of lading includes a handwritten notation invoking the name of Sir Jeffery Amherst, who was at the time the first Governor General of British North America. Two years later, Hancock's health failed and he passed his business and fortune to his nephew John, who used his power and wealth to further the cause of independence from Great Britain. Document is moderately age toned with a rough left edge, but is quite attractive and in very fine condition.
Stephen Hopkins Document Signed "Step. Hopkins" as "Governor and Captain-General of the English Colony of Rhode Island". One page, 12.5" x 7.5", May 9, 1763, Rhode Island; countersigned by Henry Ward as secretary. This document was an official notice that "James Whitman being by the General Assembly of the Colony aforesaid, chosen to the Place and Office of a Justice of the Peace in the Town of East-Greenwich in the County of Kent in the said Colony, are hereby in the Name of His Most Sacred Majesty GEORGE the Third."
In 1756, Stephen Hopkins was elected chief magistrate of the colony of Rhode Island, an office he held with few interruptions until 1767. He is known to have faithfully discharged the duties of this responsible station with dignity and fairness, and he did not hesitate to propose and support measures designed to promote the interests of the colonies in opposition to the encroachments of British power. He was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Document is age-toned with slight separation at two folds. Many faded notations, contemporary with the document, occur around the left and right edges. With blind embossed paper seal at top left; docketing and more contemporary notations on verso. Still, a fine piece of Colonial American history in very good condition.
In 1756, Stephen Hopkins was elected chief magistrate of the colony of Rhode Island, an office he held with few interruptions until 1767. He is known to have faithfully discharged the duties of this responsible station with dignity and fairness, and he did not hesitate to propose and support measures designed to promote the interests of the colonies in opposition to the encroachments of British power. He was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Document is age-toned with slight separation at two folds. Many faded notations, contemporary with the document, occur around the left and right edges. With blind embossed paper seal at top left; docketing and more contemporary notations on verso. Still, a fine piece of Colonial American history in very good condition.
Samuel Huntington Historic Draft Autograph Letter (unsigned), 1.5 pages, 8" x 13.25". Norwich [Connecticut], November 7, 1781. Docketed by Huntington "Copy of letter to/the Minister of France/Novr 7th 1781." With corrections and additions; words crossed out are in brackets. In full:
"I cannot deny myself the pleasure of Congratulating you on the Important & Glorious Success of our Combined Forces in the compleat Capture of Ld Cornwallis and all his Army. [I am truly charmed with] The conduct of Count de Grasse so far as [it] hath come to my knowledge charms me; his drupping the British fleet sufficient to [Convince] teach them [they might not & could] to keep at due distance & not [until the Cheasapeake or] again attempt to Interrupt the siege, & at the same time not Suffering himself to be too far diverted from his first & main object, Evinces that he possesd Tallents & accomplishments equal to his Station worthy of so Important Command in the Navy. May our Successes this Campaign be in proportion to the Generous & imparalled aids [which these United States have] receivd from his most Christian and proved Eventually productive of the happiest Consequences to [France and America] the perpetual advantage of both nations. I have the honour to be &c"
On laid paper watermarked "I Taylor." Thin mounting strip at right edge on second page. Minor chipping at lower right edge. With ink burn occurring in Huntington's straight line cross-out of 'the Cheasap" resulting in a narrow strip of paper loss. Show-through because of dark ink does not affect legibility at all.
Charles Gravier, Comte de Vergennes (1717-1787), served as Foreign Minister of France under King Louis XVI from 1774 until his death. On February 6, 1778, de Vergennes and U.S. commissioners Benjamin Franklin, Arthur Lee, and Silas Deane signed a Treaty of Alliance and a Treaty of Amity and Commerce with France. The Treaty of Alliance contained the provisions the U.S. commissioners had originally requested, and also included a clause forbidding either country to make a separate peace with Great Britain, as well as a secret clause allowing for Spain, or other European powers, to enter into the alliance.
Declaration Signer Samuel Huntington was the first President of the United States in Congress Assembled under the nation's first constitution. He retired on July 6, 1781, and returned to his home in Norwich, Connecticut, from where he wrote this letter four short months later.
General George Washington and his French allies were planning a move against British occupied New York City in May 1781 when news came from General Lafayette of the possibility of attacking and trapping General Lord Cornwallis in Virginia. The British commander had moved his 7,000 troops to the Chesapeake in order to link up with supplies and reinforcements on the way from the Royal Navy. But Washington had his own powerful naval weapon (as Huntington notes in this letter): Admiral J.P. Comte De Grasse. The arrival of 29 French warships and 3,000 troops off the coast of Virginia on August 26, 1781 was crucial to victory. De Grasse defeated a British squadron under British Admiral Thomas Graves in the Battle of the Chesapeake, leaving Cornwallis without reinforcements or supplies. The combined British and Hessian forces were trapped, their escape routes blocked on the sea by Admiral De Grasse and on land by Generals Washington, Lafayette, and Rochambeau. On October 19, 1781, Cornwallis surrendered to Washington. French Foreign Minister Comte de Vergennes served as the chief French representative at the peace negotiations between Great Britain and the United States, France, and Spain which resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783 formally ending the Revolutionary War.
"I cannot deny myself the pleasure of Congratulating you on the Important & Glorious Success of our Combined Forces in the compleat Capture of Ld Cornwallis and all his Army. [I am truly charmed with] The conduct of Count de Grasse so far as [it] hath come to my knowledge charms me; his drupping the British fleet sufficient to [Convince] teach them [they might not & could] to keep at due distance & not [until the Cheasapeake or] again attempt to Interrupt the siege, & at the same time not Suffering himself to be too far diverted from his first & main object, Evinces that he possesd Tallents & accomplishments equal to his Station worthy of so Important Command in the Navy. May our Successes this Campaign be in proportion to the Generous & imparalled aids [which these United States have] receivd from his most Christian and proved Eventually productive of the happiest Consequences to [France and America] the perpetual advantage of both nations. I have the honour to be &c"
On laid paper watermarked "I Taylor." Thin mounting strip at right edge on second page. Minor chipping at lower right edge. With ink burn occurring in Huntington's straight line cross-out of 'the Cheasap" resulting in a narrow strip of paper loss. Show-through because of dark ink does not affect legibility at all.
Charles Gravier, Comte de Vergennes (1717-1787), served as Foreign Minister of France under King Louis XVI from 1774 until his death. On February 6, 1778, de Vergennes and U.S. commissioners Benjamin Franklin, Arthur Lee, and Silas Deane signed a Treaty of Alliance and a Treaty of Amity and Commerce with France. The Treaty of Alliance contained the provisions the U.S. commissioners had originally requested, and also included a clause forbidding either country to make a separate peace with Great Britain, as well as a secret clause allowing for Spain, or other European powers, to enter into the alliance.
Declaration Signer Samuel Huntington was the first President of the United States in Congress Assembled under the nation's first constitution. He retired on July 6, 1781, and returned to his home in Norwich, Connecticut, from where he wrote this letter four short months later.
General George Washington and his French allies were planning a move against British occupied New York City in May 1781 when news came from General Lafayette of the possibility of attacking and trapping General Lord Cornwallis in Virginia. The British commander had moved his 7,000 troops to the Chesapeake in order to link up with supplies and reinforcements on the way from the Royal Navy. But Washington had his own powerful naval weapon (as Huntington notes in this letter): Admiral J.P. Comte De Grasse. The arrival of 29 French warships and 3,000 troops off the coast of Virginia on August 26, 1781 was crucial to victory. De Grasse defeated a British squadron under British Admiral Thomas Graves in the Battle of the Chesapeake, leaving Cornwallis without reinforcements or supplies. The combined British and Hessian forces were trapped, their escape routes blocked on the sea by Admiral De Grasse and on land by Generals Washington, Lafayette, and Rochambeau. On October 19, 1781, Cornwallis surrendered to Washington. French Foreign Minister Comte de Vergennes served as the chief French representative at the peace negotiations between Great Britain and the United States, France, and Spain which resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783 formally ending the Revolutionary War.
[Declaration Signer] Richard Henry Lee Autograph Document Signed. One page, 6.25" x 7.25", inlaid to 7.25" x 8.25". [Virginia], March 23, 1790. Headed "Dr The Etate [sic, Estate] of Mr Turner to Mrs Richards." The first entry on July 4, 1783 is for "a bond amount - £82:10:0," followed by "6 years & 1 Month Interest 25:1:101/2" entered August 4, 1789 and, on March 23, 1790, "interest on £71:19:101/2 from 4th August last - 2:5:6" totaling "£109:17:414," the amount due to Mrs. Richards from the Estate of Mr Turner. Lee then deducts three payments already received which lessens the amount: July 4, 1788, "By my order favor of Mr Lud Lee £16:10:-" Thomas Ludwell "Lud" Lee (c. 1752-1807) was Richard Henry Lee's nephew. August 4, 1789, "By Cash reed of Morehead 19:2." March 23, 1790, "By Cash reed of Watson & Co. on Col. Washingtons order. 50:-:-" Col. William Washington (1752-1810), Pres. Washington's second cousin, was captured by the British at the Battle of Eutaw Springs a month before Cornwallis's surrender. The total of the three payments is "85:12:0." "23d March balance now due Mrs Richds £24:5:4." Lee has added beneath that amount "Interest from 23d March 1790 until paid" with a blank space left for the interest. He has signed "E. E. Richard Henry Lee" at the close. Tiny holes at mid-vertical fold with small professional repair on verso. On laid paper. Fine condition.
Lee is best known for his motion in the Second Continental Congress calling for the colonies' independence from Great Britain. His legendary resolution of June 1776 led to the United States Declaration of Independence, of which he was a signer. He served as president of the Continental Congress for one term and was a senator from Virginia when this document was written.
Lee is best known for his motion in the Second Continental Congress calling for the colonies' independence from Great Britain. His legendary resolution of June 1776 led to the United States Declaration of Independence, of which he was a signer. He served as president of the Continental Congress for one term and was a senator from Virginia when this document was written.
Robert Morris Autograph Letter Signed. One page with integral blank, 5" x 7.75", n.p., April 7, 1796. American merchant and signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution, Morris was known as the "Financier of the Revolution", because of his role in personally financing America in the Revolutionary War from 1781 to 1784. Here, Morris writes a somewhat mysterious letter to John Nicholson, financier, businessman, Comptroller General of Pennsylvania, anti-Federalist, and notorious land speculator. It reads, in full: "Dear Sir, I send herewith two letters for your amusement. One from Alexr White Esqr the other from Genl Lee. You will after reading be pleased to bring them to me that we may consider and determine what is to be done. Yours etc R Morris."
Morris was deeply involved with John Nicholson in land speculation and was financially ruined shortly after this letter was written. He was imprisoned for debt in Philadelphia's Prune Street debtors' prison from February 1798 to August 1801. Three years after this letter was penned, Nicholson was also imprisoned when the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania placed a lien on his three to four million acres of land, as he was approximately twelve million dollars in debt. Nothing is known of the letters referenced by Morris, but we do know that Alexander White was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, and that General Lee is not a reference to General Charles Lee, who died in 1782. Letter is unevenly age toned with a few chips along, but is generally fine. An excellent addition to any Signers collection!
Morris was deeply involved with John Nicholson in land speculation and was financially ruined shortly after this letter was written. He was imprisoned for debt in Philadelphia's Prune Street debtors' prison from February 1798 to August 1801. Three years after this letter was penned, Nicholson was also imprisoned when the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania placed a lien on his three to four million acres of land, as he was approximately twelve million dollars in debt. Nothing is known of the letters referenced by Morris, but we do know that Alexander White was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, and that General Lee is not a reference to General Charles Lee, who died in 1782. Letter is unevenly age toned with a few chips along, but is generally fine. An excellent addition to any Signers collection!
Caesar Rodney Autograph Document Signed "Caesar Rodney Trustee". One page, 9.75" x 2.5", February 28, 1776, Dover, Delaware, affixed to 10.75" x 3.75" backing. In part: "Recd of John Purdin the Sum of forty five pounds principal, and the Sum of twenty pounds, and Eight Shillings Interest, in full discharge of the within mortgage." Caesar Rodney (1728-1784) was active in Delaware politics. Along with Thomas McKean, he compiled the colony's laws. Together, they attended the Stamp Act Congress, drafted a protest to the king of England about the Townshend Acts, and signed the Declaration of Independence. Rodney was also a delegate to the Continental Congress. During the Revolutionary War, he served as a brigadier general. Toned with very light soiling; near fine.
David Brearley and William Burnet Document Signed "Davd Brearley" and "Wm Burnett". One page, 8.75" x 8.5". New Jersey, September 23, 1779. Bill "To The High Sheriff of Essex" for "attending a Court of Oyer of Term of General Goal [Jail] Delivery himself of Deputy 9 Days @ £8 pr Day...sumoning the Grand Jury...9 petty juries..." Total £92.3. Brearley and Burnet have signed beneath the following: "We the Subscribers Justices of the above mentioned Court having examined the above Account amounting unto Ninety two Pounds three Shillings - do Adjudge the same to be just and Adequate." Manuscript Receipt Signed "Isrl Hedden" on verso indicating Hedden was paid "Four pounds thirteen shillings and five pence in full of the within account" on April 6, 1785, with a notation that "£92.3.0 equal to £4.13.5 Specie." Docketed on verso by three officials including "Jno Lambert." John Lambert (1746-1823) later served as acting governor of New Jersey and represented New Jersey in the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. Slight separation at edges of mid-horizontal fold. On laid paper in fine condition.
Brearley, an avid backer of the Revolutionary cause, rose from captain to colonel in the New Jersey militia and was chief justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court (1779-1789). He attended the Constitutional Convention and was a signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Brearley, an avid backer of the Revolutionary cause, rose from captain to colonel in the New Jersey militia and was chief justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court (1779-1789). He attended the Constitutional Convention and was a signer of the U.S. Constitution.
William Burnet Manuscript Document Signed "W. Burnet" as Colonial Governor of New York and New Jersey, one page (with the blank integral leaf), 12" x 8", Fort George, New York, December 6, 1726. Burnet commissions John Cornelius Decker, "Lieutenant of a Company of militia" in Ulster County [New York]. Johannes Cornelius Decker (1696-1742) was the first of a prominent Ulster County family whose rural Dutch farm, built ca. 1720, is still in use today. One small hole occurring at a fold, otherwise very good with bold ink.
William Burnet ( 1688-1729) a British civil servant and colonial administrator, served as governor of New York and New Jersey (1720-1728) and Massachusetts (1728). A capable administrator, his most important accomplishment as governor was to strengthen the colony's position on the frontier. Burnet encouraged direct trade with Indian tribes in order to reduce the influence of French traders and helped to strengthen colonial outposts like Fort Oswego.
William Burnet ( 1688-1729) a British civil servant and colonial administrator, served as governor of New York and New Jersey (1720-1728) and Massachusetts (1728). A capable administrator, his most important accomplishment as governor was to strengthen the colony's position on the frontier. Burnet encouraged direct trade with Indian tribes in order to reduce the influence of French traders and helped to strengthen colonial outposts like Fort Oswego.
Daniel Carroll Autograph Letter Signed "D. Carroll". One page, 8" x 12.5", Hunting Ridge [Maryland], March 30, 1779. Integral leaf addressed by Carroll to "Messrs Fitzgerald & Peers/ Mercht/ Alexandria." In full as written: "I have sent a Boat Bound to Potowmack for Some Tobacco w[hi]ch is to call at Mr Rogers with some Fish Barrells by w[hi]ch I request you will send me the H[ogs]h[ea]d of Red Port. I have wrote to Mr Roger to send his Boat for it that it may be ready when the vessell arives. Mr. Casey is still in due me 1 Barrell of Whiskey w[hi]ch please to call on him for, and dispose of it on my acc[oun]t, but let me know the prices Current with you &c. There is nothing new since Col. Fitzgerald left here. At bottom you have the prices Current in Town yesterday." Carroll has listed prices for tobacco, rum, Bohea tea, Hyson tea, salt, and whiskey. Very lightly soiled. Usual seal tears at blank edges of integral leaf. Fine condition.
Daniel Carroll was one of only five men to sign both the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution of the United States. He was a member of a prominent colonial family; his cousin, Charles Carroll of Carrollton, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. John Fitzgerald, as an officer in the Continental Army, was General George Washington's aide-de-camp and lifelong friend.
Daniel Carroll was one of only five men to sign both the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution of the United States. He was a member of a prominent colonial family; his cousin, Charles Carroll of Carrollton, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. John Fitzgerald, as an officer in the Continental Army, was General George Washington's aide-de-camp and lifelong friend.
Samuel Chase Document Signed. One page, 6.5" x 8", February 1, 1794, "Baltimore Town", Maryland. Seven words in this partly printed document are filled out by Chase. The document, which seems to contradict the U.S. Bill of Rights enacted three years earlier, reads in part: "I Samuel Chase, Chief Judge of the State of Maryland, do certify all whom it may concern . . . personally appeared before Me Banard Lafon-and did repeat and subscribe a Declaration of his Belief in the Christian Religion, and the Oath required by the Act of Assembly of this State, entitled, 'An Act for Naturalization.'"
Samuel Chase (1741-1811) was a member of the Sons of Liberty, who protested the Stamp Act. Later, he was chosen a delegate of the Continental Congress. Though not present when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, he was instrumental in pushing Maryland's vote for independence. He later signed the engrossed copy of the Declaration with most of the other signers on August 2, 1776, in Philadelphia. Interestingly, Article XXXV of Maryland's new constitution, written a few weeks after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, stated: "No other test or qualification ought to be required, on admission to any office of trust or profit, than such oath of support and fidelity to this State and such oath of office, as shall be directed by this Convention, or the Legislature of this State, and a declaration of a belief in the Christian religion." From 1796 through 1811, Chase served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Light edge wear. Boldly signed with paraph; near fine.
Samuel Chase (1741-1811) was a member of the Sons of Liberty, who protested the Stamp Act. Later, he was chosen a delegate of the Continental Congress. Though not present when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, he was instrumental in pushing Maryland's vote for independence. He later signed the engrossed copy of the Declaration with most of the other signers on August 2, 1776, in Philadelphia. Interestingly, Article XXXV of Maryland's new constitution, written a few weeks after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, stated: "No other test or qualification ought to be required, on admission to any office of trust or profit, than such oath of support and fidelity to this State and such oath of office, as shall be directed by this Convention, or the Legislature of this State, and a declaration of a belief in the Christian religion." From 1796 through 1811, Chase served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Light edge wear. Boldly signed with paraph; near fine.
William Few War of 1812 Six Percent Stock Certificate Signed as Federal Commissioner of Loans. Endorsed on the Verso by John Jacob Astor. One page, 10.75" x 6", New York, June 12, 1816. William Few was a lifelong politician and one of this nation's founding fathers, representing the state of Georgia at the Constitutional Convention. Few signed this decorative stock certificate, issued to "John Ferguson of New York," which bears 6% interest on Ferguson's $500 investment.
In order to fund its military efforts during the War of 1812, the United States sold stock certificates like this one, in four separate issues ($11 million in May 1812, $16 million in January 1813, $7.5 million in August 1813, and $25 million in March 1814), this certificate being from the last of the four government loans. When Few signed this stock certificate, he did so as the Federal Commissioner of Loans, while at the same time serving as the second president of City Bank of New York, known today as Citigroup. It is boldly signed "W Few" at lower right. With an endorsement signature by John Jacob Astor on the verso. Moderate age toning, with two tiny chips and two small areas of fold separation at lower edge. Professional strengthening of center fold. Quite rare and in fine condition.
In order to fund its military efforts during the War of 1812, the United States sold stock certificates like this one, in four separate issues ($11 million in May 1812, $16 million in January 1813, $7.5 million in August 1813, and $25 million in March 1814), this certificate being from the last of the four government loans. When Few signed this stock certificate, he did so as the Federal Commissioner of Loans, while at the same time serving as the second president of City Bank of New York, known today as Citigroup. It is boldly signed "W Few" at lower right. With an endorsement signature by John Jacob Astor on the verso. Moderate age toning, with two tiny chips and two small areas of fold separation at lower edge. Professional strengthening of center fold. Quite rare and in fine condition.
Nathaniel Gorham Autograph Letter Signed "Nathaniel Gorham," one page, 7.5" x 8.5". Charlestown, Nov. 5, 1772. Addressed by Gorham on verso "To/ Messrs Reynell & Coates/ Merchts in/ Philadelphia" and bearing both hand and stamped postal markings. In full: "Pr Capt Hinckley I wrote you desiring you to ship me 2 Tons Barr Iron which I take this opportunity to desire you to alter & in the room of it to send six Tons pig Iron & if you cannot get pig Iron then to send the Barr Iron as afore mentiond. I remain Gentlemen your most Honorable Servant." Separation at folds, with repairs on verso. Red wax seal remains, with accompanying seal tear in blank area.
A member of the provincial legislature of Massachusetts from 1771-1775, Nathaniel Gorham was a delegate to the Provincial Congress in 1774 and 1775 and served in the Continental Congress in 1782, 1783, 1786, 1787, and 1789. When John Hancock's failing health prevented him from presiding over Congress, Gorham acted in his stead from May 15, 1786, until Hancock resigned on June 5, 1786. On June 6, 1786, Gorham was elected President of the United States in Congress Assembled, serving until November 5, 1786.
A member of the provincial legislature of Massachusetts from 1771-1775, Nathaniel Gorham was a delegate to the Provincial Congress in 1774 and 1775 and served in the Continental Congress in 1782, 1783, 1786, 1787, and 1789. When John Hancock's failing health prevented him from presiding over Congress, Gorham acted in his stead from May 15, 1786, until Hancock resigned on June 5, 1786. On June 6, 1786, Gorham was elected President of the United States in Congress Assembled, serving until November 5, 1786.
Alexander Hamilton Document Signed "A. Hamilton" as secretary of the treasury. One page, 7.75" x 9.25", February 6, 1792, [Washington, D.C.]. The document, a Treasury Department circular, contains four directives: (1) requiring customs offices to submit to the treasury an accounting of public property in each jurisdiction; (2) for customs officers to seize the registry of the Brig Lydia of Washington, North Carolina; (3) requiring customs officers to refuse credit to importers that have defaulted on bonds; and, announcing that "the 9th Section of the Collection Law may be hereafter enforced." Attractively matted and framed with a colored engraving of Hamilton, 25" x 21" (overall). Even toning and slight weakness at the folds, else fine. Strong signature.
John Jay Autograph Letter Signed. One page, one-sided, 8" x 10", "Bedford, Nov. 29, 1815." John Jay was an American politician, statesman, revolutionary, diplomat, a Founding Father of the United States, President of the Continental Congress and the first Chief Justice of the United States. During and after the American Revolution, he was a minister (ambassador) to Spain and France, helping to fashion American foreign policy and to secure favorable peace terms from the British (the Jay Treaty) and the French. He co-wrote the Federalist Papers with Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.
After a lifetime of public service, John Jay retired to his farm in Bedford, New York, in 1801, from whence he wrote this letter to his son, Peter Augustus Jay. Although in his declining years and unwell, Jay nevertheless manages his affairs with great attention to detail. Here, he discusses the possible sale of some of his land with his son. It reads, in part: "I have rec'd your Letter of the 24 Inst. My complaints gradually abate, but I am still feeble. . . . I told Mr. Greggs that I should make further inquiries respecting the value of the land, but that on considering the personal state of our Banks, I had concluded to postpone selling any land. . . . I also observed to Mr. Ryorson, that in case I should hereafter sell, the good Tenants should have the first offer." Jay goes on to discuss domestic matters: "Before Nancy left us, she doubled our having a sufficient Supply of Butter for the winter," and closes with the assurance that Peter's brother "William expects to be with you next week." Letter shows faint age toning, and is in very fine condition. An excellent personal letter from one of the nation's Founding Fathers.
After a lifetime of public service, John Jay retired to his farm in Bedford, New York, in 1801, from whence he wrote this letter to his son, Peter Augustus Jay. Although in his declining years and unwell, Jay nevertheless manages his affairs with great attention to detail. Here, he discusses the possible sale of some of his land with his son. It reads, in part: "I have rec'd your Letter of the 24 Inst. My complaints gradually abate, but I am still feeble. . . . I told Mr. Greggs that I should make further inquiries respecting the value of the land, but that on considering the personal state of our Banks, I had concluded to postpone selling any land. . . . I also observed to Mr. Ryorson, that in case I should hereafter sell, the good Tenants should have the first offer." Jay goes on to discuss domestic matters: "Before Nancy left us, she doubled our having a sufficient Supply of Butter for the winter," and closes with the assurance that Peter's brother "William expects to be with you next week." Letter shows faint age toning, and is in very fine condition. An excellent personal letter from one of the nation's Founding Fathers.
John Marshall Free Frank as secretary of state. One page, folded to 5.5" x 3.5", Washington, D.C., November 23, n.y. Red wax seal remnants. John Marshall served as chief justice of the United States from February 4, 1801, until his death in 1835. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives from March 4, 1799, to June 7, 1800, and served was secretary of state from June 6, 1800, to March 4, 1801, under President John Adams.
This simple transmittal envelope, devised from a folded sheet of paper, is addressed to David Riddick, Prothonotary of Washington County, Pennsylvania, and bears Marshall's signature "JMarshall" at upper right. Marshall has also added "Department of State" above his signature. Beneath it, an ink hand stamp reading "FREE." Although the exact dates of Riddick's tenure as Prothonotary of Washington County, Pennsylvania are unknown, there are several references to his having served in this capacity in 1798.
Franks are devices or markings, printed or stamped impressions, codes, labels, manuscript writings (including "privilege" signatures), and/or any other authorized form of markings affixed or applied to mails to qualify them to be sent free of charge. The First United States Congress enacted a franking law in 1789 during its very first session. On January 31, 1873, the senate abolished the congressional franking privilege, but within two years, Congress began to make exceptions to this ban. Finally, in 1891, noting that its members were the only government officials required to pay postage, Congress restored full franking privileges. Since then, the franking of congressional mail has been subject to ongoing review and regulation. This unique item is lightly age toned, with minor wear at folds. Small tears at seal. Near fine condition.
This simple transmittal envelope, devised from a folded sheet of paper, is addressed to David Riddick, Prothonotary of Washington County, Pennsylvania, and bears Marshall's signature "JMarshall" at upper right. Marshall has also added "Department of State" above his signature. Beneath it, an ink hand stamp reading "FREE." Although the exact dates of Riddick's tenure as Prothonotary of Washington County, Pennsylvania are unknown, there are several references to his having served in this capacity in 1798.
Franks are devices or markings, printed or stamped impressions, codes, labels, manuscript writings (including "privilege" signatures), and/or any other authorized form of markings affixed or applied to mails to qualify them to be sent free of charge. The First United States Congress enacted a franking law in 1789 during its very first session. On January 31, 1873, the senate abolished the congressional franking privilege, but within two years, Congress began to make exceptions to this ban. Finally, in 1891, noting that its members were the only government officials required to pay postage, Congress restored full franking privileges. Since then, the franking of congressional mail has been subject to ongoing review and regulation. This unique item is lightly age toned, with minor wear at folds. Small tears at seal. Near fine condition.
[John Marshall] Supreme Court Justice John McLean Autograph Manuscript Unsigned, His Eulogy Honoring Fellow Justice John Marshall. One page, two-sided, 8" x 12.5", n.p., July 1835. Upon the death of U.S. Chief Justice John Marshall, Associate Supreme Court Justice John McLean composed this eulogy. It reads, in part: "The Court feel great satisfaction in directing that the proceedings of the members of the bar, on this melancholy occasion, shall be placed upon their record. It is the highest respect which we can show, officially, to the memory of that exacted citizen whose loss we all most sincerely deplore. For more than six years I have had the honor to e intimately associated with the deceased, in the discharge of public duties; and this association has been more than sufficient to give me the highest admiration and respect for his eminent qualities, professional, intellectual and moral . . . most of all will the loss be felt and deplored by those who were associated with him on that bench, of which he was the distinguished ornament."
The longest serving chief justice in Supreme Court history, Marshall dominated the Court for over three decades and played a significant role in the development of the American legal system. Most notably, he established that the courts are entitled to exercise judicial review, the power to strike down laws that violate the Constitution. This unsigned manuscript is lightly age toned with minor wear and faint stains along the left edge. Generally fine in condition, this piece would make an excellent addition to any judicial collection.
The longest serving chief justice in Supreme Court history, Marshall dominated the Court for over three decades and played a significant role in the development of the American legal system. Most notably, he established that the courts are entitled to exercise judicial review, the power to strike down laws that violate the Constitution. This unsigned manuscript is lightly age toned with minor wear and faint stains along the left edge. Generally fine in condition, this piece would make an excellent addition to any judicial collection.
[Mexican-American War] Associate Justice of the Supreme Court John McLean Autograph Draft Letter Unsigned. Two pages, two-sided, approximately 8" x 10", Washington, D.C., January 1848. An American jurist and politician, McLean served in the United States Congress, as U.S. Postmaster General, and as a justice on the Ohio and U.S. Supreme Courts.
Exceptional draft letter regarding the American war with Mexico, thoughtfully written by Associate Justice John McLean. In part: "I have never hesitated to express my opinion on all proper occasions, in relation to the present War with Mexico. In my judgment it was unnecessarily and unconstitutionally commenced by marching our army into disputed territory, in the possession of Mexico. And I think that Congress, who unquestionably have the power, should terminate the war on just and honorable principles." McLean then goes on to discuss ways in which the government can raise money to pay for the costs of the war. Letter is in very fine condition.
Exceptional draft letter regarding the American war with Mexico, thoughtfully written by Associate Justice John McLean. In part: "I have never hesitated to express my opinion on all proper occasions, in relation to the present War with Mexico. In my judgment it was unnecessarily and unconstitutionally commenced by marching our army into disputed territory, in the possession of Mexico. And I think that Congress, who unquestionably have the power, should terminate the war on just and honorable principles." McLean then goes on to discuss ways in which the government can raise money to pay for the costs of the war. Letter is in very fine condition.
[Yazoo Land Fraud] Thomas Mifflin Land Deed Signed as Governor of Pennsylvania. One page, 20" x 29", Philadelphia, February 2, 1795. The Yazoo Land Fraud was a massive swindle perpetrated by several Georgia governors and the state legislature from 1795 to 1803 by selling large tracts of land to insiders at absurdly low prices.
Georgia was too weak after the Revolution to defend its vast western land claims, known as the "Yazoo lands." The state legislature listened eagerly to proposals from speculators willing to pay for the right to form settlements there. Pressure continued to build until, on January 7, 1795, Georgia governor George Mathews signed the Yazoo Act, which transferred 40 million acres in present-day Alabama and Mississippi to several speculative land companies for the tiny sum of $500,000. To bring off this coup, the leader of the Yazooists, Georgia's Federalist U.S. senator James Gunn, had arranged the distribution of money and land to legislators, state officials, newspaper editors, and other influential Georgians.
We offer here a very large deed for Yazoo lands totaling 225,000 acres, sold by James Shorter to Dr. Thomas Ruston of Philadelphia, who later went bankrupt through questionable land speculation. Affixed to the document is the statement of notary Peter Lohra, as well as a second partly printed document appointing Lohra as a notary. This appointment is dated November 7, 1895 and bears the large signature of Pennsylvania Governor Thomas Mifflin.
Many Georgia officials and legislators were stockholders in these companies, and there was widespread public outrage when the details were revealed, reaching all the way to Washington. United States Senator James Jackson and Georgia Congressman Jared Irwin led the reform efforts: Irwin was quickly elected Governor and less than two months after taking office signed a bill nullifying the Yazoo Act on February 13, 1796. The state refunded money to those who had purchased land, but some preferred to keep their land and the matter was to languish in the courts for the next decade. In 1803, the state ceded all claim to lands west of its present border to the federal government. The case reached the U.S. Supreme Court in 1810 as Fletcher v. Peck. Chief Justice John Marshall ruled that the Rescinding Act had been an unconstitutional violation of the right of contract, and finally, in 1814, Congress resolved the issue, providing $5 million from the proceeds of land sales in the Mississippi Territory to be shared by the claimants. This incredible item is lightly age toned, and bears several areas of fold damage and separation. Very good condition.
Georgia was too weak after the Revolution to defend its vast western land claims, known as the "Yazoo lands." The state legislature listened eagerly to proposals from speculators willing to pay for the right to form settlements there. Pressure continued to build until, on January 7, 1795, Georgia governor George Mathews signed the Yazoo Act, which transferred 40 million acres in present-day Alabama and Mississippi to several speculative land companies for the tiny sum of $500,000. To bring off this coup, the leader of the Yazooists, Georgia's Federalist U.S. senator James Gunn, had arranged the distribution of money and land to legislators, state officials, newspaper editors, and other influential Georgians.
We offer here a very large deed for Yazoo lands totaling 225,000 acres, sold by James Shorter to Dr. Thomas Ruston of Philadelphia, who later went bankrupt through questionable land speculation. Affixed to the document is the statement of notary Peter Lohra, as well as a second partly printed document appointing Lohra as a notary. This appointment is dated November 7, 1895 and bears the large signature of Pennsylvania Governor Thomas Mifflin.
Many Georgia officials and legislators were stockholders in these companies, and there was widespread public outrage when the details were revealed, reaching all the way to Washington. United States Senator James Jackson and Georgia Congressman Jared Irwin led the reform efforts: Irwin was quickly elected Governor and less than two months after taking office signed a bill nullifying the Yazoo Act on February 13, 1796. The state refunded money to those who had purchased land, but some preferred to keep their land and the matter was to languish in the courts for the next decade. In 1803, the state ceded all claim to lands west of its present border to the federal government. The case reached the U.S. Supreme Court in 1810 as Fletcher v. Peck. Chief Justice John Marshall ruled that the Rescinding Act had been an unconstitutional violation of the right of contract, and finally, in 1814, Congress resolved the issue, providing $5 million from the proceeds of land sales in the Mississippi Territory to be shared by the claimants. This incredible item is lightly age toned, and bears several areas of fold damage and separation. Very good condition.
John Penn Autograph Docket Signed "J. P." on verso. One page, 7.5" x 3", May 5, 1783, Granville County, North Carolina. In part: "We command you to take the body of William Dodson late of your said County planter-if to be found in your bailiwick & him safely keep so that you have him before the Justices of our County Court of Granville at the Courthouse on the first Monday in Aug. next to Answer Charles Dodson of a plea of trespass on the case Damage Twenty pounds Specie and have you there then this writ Witness Asa Searey Clerk of our said Court." The document is signed by "Asa Searey C.C." Penn has docketed this document on the verso, "Dodson v. Dodson/ Writ. To Aug Term 1783", signing "J. P." Countersigned by Thornton Yancey, the sheriff of Granville County. John Penn served as the president of the N. C. Governor's Council during the final months of the Revolutionary War. He spent the last years of his life practicing law and serving North Carolina.
North Carolina records show that Charles Dodson, Sr., had 625 acres of land which he had received from Lord Earl Granville in 1756 when he died. At his death, the land went to his son William. In 1760, William Dodson gave his brother Charles Dodson, Jr., 200 acres of the land. Their widowed mother, Frances, lived on the acreage and used the timber and house for the remainder of her life. She was still alive when Charles took his brother to court in 1783. Lightly toned at folds; near fine.
North Carolina records show that Charles Dodson, Sr., had 625 acres of land which he had received from Lord Earl Granville in 1756 when he died. At his death, the land went to his son William. In 1760, William Dodson gave his brother Charles Dodson, Jr., 200 acres of the land. Their widowed mother, Frances, lived on the acreage and used the timber and house for the remainder of her life. She was still alive when Charles took his brother to court in 1783. Lightly toned at folds; near fine.
[Pennamite-Yankee War] Timothy Pickering Autograph Letter Signed "T. Pickering" as Pennsylvania militia colonel. Four integral pages, written on pages one and two, addressed on page four, 6.25" x 7.75", May 29, 1787, Wilkesburg, Pennsylvania. The letter is addressed to Charles Biddle, vice-president of Pennsylvania and father of Nicholas Biddle, and tells of Pickering's opening the first courts in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The move was designed to establish Pennsylvania's authority over the Wyoming Valley and end the years of conflict between settlers from Connecticut who claimed the land along the North Branch of the Susquehanna River and settlers from Pennsylvania who laid claim to the same territory. The conflict, known as the Pennamite-Yankee War, began in 1769 with the first Connecticut settlement. In an effort to settle the long-standing dispute, Pennsylvania passed an Act in 1787 establishing Luzerne County in the valley and appointed Colonel Timothy Pickering, Colonel Zebulon Butler, and Colonel John Franklin as commissioners for an election to elect a councilor, a member of the assembly, a sheriff, a corner, three commissioners and justices of the peace.
Joseph D. Story Lot of Three Autograph Letters Signed to Fellow Supreme Court Justice John McLean. Three two-page letters, each with integral address leaf, 8" x 10", Cambridge, dated January 1, 1842, January 30, 1843, and November 29, 1844, respectively. American lawyer and jurist, Joseph D. Story served on the Supreme Court of the United States (1811-1845), and is most remembered for his opinions in Martin v. Hunter's Lessee and United States v. The Amistad.
Through their many years serving together, Supreme Court justices naturally shared personal and private thoughts and letters with their fellow justices. We offer three such personal letters here, from Justice Joseph D. Story to Justice John McLean. The first is a letter introducing Caleb Loring, "the son of one of our most distinguished Lawyers in Boston," to Justice McLean, and asking McLean to introduce Loring to the other Supreme Court justices and members of the Washington bar.
The second communication is a letter of condolence, sent to Justice McLean upon the death of McLean's wife. Story affectionately writes in part: "It grieved me exceedingly to learn a few weeks since through the newspapers that you had had the misfortune to lose your excellent wife. I say excellent for although my personal acquaintance with her was too brief & limited; yet I have been long accustomed to hear her spoken of by her intimate friends with no deeper feelings of affection & attachment, for her virtues, her tenderness & watchfulness [sic] her deep religion & piety, & her unaffected. . . . I pray God to support you under such a bereavement. . . . P.S. My wife desires me to add her affectionate regards to you, & to assure you, how sincerely she sympathizes with you in your afflictive loss."
The third letter requests McLean's pardon for not appearing in Washington due to the dire health of his mother, saying "I consider her case very alarming, & fear the worst." An excellent addition to any Supreme Court collection, these letters are lightly age toned with occasional faint soiling and small seal tears. Generally fine condition.
Through their many years serving together, Supreme Court justices naturally shared personal and private thoughts and letters with their fellow justices. We offer three such personal letters here, from Justice Joseph D. Story to Justice John McLean. The first is a letter introducing Caleb Loring, "the son of one of our most distinguished Lawyers in Boston," to Justice McLean, and asking McLean to introduce Loring to the other Supreme Court justices and members of the Washington bar.
The second communication is a letter of condolence, sent to Justice McLean upon the death of McLean's wife. Story affectionately writes in part: "It grieved me exceedingly to learn a few weeks since through the newspapers that you had had the misfortune to lose your excellent wife. I say excellent for although my personal acquaintance with her was too brief & limited; yet I have been long accustomed to hear her spoken of by her intimate friends with no deeper feelings of affection & attachment, for her virtues, her tenderness & watchfulness [sic] her deep religion & piety, & her unaffected. . . . I pray God to support you under such a bereavement. . . . P.S. My wife desires me to add her affectionate regards to you, & to assure you, how sincerely she sympathizes with you in your afflictive loss."
The third letter requests McLean's pardon for not appearing in Washington due to the dire health of his mother, saying "I consider her case very alarming, & fear the worst." An excellent addition to any Supreme Court collection, these letters are lightly age toned with occasional faint soiling and small seal tears. Generally fine condition.
Reverend Isaac Story Autograph Document Signed for Lease of Slave. One page, 7.75" x 5.25", Marblehead, Massachusetts, May 20, 1777. Isaac Story served as the sole minister for the town of Marblehead from 1771 until 1800, at which time he penned this brief legal instrument. It documents the lease/rental of one of Stand's young slaves.
In part: "In consideration of the sum of thirty pounds paid me by Abraham Dodge Esqr. of Ipswich, I do . . . relinquish & make over to him . . . my Negro Boy Chance & his Services, for the space of twelve years & a third." Research reveals that Dodge was a mariner with several properties in the Ipswich area. Document is moderately age toned and lightly foxed. Minor wear along folds and at fold intersection. Fine condition.
In part: "In consideration of the sum of thirty pounds paid me by Abraham Dodge Esqr. of Ipswich, I do . . . relinquish & make over to him . . . my Negro Boy Chance & his Services, for the space of twelve years & a third." Research reveals that Dodge was a mariner with several properties in the Ipswich area. Document is moderately age toned and lightly foxed. Minor wear along folds and at fold intersection. Fine condition.
Roger B. Taney Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided, 5" x 8", Washington, D.C., October 29, 1859. Roger Taney was the twelfth United States Attorney General and the fifth Chief Justice of the United States, holding that office from 1836 until his death in 1864.
Chief Justice Taney writes to Associate Justice John McLean to discuss an unidentified case. In part: "I had not receive [sic] your letter until this morning, and had not before seen the opinion of Judge Nelson. It appears to me however to be right, & in conformity with the intentions of the Supreme Court when the rule was adopted. I so understood it at the time, and supposed it was so understood by the members of the Court." Signed "R.B. Taney." Letter is lightly age toned and in fine condition.
Chief Justice Taney writes to Associate Justice John McLean to discuss an unidentified case. In part: "I had not receive [sic] your letter until this morning, and had not before seen the opinion of Judge Nelson. It appears to me however to be right, & in conformity with the intentions of the Supreme Court when the rule was adopted. I so understood it at the time, and supposed it was so understood by the members of the Court." Signed "R.B. Taney." Letter is lightly age toned and in fine condition.
General Joseph P. Taylor Autograph Letters Signed to Supreme Court Justice John McLean. Joseph P. Taylor was a Union general and President Zachary Taylor's brother. He served as Commissary General for most of the Civil War (later promoted to brigadier-general), heading the Subsistence Department. This lot contains two letters from Taylor to Supreme Court Justice John McLean.
(1) Two pages, two-sided, with integral address leaf, 7.75" x 10", Louisville, March 4, 1831. Taylor sends a friendly letter filled primarily with news of family members, but ends with a discussion of the Choctaw Treaty, saying: "If it is the intention of the Department that I should be employed in removing the Indians I should much prefer entering on the duty immediately while the weather is cool." Light overall age toning; seal tear. Fine condition.
(2) Three pages, two-sided, with integral address leaf, 7.75" x 10", Longwood, August 29, 1843. McLean's prominence as a justice on the Supreme Court led various political parties to consider him for the presidency; in 1836 (Whigs), 1848 (Liberty and Free Soil Parties), 1856 (Republican) and 1860 (Republican), although he never became a candidate. In this letter, General Taylor discusses McLean's possible nomination by the Whigs. In part: "The late elections in this state and the State of Indiana having resulted so disastrously to the prospects of Mr. Clay causes many of each political party to speculate as to the probable person who will be selected as the Whig candidate for President. . . . I have of late been approached by many persons of both political parties . . . and they have spoken of you in the most flattering manner." Lightly age toned; seal tear. Fine condition.
(1) Two pages, two-sided, with integral address leaf, 7.75" x 10", Louisville, March 4, 1831. Taylor sends a friendly letter filled primarily with news of family members, but ends with a discussion of the Choctaw Treaty, saying: "If it is the intention of the Department that I should be employed in removing the Indians I should much prefer entering on the duty immediately while the weather is cool." Light overall age toning; seal tear. Fine condition.
(2) Three pages, two-sided, with integral address leaf, 7.75" x 10", Longwood, August 29, 1843. McLean's prominence as a justice on the Supreme Court led various political parties to consider him for the presidency; in 1836 (Whigs), 1848 (Liberty and Free Soil Parties), 1856 (Republican) and 1860 (Republican), although he never became a candidate. In this letter, General Taylor discusses McLean's possible nomination by the Whigs. In part: "The late elections in this state and the State of Indiana having resulted so disastrously to the prospects of Mr. Clay causes many of each political party to speculate as to the probable person who will be selected as the Whig candidate for President. . . . I have of late been approached by many persons of both political parties . . . and they have spoken of you in the most flattering manner." Lightly age toned; seal tear. Fine condition.
Georgia Archive traversing the years 1798-1871. Included are twenty-six documents: land indentures (Wilkes, Hart, Banks, Washington County), land grants (Screven County), Civil War-era voting results tally sheet, hand- drawn survey maps, signatures of a Revolutionary War-era militia officer, Confederate soldiers, officers, and Georgia congressmen, marriage license (Sumter, Hall County), legal documents (Richmond County), court documents (Richmond County), land sale documents (Fannin County), business letters (Savannah, Georgia), estate settlement document mentioning slaves (Butts County), military equipment lists (Camden County).
Also included are several letters, such as a John M. Berrien autograph letter signed (Berrien had served as President Andrew Jackson's attorney general) and other personal letters (Murray and Irwin County residents writing about local elections, religion, and farm life: "I want to see you all very Bad but my business is arranged so that I can't come yet for I have a very large crop on hand and it is powerful likely so far but I expect if I have good luck by hard driving that I can get through ploughing this coming week and then I have got to build a house for I have not built a house since you were here except a crib and a smoke house.") Some foxing, soiling, and weakness and separation at folds. In all, an intriguing archive offering insight into nineteenth century Georgia life.
Also included are several letters, such as a John M. Berrien autograph letter signed (Berrien had served as President Andrew Jackson's attorney general) and other personal letters (Murray and Irwin County residents writing about local elections, religion, and farm life: "I want to see you all very Bad but my business is arranged so that I can't come yet for I have a very large crop on hand and it is powerful likely so far but I expect if I have good luck by hard driving that I can get through ploughing this coming week and then I have got to build a house for I have not built a house since you were here except a crib and a smoke house.") Some foxing, soiling, and weakness and separation at folds. In all, an intriguing archive offering insight into nineteenth century Georgia life.
William Clark Autograph Document Signed "Wm Clark ", one page, 7.75" x 6.75", front and verso, 26 April 1814, [St. Louis], in ink. In full, "Provision Return for eighty-three men of Capt Yeiser's company now in service of the United States for one day commencing the 26th April & ending same day. No men 83 No days 1 rations p. day 1/2 No rations 124 ½ The Contractor will issue one hundred & twenty-four & a half complete rations agreeable to the above return 26th April 1814 ", twice cosigned by " F. Yeiser". On verso is penned, "No 17th" and"26th Apl". The document is a receipt for Captain Yeiser to provide men and supplies for one day to William Clark. Evenly toned with a few stray stains on verso, very heavily inked resulting in a few smears, else fine condition.
[Davy Crockett] Mark Hoffman Forgery of a David Crockett Autograph Document Signed. One page, 6.5" x 4.5", n.p., "December the 24th." This small age toned piece of paper, affixed to a piece of cardboard, bears the faded testimony of Margaret and David Crockett with regard to the "rights and claims that she had to the land that was wilt [sic] to her by her husband William Crokit [sic], the land whare [sic] the said John Crokitt [sic] was liv[ing]."
Although its lack of authenticity was not discovered until some time after its purchase, this piece is a forgery, created by Mark Hoffman, American counterfeiter, forger and murderer. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished forgers in history, Hofmann is especially noted for his creation of documents relating to the history of the Latter Day Saints religious movement. When Hofmann's schemes began to unravel, he constructed bombs to murder two people in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was tried, found guilty, and sentenced to life in prison. The document is heavily worn along the edges, with significant simulated age toning and affixed to a cabinet card mounting to appear to be from the period.
Although its lack of authenticity was not discovered until some time after its purchase, this piece is a forgery, created by Mark Hoffman, American counterfeiter, forger and murderer. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished forgers in history, Hofmann is especially noted for his creation of documents relating to the history of the Latter Day Saints religious movement. When Hofmann's schemes began to unravel, he constructed bombs to murder two people in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was tried, found guilty, and sentenced to life in prison. The document is heavily worn along the edges, with significant simulated age toning and affixed to a cabinet card mounting to appear to be from the period.
Miscellaneous
Four Quaker Manuscripts. This small collection of Quaker-related items includes two one-page, and two two-page manuscripts. Three of the manuscripts contain locations and dates (Philadelphia, February 20, 1766; Portsmouth NH, January 5, 1772; and Newport RI, September 26, 1775) and consist of the reports from monthly community meetings.
These meeting reports discuss such topics as raising communal funds, meetings for worship and discipline, love and unity among community members, priest's wages and military Service, child rearing, caring for the poor, slave ownership, the avoidance of "the frequent use of Spiritous Liquors & unnecessary frequenting taverns," and much more. Of particular interest is the February 20, 1766 report, which states that "We fervently Caution & exhort, that in these trying times when the Minds of People are so much perplexed & agitated with the Difficulties that now prevail in this once peaceful Land, we may not forget to act consistently with the purity & Meekness of our Christian Profession becoming the followers of our Peaceable Savior Jesus Christ, & the Practice & Advice of faithful Friends in all times of Tryal [sic] & Difficulty."
Presumably, this report references the first direct British tax on American colonists - the Stamp Act - instituted in November 1765, which decreed that every newspaper, pamphlet, and other public and legal document had to have a Stamp, or British seal, on it. The Stamp, of course, cost money and colonists didn't think they should have to pay for something they had been doing for free for many years. They responded in force, with demonstrations and even with a diplomatic body called the Stamp Act Congress, which delivered its answer to the Crown. Seeing the hostile reaction in the colonies, the British government repealed the Stamp Act in March 1766 but at the same time passed the Declaratory Act, which said that Great Britain was superior to and in command of the American colonies "in all cases whatsoever."
The fourth item is an anonymous letter, addressed to "Fellow Members" and signed "Your Critic," which criticizes unnamed individuals for arriving late to Lyceum meetings and leaving early, once the roll had been called. The manuscripts are lightly age toned and in very good to fine condition, with one meeting report suffering significant fold separation. Prospective buyers are advised to view the items in this lot carefully prior to bidding.
These meeting reports discuss such topics as raising communal funds, meetings for worship and discipline, love and unity among community members, priest's wages and military Service, child rearing, caring for the poor, slave ownership, the avoidance of "the frequent use of Spiritous Liquors & unnecessary frequenting taverns," and much more. Of particular interest is the February 20, 1766 report, which states that "We fervently Caution & exhort, that in these trying times when the Minds of People are so much perplexed & agitated with the Difficulties that now prevail in this once peaceful Land, we may not forget to act consistently with the purity & Meekness of our Christian Profession becoming the followers of our Peaceable Savior Jesus Christ, & the Practice & Advice of faithful Friends in all times of Tryal [sic] & Difficulty."
Presumably, this report references the first direct British tax on American colonists - the Stamp Act - instituted in November 1765, which decreed that every newspaper, pamphlet, and other public and legal document had to have a Stamp, or British seal, on it. The Stamp, of course, cost money and colonists didn't think they should have to pay for something they had been doing for free for many years. They responded in force, with demonstrations and even with a diplomatic body called the Stamp Act Congress, which delivered its answer to the Crown. Seeing the hostile reaction in the colonies, the British government repealed the Stamp Act in March 1766 but at the same time passed the Declaratory Act, which said that Great Britain was superior to and in command of the American colonies "in all cases whatsoever."
The fourth item is an anonymous letter, addressed to "Fellow Members" and signed "Your Critic," which criticizes unnamed individuals for arriving late to Lyceum meetings and leaving early, once the roll had been called. The manuscripts are lightly age toned and in very good to fine condition, with one meeting report suffering significant fold separation. Prospective buyers are advised to view the items in this lot carefully prior to bidding.
Autographs
Brigham Young Document Signed. Five pages, manuscript, 8.5" x 14" lightly lined legal sheets with docketing on verso of last page, April 20, 1876, District Court, Third Judicial District, Salt Lake County, Territory of Utah. Documents regarding a lawsuit, "Brigham Young Plaintiff vs. Frederick A.H.F. Mitchell and Margaret Mitchell his wife Defendants." Notarized and signed "James Jack/ Notary Public/ for Salt Lake County U.T." and embossed seal affixed (Jack later served as treasurer of the Territory of Utah). Brigham Young, in part: "...complains of the said defendants and alleges: That the defendant Frederick A.H.F. Mitchell under the style of 'F.A.H.F. Mitchell,' at Salt Lake City in said Territory on the 29th day of June 1872 made his promissory note in the words and figures following to wit; $5000... Ninety days after date for value received I promise to pay to the order of Brigham Young Five thousand Dollars,. Negotiable and payable at his office in Salt Lake City Utah, without defalcation or discount with one and one half per cent interest per month from date until paid both before and after Judgment." Young states that Mitchell has paid $1978.80 interest and that the principal of $5000 is due plus interest, less the amount paid. A deed of mortgage of "lands and tenements," signed by Mitchell and his wife, was assigned to Young to secure the note. At the time, the Mitchells were using the property "as a homestead and dwelling." Young is seeking a judgment against the Mitchells for the amount still owed after the sale of said lands and tenements. Fine condition.
Frederick Augustus Herman Frank Mitchell (1835-1923) came to Utah with his parents and seven brothers and sisters in 1854 as part of the James Brown company. In 1856, F.A.H.F. Mitchell was called at the general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to take a mission to the Hawaiian Islands. While there, he learned the native language and worked with the Hawaiians, returning to Utah in 1858. Mitchell was then employed in the business of manufacturing tin and sheet ironware. He returned to the Hawaiian Islands in 1873 with his wife and five children. His mission was to preside over the Hawaiian Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Hawaiian Saints). In 1874, he ordered Hawaiian Saints at the Laie plantation to tear out and destroy their cash crop of 'awa (kava, still used as a tranquilizer) because he believed it was prohibited by the Word of Wisdom. When a dissenting group refused, Mitchell began disfellowshipping procedures, and the group then purchased property and moved to Kahana. They complained to Brigham Young and Mitchell was released from his mission, arriving back in Utah in February 1875. He later served in Great Britain as a missionary from 1899-1902.
Frederick Augustus Herman Frank Mitchell (1835-1923) came to Utah with his parents and seven brothers and sisters in 1854 as part of the James Brown company. In 1856, F.A.H.F. Mitchell was called at the general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to take a mission to the Hawaiian Islands. While there, he learned the native language and worked with the Hawaiians, returning to Utah in 1858. Mitchell was then employed in the business of manufacturing tin and sheet ironware. He returned to the Hawaiian Islands in 1873 with his wife and five children. His mission was to preside over the Hawaiian Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Hawaiian Saints). In 1874, he ordered Hawaiian Saints at the Laie plantation to tear out and destroy their cash crop of 'awa (kava, still used as a tranquilizer) because he believed it was prohibited by the Word of Wisdom. When a dissenting group refused, Mitchell began disfellowshipping procedures, and the group then purchased property and moved to Kahana. They complained to Brigham Young and Mitchell was released from his mission, arriving back in Utah in February 1875. He later served in Great Britain as a missionary from 1899-1902.
[Indian Slavery] Thomas Pryor Document Signed for the Sale of an Indian Boy. Two pages including integral blank, written on recto of first page only, 7.5" x 12", Philadelphia, April 3, 1708. Docketed on verso of second page. Little is known of Thomas Pryor, other than that he was born in Hertfordshire, England in 1669, and removed to Pennsylvania where he operated a bolting mill (a grist grinding machine for sifting flour, meal, etc.) in Solebury Township, Bucks County. He was said to have had many differences with his neighbors, customers, and creditors. This handsomely penned item documents the sale, for the sum of "forty pounds current money . . . paid by Toby Leech," of a young Indian boy. The document states that Pryor "has bargained, sould [sic] and Delivered . . . unto Said Toby Leech one Indian Boy called Harford, To Have and to Hould [sic]".
Native American slavery was practiced by the English in the Carolinas who sold Native American captives into slavery on the English plantations in the Caribbean. It is estimated that the number of Native Americans in southeast America sold in the British slave trade from 1670-1715 is between 30,000 and 50,000. Thousands of Indians were exported from ports such as Boston and Salem, and, on a much smaller scale, by the French from New Orleans. These totals will surely rise as we learn more about the thousands who were not exported from their region but lived out their lives as slaves on plantations in Virginia or as farm laborers in Connecticut. Although the scale of Indian enslavement pales in comparison to the African slave trade, it is notable, for instance, that from 1670 to 1717, far more American Indians were exported from Charleston than Africans were brought in. Scholars long have known about the Indian slave trade, but the scattered nature of the sources prevented a systematic examination. We are just learning of the trade's massive extent and its central role in the lives of early Americans and in the colonial economy.
Pryor's bold signature is offset by his red wax seal. Document is moderately age toned with a small area of dampstaining along the right margin. With minor separations at folds and two small bits of paper loss thereat. Although slave sale receipts are not uncommon, they are usually dealing with the sale of a black slave and date from the 19th Century. This manuscript is the first we have seen for an Indian slave, and is especially unique for its early date.
Native American slavery was practiced by the English in the Carolinas who sold Native American captives into slavery on the English plantations in the Caribbean. It is estimated that the number of Native Americans in southeast America sold in the British slave trade from 1670-1715 is between 30,000 and 50,000. Thousands of Indians were exported from ports such as Boston and Salem, and, on a much smaller scale, by the French from New Orleans. These totals will surely rise as we learn more about the thousands who were not exported from their region but lived out their lives as slaves on plantations in Virginia or as farm laborers in Connecticut. Although the scale of Indian enslavement pales in comparison to the African slave trade, it is notable, for instance, that from 1670 to 1717, far more American Indians were exported from Charleston than Africans were brought in. Scholars long have known about the Indian slave trade, but the scattered nature of the sources prevented a systematic examination. We are just learning of the trade's massive extent and its central role in the lives of early Americans and in the colonial economy.
Pryor's bold signature is offset by his red wax seal. Document is moderately age toned with a small area of dampstaining along the right margin. With minor separations at folds and two small bits of paper loss thereat. Although slave sale receipts are not uncommon, they are usually dealing with the sale of a black slave and date from the 19th Century. This manuscript is the first we have seen for an Indian slave, and is especially unique for its early date.
Ojibwa Chief Kahkewaquonaby (Peter Jones) Autograph Manuscript Signed Twice. One page, 8" x 10", Liverpool, April 19, 1832. Ojibwa Methodist minister Peter Jones was a translator, tribal chief, and author from Burlington Heights, Upper Canada. His Ojibwa name was Kahkewaquonaby, which means Sacred Waving Feathers. He was elected a chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit Mission in 1829 and acted as a spokesman for the tribe when petitioning the colonial government and its departments. During his British tours he had audiences with King William IV and Queen Victoria, directly petitioning the latter on the issue of title deeds for the Mississaugas of Upper Canada. It was during one of his tours of England that Jones penned this brief manuscript. A Bible passage, written in both Chippewa and English, using a different writing style for each language. The passage reads: "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be great for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose. Isa. 35.1." Signed " Kahkewaquonaby" and below this "Peter Jones . . . Chief from Canada." Light age toning; a few creases at corners. Fine condition.
Seneca Chief Cornplanter Document Signed With His Mark. One page, 8" x 6.5", "Buffalo, July 5th, 1819." Docketed on verso. Cornplanter was the son of a white man and an Indian princess who was a member of the Seneca noble family and the hereditary matron of the Wolf clan. Cornplanter's English name was John O'Bail. Cornplanter was often referred to as one of the most valiant warriors of his tribe, fighting first with the British as chief of the Seneca Nation. However, when his people were deserted by their British allies he took part in Indian treaties with the American government. He was the earliest settler in Warren County, Pennsylvania, and a contemporary of George Washington, with whom he became close friends during the Revolutionary War. For his help during the ensuing Indian war he was given large tracts of land in several locations, as partial recognition for his services to the state. Cornplanter settled on the grant with his family, remaining there until his death in 1836.
This extremely rare and collectible document, representing Cornplanter's $250 annuity, reads in full: "Received at Buffalo of LeRoy Bayard & McEvans and Thomas Morris per the hands of Jasper Parrish Sut. Agent to the Six Nations of Indians, Two hundred & fifty dollars, it being in full for an Annuity due me (by an agreement made with Robert Morris at Big Tree in September 1797) up to September 1818." Below this is written Cornplanter's name, and taking the pen in his own hand, Cornplanter has scrawled an "X" making "his mark" upon the receipt. The document has been witnessed by "H. Cunningham, Chas. F. Coit," and one addition individual whose signature is illegible. The document is in outstanding condition - bright and sharp and very fine - and would be a valuable addition to any Native American collection.
This extremely rare and collectible document, representing Cornplanter's $250 annuity, reads in full: "Received at Buffalo of LeRoy Bayard & McEvans and Thomas Morris per the hands of Jasper Parrish Sut. Agent to the Six Nations of Indians, Two hundred & fifty dollars, it being in full for an Annuity due me (by an agreement made with Robert Morris at Big Tree in September 1797) up to September 1818." Below this is written Cornplanter's name, and taking the pen in his own hand, Cornplanter has scrawled an "X" making "his mark" upon the receipt. The document has been witnessed by "H. Cunningham, Chas. F. Coit," and one addition individual whose signature is illegible. The document is in outstanding condition - bright and sharp and very fine - and would be a valuable addition to any Native American collection.
John Ross Autograph Document Signed as chief of the Cherokee Nation. One blue, lined page, 7.5" x 6.75", March 6, 1857, "Executive Department", authorizing payment for educational supplies. In part: "Lewis Ross Es./ National Treasurer/ Will Pay to the order of John W. Staplen the sum of Eleven Dollars & Seven cents out of the School fund for supplies furnished. . . . John Ross". The years between 1819 and 1866 were turbulent for the Cherokee Nation: they attempted to become an independent nation, they lost their ancestral lands, and they were forcibly removed to the Indian Territory in modern Oklahoma. John Ross (1790-1866) was a leading Cherokee figure throughout these times. He spoke little of the Cherokee language and was, for many, more similar to well-bred country gentlemen than to his Cherokee heritage. Still, the majority of the tribe supported him and elected him as their principal chief for most of his lifetime. Fine signature with swirling paraph. Document is missing the bottom left corner and has some light staining; near fine. "John W. Staplen" has signed the verso stating he received payment.
John Brown, Sr. of Osawatomie Autograph Document Signed With an Additional Four Complete Signatures Appearing Throughout the Text and Docket. ADS "John Brown" adding a drawn seal with what is likely his fingerprint, one page, 8" x 12.75", "in the County of Crawford and State of Pennsylvania", May 1, 1833. A promissory note in the amount of two hundred dollars owed to "Milton A. Lusk of township of Hudson and County of Portage in the State of Ohio" for "land lying in the township of Hudson & county of Portage, and known as a part of lot no. 73 and no. 74 it being one equal and undivided right to the on third part of the real estate of Amos Lusk decd and the property of the heirs of Dianthe Brown."
Brown had moved to New Richmond, Pennsylvania with his first wife Dianthe Lusk in 1825. In 1832, a year prior to the writing of this document, Brown had lost both one of his infant sons as well as his wife Dianthe. Just prior to this loss, Brown had lost another child and had been ill. The mounting tragedies resulted in great debt, exemplary of which is this bond made out to his father-in-law, on which Brown is using land left by his late wife, as collateral. Just a short month after the date of this document, Brown would marry his second wife, Mary Ann Day.
John Brown, Sr. (1800-1859) is undoubtedly one of the most controversial figures of the 19th Century. History has both vilified him as a religious fanatic guilty of the Pottawatomie Massacre, and in turn as hero sometimes credited with starting the chain of events that would eventually lead to the freeing of the slaves. The current consensus on Brown is that he was a man of strong faith and will, who died a martyr to the cause of abolition.
With minor staining at the right margin, this manuscript is in very good to near fine condition; and is particularly unique being that it may contain what is likely the only known example of Brown's fingerprint, which is used to ratify the drawn seal.
Brown had moved to New Richmond, Pennsylvania with his first wife Dianthe Lusk in 1825. In 1832, a year prior to the writing of this document, Brown had lost both one of his infant sons as well as his wife Dianthe. Just prior to this loss, Brown had lost another child and had been ill. The mounting tragedies resulted in great debt, exemplary of which is this bond made out to his father-in-law, on which Brown is using land left by his late wife, as collateral. Just a short month after the date of this document, Brown would marry his second wife, Mary Ann Day.
John Brown, Sr. (1800-1859) is undoubtedly one of the most controversial figures of the 19th Century. History has both vilified him as a religious fanatic guilty of the Pottawatomie Massacre, and in turn as hero sometimes credited with starting the chain of events that would eventually lead to the freeing of the slaves. The current consensus on Brown is that he was a man of strong faith and will, who died a martyr to the cause of abolition.
With minor staining at the right margin, this manuscript is in very good to near fine condition; and is particularly unique being that it may contain what is likely the only known example of Brown's fingerprint, which is used to ratify the drawn seal.
John Brown of Osawatamie Autograph Docket Including his Surname "Brown" at top corner of a single sheet, 8" x 5.25", containing letters (one on each side) from his sons Owen and Jason Brown. John Brown acknowledges receipt of his son's letter: "Jason & Owen Brown / Requires no reply" at the top margin of a cryptic and undated letter from his son Jason. Jason writes to his father: "What I wrote John [likely his brother, John Brown, Jr.] about Pikes Peak, while you was there was designed entirely for your Mountain enterprise [underlined for emphasis]. It seems that I worded it so that you and John both misunderstood me. I have always felt a deep interest in this golden project, but have not had confidence for some years, that the real ore would be dug out so near home and on your plan of mining till this last winter. As you say, when prosperity and success attend you you will have plenty of friends.... May God spare your life; and lives, many years, J.B."
Owen's letter on the verso is dated "Akron, May 2nd 1859... We have not seen your writing case, which you say was lost, either at Chicago, or somewhere this side -- I believe & hope that your life & health, may be spared for several years. I cannot think you have finished your work yet. -- You have mistaken Jason's ideas of 'moorings' entirely. He is heartily engaged in the measure & as he says 'At this late hour, wished to be considered one of us [underlined for emphasis]... While you was in Kansas last season, I wrote you once. Sometime in August... We have not heard from John [Jr.] in several months, if it was myself, it would be no wonder; as it is him, I am beginning to think strange of it..."
These letters were written just two short months before the attack on Harper's Ferry. During this time John Brown was traveling throughout New England, trying to raise funds, arms, and men to join his plot to overthrow slavery in the south. The family had already taken to writing in code, so it is likely that the underlined words and cryptic phrases were in fact allusions to the Brown's plans. Brown would return to Akron in June, at which time sons Owen and Oliver would join him on his ill-fated quest to Harper's Ferry. Brown had already forfeited all ventures besides his quest to abolish slavery, so it is likely Brown's abolitionist plot that Jason refers to when he references Brown's "golden project". Likewise, Owen's admonishment that Jason wishes to be "considered one of us" is meant to denote that Jason had planned to join in the struggle. John, Jr. was conspicuously absent during this period. There is conflicting information that states he was opposed to his father's plans, and also that he had misunderstood the timing. Whichever the case, he spent the rest of his life defending his father's legacy.
Soiled with smudged fingerprints and a few stray inkspots; otherwise near fine and very legible. An excellent letter and important relic from the last months of preparation prior to Brown's arrival at Harper's Ferry. Brown arrived in Harper's Ferry in early July of 1859. Brown would lie in wait until October, and on the 16th would lead his 19 men in an attack on the Armory. His original plan had called for 4500 men.
Owen's letter on the verso is dated "Akron, May 2nd 1859... We have not seen your writing case, which you say was lost, either at Chicago, or somewhere this side -- I believe & hope that your life & health, may be spared for several years. I cannot think you have finished your work yet. -- You have mistaken Jason's ideas of 'moorings' entirely. He is heartily engaged in the measure & as he says 'At this late hour, wished to be considered one of us [underlined for emphasis]... While you was in Kansas last season, I wrote you once. Sometime in August... We have not heard from John [Jr.] in several months, if it was myself, it would be no wonder; as it is him, I am beginning to think strange of it..."
These letters were written just two short months before the attack on Harper's Ferry. During this time John Brown was traveling throughout New England, trying to raise funds, arms, and men to join his plot to overthrow slavery in the south. The family had already taken to writing in code, so it is likely that the underlined words and cryptic phrases were in fact allusions to the Brown's plans. Brown would return to Akron in June, at which time sons Owen and Oliver would join him on his ill-fated quest to Harper's Ferry. Brown had already forfeited all ventures besides his quest to abolish slavery, so it is likely Brown's abolitionist plot that Jason refers to when he references Brown's "golden project". Likewise, Owen's admonishment that Jason wishes to be "considered one of us" is meant to denote that Jason had planned to join in the struggle. John, Jr. was conspicuously absent during this period. There is conflicting information that states he was opposed to his father's plans, and also that he had misunderstood the timing. Whichever the case, he spent the rest of his life defending his father's legacy.
Soiled with smudged fingerprints and a few stray inkspots; otherwise near fine and very legible. An excellent letter and important relic from the last months of preparation prior to Brown's arrival at Harper's Ferry. Brown arrived in Harper's Ferry in early July of 1859. Brown would lie in wait until October, and on the 16th would lead his 19 men in an attack on the Armory. His original plan had called for 4500 men.
John Brown, Jr. Civil War-dated Archive of Letters to his wife Wealthy Brown. 34 letters (one incomplete, and eight accompanied by the original cover), totaling more than 130 pages, various sizes, dated February 14, 1861 through November 29, 1863. An extensive collection by Brown with great content, during his service in Company K of Charles Jennison's 1st Kansas Cavalry, the "Independent Mounted Kansas Jayhawkers". The first letter in this archive pre-dates the Civil War and finds Brown in Windsor, Canada. Brown writes to his wife about staying with a family of "fugitives" whom he is hoping to recruit to emigrate to Haiti. Prior to enlisting in the Jayhawks, Brown toured the country lecturing on the evils of slavery and proposing emigration as a solution. Later letters tell in detail of his efforts to recruit men and raise money for his regiment and his mounting frustrations, "Grand Rapids, Michigan / Dec 29th 1861... Wendell Phillips has sent me some little help. Gerrit Smith has also sent me ten dollars...". In one letter he shares about meeting Col. Jennison and the mustering in of his company: "Leavenworth City Kansas / Saturday Evng Jany 11th 1862... On reaching Leavenworth we found Col. Jennison and Lieut Hoyt. Hoyt had come up with Col Jennison to assist in getting the Company in the right shape...Yesterday the men were mustered in here who came with me and my Company... I was mustered in as Captain... We expect to have drawn the arms and horse equipments for them to day... we are to move soon into the Indian Territory and Texas. We shall probably have the honor of constituting the advance guard in this expedition. Gen. Lane is looked for now every day..."
Brown also shares about engaging the enemy and forays into Missouri to free slaves: "Camp Johnson Morristown, Mo... Monday 27th [Jan. 1862]... I sent off a colored party armed and mounted under command of Mr. Stout and Henry Copeland to bring in some slaves from about 9 miles out. A colored man, husband of one of the slaves represented that the master of his wife was about leaving for the South taking with him the slave woman and her children. I thought it would make a fine impression to have eight or ten blacks well armed go and rescue the woman and children..."
Later letters tell the story of his illness and eventual retirement from his command. This is an uncommon archive with rich content too extensive to cite. Brown spends little time on personal familial matters, and what results is a great account of the Kansas Jayhawkers militant abolitionist agenda in taking up arms against the South and the institution of slavery. Several letters include long passages written in cipher, that no doubt will reveal additional content. Brown's language is never guarded about expressing his feelings on any issue. Overall condition is near fine. Additional transcriptions of letters can be seen at www.ha.com/6019*35062.
Brown also shares about engaging the enemy and forays into Missouri to free slaves: "Camp Johnson Morristown, Mo... Monday 27th [Jan. 1862]... I sent off a colored party armed and mounted under command of Mr. Stout and Henry Copeland to bring in some slaves from about 9 miles out. A colored man, husband of one of the slaves represented that the master of his wife was about leaving for the South taking with him the slave woman and her children. I thought it would make a fine impression to have eight or ten blacks well armed go and rescue the woman and children..."
Later letters tell the story of his illness and eventual retirement from his command. This is an uncommon archive with rich content too extensive to cite. Brown spends little time on personal familial matters, and what results is a great account of the Kansas Jayhawkers militant abolitionist agenda in taking up arms against the South and the institution of slavery. Several letters include long passages written in cipher, that no doubt will reveal additional content. Brown's language is never guarded about expressing his feelings on any issue. Overall condition is near fine. Additional transcriptions of letters can be seen at www.ha.com/6019*35062.
[John Brown of Osawatomie] Oliver Brown Autograph Letter Signed to His Brother John Brown, Jr. Two pages, 7.5" x 9.5", North Elba, Jan. 19, 1858 [but docketed Jan, 19, 1859). Oliver writes to his brother and includes the text of a letter to be passed on to their father, John Brown, Sr. He writes: "I took a letter from the ofice [sic] here for Father. I thought best to send him a copy through you. The letter was from Thomas H Russel No 35 Court St. Boston. I subjoin a copy, 'Dear Friend, I write to know where you are & what you are doing & whether you have any colnization [sic] or other scheme on hand a young man of leisure and properties wishes me to ask. Mrs. Russel & Minnie send thier [sic] love.'
I saw a letter of yours written to Henry & Ruth in which you say you are resolved to make your home among our mountains & that you are also resolved to make investments in land at the west... if you have means to settle yourself as comfortably as some farmers in this place it would be worse than wildness to burden yourself with land speculations at the west..."
Oliver is writing from North Elba, a small community of freed slaves in the Adirondacks, where Brown, Sr. had moved the family in 1848. The Thomas Russell whose letter Owen is transcribing was a judge in Boston who had hidden John Brown in 1857 when it was rumored that he was about to be arrested. Brown had been touring New England trying to raise money for his cause. When rumors began circulating that a federal marshal had been sent to arrest Brown, he sought refuge in Russell's home; despite Russell's standing as an officer of the courts.
At the time this letter was written Brown, Sr. was in Missouri about to set journey with a group of slaves he would eventually bring to freedom in Canada. Brown, Jr. was not with his father at this time as he was likely in Kansas; so Oliver's motives in sending Russell's letter are not clear. The family had long been in the practice of writing in cipher code and allusions.
Oliver would join his father and brother Owen in the attack on the armory at Harper's Ferry. Oliver was mortally wounded during the attack; it is said that upon begging his father to end his suffering, Brown responded, "If you must die, die like a man." Oliver died moments later. It is this type of telling that has fed the long held belief that Brown was a violent religious zealot, but more recent historians are shedding new light and interpretation to Brown's actions.
The manuscript has light showthrough from writing on the verso, however the paper is clean with crisp ink and is highly legible. A scarce autograph with great associative value.
I saw a letter of yours written to Henry & Ruth in which you say you are resolved to make your home among our mountains & that you are also resolved to make investments in land at the west... if you have means to settle yourself as comfortably as some farmers in this place it would be worse than wildness to burden yourself with land speculations at the west..."
Oliver is writing from North Elba, a small community of freed slaves in the Adirondacks, where Brown, Sr. had moved the family in 1848. The Thomas Russell whose letter Owen is transcribing was a judge in Boston who had hidden John Brown in 1857 when it was rumored that he was about to be arrested. Brown had been touring New England trying to raise money for his cause. When rumors began circulating that a federal marshal had been sent to arrest Brown, he sought refuge in Russell's home; despite Russell's standing as an officer of the courts.
At the time this letter was written Brown, Sr. was in Missouri about to set journey with a group of slaves he would eventually bring to freedom in Canada. Brown, Jr. was not with his father at this time as he was likely in Kansas; so Oliver's motives in sending Russell's letter are not clear. The family had long been in the practice of writing in cipher code and allusions.
Oliver would join his father and brother Owen in the attack on the armory at Harper's Ferry. Oliver was mortally wounded during the attack; it is said that upon begging his father to end his suffering, Brown responded, "If you must die, die like a man." Oliver died moments later. It is this type of telling that has fed the long held belief that Brown was a violent religious zealot, but more recent historians are shedding new light and interpretation to Brown's actions.
The manuscript has light showthrough from writing on the verso, however the paper is clean with crisp ink and is highly legible. A scarce autograph with great associative value.
[John Brown of Osawatomie] Jason Brown Autograph Letter Signed to His Brother John Brown, Jr. Two pages, 7.75" x 10", Akron, Nov. 27, 1858, with a short note by Owen Brown signed "O X" at the closing. Good content letter referencing abolitionist Gerrit Smith and encouraging John's plans to establish a community at Pike's Peak. In part: "If you will get together a company of picked men with families (Gerrit men) who will go to the base of the mountains about Pike's Peak... and make a community of the Radical stamp not gold hunters, but gold men and settle there yourselves, I wont be certain that we wont join you." Jason also send a small article from the Liberator, included with the lot, announcing that "Martin White, who shot Fred. Brown at the sack of Ossawatamie [sic] in 1856, was recently found dead in his house. The murderer has met his fate..." Frederick Brown had been with John Brown during the guerilla warfare in Kansas. Although Frederick had successfully rescued Brown's men when they were outnumbered by federal militia during the Battle of Black Jack, he would later be killed by pro-slavery guerillas.
Owen adds a brief note of camaraderie at the end of Jason's letter: "... I am fully enlisted in the idea of equal justice, equal privilages [sic] for all... Life is transient, homes are transient. But Principles, Human liberty & progress are eternal..."
Both letter and article are in near fine condition, save a few spots of foxing on the letter. Great content and association, and worthy of further research.
Owen adds a brief note of camaraderie at the end of Jason's letter: "... I am fully enlisted in the idea of equal justice, equal privilages [sic] for all... Life is transient, homes are transient. But Principles, Human liberty & progress are eternal..."
Both letter and article are in near fine condition, save a few spots of foxing on the letter. Great content and association, and worthy of further research.
[John Brown of Osawatomie] Jason Brown Autograph Letter Signed to His Brother John Brown, Jr. Two pages, 7.75" x 9.75", Akron, Dec. 19, 1858. Good content letter sharing his plans to move and asking his brother for a loan. Jason also includes a transcription of a letter from their father, John Brown, Sr.: "We had a short line from Father a day or two ago dated Oswat [Osawatomie] Dec 3rd. He says 'I have but little more time to write, than to say that my health is some improved and that the friends here are middling well. There is in some border of the counties South of here a very bad state of feeling at this time which may end in bloodshed and may go off in gasp. I have but just returned from the south, and expect to go back at once. When I shall get ready for my other journey; or know how to have you direct to me, I am unable to say yet...' ... Father said he had collected some money for us some time ago of Day and Simpson..."
On the very day this letter was written, Brown, Sr. received a visit from a black man from Missouri who begged Brown's aid in rescuing his family from slavery before they were sold further South. In response to the man's pleas, Brown and a a small company went into Missouri stole away a total of eleven slaves and brought them back to Kansas. A reward was issued for Brown's capture; in response Brown printed handbills offering a reward for the capture of President James Buchanan. (John Brown, by William Elsey Connelley).
A postscript along the left margin on the verso reads: "Gerrit Smith will let you off, and give you back your money gladly for the sake of starting and Anti Slavery colony there." With two spots of foxing that go through to verso, otherwise very good to near fine condition.
On the very day this letter was written, Brown, Sr. received a visit from a black man from Missouri who begged Brown's aid in rescuing his family from slavery before they were sold further South. In response to the man's pleas, Brown and a a small company went into Missouri stole away a total of eleven slaves and brought them back to Kansas. A reward was issued for Brown's capture; in response Brown printed handbills offering a reward for the capture of President James Buchanan. (John Brown, by William Elsey Connelley).
A postscript along the left margin on the verso reads: "Gerrit Smith will let you off, and give you back your money gladly for the sake of starting and Anti Slavery colony there." With two spots of foxing that go through to verso, otherwise very good to near fine condition.
[John Brown of Osawatomie] Owen Brown Autograph Letter Signed to His Brother John Brown, Jr. Two pages with a partial integral sheet also filled with text, 8" x 10", Akron, June 28 and July 11, 1858. Great content letter sending news about his activities and personal struggles. Owen also includes a transcription of a letter received from their father, John Brown, Sr. who was writing from Kansas. From Brown, Sr.'s letter: "Lawrence, Kansas, 28th June / 58. Dear Sons & Wife, I reached Kansas on the 26th Inst. came here last night and leave here today [underlined for emphasis] for the scene of late troubles, which it would seem are not over yet. I can write you but a few words now. Write me under sealed Blank Envellope of your welfare; & of all that will interest me, till further advised [underlined for emphasis] directing Stamped on outside to Rev. S L Adair Osawatomie Kansas Ter...May the God of Our Fathers be Your God. Your Affectionate Father." John Brown had recently returned to Kansas to consult with friends and supporters.
The rest of Owen's letter is tightly scripted and nonsensical at times: "... they sing noise like an old cat thats half ded [sic] with the sick headache, with a whole lot of little kittens following her around yelling and squalling & crying & teasing for bred [sic] & milk, bread & Batter, cookies & the Cookoo, is a gray collared Bird & makes a curios [sic] nois [sic] in the woods on the banks of the Cuyahoga River..." A few spots of discoloration and light soiling, otherwise very good. Written from a tempestuous period of time in the Brown family. Owen Brown would be alongside his father at the attack on Harper's Ferry Armory. He was the only Brown to escape the failed attack. Brothers Oliver and Watson would perish during the fight, and his father who would be executed by hanging after capture.
The rest of Owen's letter is tightly scripted and nonsensical at times: "... they sing noise like an old cat thats half ded [sic] with the sick headache, with a whole lot of little kittens following her around yelling and squalling & crying & teasing for bred [sic] & milk, bread & Batter, cookies & the Cookoo, is a gray collared Bird & makes a curios [sic] nois [sic] in the woods on the banks of the Cuyahoga River..." A few spots of discoloration and light soiling, otherwise very good. Written from a tempestuous period of time in the Brown family. Owen Brown would be alongside his father at the attack on Harper's Ferry Armory. He was the only Brown to escape the failed attack. Brothers Oliver and Watson would perish during the fight, and his father who would be executed by hanging after capture.
[John Brown] John Brown, Jr., Eight Books Signed. The younger Brown, first born of the fervent abolitionist's twenty children, took up the crusade after his father was hanged for the raid on the Harper's Ferry Arsenal. John Brown, Jr. was at Ossawatomie during the famous attack and would have been at Harper's Ferry had the raid occurred at the designated time. He was sought as a conspirator, narrowly escaping arrest. The books from John Brown, Jr.'s personal library, include: Three Seasons in European Vineyards by William J. Flagg, 1869; A Manual of Elementary Instruction by E. A. Sheldon, 1866; The Structure of Animal Life by Louis Agassiz, 1866; Popular Astronomy by O. M. Mitchel, 1860; The Lamplighter, 1854; The Grape Culturist by Andrew Fuller, 1864; The Institutes of English Grammar by Goold Brown, 1866; and, Earth, Sea, and Sky by Henry Davenport Northrop, 1887. The last signed in green ink with the inscription, "To my Son John, Presented at Put-in-Bay Island, Ohio, Dec. 25th 1887. John Brown, Jr.". The other seven books are signed in pencil. The books show various degrees of wear, but the signatures are all fine.
Miscellaneous
Slavery-Related Archive, Nine Items. This interesting collection of court documents, letters, partly printed documents, and notes written on scraps of paper, spans the years of 1827 through 1859. It includes receipts for the temporary hiring of slaves, documents transferring ownership of slaves from one master to another, court transcripts, and more. Documents range in condition from very good to fine, most showing only minor age toning and the occasional edge damage. Prospective buyers are advised to personally view this collection prior to bidding.
Autographs
[Slavery: Wilmot Proviso] Associate Justice John McLean Autograph Letter Draft Unsigned. Two pages, two-sided, 8" x 13", Washington, January 5, 1848. In this lengthy draft letter, Associate Justice John McLean discusses the Wilmot proposed legislation with U.S. Congressional Representative John G. Palfrey, one of seven determined anti-slavery advocates in Congress at the time. McLean's letter reads, in part: "The public attention has been directed to the Wilmot Proviso, as the best, if not the only affectual means of preventing the extension of slavery. Can that motion be carried. It may be helped, perhaps by the House of Representatives, but will not the Senate reject it. This is the general impression and I think it is well founded. The administration has, as you know, a decided majority in the Senate; and that majority, with very few exceptions, will vote against the proviso. And those who oppose it may sustain themselves before the people on the ground that congress has no constitutional power to act on the subject."
The 1846 Wilmot Proviso was a bold attempt by opponents of slavery to prevent its introduction in the territories purchased from Mexico following the Mexican-American War. Named after its sponsor, Democratic Representative David Wilmot of Pennsylvania, the proviso never passed both houses of Congress, but it did ignite an intense national debate over slavery that led to the creation of the antislavery Republican Party in 1854. Letter is moderately age toned and bears numerous corrections and strike-outs. Excellent content on an important social issue. Fine condition.
The 1846 Wilmot Proviso was a bold attempt by opponents of slavery to prevent its introduction in the territories purchased from Mexico following the Mexican-American War. Named after its sponsor, Democratic Representative David Wilmot of Pennsylvania, the proviso never passed both houses of Congress, but it did ignite an intense national debate over slavery that led to the creation of the antislavery Republican Party in 1854. Letter is moderately age toned and bears numerous corrections and strike-outs. Excellent content on an important social issue. Fine condition.
James Weldon Johnson Typed Letter Signed, "James W. Johnson". Two pages, 8.5" x 11", February 7, 1922, New York, New York, on National Association for the Advancement of Colored People stationery. The letter urges United States Senator Howard Sutherland to support federal legislation, the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill, saying, "It is unnecessary to call your attention to the fact that the killing and burning alive of human beings by mobs in the United States is a reproach upon our country before the civilized world." Also included is an unsigned carbon copy of the senator's response on February 8, saying, "I expect to support this measure as I am sure all law-abiding citizens want to abolish lynching crimes in this country." Light toning on the edges of the Johnson letter and pin filing holes in the upper left corner of the carbon copy, else both are fine.
James Weldon Johnson was an American author, politician, diplomat, critic, journalist, poet, anthologist, educator, lawyer, songwriter, early civil rights activist, and prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Johnson is best remembered for his writing, which includes novels, poems, and collections of folklore. He was also one of the first African-American professors at New York University. Later in life he was a professor of creative literature and writing at Fisk University.
James Weldon Johnson was an American author, politician, diplomat, critic, journalist, poet, anthologist, educator, lawyer, songwriter, early civil rights activist, and prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Johnson is best remembered for his writing, which includes novels, poems, and collections of folklore. He was also one of the first African-American professors at New York University. Later in life he was a professor of creative literature and writing at Fisk University.
King Kamehameha Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages including integral address leaf, 6.25" x 7.75", n.p, [Lahaina, Maui], n.d. Kamehameha was Hawaii's first Christian king and its longest- reigning monarch. It was under his rule that Hawaii transitioned from a pagan absolute monarchy to a Christian constitutional monarchy with the signing of not one but two of Hawaii's Constitutions in 1840 and 1852.
Handwritten letters by King Kamehameha are extremely rare, this one being no exception. It is as addressed to Protestant medical missionary Rev. Dwight D. Baldwin, who moved to Lahaina with his family in the mid-1830s. Dr. Baldwin not only ministered to the locals, he also served as government physician for the islands of Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i. One of his most significant contributions to island society occurred when the smallpox epidemic of 1853 took hold in the Hawaiian Islands. Dr. Baldwin was able to get all of Lahaina quarantined and vaccinated, then set out on a mule to take care of people in the far reaches of Maui as well as on Lana'i. In all, there were 10,000 smallpox deaths in Hawaii, but thanks to Dr. Baldwin, there were only 250 reported deaths on Maui.
In this brief letter to Reverend Baldwin - addressed to "Mr. Bolowina" - the King wishes to inform him "of several matters. Aikake, the name of the man, and Kekui, the name of the woman, want to marry. When they are to marry is your decision. Tomorrow is the child's funeral. Kamehameha." Written in pencil and moderate age toned. Somewhat brittle with small sections of separation at fold. Fine condition and very desirable!
Handwritten letters by King Kamehameha are extremely rare, this one being no exception. It is as addressed to Protestant medical missionary Rev. Dwight D. Baldwin, who moved to Lahaina with his family in the mid-1830s. Dr. Baldwin not only ministered to the locals, he also served as government physician for the islands of Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i. One of his most significant contributions to island society occurred when the smallpox epidemic of 1853 took hold in the Hawaiian Islands. Dr. Baldwin was able to get all of Lahaina quarantined and vaccinated, then set out on a mule to take care of people in the far reaches of Maui as well as on Lana'i. In all, there were 10,000 smallpox deaths in Hawaii, but thanks to Dr. Baldwin, there were only 250 reported deaths on Maui.
In this brief letter to Reverend Baldwin - addressed to "Mr. Bolowina" - the King wishes to inform him "of several matters. Aikake, the name of the man, and Kekui, the name of the woman, want to marry. When they are to marry is your decision. Tomorrow is the child's funeral. Kamehameha." Written in pencil and moderate age toned. Somewhat brittle with small sections of separation at fold. Fine condition and very desirable!
Lili'uokalani Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages including integral blank, written on recto of first page only, 5.5" x 8.25", n.p., April 8, 1801. A rare ALS by Lili'uokalani, penned following her reign as the last monarch of the Hawaiian Islands (1891-1893), a role she assumed upon the death of her brother, King Kalakaua. Queen Lili'uokalani sought to amend the constitution to restore some of the power lost during her brother's reign. Local sugar planters and businessmen feared a loss of revenue and influence and instigated an overthrow. To avoid bloodshed, the Queen yielded her throne on January 17, 1893, and a provisional government was established. A month later, the Hawaiian Islands were annexed to the United States of America creating the U.S. Territory of Hawaii.
A well educated and intelligent woman, following her abdication, Lili'uokalani wrote a historical memoir, Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen. She was also an extraordinary musician and composer, well versed in the hymns and ballads of American and European influence, as well as traditional Hawaiian chants and prose. In her lifetime, Lili'uokalani composed more than 150 songs, including her most famous piece, "Aloha 'Oe."
Offered here is a brief handwritten letter to Joseph Oliver Carter, Jr., a journalist, public official, diplomat, financier, and philanthropist. Carter was a close counselor to Queen Lili'okalani, and after the Revolution in 1893, Carter was put in charge of the former Queen's business affairs. He was also a trustee of the Kamehameha Schools. She writes to Carter regarding the laying of water pipes, presumably upon her personal property or that of the Kamehameha Schools. It reads in part: "After you left Mr. Hokino came over to me and said he would be willing to give four dollars a month for the privilege of laying their pipes to the road where their pipes are. I think this offer might be accepted provided their pipes may be laid not less than two feet deep underground and rents paid regularly. . . . Liliuokalani." Boldly penned and in very fine condition.
A well educated and intelligent woman, following her abdication, Lili'uokalani wrote a historical memoir, Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen. She was also an extraordinary musician and composer, well versed in the hymns and ballads of American and European influence, as well as traditional Hawaiian chants and prose. In her lifetime, Lili'uokalani composed more than 150 songs, including her most famous piece, "Aloha 'Oe."
Offered here is a brief handwritten letter to Joseph Oliver Carter, Jr., a journalist, public official, diplomat, financier, and philanthropist. Carter was a close counselor to Queen Lili'okalani, and after the Revolution in 1893, Carter was put in charge of the former Queen's business affairs. He was also a trustee of the Kamehameha Schools. She writes to Carter regarding the laying of water pipes, presumably upon her personal property or that of the Kamehameha Schools. It reads in part: "After you left Mr. Hokino came over to me and said he would be willing to give four dollars a month for the privilege of laying their pipes to the road where their pipes are. I think this offer might be accepted provided their pipes may be laid not less than two feet deep underground and rents paid regularly. . . . Liliuokalani." Boldly penned and in very fine condition.
Hyatt Frost Van Amburgh & Co. Circus Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.5" x 9.75", on Van Amburgh & Co's Mammoth Menagerie letterhead, South Bend, Iowa, August 24, 1863. Interesting letter penned by Hyatt Frost, manager of the Van Amburgh circus-menagerie. In part: "We have imported Several Thousand Dollars worth of Animals this season including a Living Giraffe, only one in America, and White Bear & Royall [sic] Bengal Tigers, Lions . . . Ostrich, Gazelle, Poorer [sic] Bears, Kangaroos, Crown Crains [sic], White Storks and many others." Impressive graphic depictions of the circus head the page. Light age toning. Near fine condition. An excellent early circus item!
Photography
P. T. Barnum, Three Cabinet Cards, including cards by: Charles L. Ritzmann of New York; Elmer Chickering of Boston; and, by Brady of Washington. All are 4.25" x 6.5", and have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody Signed Program. Four printed integral pages, signed on the cover, 7.5" x 11.25", January 6, 1906, New York, New York. The program, for a Camp-Fire Club dinner honoring "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the most iconic symbol of the wild west, is also signed by: (2) Dan Beard, woodsman, illustrator, naturalist, and founder of the Boy Scouts of America; (3) Ethelbert Talbot, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania; (4) A. A. Anderson, appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt as the first superintendent of the Yellowstone Forest Reserve and a friend of Colonel Cody for whom he designed Pahaska, Cody's hunting lodge at Yellowstone; (5) W. T. Hornaday, naturalist, hunter, conservationist, chief taxidermist at the National Museum, director of both the Institution's first zoo and the New York Zoological Park, and president of the American Bison Society; (6) Anthony Fiala, an American explorer who commanded of the Ziegler Polar Expedition from 1903 to 1905 and, in 1914, accompanied Theodore Roosevelt on his expedition into unexplored parts of Brazil; (7) W. H. Wright, a friend of Colonel Cody and engaged in freighting in the Black Hills; (8) Otto Nordenskjöld, a Swedish geologist and Antarctic explorer; and, (9) Paulding Farnham, noted jewelry designer for Louis Comfort Tiffany. Cody's bold signature is in ink, all others in pencil. Nordenskjöld's signature is extremely light. Light toning and slight weakness at the fold, else fine.
Photography
[Yale University] Skull and Bones Gold Stick Pin and 1872 Album with Twenty-Three Cartes de Visite. The gold pin and album belonged to Edward Thomas Owen, member of the Class of 1872. The ultimate American secret society, the Skull and Bones, have counted presidents, diplomats, and the nation's most prominent financiers as alumni. The gold pin is the society's emblem, a skull with crossed bones, over the number "322". The pin measures .75" wide with a hinged straight pinback. The reverse is engraved "E. T. Owen". Included is Owen's Skull and Bones album, measuring 5" x 6" that contains eighteen cartes de visite, one of each member of the Class of 1872, a group image with the Skull and Bones, an image of the society's home "The Tomb", and one of the Skull and Bones on a table. There are also five cartes de visite of other Bonesmen who were not members of the Class of 1872. The CDVs are generally very fine. The leather album, with "Edward T. Owen / 1872" on the front cover and "322" on the back cover, is worn and the backstrip is loose. The pin is missing a catch on the back, but otherwise fine.
Edward Thomas Owen entered Yale University with the class of 1871 and joined the class of 1872 at the beginning of his senior year. After graduation Owen studied two years at the Georg-August-Universität Göttingen in Germany and a year in Paris. He returned to the United States as a professor of French and Linguistics at the University of Wisconsin. Owen, with the Mutton Chops facial hair, is pictured wearing this pin.
The roster of the Skull and Bones Class of 1872 records only fourteen members; however, there are fifteen cartes de visite in the members section of the album and an equal members in the group image. In addition to Owen the other Bonesmen in 1872 were: Robert Elmer Coe, who died shortly after graduation in 1872 of typhoid fever; William Lee Cushing who taught at Yale and founded the Westminster School in Dobbs Ferry, New York; Charles Clerc Deming, who, after graduating from Columbia Law School, became vice president of the Jacksonville, Tampa, and Key West Railway Company; Henry Champion Deming, secretary and treasurer for the Mercantile Trust Company of New York; Frederic Shepard Dennis, a professor of surgery at Bellevue Medical College; John Howard Hincks, an ordained minister who served as dean of Atlanta University and professor of History and Social Science; Benjamin Hoppin, a German translator; Alexander Ross Merriam, a pastor; George Foot Moore, also a pastor; Henry Silas Payson, who practiced law in St. Louis, before he retired to Payson Farms at Mossville, Illinois; Charles Benjamin Ramsdell, who graduated from Union Theological Seminary and became a pastor; George Atherton Spalding a physician at the House of Refuge, Randall's Island, New York; and, Theodore Salisbury Woolsey a professor of law at Yale Law School.
Edward Thomas Owen entered Yale University with the class of 1871 and joined the class of 1872 at the beginning of his senior year. After graduation Owen studied two years at the Georg-August-Universität Göttingen in Germany and a year in Paris. He returned to the United States as a professor of French and Linguistics at the University of Wisconsin. Owen, with the Mutton Chops facial hair, is pictured wearing this pin.
The roster of the Skull and Bones Class of 1872 records only fourteen members; however, there are fifteen cartes de visite in the members section of the album and an equal members in the group image. In addition to Owen the other Bonesmen in 1872 were: Robert Elmer Coe, who died shortly after graduation in 1872 of typhoid fever; William Lee Cushing who taught at Yale and founded the Westminster School in Dobbs Ferry, New York; Charles Clerc Deming, who, after graduating from Columbia Law School, became vice president of the Jacksonville, Tampa, and Key West Railway Company; Henry Champion Deming, secretary and treasurer for the Mercantile Trust Company of New York; Frederic Shepard Dennis, a professor of surgery at Bellevue Medical College; John Howard Hincks, an ordained minister who served as dean of Atlanta University and professor of History and Social Science; Benjamin Hoppin, a German translator; Alexander Ross Merriam, a pastor; George Foot Moore, also a pastor; Henry Silas Payson, who practiced law in St. Louis, before he retired to Payson Farms at Mossville, Illinois; Charles Benjamin Ramsdell, who graduated from Union Theological Seminary and became a pastor; George Atherton Spalding a physician at the House of Refuge, Randall's Island, New York; and, Theodore Salisbury Woolsey a professor of law at Yale Law School.
[Baseball] 19th Century Albumen Dated 1869 of the Hamilton College Baseball Team, 9.5" x 7.5" (overall). Together with five other images of "Hamilton College". Another image is labeled "Gene Simmons Harv. 1866". All have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and light surface abrasions, else near very good. A scarce early baseball image.
Autographs
Katharine Lee Bates Autograph Lyrics to "America the Beautiful" Signed. One page, 8.5" x 13.5", n.p., n.d. [1912-1929]. Offered here is Bates' final version of the well-loved anthem, with all four stanzas, penned entirely in her hand and signed "Katharine Lee Bates." Ms. Bates was a professor of English literature at Wellesley, a noted scholar, and a prolific author publishing many volumes of poetry, books on her travels, and stories, verses, and plays for children. Bates is best remembered as the author of the words to the patriotic hymn "America the Beautiful".
The first draft of "America the Beautiful" was sketched out in the summer of 1893, when Bates taught English at Colorado College in Colorado Springs. Several impressive sights along the way found a place in her poem, including the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, which held a bright promise for the future within its brilliant alabaster buildings; the waving wheat fields of Kansas, through which her train traveled; and the imposing view of the Rockies and the Great Plains from atop Pikes Peak. On that mountain, the kernel of the poem was born, and she wrote a few stanzas in her notebook upon returning to her room at the original Antlers Hotel. The poem was published two years later in The Congregationalist, to commemorate the Fourth of July and it quickly caught the public's fancy. Amended versions were published in 1904 and 1913.
The original copy is held by the Falmouth Historical Society. A search of auction records reveals that in the last 30 years, only one other handwritten example with all four stanzas has come to market. This present copy previously realized $40,000 at a New York auction in 2004. The only payment Miss Bates ever received for her efforts was a small check from the Congregationalist when "America the Beautiful" was first published. The present copy is a rare opportunity to own what is our nation's "Second National Anthem" written in the hand of its author and signed.
Paper has been expertly added at top and bottom of the manuscript from which corners the document is stitched to the mat so that it is protected from bumping. The mat has been placed between two pieces of Plexiglas and sealed with tiny screws, all of which can be removed. This important piece of Americana comes with a tan cloth-covered folio slipcase with gilt-stamped red morocco label on spine. The manuscript is in bright, sharp, and very fine condition.
The first draft of "America the Beautiful" was sketched out in the summer of 1893, when Bates taught English at Colorado College in Colorado Springs. Several impressive sights along the way found a place in her poem, including the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, which held a bright promise for the future within its brilliant alabaster buildings; the waving wheat fields of Kansas, through which her train traveled; and the imposing view of the Rockies and the Great Plains from atop Pikes Peak. On that mountain, the kernel of the poem was born, and she wrote a few stanzas in her notebook upon returning to her room at the original Antlers Hotel. The poem was published two years later in The Congregationalist, to commemorate the Fourth of July and it quickly caught the public's fancy. Amended versions were published in 1904 and 1913.
The original copy is held by the Falmouth Historical Society. A search of auction records reveals that in the last 30 years, only one other handwritten example with all four stanzas has come to market. This present copy previously realized $40,000 at a New York auction in 2004. The only payment Miss Bates ever received for her efforts was a small check from the Congregationalist when "America the Beautiful" was first published. The present copy is a rare opportunity to own what is our nation's "Second National Anthem" written in the hand of its author and signed.
Paper has been expertly added at top and bottom of the manuscript from which corners the document is stitched to the mat so that it is protected from bumping. The mat has been placed between two pieces of Plexiglas and sealed with tiny screws, all of which can be removed. This important piece of Americana comes with a tan cloth-covered folio slipcase with gilt-stamped red morocco label on spine. The manuscript is in bright, sharp, and very fine condition.
Samuel Francis Smith Complete "America" Autograph Manuscript Signed, a fair copy, "S. F. Smith". One page, 9" x 7", n.p., May 23, 1895. Smith handwrites, all four stanzas of this beloved patriotic paean often known as "My Country 'Tis of Thee." As noted at the bottom by Smith, he originally wrote this song in 1832. This was the year that he became a Baptist minister and editor of the Baptist Missionary Magazine. A friend asked him to translate a German poem for him. Smith liked the music so much that he wrote new English words for it. The song became popular in his lifetime and was performed at his funeral in 1895.
Evenly toned, encapsulated, and bound into a copy of My Country, an illustrated and illuminated version of the American National Anthem by Walter Tittle. New York: The Tandy-Thomas Company. 4to, 6 leaves, and 33 plates, partly colored, including a colored portrait and 4 facsimiles of stanzas from Smith's "America". With evidence of a former gift inscription on a front endpage. A letter of provenance dated February 15, 1918, explains that "the manuscript I have sold you this day is the original autograph manuscript of the National Hymn 'America'..." This letter is also encapsulated and hinged at the front of the book. Quarter morocco binding, with raised spine and gold title. Fair copy of America manuscript is in near fine condition, as preserved by the encapsulation.
Evenly toned, encapsulated, and bound into a copy of My Country, an illustrated and illuminated version of the American National Anthem by Walter Tittle. New York: The Tandy-Thomas Company. 4to, 6 leaves, and 33 plates, partly colored, including a colored portrait and 4 facsimiles of stanzas from Smith's "America". With evidence of a former gift inscription on a front endpage. A letter of provenance dated February 15, 1918, explains that "the manuscript I have sold you this day is the original autograph manuscript of the National Hymn 'America'..." This letter is also encapsulated and hinged at the front of the book. Quarter morocco binding, with raised spine and gold title. Fair copy of America manuscript is in near fine condition, as preserved by the encapsulation.
James Blake Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8.25" x 7.25", April 24, 1745, Suffolk, addressed to Capt. Baruch Pond, a letter of impressment for five men to help protect the Eastern frontier. In full, as written: "By Vartue of a warrant from his Excellency the Governor to me of the twenty third instant you are hereby ordered forthwith to impress for his majesty's service in the Eastern Frontiers five able bodied affective men out of he Military Company in Wrentham under your command to be well armed and appointed, and deliver the said men into the hands of Captain Jonathan Bane or such person as he shall direct to receive them at the house of Lieut. Pelatiah Mans in Wrentham on Saturday next at one of the clock in the afternoon: or some other time as he can attend. For which this shall be your warrant. Given under my hand and seal at Wrentham April ye twenty fourth 1745 in the Eighteenth year of his Majesties Reign." The British, under such a governor's warrant, would "impress" or force colonists into various military services, a practice that met with much resistance. Mounted to a larger board, very good condition.
Military & Patriotic
[French and Indian War] Archive of Autograph Letters Signed. Eight letters, various sizes (8vo-4to) and lengths, written from Boston, Massachusetts, ranging in date from August 1758 to September 1761. They are all signed "William Gordon" and written to Andrew Bettis, his brother-in-law, in Chelmsford. No postal markings, as all were hand carried. Personal letter contents, including, from a letter dated August 8, 1758, "We have not heard of the Surrender of Cape Britton as yet but daily expect it. The Admiralls Hawke, Osborn & Saunders has taken 10 or 12 sail of French men of war and some transports & Commodore Marsh on the Coast of Guinney has taken five sail of French men of war...." Also included in this lot is a document of accounts in the hand of William Gordon dated 1758, and an autograph letter signed "Agnis Gordon" (also to Bettis) dated 1769. Expected folds, toning, and edge roughness, else generally very good condition, all bold and legible.
Autographs
Horatio Nelson Autograph Letter Signed. Four integral pages, written on pages one and two and addressed on page four, 6" x 7.5", sight size, May 8, 1795, n.p. [Corsica]. Addressed to "Thomas Pollard Esq.", Nelson's prize agent in Leghorn, Tuscany, the letter is written with the right hand and reads, "My Dear Sir, You having always furnish'd Mr. Roxburgh Surgeon of the [HMS] Agamemnon with Money for his necessary bills it is necessary that vouchers should be made out to pass my accounts. [I] have therefore to request that you will sign the receipt for the payment & that you desire Mr. Cornuit & some other person to attest that they are at the market price. Be so good as to do it quickly for I know not how soon we will be off. I sincerely hope you are better & hope soon to see you in perfect healt". Nelson was a frequent visitor and houseguest of Mr. and Mrs. Pollard. Below Nelson's signature is a docket, perhaps in Pollard's hand, asking Mr. Cornuit to comply with the request. Overall toning, with seal and age stains, else near fine. The document is very attractively framed (22.5" x 29" overall) with a color picture of Nelson.
Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson, 1st Duke of Bronté, was the best known British flag officer in the Napoleonic Wars. He served in the Royal Navy for most of his life and won a number of significant victories, most notably the Battle of Copenhagen, the Battle of the Nile, and the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, during which he lost his life. Two years after this letter was written to Pollard, Nelson was hit in the right arm by a musket ball during the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Most of the right arm was amputated and within half an hour he had returned to issuing orders to his captains. For the rest of his life, Nelson would excuse himself for not writing longer letters due to being left-handed.
Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson, 1st Duke of Bronté, was the best known British flag officer in the Napoleonic Wars. He served in the Royal Navy for most of his life and won a number of significant victories, most notably the Battle of Copenhagen, the Battle of the Nile, and the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, during which he lost his life. Two years after this letter was written to Pollard, Nelson was hit in the right arm by a musket ball during the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Most of the right arm was amputated and within half an hour he had returned to issuing orders to his captains. For the rest of his life, Nelson would excuse himself for not writing longer letters due to being left-handed.
[Indian Wars] Maurice Maloney Autograph Letter Signed with Battle Content. Two pages, two-sided, 8" x 9.75", "Fort Steilacoom, December 28th, 1855." Captain Maurice Maloney, soldier and veteran of the Seminole War, the Mexican War, and the Indian Wars of the West, writes to an unidentified Major providing much detail about recent hostilities with the local tribes. In part: "In September the Indians . . . made a general war against the Whites, killing men going to and from the Colville mines." Major Haller was ordered out from The Dalles against the Yukamas and Klikitat tribes . . . he got in a fight with them, losing all his animals, provisions, and a mountain Howitzer."
Fort Steilacoom was founded by the U.S. Army in 1849, and served as headquarters for the U.S. 9th Infantry Regiment during the Indian War of 1855-56. It was among the first military fortifications built by the U.S. in what was to become Washington State, in response to Indian agitation in the area. Indians of the Nisqually tribe attacked white settlers in the area in October 29, 1855, as a result of their dissatisfaction with the Treaty of Medicine Creek that had been imposed on them the previous year, particularly angered that their assigned reservation curtailed the traditional fishing economy. Letter bears faint age toning; one corner torn away. Generally fine condition. Exceptional content!
Fort Steilacoom was founded by the U.S. Army in 1849, and served as headquarters for the U.S. 9th Infantry Regiment during the Indian War of 1855-56. It was among the first military fortifications built by the U.S. in what was to become Washington State, in response to Indian agitation in the area. Indians of the Nisqually tribe attacked white settlers in the area in October 29, 1855, as a result of their dissatisfaction with the Treaty of Medicine Creek that had been imposed on them the previous year, particularly angered that their assigned reservation curtailed the traditional fishing economy. Letter bears faint age toning; one corner torn away. Generally fine condition. Exceptional content!
Civil War Marines: Report on the Attack of a Confederate Schooner. Two pages, two-sided, 8" x 12.5", "U.S. Flag Ship Colorado, 14 Sept. 1861." Putting to sea from Boston in May 1858, the USS Colorado patrolled Cuban waters for three months deterring the practice of unauthorized search by British cruisers. She then returned to Boston until June 1861 when she was recommissioned and sailed to join the Union Navy's Gulf Blockading Squadron. On September 14 of that year, an expedition under Lieutenant J. H. Russell cut out the schooner Judah, believed to be preparing for service as a privateer, and spiked one gun of a battery at the Pensacola Navy Yard. Three men were lost in the raid, but it was considered a success by Union forces.
This letter provides a detailed description of the engagement, reading in part: "The launch having been laid alongside the Schooner under a shower of musketry from that vessel and shore, we were ordered to board. The order was immediately obeyed, the Marines firing their Muskets at the Enemy's deck, then fixing bayonets. . . . The enemy fled to the shore and being joined by other Troops, a deadly unremitting fire was opened upon us." Signed by Captain E. M. Reynolds. Light age toning with occasional soiling and wrinkling. Generally fine condition.
This letter provides a detailed description of the engagement, reading in part: "The launch having been laid alongside the Schooner under a shower of musketry from that vessel and shore, we were ordered to board. The order was immediately obeyed, the Marines firing their Muskets at the Enemy's deck, then fixing bayonets. . . . The enemy fled to the shore and being joined by other Troops, a deadly unremitting fire was opened upon us." Signed by Captain E. M. Reynolds. Light age toning with occasional soiling and wrinkling. Generally fine condition.
John Ericsson Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided, n.p., October 18, 1858. Swedish inventor and mechanical engineer John Ericsson invented the hot air engine, the steam condenser, and revolutionized ship propeller design, incorporating the landmark device into his design for the Civil War ironclad Monitor. Ericsson writes to an unknown correspondent about his hot air engine. In part: "The application of the vacuum cylinder for the back stroke, Tyler thinks removes the last objection. Put our friend down as one who will make the patent valuable. As soon as Mr. T returns from the South he will knock at the door of the patenter for a License." Letter has been tipped to a heavier backing sheet together with a trimmed portion of another letter. Lightly age toned; generally fine.
Christopher "Kit" Carson Signature "C. Carson", 4.25" x 2", excised from a larger document, n.d. (ca. 1865), n.p. In full: "Your obd. Servant/ C. Carson/ Brevet Brig "Gen. US Vols/ Commanding Battalion". American Frontiersman "Kit" Carson grew up in Missouri, but moved westward as a teenager. He made a living as fur trapper, but gained notoriety as John Fremont's guide in Oregon and California from 1842 through 1846. Novels were written about him as an action hero, making him into a legendary figure. After serving with Fremont in the Mexican War, he settled in New Mexico where he served as an Indian agent. When the Civil War broke out, he volunteered with the New Mexico volunteer infantry. He distinguished himself at the Battle of Valverde and in campaigns against western Indian tribes; and on March 13, 1865, he was given the rank of brevet brigadier general, the highest rank he would receive. He resigned his position in 1867 and became a rancher in Colorado until his death one year later. Carson signatures are very scarce; this Civil War period signature is on lightly-toned lined-paper and is in near fine condition.
Robert E. Lee Autograph Letter Signed. One page, one-sided, 7.75" x 9.5", Washington, D.C., July 1, 1836. An engineer, a career United States Army officer, and among the most celebrated generals in American history, Robert E. Lee was the son of Major General Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee III, and was a top graduate of West Point.
Upon graduation from the Military Academy, Lee was given a commission in the U.S. Engineer Corps, a job he was well suited for and quite successful at. He was soon named Assistant in the Chief Engineer's office in Washington, D.C., a post he held from 1834 to 1837, during which time he penned this letter to Secretary of War Lewis Cass. It reads, in full: "Dear Sir," In reply to the letter of the Honble I. Terrill of the House of Reprs; of this date, I have the honor to hand you a Copy of the Report and Estimate in relation to the Harbor at the mouth of Salmon river, N. York, which in obedience to a Resolution of the House, was transmitted to that body on the 2nd February 1830. I am very respectfully, Sir, Your Obedient, By order, R.E. Lee."
Lee refers specifically to Port Ontario, on New York's Lake Ontario shore, and the report he has prepared with regard to the possibility of building a harbor at that location. Although the New York Legislature incorporated a company - the Salmon River Harbor Canal Co. - to build the Salmon River canal that would lead to the planned harbor, records indicate that the canal was never completed.
While remembered primarily for his skills as a great military commander, Lee was also an accomplished engineer, and pieces from this time in his life are somewhat difficult to come by. Lee's letter is lightly age toned and in very fine condition; a particularly handsome letter from the hand of the man who would later command the entire Confederate Army!
Upon graduation from the Military Academy, Lee was given a commission in the U.S. Engineer Corps, a job he was well suited for and quite successful at. He was soon named Assistant in the Chief Engineer's office in Washington, D.C., a post he held from 1834 to 1837, during which time he penned this letter to Secretary of War Lewis Cass. It reads, in full: "Dear Sir," In reply to the letter of the Honble I. Terrill of the House of Reprs; of this date, I have the honor to hand you a Copy of the Report and Estimate in relation to the Harbor at the mouth of Salmon river, N. York, which in obedience to a Resolution of the House, was transmitted to that body on the 2nd February 1830. I am very respectfully, Sir, Your Obedient, By order, R.E. Lee."
Lee refers specifically to Port Ontario, on New York's Lake Ontario shore, and the report he has prepared with regard to the possibility of building a harbor at that location. Although the New York Legislature incorporated a company - the Salmon River Harbor Canal Co. - to build the Salmon River canal that would lead to the planned harbor, records indicate that the canal was never completed.
While remembered primarily for his skills as a great military commander, Lee was also an accomplished engineer, and pieces from this time in his life are somewhat difficult to come by. Lee's letter is lightly age toned and in very fine condition; a particularly handsome letter from the hand of the man who would later command the entire Confederate Army!
Robert E. Lee Clipped Signature on 1.75" x 1" slip of paper. Framed with a 10.5" x 13.25 photo of the renowned Confederate general to a total size of 17.5" x 22". Signature is slightly faded. With frame and photo, this lot is in very fine condition.
[Robert E. Lee] General Orders No. 3: Appointment of Robert E. Lee to General in Chief of the Armies of the Confederate States. Two pages including integral blank, printed on recto of first page only, 5" x 7.75", Richmond, February 6, 1865. Issued by General Samuel Cooper, Adjutant and Inspector General of the Confederate Army, this order names General Robert E. Lee to the important position of General in Chief of the Armies of the Confederate States. It reads, in part: "The Congress of the Confederate States of America do enact, That there shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, an officer, who shall be known and designated as 'General in Chief,' who shall be ranking officer of the army, and as such, shall have command of the military forces of the Confederate States. . . . General Robert E. Lee having been duly appointed General in Chief of the Armies of the Confederate States, will assume the duties thereof, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly." Lightly age toned with minor creases, the documents bears an ink "Rebel Archives" stamp at upper center. Fine condition.
John S. Mosby Book Signed "Jno. S. Mosby" on a preliminary leaf. The book, Memoirs of the Life of the Right Honourable Richard Brinsley Sheridan, by Thomas Moore (Paris: 1835) is Vol. LXXIX of a Collection of Ancient and Modern British Authors. It originally belonged in the legendary Confederate's library; later it was owned by Confederate Brigadier General and cavalryman William H. Payne, who has struck out Mosby's signature with a single line -- not obscuring it -- and signed underneath "W.H. Payne, Warrenton, Va." (also signing atop the title page, as has one T.S. Preston). Curiously, Lincoln assassination conspirator Lewis Powell (known also as Lewis Payne) was very well known to Gen. Payne and his family. The General recalled him as "chivalrous, generous, gallant . . . particularly fond of children", and said "I cannot explain why he took our name [i.e., as an alias], except that it was endeared to him in some way." Rebound, in modern marbled boards with gilt-lettered leather spine. A fine book with great associations.
Confederate General George E. Pickett Autograph Letter Signed "G ", one page 5" x 5.5", front and verso, [n.p., n.d.], in pencil, to his wife, Sallie. In full, "For (Mrs. Worthy) is still down in your country likewise Woodley - Milligan will let me know so soon as he hears anything - Bye Bye dear one - my own own wife - kiss my sister Best love to aunts and Lizzie - and uncle d - Ever and always and forever! Your own George Take care my Sallie Will write Dr. B. by tomorrow G. June 30th ". Civil War General George E. Pickett's frequent letters to his wife, LaSalle Corbell "Sallie" Pickett, often dealt with his concerns for his family and his consuming love for his new bride. They were married in September 1863. Composed mainly during his military campaigns between 1863 and 1866, they range from lengthy, elaborate love letters to brief notes hurriedly scribbled on available pieces of paper. In addition to providing her with information relating to the war and his emotional perceptions of it, in every letter he proclaims his devotion to his young wife with a lavish, romantic farewell, perfectly in character with his flamboyant personality. This letter is written hurriedly in pencil on lined paper neatly torn from a larger sheet, with slightly rough edges on two sides and toning; very good condition.
Confederate General George E. Pickett Autograph Letter Signed "George", one page, 8" x 3.75", front and verso, [n.p., n.d.], in pencil, to his wife, Sallie. In part, "... word from you would go so far to cheer me ... had a brush yesterday and drove the 'enemy' ... - killing some fifty and capturing (hundred) fifty - alas! Barlow who is on opposite side of ... River (Genl Ransom with him) had not been ... at 12 yesterday, but have not taken the . . . in defense as had been expected, but I still hope for the best. I have your horse, twas a black one was it not my lily? This one is a black one, and I know it is your - I write in haste. Best love to the ladies. Bye Bye my own love. Your own devoted husband, forever . . . George ", and below signature: "Dear Sallie be . . . from your little. . . ." General George Edward Pickett served in the Army of Northern Virginia during the American Civil War and is best known for leading his Confederate soldiers against an impenetrable line of Union troops during the Battle of Gettysburg. After Gettysburg he once again met defeat at the Battle of Five Forks on April 1, 1865, as a division commander in the Defenses of Richmond, Virginia. During his Civil War campaigns, General Pickett frequently wrote to his wife, LaSalle Corbell "Sallie" Pickett. Married on September 15, 1863, two months after the Battle of Gettysburg, his letters from that date reveal a devoted and infatuated husband separated from his wife by war, often relating details of his campaigns. It is possible that Pickett wrote this letter in the spring of 1865 before the Battle of Five Forks, known as the "Waterloo of the Confederacy". The reference to "Barlow" is most likely Union Gen. Francis Barlow, who crossed the Appomattox River over the partially destroyed High Bridge, and "Genl Ransom", who is likely to be Confederate Gen. Matt Ransom. The original letter was written hurriedly in pencil on thin, lightly lined paper. Portions at the top and bottom of the page are missing, leaving rough edges, and a small rectangular section has been clipped from the top left corner. Light folds, fading, and tape repairs along fold lines, front and verso, small tears on right edge and along fold lines, good condition.
William T. Sherman Autograph Letter Signed "W. T. Sherman", four pages, 5" x 8", on his "912 Garrison Avenue" letterhead, St. Louis, Mo., 2 January 1883 [sic, 1884], to Mrs. [Joseph] Audenreid, the widow of one of his wartime aides. Sherman, wounded at Shiloh, is known for the Atlanta and Carolinas campaigns and his "March to the Sea" and is widely considered the best federal commander of the Civil War. He pens, "I have your letter of Sunday & see that you had one of your blue-black days, occasioned by thinking of Mackenzie and the Rathbone tragedy. Instead of being cast down you should feel grateful that your own afflictions are small in comparison. Mackenzie was coldly & selfishly ambitious, worried and fretted to the annoyance of his friends and finally to his own ruin. As to Rathbone the whole thing is a perfect mystery - unless it be one of nature's laws that every man must have some employment. To wander about Europe on the theory of educating children who would have been better turned loose in a crowd at some common school, and day after day with nothing to do, was calculated to make a man mad. A woman lives in her family, but a man should have some station or employment in contact with other men." He concludes that "the world goes right along - we will all die in good time and can afford to wait." Union General Ranald Mackenzie, a West Pointer with six brevets including ones for Gettysburg and Petersburg, had begun to show "signs of instability" after taking a Texas command in 1883 and was sent to a New York asylum. The "Rathbone" Sherman mentions was Maj. Henry Rathbone, the guest and attempted defender of Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre on the night of the assassination. Ten days before this letter was written, as the culmination of increasing derangement, Rathbone murdered his wife Clara - who was also his stepsister, and who had likewise been a guest in the presidential box on the fatal night. An intriguing letter, not only for its analyses but because Sherman himself had been accused of insanity during the first year of the Civil War. His mental distress dissipated when he came to serve under Ulysses S. Grant, whom in turn he kept from leaving the army when angered by ill-treatment at the hands of superiors. Evenly toned with folds; fine.
Stand Watie Autograph Document Signed Twice, A Promissory Note With a Slave Child as Collateral. One page, 8" x 13.5", "Cherokee Nation, March 30th, 1857." Also known as Standhope Oowatie, Degataga, Stand Firm, and Isaac S. Watie, Stand Watie was a leader of the Cherokee Nation and a brigadier general of the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War, commanding the Confederate Indian Cavalry composed of Cherokee, Creek, and Seminole warriors. Watie learned to read and write English at Moravian Mission School in Springplace, Georgia, and occasionally helped write for the Cherokee Phoenix newspaper.
This extremely unusual and desirable piece documents the loan of $400 to Watie by one William Jones, which Watie promises to repay at 10% interest within one year. As collateral for failure to pay, Watie promises to make good by giving one of his slaves to Jones. In part: "To secure the payment . . . a certain yellow boy named Jim, slave for life, about eleven years old, is hereby pledged. Now if the above mentioned note of four hundred Dollars shall remain unsettled and unsatisfied . . . the above named boy shall revert to William Jones as his own right and property, and I hereby warrant the little [boy] to be good and genuine." Signed twice by Watie, once with his added decorative "Seal." Docketed on verso as being "Settled in full."
Among the most prominent Cherokee aristocrats at the time were the Watie and the Ridge families, who together owned most of the estimated 1,600 slaves held by the tribe. Records of the period show that by 1860, the Cherokees had 4,600 slaves; the Choctaws, 2,344; the Creeks, 1,532; the Chickasaws, 975; and the Seminoles, 500.
When gold was discovered on Cherokee lands in northern Georgia, thousands of white settlers encroached on Indian lands. Despite federal treaties protecting Indians from state actions in 1832 Georgia, confiscated most of the Cherokee land. Stand Watie and his family were in favor of the removal of the Cherokee to Oklahoma and were members of the Ridge Party (founded by the Ridge family) that signed the Treaty of New Echota which advocated this move. However, Cherokee Principal Chief John Ross and most of the Cherokee General Council were firmly against removal and refused to ratify it, so the Watie and Ridge families, their slaves, and many other Cherokees emigrated to the West. Those Cherokees who remained on tribal lands in the East were later forcibly removed by the U.S. government in 1838 in a journey known as the Trail of Tears, during which thousands died.
At the time this letter was written, Watie was a member and sometime speaker of the Cherokee Council and owned a successful plantation on Spavinaw Creek in Indian Territory where he employed slaves to work his fields. Although the vast majority of Indian-owned slaves were black, it is entirely possible that Watie also owned a Chinese boy. Following the onset of the California gold rush in 1849, hundreds of thousands of Chinese workers were brought to America, as were many Chinese prostitutes; Watie's "yellow boy" was probably the child of one of these prostitutes, sold into slavery by his mother.
The document is in wonderful condition, despite rough edges a few chips at the left and upper edges. Bright, clean, and handsomely penned by Watie. Very fine and exceedingly desirable!
This extremely unusual and desirable piece documents the loan of $400 to Watie by one William Jones, which Watie promises to repay at 10% interest within one year. As collateral for failure to pay, Watie promises to make good by giving one of his slaves to Jones. In part: "To secure the payment . . . a certain yellow boy named Jim, slave for life, about eleven years old, is hereby pledged. Now if the above mentioned note of four hundred Dollars shall remain unsettled and unsatisfied . . . the above named boy shall revert to William Jones as his own right and property, and I hereby warrant the little [boy] to be good and genuine." Signed twice by Watie, once with his added decorative "Seal." Docketed on verso as being "Settled in full."
Among the most prominent Cherokee aristocrats at the time were the Watie and the Ridge families, who together owned most of the estimated 1,600 slaves held by the tribe. Records of the period show that by 1860, the Cherokees had 4,600 slaves; the Choctaws, 2,344; the Creeks, 1,532; the Chickasaws, 975; and the Seminoles, 500.
When gold was discovered on Cherokee lands in northern Georgia, thousands of white settlers encroached on Indian lands. Despite federal treaties protecting Indians from state actions in 1832 Georgia, confiscated most of the Cherokee land. Stand Watie and his family were in favor of the removal of the Cherokee to Oklahoma and were members of the Ridge Party (founded by the Ridge family) that signed the Treaty of New Echota which advocated this move. However, Cherokee Principal Chief John Ross and most of the Cherokee General Council were firmly against removal and refused to ratify it, so the Watie and Ridge families, their slaves, and many other Cherokees emigrated to the West. Those Cherokees who remained on tribal lands in the East were later forcibly removed by the U.S. government in 1838 in a journey known as the Trail of Tears, during which thousands died.
At the time this letter was written, Watie was a member and sometime speaker of the Cherokee Council and owned a successful plantation on Spavinaw Creek in Indian Territory where he employed slaves to work his fields. Although the vast majority of Indian-owned slaves were black, it is entirely possible that Watie also owned a Chinese boy. Following the onset of the California gold rush in 1849, hundreds of thousands of Chinese workers were brought to America, as were many Chinese prostitutes; Watie's "yellow boy" was probably the child of one of these prostitutes, sold into slavery by his mother.
The document is in wonderful condition, despite rough edges a few chips at the left and upper edges. Bright, clean, and handsomely penned by Watie. Very fine and exceedingly desirable!
Photography
[World War I] "Ten Years After" Photographic Album, by W. Donald Hise, containing 201 black and white photographic prints, each print 8" x 6". The album has a leather cover and measures 13" x 9.5" with a total of 202 pages. The goal of the author was to document the severe destruction on the cities and fields of France and Belgium and to show the effects of ten years of reconstruction on the same locations. For the 1928 images, Hise took special care to replicate the same camera location and angle used in making the 1918 photographs. The result was a dramatic comparison of between the devastation caused by four years of war and the fruits of ten years of peace. Hise concentrated on battlefields where United States forces saw action, the Marne, Oiuse-Aisne, St. Mihiel, Flanders fields, the Somme, and the Argonne. The final photograph shows the Suresnes Cemetery on the slopes of Mont Valerien, five miles from the heart of Paris, where 1506 Americans who died in the First World War lie and where bronze tablets record the names of 974 men still missing. A total of 112,000 Americans died in the war. Hise worked as a photographer for the National Geographic Society. The album shows some wear, but the photographs, many unpublished, are in very fine condition.
Autographs
[Hideki Tojo, Japanese Prime Minister] International Military Tribunal For the Far East Affidavit of Tojo, Hideki, Individual Defense. Likely mimeograph copy, single sided. 8" x 13". Bound with string via two holes punched at the top. [One blank cover], 245, [one, signatory (unsigned)] pages. Dated December 19, 1947. With original clear acetate protective cover. Presumably produced for members of the tribunal staff. As a result of the low-quality paper used during the period the pages have browned and are brittle at the edges and the acetate cover is torn and yellowed, otherwise it is complete and in very good condition.
Hideki Tojo (1884-1948) was a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and Prime Minister of Japan from shortly before the attack on Pearl Harbor until his forced resignation as a result the fall of Saipan in July, 1944. He spent the rest of the war in seclusion and when capture was imminent shot himself four times in the chest. He survived and was tried before the International Tribunal for the Far East in Tokyo for actions which occurred on his watch. This fascinating affidavit is equal parts apologia and mea culpa. He writes in amazing detail the political and military machinations in Japan leading up the attack on Pearl Harbor. Tojo maintained that the attack on Pearl Harbor could not have come as a surprise to the United States as they had broken Japan's secret codes and knew of the Japanese position as of November 20, 1941. He remained convinced to the end that "the policy of Japan, and certainly her duly constituted officials of state, involved neither aggression nor exploitation . . . a war of self-existence was our only alternative . . . bringing about the present plight as we see it before our eyes." In the end he assumes for Japan's defeat: "As to the other question, the responsibility for defeat, I feel that it devolves upon myself as Premier. The responsibility in that sense I am not only willing but sincerely desire to accept fully." Hideki Tojo was found guilty of waging aggressive and ordering, authorizing and permitting inhumane treatment to prisoners of war and others. He was found guilty and sentenced to death on November 12, 1948, and hanged on December 23, 1949. A fascinating document and first-hand account of the events leading up to America's entry into the Second World War.
Hideki Tojo (1884-1948) was a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and Prime Minister of Japan from shortly before the attack on Pearl Harbor until his forced resignation as a result the fall of Saipan in July, 1944. He spent the rest of the war in seclusion and when capture was imminent shot himself four times in the chest. He survived and was tried before the International Tribunal for the Far East in Tokyo for actions which occurred on his watch. This fascinating affidavit is equal parts apologia and mea culpa. He writes in amazing detail the political and military machinations in Japan leading up the attack on Pearl Harbor. Tojo maintained that the attack on Pearl Harbor could not have come as a surprise to the United States as they had broken Japan's secret codes and knew of the Japanese position as of November 20, 1941. He remained convinced to the end that "the policy of Japan, and certainly her duly constituted officials of state, involved neither aggression nor exploitation . . . a war of self-existence was our only alternative . . . bringing about the present plight as we see it before our eyes." In the end he assumes for Japan's defeat: "As to the other question, the responsibility for defeat, I feel that it devolves upon myself as Premier. The responsibility in that sense I am not only willing but sincerely desire to accept fully." Hideki Tojo was found guilty of waging aggressive and ordering, authorizing and permitting inhumane treatment to prisoners of war and others. He was found guilty and sentenced to death on November 12, 1948, and hanged on December 23, 1949. A fascinating document and first-hand account of the events leading up to America's entry into the Second World War.
General George S. Patton Photograph Inscribed. B/w photograph of the general in uniform sitting in the cockpit of a World War II fighter plane, 9.5" x 7.5", matted and handsomely framed to an overall size of 15.5" x 13.25", n.p., n.d. Inscribed, "To Gen. Vandenberg/ from/ G. S. Patton, Jr." Army General Patton was a strong force behind the American WWII campaigns in North Africa, Sicily, France, and Germany. Air Force General Hoyt Vandenberg commanded the Ninth Air Force, which supported the army in England and France. Vandenberg Air Force Base in California is named in honor of the general. After the war in 1946, Vandenberg became the Director of Central Intelligence. Very fine.
George S. Patton Autograph Letter Signed. One page, two-sided, 8.25" x 10.75", n.p. [Langres, France], December 25, 1917. Early in the career of one of America's most distinguished and controversial U.S. Army officers, George Patton was assigned to the newly formed United States Tank Corps in Langres, France , located in the Champagne-Ardenne region. Although surely missing his loved ones, this newsy letter to his mother reveals that the young Captain was having a grand old time tasting wines and enjoying the holiday season.
Letter reads, in part: "Dear Mama: Merry Christmas: I hope you are all having a nice time. This is much better than last year as there is . . . no wind or dust while last year it was the worst storm I ever saw. Lt. Bernie and I are the only ones here at my chateau. Had dinner last night with some plumb [sic] pudding and fruitcake, also two bottles of Champagne and a bottle of Port. . . . We are having a holiday today and I staid [sic] in bed till eight and took a hot bath in my rubber tub." The captain goes on to comment about his new duties: "I feel most cheerful about the Tank school as we have got a good man in charge of all the Tanks and he will back me up. He used to be my pupil at Fort Riley." Lightly age toned on recto, with moderate sunning on portion of verso which affects Patton's signature. Two-inch area of fold separation at upper center. Generally fine condition and excellent WWI-era content!
Letter reads, in part: "Dear Mama: Merry Christmas: I hope you are all having a nice time. This is much better than last year as there is . . . no wind or dust while last year it was the worst storm I ever saw. Lt. Bernie and I are the only ones here at my chateau. Had dinner last night with some plumb [sic] pudding and fruitcake, also two bottles of Champagne and a bottle of Port. . . . We are having a holiday today and I staid [sic] in bed till eight and took a hot bath in my rubber tub." The captain goes on to comment about his new duties: "I feel most cheerful about the Tank school as we have got a good man in charge of all the Tanks and he will back me up. He used to be my pupil at Fort Riley." Lightly age toned on recto, with moderate sunning on portion of verso which affects Patton's signature. Two-inch area of fold separation at upper center. Generally fine condition and excellent WWI-era content!
George S. Patton Signed Promotion Certificate. Partly printed DS "G S Patton Jr.", one page, 10.5" x 8", Camp Meade, Maryland, Nov. 1, 1919. Appointing "Private Joseph McFadden" to the rank of Sergeant in the Regular Army Tank Corps. With folds and small pinholes; light stains at margins. Very good.
George S. Patton Typed Letter Signed on military letterhead, one page, 6.5" x 6.5", December 8, 1944. Brief TLS "G S Patton Jr." to Dr. W.C. Loft: "Thank you very much for your letter and the very talented cartoons contained therein..." Near fine.
George S. Patton Typed Letter Signed as Lt. General, U.S. Army, Commanding the Third Army. One page, 6.5" x 6.5", October 4, 1944. A brief letter to Morry Luxemberg, in part: "Part of my Army now occupies your name state and I may have an opportunity of visiting the city named after you." Slightly cropped, with toning; otherwse very good to near fine.
World War II Collection of Items Signed by American Generals. America's involvement in The Second World War presented the opportunity for great leadership to arise. Among the generals of World War II are some of the most famous generals in history. These items signed by some of America's most renowned generals would be an excellent addition for any collection: (1) Matthew Ridgway signed issue of TIME magazine. (2) Matthew Ridgway signed copy of The New York Times. (3) James Doolittle signed message from Eisenhower with coded reference to him. (4) George S. Patton autographed card and photo. (5) Anthony McAuliffe typed letter signed.
George Washington Document Signed as President of the Potomac Company. One page, 7.5" x 4", Alexandria VA, November 21, 1785. A year after resigning his commission as General of the Armies of the United States, Washington traveled through Bath, Virginia, where he stayed at the Sign of the Liberty Pole and Flag tavern and inn, operated by James Rumsey. Washington was impressed by Rumsey, a skilled engineer, cabinet-maker, blacksmith, and millwright, and contracted with Rumsey to build a house and stable for him on some nearby property owned by the future president.
As the evening wore on, Rumsey showed Washington a model of a mechanical boat he had designed, which could propel itself upstream by means of grapples on the bottom. Washington was intrigued, and wrote a certificate of commendation for Rumsey, that Rumsey would then be able to use when trying to secure financial backing for his endeavors.
In July 1785, recommended by both Washington, and Revolutionary War hero General Horatio Gates of Shepherdstown, Rumsey was appointed the superintendent of the newly formed Potomac Company. This company, a precursor of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, had as its goal making the Potomac River navigable. George Washington became its first president, as well as an investor in the company. However, Rumsey requested release from the position after a year, citing difficulties in getting proper supplies, securing pay for the workers, and trying to keep the workers under control.
No longer acting as Potomac Company superintendent, Rumsey was able to devote his time to his dream of steam navigation, something he had been thinking about since 1783. Work on a hull for a steamboat had begun in 1785 in Bath by Rumsey's brother-in-law Joseph Barnes. The boat was brought that fall to Shepherdstown where Rumsey was living.
The item offered here is an invoice dated September 1785 and signed by James Rumsey, documenting the receipt at Shepherdstown of "thirty Eight pound [sic] and One oz. of Steel for the use of the Patomack [sic]Company."
At about this time, the Potomac Company was in arrears for the cost of various supplies, and Mr. Washington called for a reckoning of these debts. On November 21, 1785, accounts with the proper vouchers were brought before the committee of Directors, amounting to just over £260, and were ordered to be paid. As each outstanding debt was reviewed, the Company's officers signed their approval for payment. On the verso of Rumsey's invoice, is that approval. It is signed by Washington as President of the Potomac Company, and reads, in full: "The within accts. allowed." It is also signed by John Fitzgerald and James Gilpin as Company Directors.
The order is moderately age toned with a few small areas of fold separation, and has been matted and placed in a two-sided frame; overall size 13" x 9".
As the evening wore on, Rumsey showed Washington a model of a mechanical boat he had designed, which could propel itself upstream by means of grapples on the bottom. Washington was intrigued, and wrote a certificate of commendation for Rumsey, that Rumsey would then be able to use when trying to secure financial backing for his endeavors.
In July 1785, recommended by both Washington, and Revolutionary War hero General Horatio Gates of Shepherdstown, Rumsey was appointed the superintendent of the newly formed Potomac Company. This company, a precursor of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, had as its goal making the Potomac River navigable. George Washington became its first president, as well as an investor in the company. However, Rumsey requested release from the position after a year, citing difficulties in getting proper supplies, securing pay for the workers, and trying to keep the workers under control.
No longer acting as Potomac Company superintendent, Rumsey was able to devote his time to his dream of steam navigation, something he had been thinking about since 1783. Work on a hull for a steamboat had begun in 1785 in Bath by Rumsey's brother-in-law Joseph Barnes. The boat was brought that fall to Shepherdstown where Rumsey was living.
The item offered here is an invoice dated September 1785 and signed by James Rumsey, documenting the receipt at Shepherdstown of "thirty Eight pound [sic] and One oz. of Steel for the use of the Patomack [sic]Company."
At about this time, the Potomac Company was in arrears for the cost of various supplies, and Mr. Washington called for a reckoning of these debts. On November 21, 1785, accounts with the proper vouchers were brought before the committee of Directors, amounting to just over £260, and were ordered to be paid. As each outstanding debt was reviewed, the Company's officers signed their approval for payment. On the verso of Rumsey's invoice, is that approval. It is signed by Washington as President of the Potomac Company, and reads, in full: "The within accts. allowed." It is also signed by John Fitzgerald and James Gilpin as Company Directors.
The order is moderately age toned with a few small areas of fold separation, and has been matted and placed in a two-sided frame; overall size 13" x 9".
[George Washington] Lawrence Washington Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided with integral address leaf, Jamaica, May 30, 1741. Lawrence Washington was a soldier and prominent landowner in colonial Virginia. Washington was also the older and beloved half-brother of future United States President George Washington. Here, Lawrence writes to his and his half-brother's father, Augustine Washington, from Jamaica, where Lawrence was serving as an officer in Gooch's Marines under British Admiral Edward Vernon's command, in the War of Jenkins' Ear, a conflict between Great Britain and Spain that lasted from 1739 to 1742.
In March 1741, the Colombian city of Cartagena de Indias endured a large-scale attack by British and American colonial troops led by Admiral Edward Vernon, who arrived at Cartagena with a massive fleet of 186 ships and 23,600 men against only six Spanish ships and 3,600 men, in an action known as the Battle of Cartagena de Indias. After weeks of intense fighting, the siege was repelled by the Spanish and native forces led by Commander General Blas de Lezo, who inflicted heavy casualties on the British troops. This victory prolonged Spain's control of the Caribbean waters which helped secure its large Empire until the 19th century. Had the British plan succeeded the entire Spanish empire in the Americas would have been imperiled.
In this letter, Lawrence tells of his experiences in the Colombian Battle of Cartagena de India, stating that he and his troops "destroy'd eight Forts, six Men of War, six Gallioons [sic] & some Merchant ships. What number of men they lost we know not. The Enemy killed of ours about six hundred & some wounded & the Climate killed us in greater numbers. . . . We are all tired of the heat & wish for a cold Season to refresh our blood."
Lawrence also writes to say that "I hope my Lotts are secured; which if I return shall make use of as my dwelling." The property he mentions would ultimately become Mount Vernon, so named by Lawrence after his commanding officer, Admiral Edward Vernon, whom Lawrence greatly admired.
Upon his father's death, Lawrence inherited much of his father's property, and upon Lawrence's death in 1752, that property was willed to his wife and then to his daughter. As stipulated in Lawrence's will, if his daughter had no children the estate would go to his half-brother George; however, Lawrence's sole surviving daughter died just a few months after Lawrence did and Lawrence's wife Anne held the property until her death in 1761, when the Mount Vernon estate passed in its entirety to Lawrence's half-brother George Washington.
This wonderful letter is moderately age toned and suffers a few areas of fold separation; other small areas of paper loss have been professionally silked. An outstanding item with historic content! Very good condition.
In March 1741, the Colombian city of Cartagena de Indias endured a large-scale attack by British and American colonial troops led by Admiral Edward Vernon, who arrived at Cartagena with a massive fleet of 186 ships and 23,600 men against only six Spanish ships and 3,600 men, in an action known as the Battle of Cartagena de Indias. After weeks of intense fighting, the siege was repelled by the Spanish and native forces led by Commander General Blas de Lezo, who inflicted heavy casualties on the British troops. This victory prolonged Spain's control of the Caribbean waters which helped secure its large Empire until the 19th century. Had the British plan succeeded the entire Spanish empire in the Americas would have been imperiled.
In this letter, Lawrence tells of his experiences in the Colombian Battle of Cartagena de India, stating that he and his troops "destroy'd eight Forts, six Men of War, six Gallioons [sic] & some Merchant ships. What number of men they lost we know not. The Enemy killed of ours about six hundred & some wounded & the Climate killed us in greater numbers. . . . We are all tired of the heat & wish for a cold Season to refresh our blood."
Lawrence also writes to say that "I hope my Lotts are secured; which if I return shall make use of as my dwelling." The property he mentions would ultimately become Mount Vernon, so named by Lawrence after his commanding officer, Admiral Edward Vernon, whom Lawrence greatly admired.
Upon his father's death, Lawrence inherited much of his father's property, and upon Lawrence's death in 1752, that property was willed to his wife and then to his daughter. As stipulated in Lawrence's will, if his daughter had no children the estate would go to his half-brother George; however, Lawrence's sole surviving daughter died just a few months after Lawrence did and Lawrence's wife Anne held the property until her death in 1761, when the Mount Vernon estate passed in its entirety to Lawrence's half-brother George Washington.
This wonderful letter is moderately age toned and suffers a few areas of fold separation; other small areas of paper loss have been professionally silked. An outstanding item with historic content! Very good condition.
[George Washington] Robert Spring Forged Check. One page, 6.25" x 2.5", Mount Vernon, August 27, 1798. This check was written and signed "G. Washington" by the successful forger Robert Spring (1813-1876), who was known to have forged many Washington checks. All of his Washington check forgeries, including this one, are dated in the late 1790s (Washington died in 1799) and are drawn from the same bank: the Office of Discount & Deposit of Baltimore. Another giveaway is the reddish-brown ink used by Spring. (Charles Hamilton, Great Forgers and Famous Fakes; Glenbridge Publishing LTD.: 1996)
Spring is also known for forging letters by Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and other early American statesmen. Often spending hours practicing with a goose quill, he mixed his own special ink and employed such tricks as applying coffee grounds to stain his productions to give an ancient look. So successful was he that another of his Washington forgeries was displayed in Independence Hall for some time. Before his death in 1876, Spring was arrested and subsequently vowed to reform.
Being a draft against Washington's account at the Office of Discount and Deposit in Baltimore. The check is payable to Charles Carroll, presumably Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who was a delegate to the Continental Congress and later served as a United States senator for Maryland. It reads, in full: "The Cashier of the Office of Discount & Deposit - Baltimore. Will please pay Chas. Carroll Esqr. or bearer the sum of Eight hundred and nineteen dollars, sixty eight cts. & chg the same to my acct. G. Washington." Document is lightly age toned and bears cancellation cuts and a small spot of paper loss at center. Matted and framed together with a handsome steel engraving of Washington to an overall size of 13.5" x 18". Very fine condition.
Spring is also known for forging letters by Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and other early American statesmen. Often spending hours practicing with a goose quill, he mixed his own special ink and employed such tricks as applying coffee grounds to stain his productions to give an ancient look. So successful was he that another of his Washington forgeries was displayed in Independence Hall for some time. Before his death in 1876, Spring was arrested and subsequently vowed to reform.
Being a draft against Washington's account at the Office of Discount and Deposit in Baltimore. The check is payable to Charles Carroll, presumably Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who was a delegate to the Continental Congress and later served as a United States senator for Maryland. It reads, in full: "The Cashier of the Office of Discount & Deposit - Baltimore. Will please pay Chas. Carroll Esqr. or bearer the sum of Eight hundred and nineteen dollars, sixty eight cts. & chg the same to my acct. G. Washington." Document is lightly age toned and bears cancellation cuts and a small spot of paper loss at center. Matted and framed together with a handsome steel engraving of Washington to an overall size of 13.5" x 18". Very fine condition.
John Adams Autograph Endorsement Signed on Verso of a Partly Printed Document. One page, 8.5" x 6.75", Boston, January 18, 1768. Prior to his beginning his remarkable career of public service to his country, John Adams provided legal assistance in many small cases like this one - disputes over debts owed.
At the time he began his law career in 1761, King George's rule held sway, and this partly printed document reflects as such, with the heading: "George the Third, by the Grace of GOD, of Great-Britain, France and Ireland, KING, Defender of the Faith, &c."
The case is titled Wales vs Peirce, and this document commands the Sheriff of Suffolk County, Massachusetts, to "Attach the Goods or Estate of Richard Peirce of Milton in said County . . . to the Value of Sixty Pounds, and for want thereof to take the Body of the Said Richard (if He may be found in your Precinct) and Him safely keep, so that you have Him before Our Justices of Our Inferiour Court of Common Pleas next to be holden at Boston, within and for Our said County of Suffolk, on the Third Tuesday of April next."
Although it is unclear which side Adams has represented in the case, the young attorney has penned a brief note on the verso to "Mr. Officer," indicating that the disputed funds should be attached, "or hold to Bail by order of the Creditor. J. Adams."
Adams soon rebelled against British rule, and participated in the outcry against the Writs of Assistance (a general and open-ended search warrant granted to British officers). He became a prominent public figure through his activities against the Stamp Act, in response to which he wrote and published a popular article, Essay on the Canon and Feudal Law. His passion and publicity ever growing, Adams political career gained steam, and he served respectively as a delegate to the first and second Continental Congresses, US Ambassador to the Netherlands, U.S. ambassador to the Great Britain, and vice president, before he was elected our second president in 1797.
This well-worn document is moderately age toned and almost completely separated at folds (not affecting Adams' writing on verso). Heavily imprinted and extensively docketed, the item bears small chips at folds, and is in fair overall condition.
At the time he began his law career in 1761, King George's rule held sway, and this partly printed document reflects as such, with the heading: "George the Third, by the Grace of GOD, of Great-Britain, France and Ireland, KING, Defender of the Faith, &c."
The case is titled Wales vs Peirce, and this document commands the Sheriff of Suffolk County, Massachusetts, to "Attach the Goods or Estate of Richard Peirce of Milton in said County . . . to the Value of Sixty Pounds, and for want thereof to take the Body of the Said Richard (if He may be found in your Precinct) and Him safely keep, so that you have Him before Our Justices of Our Inferiour Court of Common Pleas next to be holden at Boston, within and for Our said County of Suffolk, on the Third Tuesday of April next."
Although it is unclear which side Adams has represented in the case, the young attorney has penned a brief note on the verso to "Mr. Officer," indicating that the disputed funds should be attached, "or hold to Bail by order of the Creditor. J. Adams."
Adams soon rebelled against British rule, and participated in the outcry against the Writs of Assistance (a general and open-ended search warrant granted to British officers). He became a prominent public figure through his activities against the Stamp Act, in response to which he wrote and published a popular article, Essay on the Canon and Feudal Law. His passion and publicity ever growing, Adams political career gained steam, and he served respectively as a delegate to the first and second Continental Congresses, US Ambassador to the Netherlands, U.S. ambassador to the Great Britain, and vice president, before he was elected our second president in 1797.
This well-worn document is moderately age toned and almost completely separated at folds (not affecting Adams' writing on verso). Heavily imprinted and extensively docketed, the item bears small chips at folds, and is in fair overall condition.
John Adams Signature, "J. Adams". One page, 5" x 2.75" (sight size), November 23 [?], Quincy, Massachusetts. An address to "John P. De Wint Esq." of New York excised from a larger document. John Peter De Wint, from a wealthy New York family, was married to Adams's granddaughter Caroline Abigail Smith. Framed with an engraving of Adams, 13.25" x 23.5" (overall). The year is clipped from the date and minor light soiling, else very good.
Thomas Jefferson Document Signed "Th. Jefferson" and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison. One page, 11.5" x 14.5", January 27, 1808, "city of Washington". This partially printed document signed by the third president, "in consideration of military service performed by John Garret (a soldier for three years) to the United States", grants "Philip Gatch, assigned of the said John Garrett by his Attorney William Lytle . . . Twenty-three acres". In 1790, Congress passed an act that granted officers and soldiers land lying northwest of the Ohio River; it is from this act that Gatch, assignee of veteran Garret[t] is benefiting. Jefferson, president from 1801 through 1809, appointed Madison his secretary of state two months after his inauguration. Madison served in this capacity until he was sworn in as the fourth president in March 1809. With folds. The signatures of both Jefferson and Madison are faded, though entirely legible. Near fine in condition. Nicely framed and matted above two images of Jefferson and Madison to an overall size of 28.5" x 35".
Thomas Jefferson Document Signed "Th. Jefferson" as the third president and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison. One partly printed vellum page, 10" x 15.5", New York. This is an impressive scalloped-top ship's passport with a choice signature of President Jefferson and Secretary of State (and future President) James Madison. The passport allows "the Schooner Traveller of New York, Thomas Irish master or commander, of the burthen of One hundred twenty-eight tons or thereabouts, mounted with no guns, navigated with Eight men to pass with her Company, Passengers, Goods, and Merchandize, without any hindrance." With maritime vignettes and wonderful blind embossed seal in bottom left corner. This document, listed as number "Two hundred six", has folds and is in fine condition.
Thomas Jefferson and James Madison Document Signed. One page, 14.75" x 8.5", July 3, 1807, Washington, D.C., partially printed on vellum. The document, bearing an embossed paper seal of the United States, is a grant of one quarter a section of land to Henry Wisler, assignee of Edward Rose. Jefferson signed as president and Madison as secretary of state. Attractively framed, 39.75" x 17", with engravings of both Jefferson and Madison. Fold lines, else fine.
James Madison, Autograph Letter Twice Signed. One page with integral address leaf, 8.5" x 10", September 10, 1829, Montpellier, Virginia. The letter reads, "J. Madison presents his respects to Mr. McClean and commits to his care, as requested by Mr. Tracie, a letter containing papers which had been deposited by him with the Board of Visitors of the University of Virginia". The address is also in Madison's hand. The letter, with the frank "James Madison", retains the original red wax seal. Some weakness at the folds, seal tears, chipping at the edges, else near fine.
James Madison and James Monroe Document Signed. One page, 15" x 7.5", December 10, 1811, Washington, D.C., partially printed on vellum. The document, bearing an embossed paper seal of the United States, is a grant of one quarter a section of land in Fairfax County to Daniel Vanmetre. Madison signed as president and Monroe as secretary of state. Attractively framed, 22.5" x 26.5", with engravings of both Madison and Monroe. Fold lines, else fine.
James Monroe Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, 8" x 9.75", Oak Hill, January 18, 1829. Great content letter to an unknown recipient: "...I have so little desire to assume any pretentions [sic], founded on my publick services, or to yield, to the indulgent & generous feelings of those of my fellow citizens, who think favorably of them, that I shrink from every appeal of the kind... Having long served my country with integrity & zeal, I cherish retirement, and derive much consolation from a review of the past, especially as our success, under all the difficulties to which we have been exposed, furnishes good ground, on which to calculate on its continuance. I trust that we shall not only continue to be free and happy, but to preset an example, which will be useful to other nations..."
Monroe had retired from public service at the end of his presidency in 1825. His eight years tenure has been coined "The Era of Good Feelings", indicative of his even handed pragmatism in policy and skill with facing the many crisis challenging his administration. His eight years in office endured the financial panic of 1819, the events leading to the Missouri Compromise, and strained diplomatic relations with the great powers of Europe that would inspire the Monroe Doctrine. After leaving office he retired to his home in Oak Hill. He spent his last years dedicated to writing and caring for his ailing wife. Riddled with debt, Monroe sold his home at Oak Hill upon the death of his wife in 1830, and moved to New York to live with his daughter.
Monroe had retired from public service at the end of his presidency in 1825. His eight years tenure has been coined "The Era of Good Feelings", indicative of his even handed pragmatism in policy and skill with facing the many crisis challenging his administration. His eight years in office endured the financial panic of 1819, the events leading to the Missouri Compromise, and strained diplomatic relations with the great powers of Europe that would inspire the Monroe Doctrine. After leaving office he retired to his home in Oak Hill. He spent his last years dedicated to writing and caring for his ailing wife. Riddled with debt, Monroe sold his home at Oak Hill upon the death of his wife in 1830, and moved to New York to live with his daughter.
James Monroe Check Signed as the fifth president. One page, 6" x 2.25", 1821, n.p. This $200 check, issued by the Bank of the United States, is payable to Robert Warren. Monroe (1758-1831) served as president from 1817 until 1825. During his administration, the Missouri Compromise was passed and Florida was acquired from Spain. This document, with original rough-cut edges and prominent stylized eagle, contains a very nice, bold presidential signature making it excellent for display. Fine.
John Quincy Adams Autograph Letter Signed as Secretary of State. One page, 7" x 6.75", Washington, May 15, 1823. Adams writes a personal thank you to W.C. Somerville of Baltimore, and offers his approval of Somerville's essays. The letter reads, in full: "I have received your very obliging Letter of the 10th inst.t together with a copy of your Letters from Paris, on the causes and consequences of the French Revolution. From the cursory perusal that I have been able to give this work, I have had ample reason to be satisfied that its principles and its sentiments are such as eminently befit an American, and a friend of universal benevolence. I pray you to accept my thanks for it, and to believe me to be, very respectfully, Sir, your very humble and obed.t Serv.t, John Quincy Adams."
Adams served as secretary of state under President James Monroe from 1817 until 1825, a tenure during which he was instrumental in the acquisition of Florida. Typically, his views concurred with those espoused by Monroe. As secretary of state, he negotiated the Adams-Onís Treaty and wrote the Monroe Doctrine, which warned European nations against meddling in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere. Adams' interpretation of neutrality was so strict that he refused to cooperate with Great Britain in suppressing the slave trade. Document is bright and sharp, and has been affixed to a slightly larger backing sheet which measures 8" x 10.75". Boldly penned and very fine.
Adams served as secretary of state under President James Monroe from 1817 until 1825, a tenure during which he was instrumental in the acquisition of Florida. Typically, his views concurred with those espoused by Monroe. As secretary of state, he negotiated the Adams-Onís Treaty and wrote the Monroe Doctrine, which warned European nations against meddling in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere. Adams' interpretation of neutrality was so strict that he refused to cooperate with Great Britain in suppressing the slave trade. Document is bright and sharp, and has been affixed to a slightly larger backing sheet which measures 8" x 10.75". Boldly penned and very fine.
John Quincy Adams, Partially Printed Document Signed "J. Q. Adams" as president. One page, 15.75" x 9.75" (sight size), June 5, 1828, on vellum. George Graham, Commissioner of the General Land Office, countersigned the document, a land grant to William Shores of Huntsville, Alabama. Graham served as acting secretary of war, 1815-18. He was later sent on a perilous mission to Galveston Island, Texas, to persuade General Charles Lallemande, the chief of artillery in Napoleon's army, to abandon a colony the French had established with 600 armed settlers. Graham served as a commissioner of the Land Office from 1823 until his death in 1830. Framed with an engraving of Adams, 29.5" x 17.25" (overall). Folds, else fine.
[John Quincy Adams] Archive of Five Revolutionary War Letters From His Siblings and Cousins. John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) was eleven years old when these letters were written in November 1778 by three of Adams' siblings and two of his cousins. Seven months earlier, he had arrived in France with his father, the great American statesman and the future second president of the U.S. John Adams. The elder Adams had been sent to Paris after being named by Congress to work with Benjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee to negotiate a French alliance.
Their voyage to France was the first of many for both father and son. They boarded the Boston on February 17, 1778. Because of the importance of the trip and the danger of English spies, all was done secretly. The 3,000 mile voyage was especially dangerous because they were crossing during the North Atlantic's most perilous season and because of the risks of encountering English naval vessels. Much of the voyage was uneventful, but there were times of bad weather and raging seas. Near the end of the voyage, the Boston encountered the Martha, a heavily-armed English merchant vessel. After each fired a few shots, the Martha surrendered to the Boston, ending a tense confrontation. The Boston finally arrived safely at France on April 1, 1778. Young John stayed with his father in Paris throughout 1778 and 1779.
A few weeks before these letters were written, the French fleet arrived in Boston Harbor and invited Abigail Adams and family to dine with French Admiral d'Estaing on one of the finest French warships, the Languedoc. This invitation by a high-ranking French officer displayed the importance of the Adams family. Several of these letters refer to that visit, which was still very fresh on the minds of the youngsters. These letters also reveal the concern that the Adams and Cranch households had after learning of the hazardous events during the voyage. The letters are in a custom padded chemise and full morocco bound slipcase with gilt lettering to rounded spine.
Abigail "Nabby" Adams Autograph Letter Signed "Your affectionate sister/ Abigail Adams". Three pages, 6" x 7.25", November 11, 1778, Braintree. Abigail Adams (1765-1813), the eldest of John and Abigail's children (two years older than John), writes in part: "I take upon my pen to congratulate you upon the dangers you have escaped, and the pleasures you enjoy in a country I might earnestly long to see, and the more so for having become acquainted with some of its valuable inhabitants. . . . I have in some measure been a witness to the splendor and Elegence [sic] of the french tables, whilst Count D'Estangs [sic] fleet lay here I went in company with my Mamma and other Ladies on Board the Languidock [sic] at an entertainment consisting of a hundred & six dishes. I din[e]d once on board another ship at a very elegant entertainment. I suppose you have a curiosity to know how I like the gentlemen [sic]? The Count I had seen before; he has a fine person in which ease and dignity are happily blended; as to the other gentlemen they were very polite and civil." Addressed to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ Paris". Paper loss along the center vertical fold caused from opening the letter; the red seal is still mostly intact, displaying "JA" in the center of the seal.
Charles Adams Dictated Letter in an Unknown Hand. Two pages, 6.25" x 8.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree. Charles Adams (1770-1800) was three years younger than John. Here, he dictates about how he has just learned to write: "I have to acknowledge the receipt of a kind Letter from you which I assure you should not have laid so long unanswered if I could have done it any myself, but you know I had not attempted to learn to write when you left me; I have a very good Master and make some proficiency, but writing is a work of time, not obtained in a month or two. . . . I must sincerely congratulate you upon your safe arrival in France after a Dangerous passage, many of the particulars Mamma has learnt from Capt. Barnes the recital of which makes me shudder. . . . Ever bear in your mind my Dear Brother a gratefull [sic] remembrance of your preservation & that of our Dear Parent . . . Heaven continues & preserves a Life so valuable to us and so Dear to our Mamma that she would not wish to survive the loss of him. . . . I am not quite ignorant of the polite & engaging Manners of the people you dwell among. . . . I have a great fancy for France. I feel acquainted there, and Mamma says for many reasons I ought to respect that nation most; She [France] was the first to assist us in our apposition to Tyranny and the first to acknowledge us Independent, & the first to bind herself to us and the Officers of the Fleet." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Q. Adams/ at/ Paris". With folds and remnants of red seal; very good.
Thomas B. Adams Dictated Letter in an Unknown Hand. One and one-half pages, 6.5" x 8.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree, Massachusetts. Thomas Boylston Adams (1772-1832) was five years younger than John Quincy Adams; he dictates in part: "I was very well pleased to hear from you & glad to hear you was well after such a tedious passage, you little thought what you had to pass through when you went on Board the Boston; but through the kindness of heaven you have been safely carried to a country delightfull [sic] as the garden of Eden. I can read & hear of its Beauties, but you my Brother have the privilege of seeing it, of enjoying it under the care of an Excellent parent-are you sensible of your advantages? . . . You tell me you are att [sic] school, I hope you are a good Boy for what a sad thing would it be four you to go to a foreign country and disgrace your own and your parents." Toned with some separation at folds. Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Q. Adams/ at/ Paris". Near very good.
Lucy Cranch Autograph Letter Signed "Cousin L. Cranch". Two pages, 6" x 7.75", November 9, 1778, Braintree. The elder sister of Betsy, Lucy writes in part: "Sister [Betsy] has told you that she was aboard the Count's ship, but she did not tell you that she lost her heart. She might tho, & that your Sister [Abigal] & Miss Nancy Quincy, met with the like disaster. A sweet little French Urchin about sixteen, stole them all three. I was there too but I have got mine safe. . . . I remember your affection for the Study of history & do not wonder att [sic] it. There is nothing to me appears so entertaining. By viewing the transactions of passages, we convey ourselves to the origin of things, we behold the World, rising out of nothing, see how it was governed in its infancy, how overflowed in a deluge & there peopled again. We trace the first institutions of kingdoms, & commonwealths observe how they rise, flourished, and decayed. I feel a kind of acquaintance with the great men who contributed to the mighty revolutions." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ at/ Paris". With usual folds and red seal. Some paper loss along center vertical fold, but no loss of text. Good.
Betsy Cranch Autograph Letter Signed. Two and one-third pages, 6" x 7.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree. This loving letter from Betsy, John's young cousin on his mother's side of the family, reads in part: "I have heard that you had a very disagreeable voyage & that you were in danger of being left in the Bay of Biscay. . . . I shall expect an History of France from you if you should be permitted to return again. . . . I was on board one of the French ships a few weeks since it was called the Languedoc of 64 guns the largest that was here. Count d'Estaing came in it. We went from Col. Quincy's in a barge which the Count sent for us, it was a very Elegant one. We were treated extremely polite by the Count & all the officers. . . . After dinner we danced about two hours & returned. I think the french Gentleman [sic] are excellent dancers. I suppose you are become an accomplished french gentleman by this time. . . . Please to give my Duty to your Papa. I hope he is well." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ at/ Paris". With red seal and some separation at folds. Near very good.
Their voyage to France was the first of many for both father and son. They boarded the Boston on February 17, 1778. Because of the importance of the trip and the danger of English spies, all was done secretly. The 3,000 mile voyage was especially dangerous because they were crossing during the North Atlantic's most perilous season and because of the risks of encountering English naval vessels. Much of the voyage was uneventful, but there were times of bad weather and raging seas. Near the end of the voyage, the Boston encountered the Martha, a heavily-armed English merchant vessel. After each fired a few shots, the Martha surrendered to the Boston, ending a tense confrontation. The Boston finally arrived safely at France on April 1, 1778. Young John stayed with his father in Paris throughout 1778 and 1779.
A few weeks before these letters were written, the French fleet arrived in Boston Harbor and invited Abigail Adams and family to dine with French Admiral d'Estaing on one of the finest French warships, the Languedoc. This invitation by a high-ranking French officer displayed the importance of the Adams family. Several of these letters refer to that visit, which was still very fresh on the minds of the youngsters. These letters also reveal the concern that the Adams and Cranch households had after learning of the hazardous events during the voyage. The letters are in a custom padded chemise and full morocco bound slipcase with gilt lettering to rounded spine.
Abigail "Nabby" Adams Autograph Letter Signed "Your affectionate sister/ Abigail Adams". Three pages, 6" x 7.25", November 11, 1778, Braintree. Abigail Adams (1765-1813), the eldest of John and Abigail's children (two years older than John), writes in part: "I take upon my pen to congratulate you upon the dangers you have escaped, and the pleasures you enjoy in a country I might earnestly long to see, and the more so for having become acquainted with some of its valuable inhabitants. . . . I have in some measure been a witness to the splendor and Elegence [sic] of the french tables, whilst Count D'Estangs [sic] fleet lay here I went in company with my Mamma and other Ladies on Board the Languidock [sic] at an entertainment consisting of a hundred & six dishes. I din[e]d once on board another ship at a very elegant entertainment. I suppose you have a curiosity to know how I like the gentlemen [sic]? The Count I had seen before; he has a fine person in which ease and dignity are happily blended; as to the other gentlemen they were very polite and civil." Addressed to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ Paris". Paper loss along the center vertical fold caused from opening the letter; the red seal is still mostly intact, displaying "JA" in the center of the seal.
Charles Adams Dictated Letter in an Unknown Hand. Two pages, 6.25" x 8.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree. Charles Adams (1770-1800) was three years younger than John. Here, he dictates about how he has just learned to write: "I have to acknowledge the receipt of a kind Letter from you which I assure you should not have laid so long unanswered if I could have done it any myself, but you know I had not attempted to learn to write when you left me; I have a very good Master and make some proficiency, but writing is a work of time, not obtained in a month or two. . . . I must sincerely congratulate you upon your safe arrival in France after a Dangerous passage, many of the particulars Mamma has learnt from Capt. Barnes the recital of which makes me shudder. . . . Ever bear in your mind my Dear Brother a gratefull [sic] remembrance of your preservation & that of our Dear Parent . . . Heaven continues & preserves a Life so valuable to us and so Dear to our Mamma that she would not wish to survive the loss of him. . . . I am not quite ignorant of the polite & engaging Manners of the people you dwell among. . . . I have a great fancy for France. I feel acquainted there, and Mamma says for many reasons I ought to respect that nation most; She [France] was the first to assist us in our apposition to Tyranny and the first to acknowledge us Independent, & the first to bind herself to us and the Officers of the Fleet." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Q. Adams/ at/ Paris". With folds and remnants of red seal; very good.
Thomas B. Adams Dictated Letter in an Unknown Hand. One and one-half pages, 6.5" x 8.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree, Massachusetts. Thomas Boylston Adams (1772-1832) was five years younger than John Quincy Adams; he dictates in part: "I was very well pleased to hear from you & glad to hear you was well after such a tedious passage, you little thought what you had to pass through when you went on Board the Boston; but through the kindness of heaven you have been safely carried to a country delightfull [sic] as the garden of Eden. I can read & hear of its Beauties, but you my Brother have the privilege of seeing it, of enjoying it under the care of an Excellent parent-are you sensible of your advantages? . . . You tell me you are att [sic] school, I hope you are a good Boy for what a sad thing would it be four you to go to a foreign country and disgrace your own and your parents." Toned with some separation at folds. Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Q. Adams/ at/ Paris". Near very good.
Lucy Cranch Autograph Letter Signed "Cousin L. Cranch". Two pages, 6" x 7.75", November 9, 1778, Braintree. The elder sister of Betsy, Lucy writes in part: "Sister [Betsy] has told you that she was aboard the Count's ship, but she did not tell you that she lost her heart. She might tho, & that your Sister [Abigal] & Miss Nancy Quincy, met with the like disaster. A sweet little French Urchin about sixteen, stole them all three. I was there too but I have got mine safe. . . . I remember your affection for the Study of history & do not wonder att [sic] it. There is nothing to me appears so entertaining. By viewing the transactions of passages, we convey ourselves to the origin of things, we behold the World, rising out of nothing, see how it was governed in its infancy, how overflowed in a deluge & there peopled again. We trace the first institutions of kingdoms, & commonwealths observe how they rise, flourished, and decayed. I feel a kind of acquaintance with the great men who contributed to the mighty revolutions." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ at/ Paris". With usual folds and red seal. Some paper loss along center vertical fold, but no loss of text. Good.
Betsy Cranch Autograph Letter Signed. Two and one-third pages, 6" x 7.25", November 9, 1778, Braintree. This loving letter from Betsy, John's young cousin on his mother's side of the family, reads in part: "I have heard that you had a very disagreeable voyage & that you were in danger of being left in the Bay of Biscay. . . . I shall expect an History of France from you if you should be permitted to return again. . . . I was on board one of the French ships a few weeks since it was called the Languedoc of 64 guns the largest that was here. Count d'Estaing came in it. We went from Col. Quincy's in a barge which the Count sent for us, it was a very Elegant one. We were treated extremely polite by the Count & all the officers. . . . After dinner we danced about two hours & returned. I think the french Gentleman [sic] are excellent dancers. I suppose you are become an accomplished french gentleman by this time. . . . Please to give my Duty to your Papa. I hope he is well." Addressed on verso to "Mr. John Quincy Adams/ at/ Paris". With red seal and some separation at folds. Near very good.
[John Quincy Adams] Unopened Letter Sent to Adams as Minister to Russia. The folded, and still sealed, letter measures 5" x 3.75". It is addressed to, "A Son Excellence / Monsr. Jean Quincy Adams / Ministre Plenipolentiare des Etats / de L' Amerique / a St. Petersburg / Russie". One spindle hole in upper right corner, else very fine. Intriguing!
Andrew Jackson Document Signed as president. One vellum page partially printed, 14.25" x 18.25", April 20, 1833, Washington, countersigned by Acting Secretary of the Navy John Boyle (signing for Secretary of the Navy Levi Woodbury. This document appoints George Jones as "Chaplain in the Navy". Engraved with patriotic and martial vignettes and affixed with a blind embossed U.S. Navy paper seal. The document has a pattern of perforations throughout, possibly to avoid alteration of the document. Age toned; fine.
The Chaplain Corps began in November 1775, with Reverend Benjamin Balch being the first chaplain appointed during the Revolutionary War. By the turn of the century there were six chaplains serving in the navy. The 1802 Naval Regulations included the following as chaplain duties: " He is to read prayers at stated periods; perform all funeral ceremonies; perform the duty of schoolmaster instructing the midshipmen and volunteers in writing, arithmetic, navigation and whatever else they might need to make them proficient; and teach the other youths of the ship as the captain orders." Six years after being appointed chaplain by President Jackson, George Jones began working to establish a naval academy. His work bore fruit in 1845 with the establishment of the Naval School at Annapolis (later called the U.S. Naval Academy).
The Chaplain Corps began in November 1775, with Reverend Benjamin Balch being the first chaplain appointed during the Revolutionary War. By the turn of the century there were six chaplains serving in the navy. The 1802 Naval Regulations included the following as chaplain duties: " He is to read prayers at stated periods; perform all funeral ceremonies; perform the duty of schoolmaster instructing the midshipmen and volunteers in writing, arithmetic, navigation and whatever else they might need to make them proficient; and teach the other youths of the ship as the captain orders." Six years after being appointed chaplain by President Jackson, George Jones began working to establish a naval academy. His work bore fruit in 1845 with the establishment of the Naval School at Annapolis (later called the U.S. Naval Academy).
Andrew Jackson Document Signed. One page, 8" x 6.5", n.d., though likely early 1790s ("179" was not completely filled-in), n.p. A bond by two men to a third party outlining the conditions of the bond. In part: "Know all men by these presents that we William Dutton and Josiah Love are held and firmly bound unto John Muir in the penal sum of One Hundred Pounds. To be used on condition that the above bounden John Muir do well and truly with effect prosecute a suit by him this day commenced against the said John Muir otherwise pay and satisfy all costs and charges that may be awarded for failure."
Jackson and David Allison have signed at the lower right. This was probably signed in the mid-1790s when Jackson, in his late twenties, was occupied with his legal practice, the business of his estate, and politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1796 and elected to the U.S. Senate in 1797. During this time he was also involved in land speculation with his partner, David Allison. Jackson made money by buying land and later reselling it to new settlers. He bought land for as little as 10¢ per acre, later reselling it for as much as $3 per acre. However, Allison went bankrupt in 1797, and his collapse severely strained finances of the many who were involved with him, including Jackson and Jackson's political mentor, William Blount. The latter became involved in a scheme known as the "Blount Conspiracy" which attempted to enhance the value of his southwestern lands by driving the Spanish out of Florida and Louisiana. The aftermath of Allison's collapse and the Blount Conspiracy generated years of legal cases which often employed Jackson, and in at least once instance, caused Jackson to represent a party suing Allison, his former partner. Documents from this early in Jackson's career are very scarce and difficult to locate. This document is age-toned with some separation beginning along the smoothed folds. The bottom edge is uneven and several stains exist, one lightly affecting the space between "Andrew" and "Jackson". Still, near good condition. Attractively framed and matted with a noble image of the popular seventh president to an overall size of 15" x 21.5".
Jackson and David Allison have signed at the lower right. This was probably signed in the mid-1790s when Jackson, in his late twenties, was occupied with his legal practice, the business of his estate, and politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1796 and elected to the U.S. Senate in 1797. During this time he was also involved in land speculation with his partner, David Allison. Jackson made money by buying land and later reselling it to new settlers. He bought land for as little as 10¢ per acre, later reselling it for as much as $3 per acre. However, Allison went bankrupt in 1797, and his collapse severely strained finances of the many who were involved with him, including Jackson and Jackson's political mentor, William Blount. The latter became involved in a scheme known as the "Blount Conspiracy" which attempted to enhance the value of his southwestern lands by driving the Spanish out of Florida and Louisiana. The aftermath of Allison's collapse and the Blount Conspiracy generated years of legal cases which often employed Jackson, and in at least once instance, caused Jackson to represent a party suing Allison, his former partner. Documents from this early in Jackson's career are very scarce and difficult to locate. This document is age-toned with some separation beginning along the smoothed folds. The bottom edge is uneven and several stains exist, one lightly affecting the space between "Andrew" and "Jackson". Still, near good condition. Attractively framed and matted with a noble image of the popular seventh president to an overall size of 15" x 21.5".
Andrew Jackson Autograph Endorsement Signed "AJ" on the address panel of a lengthy angry letter from his brother-in-law. Five pages, with integral address leaf, 7.5" x 11.75", n.p., [near the Hermitage, outside of Nashville], March 5, 1839. Shortly after Jackson first arrived in Nashville in 1788, he took up residence as a boarder with Rachel Stockley Donelson, the widow of John Donelson, where he became acquainted with their daughter, Rachel Donelson Robards. At the time, Rachel Robards was in an unhappy marriage with Captain Lewis Robards, and due to Lewis Robards' temperament, the two were separated in 1790. Jackson married Rachel after hearing that Robards had obtained a divorce. However, the divorce was never finalized, making Rachel's marriage to Jackson illegitimate. After the divorce was officially completed, Rachel and Jackson remarried in 1794.
Rachel's brother, Stockley Donelson, a noted land speculator, apparently held a grudge against Jackson for having made his sister the subject of negative publicity, and argued with him on many issues. Here, Stockley writes an angry and confrontational letter to the former President concerning a road that Jackson had had moved, and a murder in which Jackson's slave George and Donelson's slave Jake were involved. Donelson's letter reads, in part: "Your note[s] of March 3rd and 5th have been duly received, your powers of epistolary writing seem to be quite extensive of late, whether it is the result of a disturbed conscience or otherwise I shall not stop to conjecture. . . . The letter . . . was indecorous and insulting, and a wonton attack on my feelings. . . . I could not view it in any other light than the ebullition [of] your vindictive and unjust feelings towards me - showing in bold relief that remarkable trait in human character - Viz - that the man who inflicts an injury upon his fellow man, is always the most inveterate and most anxious to heap still further injustices upon the object of his hatred. For the truth of this view I could not ask better evidence than that contained in your reply to mine."
Donelson proceeds to rail against Jackson for having moved a well-used road through the neighborhood, and insists that Jackson is behind "the unjust attempt to fix the murder upon an innocent man who was merely attempting peaceably to save the life of his fellow servant from the attack of cold blooded Murderers from justice." The outcome of the disputes between Donelson and Jackson are unknown, but Jackson was careful to keep records of their correspondence, this letter having been docketed on the integral address leaf by Jackson: "Stockly [sic] Donelson, abusive letter to be kept on file. A.J." Letter is moderately age toned and bears a small seal tear on the final page. It is in generally fine condition, and offers an intriguing look at the former President's personal life and relations with his neighbors.
Rachel's brother, Stockley Donelson, a noted land speculator, apparently held a grudge against Jackson for having made his sister the subject of negative publicity, and argued with him on many issues. Here, Stockley writes an angry and confrontational letter to the former President concerning a road that Jackson had had moved, and a murder in which Jackson's slave George and Donelson's slave Jake were involved. Donelson's letter reads, in part: "Your note[s] of March 3rd and 5th have been duly received, your powers of epistolary writing seem to be quite extensive of late, whether it is the result of a disturbed conscience or otherwise I shall not stop to conjecture. . . . The letter . . . was indecorous and insulting, and a wonton attack on my feelings. . . . I could not view it in any other light than the ebullition [of] your vindictive and unjust feelings towards me - showing in bold relief that remarkable trait in human character - Viz - that the man who inflicts an injury upon his fellow man, is always the most inveterate and most anxious to heap still further injustices upon the object of his hatred. For the truth of this view I could not ask better evidence than that contained in your reply to mine."
Donelson proceeds to rail against Jackson for having moved a well-used road through the neighborhood, and insists that Jackson is behind "the unjust attempt to fix the murder upon an innocent man who was merely attempting peaceably to save the life of his fellow servant from the attack of cold blooded Murderers from justice." The outcome of the disputes between Donelson and Jackson are unknown, but Jackson was careful to keep records of their correspondence, this letter having been docketed on the integral address leaf by Jackson: "Stockly [sic] Donelson, abusive letter to be kept on file. A.J." Letter is moderately age toned and bears a small seal tear on the final page. It is in generally fine condition, and offers an intriguing look at the former President's personal life and relations with his neighbors.
Andrew Jackson Letter Signed. One page with integral address leaf, 8" x 12.5", Fort Jackson, Alabama, August 9, 1814. During the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom/Canada, the Creek War erupted in Alabama after huge raiding parties attacked white settlements and killed over 400 settlers at Fort Mims. Although having nothing to do with the British or Canadians, the battle is considered part of the War of 1812 because the British supported the Creek.
In March 1814, Jackson led a force of Tennessee militia, Choctaw and Cherokee warriors, and U.S. regulars - numbering approximately 2000 in total - south to attack the Creek tribes. On March 26, Jackson and General John Coffee decisively defeated the Creeks at Horseshoe Bend, killing 800 of 1,000 Creeks at a cost of 49 killed and 154 wounded. Jackson pursued the remaining Creeks until they gave up. While surrender negotiations were underway, Jackson initiated the construction of a fort at the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers. Jackson then briefly traveled to Washington and in his absence the fort was named "Jackson" in his honor. Upon his return, he imposed the Treaty of Fort Jackson upon both the Northern Creek enemies and the Southern Creek allies, wresting 20 million acres from them for white settlement. It was at this point in time that this letter to "His Excellency Willie Blount, Governor of Tennessee" was composed.
"I detained the Express to give you the result of the pending negotiations with the Creeks. They have this moment consummated the Convention by their Signatures. The enclosed is a true copy [copy not extant]. I found considerable difficulty in making the arrangements with them in consequence of a letter written by General Pinkney to General Hawkins - which he requested be made known to the Chief as the terms of peace, and which contained several promises of indemnity for losses sustained by them in the present war, unauthorized by any power or instructions possessed by me, and consequently I could not, and have not embraced in any member of the Treaty. However, at this particular solicitation, I have forwarded to the President of the United States General Pinkney's letter, and Colo. Hawkins reply for his consideration and that of the Congress. The whole of Alabama and the valuable Coosa and Kahawba [sic] in all containing about twenty two millions of acres are contained in this cession. I am very respectfully Yr. mo obdt Servt. Andrew Jackson."
Presumably, Jackson addressed this letter to Governor Blount out of respect for Blount having sent an army of West Tennessee militia to assist in fighting the Creek. Although throughout the early months of his campaign Jackson was troubled by serious discipline problems with his militia and volunteers, he was able by sheer force of character and military genius to turn them into a well-trained and winning fighting force.
Letter is moderately age toned with a few small areas of paper loss along edges and at fold intersections. Muted water stains show at lower portion of the letter, slightly affecting Jackson's signature. Overall very good condition. This is an exceptional letter with outstanding content and is sure to garner great interest from bidders in several collecting genres. Another letter by Jackson on the topic of the treaty of Fort Jackson, written on this same day to Major John Reed sold for $20,000 at auction in 1999.
In March 1814, Jackson led a force of Tennessee militia, Choctaw and Cherokee warriors, and U.S. regulars - numbering approximately 2000 in total - south to attack the Creek tribes. On March 26, Jackson and General John Coffee decisively defeated the Creeks at Horseshoe Bend, killing 800 of 1,000 Creeks at a cost of 49 killed and 154 wounded. Jackson pursued the remaining Creeks until they gave up. While surrender negotiations were underway, Jackson initiated the construction of a fort at the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers. Jackson then briefly traveled to Washington and in his absence the fort was named "Jackson" in his honor. Upon his return, he imposed the Treaty of Fort Jackson upon both the Northern Creek enemies and the Southern Creek allies, wresting 20 million acres from them for white settlement. It was at this point in time that this letter to "His Excellency Willie Blount, Governor of Tennessee" was composed.
"I detained the Express to give you the result of the pending negotiations with the Creeks. They have this moment consummated the Convention by their Signatures. The enclosed is a true copy [copy not extant]. I found considerable difficulty in making the arrangements with them in consequence of a letter written by General Pinkney to General Hawkins - which he requested be made known to the Chief as the terms of peace, and which contained several promises of indemnity for losses sustained by them in the present war, unauthorized by any power or instructions possessed by me, and consequently I could not, and have not embraced in any member of the Treaty. However, at this particular solicitation, I have forwarded to the President of the United States General Pinkney's letter, and Colo. Hawkins reply for his consideration and that of the Congress. The whole of Alabama and the valuable Coosa and Kahawba [sic] in all containing about twenty two millions of acres are contained in this cession. I am very respectfully Yr. mo obdt Servt. Andrew Jackson."
Presumably, Jackson addressed this letter to Governor Blount out of respect for Blount having sent an army of West Tennessee militia to assist in fighting the Creek. Although throughout the early months of his campaign Jackson was troubled by serious discipline problems with his militia and volunteers, he was able by sheer force of character and military genius to turn them into a well-trained and winning fighting force.
Letter is moderately age toned with a few small areas of paper loss along edges and at fold intersections. Muted water stains show at lower portion of the letter, slightly affecting Jackson's signature. Overall very good condition. This is an exceptional letter with outstanding content and is sure to garner great interest from bidders in several collecting genres. Another letter by Jackson on the topic of the treaty of Fort Jackson, written on this same day to Major John Reed sold for $20,000 at auction in 1999.
William Henry Harrison Autograph Letter Signed "W. H. Harrison" as congressman. Two pages (front and back) plus a quarter page postscript on integral leaf, 7.75" x 13", January 5, 1819, Columbus, Ohio, addressed to Jacob Burnet of Cincinnati, Ohio, on verso of integral leaf. Harrison writes, in part: "Your letter upon the subject of changing the law in relation to the sales of personal property under Execution was received some days since. I received also a few days ago a letter from Mr Baum on the same subject I agree with you both on the propriety of extending the protection of the laws of that Species of property. The subject had been previously brought before the Senate & a Bill has been reported. It is said however to be extremely defective in the Detail by those who understand the subject better than I so for the purpose of answering it has been recommitted... I will enclose you this Eve'g one of three long speeches which I delivered on the occasion & I now enclosed the first one delivered which I proposed to the Report of the Committee. You will see from this that I wished to go further than the Committee as to the proposed Amendment to the Constitution. I was however induced to withdraw the Amendment as to the part of the subject upon (preventing Congress from establishing any National Bank) upon the suggestion that going that length might prevent any amendment from being effected. The Debate turned entirely upon the Report of the Select Committee on Preambles to the resolution (which the Resolutions) were unanimously agreed to. I am thus particular lest an opinion should get abroad that I was against the proposed Amendment to the Constitution... The printer of the Monitor has been requested by many of the Gentlemen who voted with me to make an impression of my speech on a Separate Steed for the convenient distribution of it. It is not by any means such as I could wish it or such as I could have made it but for the effects of a severe Indisposition of which I have never gotten the better." After signing this letter, Harrison adds two lines on this page and ten lines on the next page, the verso of the integral address leaf: "I will enclose all the printer hopes...Turn over." Continuing, "I was mistaken in supposing that the law for securing personal property had been recommitted. It was only recommitted this Ev'g. I am one of the committee but I am at a loss about the Detail...send me...on the mode of disposing of the property if it should not sell & prosecuting the defendant from disposing of it." Small holes in a blank fold area; chipped and toned lower portion repaired with archival tape over parts of three lines of the text. Small tear between the "H." and "H" of signature repaired on verso with archival tape. Hole from seal tear in blank portion. Reinforced at conjoined edges. Some roughness and show-through but writing is dark and bold. Very good condition.
Jacob Burnet (1770-1853) was a director and president of the Cincinnati branch of the Second Bank of the United States. Many people had bought land on credit from the federal government under the Land Act of 1800. Burnet called on the federal government to help people purchase land more easily. He had written Harrison about federal protection of certain property. The Land Act of 1820 addressed those concerns. Burnet served as Judge of the Ohio Supreme Court from 1821 until 1828 when he resigned, having been elected to succeed William H. Harrison as U.S. Senator. In 1839, Jacob Burnet nominated Harrison for president at the Whig National Convention. Burnet's younger brother was David G. Burnet, first president (ad interim) of the Republic of Texas.
Jacob Burnet (1770-1853) was a director and president of the Cincinnati branch of the Second Bank of the United States. Many people had bought land on credit from the federal government under the Land Act of 1800. Burnet called on the federal government to help people purchase land more easily. He had written Harrison about federal protection of certain property. The Land Act of 1820 addressed those concerns. Burnet served as Judge of the Ohio Supreme Court from 1821 until 1828 when he resigned, having been elected to succeed William H. Harrison as U.S. Senator. In 1839, Jacob Burnet nominated Harrison for president at the Whig National Convention. Burnet's younger brother was David G. Burnet, first president (ad interim) of the Republic of Texas.
William Henry Harrison Autograph Document Signed. One page, 7" x 2.5", Cincinnati, December 2, 1834. Being a draft against his own and his son's bank account, issued to Samuel Fordick. In full: "Cashier of the Bank of the US at Cincinnati. Pay to Saml Fordick or bearer Forty Six Dollars 67 cents. $46.67. W.H. & J.S. Harrison, Cincinnati 2nd Dec. 1834."
William Henry Harrison had a long and successful career of military and public service, acting variously as a brigadier general in the U.S. Army, a state senator, a foreign minister, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and later of the Senate, a territorial diplomat, a territorial governor, and finally as the 9th president of the United States. At the time this check was drafted, Harrison was a private citizen enjoying a respite from nearly forty years of continuous government service. In 1829, he retired to his farm in North Bend, Ohio; he lived off of his savings, a small pension, and the income produced by his farm, where he grew many acres of corn and operated a whiskey distillery. Harrison was assisted in this endeavor by his son John Scott Harrison, also a farmer, as evidenced by his son's initials as signatory on the check. John Scott Harrison is the only man to be both the son and the father of U.S. presidents.
Little is known of Samuel Fordick, to whom Harrison drafted this check. His name appears in records from 1853-54, when he was a member of the Cincinnati Committee of the Association for the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations. The Association was created in response to the success of the first major international exhibition of arts and industries, which was held in London in 1851 and featured the magnificent Crystal Palace. That exhibition marked the beginning of a tradition of world's fairs, which would be held in major cities around the globe. In fact, the next international fair was held only two years later in 1853 in New York City, due in part to the efforts of Samuel Fordick and his fellow Association members.
Document is lightly age toned and bears a small stain which affects the last three letters of "Harrison." Matted and framed together with a handsome steel engraving of Harrison, to an overall size of 13.5" x 17.5". Fine condition and suitable for any presidential collection!
William Henry Harrison had a long and successful career of military and public service, acting variously as a brigadier general in the U.S. Army, a state senator, a foreign minister, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and later of the Senate, a territorial diplomat, a territorial governor, and finally as the 9th president of the United States. At the time this check was drafted, Harrison was a private citizen enjoying a respite from nearly forty years of continuous government service. In 1829, he retired to his farm in North Bend, Ohio; he lived off of his savings, a small pension, and the income produced by his farm, where he grew many acres of corn and operated a whiskey distillery. Harrison was assisted in this endeavor by his son John Scott Harrison, also a farmer, as evidenced by his son's initials as signatory on the check. John Scott Harrison is the only man to be both the son and the father of U.S. presidents.
Little is known of Samuel Fordick, to whom Harrison drafted this check. His name appears in records from 1853-54, when he was a member of the Cincinnati Committee of the Association for the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations. The Association was created in response to the success of the first major international exhibition of arts and industries, which was held in London in 1851 and featured the magnificent Crystal Palace. That exhibition marked the beginning of a tradition of world's fairs, which would be held in major cities around the globe. In fact, the next international fair was held only two years later in 1853 in New York City, due in part to the efforts of Samuel Fordick and his fellow Association members.
Document is lightly age toned and bears a small stain which affects the last three letters of "Harrison." Matted and framed together with a handsome steel engraving of Harrison, to an overall size of 13.5" x 17.5". Fine condition and suitable for any presidential collection!
John Tyler Partly Printed Document Signed as governor of Virginia. One page, 7.5" x 6" (sight), Richmond, Virginia, March 24, 1826. Governor John Tyler commissions William Deupree to serve another year as sheriff of Charlotte County, Virginia. William Deupree (numerous spelling variations) was a lifetime resident of Charlotte County who served as a private in the Virginia Militia during the Revolutionary War. After the war, county records show he was aggressive in acquiring land and purchased many slaves. In the early 1820s he opened a mercantile around which a tiny community grew; Duprees Store Road still exists in Charlotte County, today.
Document reads in full: "The Commonwealth of Virginia, To Whom These Present Letters Shall Come, Greeting: Know Ye That William Deupree the present Sheriff of Charlotte County, having signified his consent to continue office another year, our Governor, with the advice of the Council of State, doth hereby commission him, the said William Deupree to continue in the said office of Sheriff, for one year next after the expiration of his first commission, pursuant to law.
In testimony whereof, these our Letters, are sealed with the Seal of the Commonwealth, and made patent. Witness, John Tyler Esquire, our said Governor, at Richmond, on the 24th day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-six, and of the Commonwealth the fiftieth." Boldly signed "John Tyler" with rubric.
Following his governorship, Tyler was elected vice president under William Henry Harrison. Upon Harrison's death one month later, Tyler became the 10th president of the United States. Document is matted and framed with a bust steel engraving of Tyler to an overall size of 12.75" x 16.5". This handsome document, bearing several different fonts and type sizes, is an excellent addition to any presidential collection.
Document reads in full: "The Commonwealth of Virginia, To Whom These Present Letters Shall Come, Greeting: Know Ye That William Deupree the present Sheriff of Charlotte County, having signified his consent to continue office another year, our Governor, with the advice of the Council of State, doth hereby commission him, the said William Deupree to continue in the said office of Sheriff, for one year next after the expiration of his first commission, pursuant to law.
In testimony whereof, these our Letters, are sealed with the Seal of the Commonwealth, and made patent. Witness, John Tyler Esquire, our said Governor, at Richmond, on the 24th day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-six, and of the Commonwealth the fiftieth." Boldly signed "John Tyler" with rubric.
Following his governorship, Tyler was elected vice president under William Henry Harrison. Upon Harrison's death one month later, Tyler became the 10th president of the United States. Document is matted and framed with a bust steel engraving of Tyler to an overall size of 12.75" x 16.5". This handsome document, bearing several different fonts and type sizes, is an excellent addition to any presidential collection.
James K. Polk Document Signed. Two pages, front and verso, 8" x 13", March 11, 1824, [Columbia] Maury County, Tennessee. The holographic legal document calls for the sheriff of Maury County to take two men into custody so that they will appear before the Court of Pleas and Quarter Session. The edges are ragged; slight weakness at the folds and even toning, else very good. The document is very attractively framed (18.75" x 17.75" overall) with a fine engraving of Polk.
Zachary Taylor Document Signed boldly "Z. Taylor, Col./ Commd." One page, 8" x 3.5", October 22, 1833, Fort Crawford [Wisconsin]. This is a receipt for "one Cord, one Foot, and four Inches of Wood" received by "Lt. T. B. W. Stockton" who had just recently been promoted to assistant quartermaster. At the time of this letter, Taylor was between fighting two Indian wars: the Black Hawk War (1832) and the Second Seminole War (1835-1842). He was promoted to brigadier general in 1838 and elected the twelfth president in 1849. Toned and fine.
Zachary Taylor Document Signed "Z. Taylor Col/ 1st Kyt. U.S. Infy./ Comdr." One page, 8" x 10", December 15, 1835, Fort Crawford [Wisconsin], to "Genl. R. Jones", concerning a transfer request and leave requests. Fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of Taylor to an overall size of 24.5" x 17.5".
Millard Fillmore Signed $1000 Bond for the Hudson Berkshire Rail-Road Co. One page, 13.5" x 10.75" (sight, with an additional 15 dividend coupons folded back), New York, September 15, 1848; Fillmore signs as comptroller. With a total of 30 dividend coupons attached, and cancellation marks affecting Fillmore's signature. Bond is matted alongside a color portrait of Fillmore to an overall size of 21.75" x 13.75". Very good to near fine.
James Buchanan Letter Signed as secretary of state. One page, 7.75" x 10", "Washington City, August 20, 1845." The fifteenth president of the United States and the last to be born in the 18th century, James Buchanan is the only president from Pennsylvania, and the only president never to marry. Despite a long and honorable career of public service, Buchanan's inability to avert the Civil War has been assessed by historians as the worst single failure by any president of the United States.
The letter offered here was signed during his tenure as U.S. secretary of state, a position he held immediately prior to becoming president. It is addressed to John H. Read of Philadelphia and reads in part: "Dear Sir: Your favor of 16th instant, covering a letter to Secretary Marcy, recommending Lieut. French for a post in the Quarter Master's Department, was duly received. I have this morning transmitted your letter to the Secretary of War, accompanied by a note of my own . . . to his favor." Large, bold signature. The letter is lightly age toned and somewhat brittle, with several small chips along the edges and one large chip (extant) at lower left corner. Near fine condition.
The letter offered here was signed during his tenure as U.S. secretary of state, a position he held immediately prior to becoming president. It is addressed to John H. Read of Philadelphia and reads in part: "Dear Sir: Your favor of 16th instant, covering a letter to Secretary Marcy, recommending Lieut. French for a post in the Quarter Master's Department, was duly received. I have this morning transmitted your letter to the Secretary of War, accompanied by a note of my own . . . to his favor." Large, bold signature. The letter is lightly age toned and somewhat brittle, with several small chips along the edges and one large chip (extant) at lower left corner. Near fine condition.
James Buchanan Document Signed as the fifteenth president and countersigned by Secretary of War Joseph Holt. One page partially printed, 16" x 10", Washington, D.C., February 27, 1861. This document is an official notice of the appointment of James Gray Jewell "Major of the Fourth Regiment of Infantry of the Volunteers of the District of Columbia". Holt was a major figure in Buchanan's administration. He later served as Judge Advocate General during the Lincoln assassination trials. This document was signed five days before Buchanan left office and Abraham Lincoln entered. U. S. War Office seal is embossed in lower left. Has been taped at the top to a mat. Age toned with folds; fine.
[James Buchanan] Contemporary Copy of an Interview with Former President Buchanan. Two pages, two-sided, 7.75" x 12.5", Harrisburg PA, October 1, 1862. Following an interview about the War Between the States with the former president at his home, reporter J. Ridenour Jr. wrote to Buchanan to ensure that he had quoted the president correctly, and asking for Buchanan's endorsement of Ridenour's reporting. This is a contemporary copy of Ridenour's letter to Buchanan.
It reads in part: "After I left Wheatland yesterday. . . . I was congratulating myself on the prospects of being instrumental so far as possible, in satisfying the American people of the loyalty of their once, much respected President. . . . I will state what I understood you to say to me yesterday, to wit. . . . That this war was brought on by the Southern Rebels. That [the] Pres.t had done all in his power to keep out of the War and now that the war was forced upon him, it was his bounden duty to prosecute the war to a speedy and honorable peace. That there was no such thing as a compromise with the Rebels and that if you were in the President's Chair, you would have your right arm severed from your body before you would sign a compromise or acknowledge one inch of their infernal Southern Confederacy." Accompanied by an envelope addressed to A. G. Curtin, governor of Pennsylvania during the Civil War. Letter is beautifully penned and is in exceptional condition; crisp, white, and pristine.
It reads in part: "After I left Wheatland yesterday. . . . I was congratulating myself on the prospects of being instrumental so far as possible, in satisfying the American people of the loyalty of their once, much respected President. . . . I will state what I understood you to say to me yesterday, to wit. . . . That this war was brought on by the Southern Rebels. That [the] Pres.t had done all in his power to keep out of the War and now that the war was forced upon him, it was his bounden duty to prosecute the war to a speedy and honorable peace. That there was no such thing as a compromise with the Rebels and that if you were in the President's Chair, you would have your right arm severed from your body before you would sign a compromise or acknowledge one inch of their infernal Southern Confederacy." Accompanied by an envelope addressed to A. G. Curtin, governor of Pennsylvania during the Civil War. Letter is beautifully penned and is in exceptional condition; crisp, white, and pristine.
Abraham Lincoln Autograph Letter Signed. One page, one-sided, written on Delarue & Co./London blue-lined paper, 8" x 10", Springfield IL, December 15, 1849. At the time of this letter's writing, Lincoln had recently finished a somewhat lackluster single term as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and had returned to Springfield, determined to give up politics and focus his energies on his law practice.
His wish to leave politics behind was interrupted, however, by an April 25, 1849, letter from George W. Rives, a farmer from Paris, Illinois, who requested Lincoln's help in obtaining an appointment as an Indian Agent in Minnesota. Lincoln responded that Rives was surely overestimating Lincoln's influence, adding: "Not one man recommended by me has yet been appointed to anything, little or big, except a few who had no opposition
." At the time, Lincoln had been working to secure a different appointment in Minnesota for his close friend and personal doctor, Anson G. Henry, and was not amenable to making another such request in that state, and so declined Mr. Rives' request.
This did not deter Mr. Rives, however, as he wrote to Lincoln again on November 7, 1849, asking for a letter of recommendation. Unfortunately for Mr. Rives, comments he'd made against the former Congressman during the preceding summer got back to Lincoln, giving him even more reason to deny Rives' request. Lincoln's response to this letter was a bit coy, making sure Rives knew that Lincoln was displeased to be asked a favor by someone who'd said negative things about him. That letter reads, in part: "Last summer, under circumstances which I mentioned to you, I was painfully constrained to withhold a recommendation which you desired; and shortly afterwards I learned, in such a way as to believe it, that you were indulging in open abuse of me. Of course my feelings were wounded." Lincoln went on, however, to enclose the letter of recommendation Rives so desired.
Immediately thereafter, Lincoln wrote the letter offered here, addressed to Secretary of the Interior Thomas Ewing, a Whig politician from Ohio. It reads, in full: "Dear Sir, I understand Mr. G.W. Rives of Edgar County Ills. is an applicant for an Indian Agency; and I wish to say that, while I think that his appointment will be generally acceptable to the Whigs, it will be certainly gratifying to me. Your Obvt. Svt., A. Lincoln."
Lincoln surely was gratified by his magnanimity to Mr. Rives, particularly when Rives became an active supporter of Lincoln's bid for U.S. senate in 1858. Although Lincoln did not win that senate seat, he did receive a letter from Mr. Rives shortly thereafter, offering Lincoln "a word of consolation & comfort," and assuring him that "we stand ready to aid you in 1860. We are for You first & last. . . . No man never had Such friends in Edgar as you have! Can we do you any good? Command us & we will obey. We await your Command." Lincoln took Rives at his word, and following his election to the presidency in 1860, appointed Rives Assessor of Taxes for the Seventh Collection District of Illinois.
Lincoln's letter to Secretary Ewing was only recently discovered among a bundle of letters in an attic in Newport, Rhode Island. Stored with it was a letter from one George Barrett to his friend P.W Lippet, dated 1866, in which Barrett forwards the letter offered here as a memento following Lincoln's assassination. Barrett's letter is also included in this lot, accompanied by its original transmittal envelope. Barrett's letter is in fine condition; the envelope is very good.
The Lincoln letter itself is pristine, and serves as a wonderful example of the wisdom and generosity of our 16th president. Highly desirable and in very fine condition.
His wish to leave politics behind was interrupted, however, by an April 25, 1849, letter from George W. Rives, a farmer from Paris, Illinois, who requested Lincoln's help in obtaining an appointment as an Indian Agent in Minnesota. Lincoln responded that Rives was surely overestimating Lincoln's influence, adding: "Not one man recommended by me has yet been appointed to anything, little or big, except a few who had no opposition
." At the time, Lincoln had been working to secure a different appointment in Minnesota for his close friend and personal doctor, Anson G. Henry, and was not amenable to making another such request in that state, and so declined Mr. Rives' request.
This did not deter Mr. Rives, however, as he wrote to Lincoln again on November 7, 1849, asking for a letter of recommendation. Unfortunately for Mr. Rives, comments he'd made against the former Congressman during the preceding summer got back to Lincoln, giving him even more reason to deny Rives' request. Lincoln's response to this letter was a bit coy, making sure Rives knew that Lincoln was displeased to be asked a favor by someone who'd said negative things about him. That letter reads, in part: "Last summer, under circumstances which I mentioned to you, I was painfully constrained to withhold a recommendation which you desired; and shortly afterwards I learned, in such a way as to believe it, that you were indulging in open abuse of me. Of course my feelings were wounded." Lincoln went on, however, to enclose the letter of recommendation Rives so desired.
Immediately thereafter, Lincoln wrote the letter offered here, addressed to Secretary of the Interior Thomas Ewing, a Whig politician from Ohio. It reads, in full: "Dear Sir, I understand Mr. G.W. Rives of Edgar County Ills. is an applicant for an Indian Agency; and I wish to say that, while I think that his appointment will be generally acceptable to the Whigs, it will be certainly gratifying to me. Your Obvt. Svt., A. Lincoln."
Lincoln surely was gratified by his magnanimity to Mr. Rives, particularly when Rives became an active supporter of Lincoln's bid for U.S. senate in 1858. Although Lincoln did not win that senate seat, he did receive a letter from Mr. Rives shortly thereafter, offering Lincoln "a word of consolation & comfort," and assuring him that "we stand ready to aid you in 1860. We are for You first & last. . . . No man never had Such friends in Edgar as you have! Can we do you any good? Command us & we will obey. We await your Command." Lincoln took Rives at his word, and following his election to the presidency in 1860, appointed Rives Assessor of Taxes for the Seventh Collection District of Illinois.
Lincoln's letter to Secretary Ewing was only recently discovered among a bundle of letters in an attic in Newport, Rhode Island. Stored with it was a letter from one George Barrett to his friend P.W Lippet, dated 1866, in which Barrett forwards the letter offered here as a memento following Lincoln's assassination. Barrett's letter is also included in this lot, accompanied by its original transmittal envelope. Barrett's letter is in fine condition; the envelope is very good.
The Lincoln letter itself is pristine, and serves as a wonderful example of the wisdom and generosity of our 16th president. Highly desirable and in very fine condition.
Abraham Lincoln Military Commission Signed as president. One page, partly-printed vellum, mounted to board, 14.5" x 19.5", September 19, 1861, Washington, D.C. Countersigned by Simon Cameron as Secretary of War. This martially vignetted document appoints "Charles S. Lovell" as "Major in the tenth Regiment of Infantry." Its blue affixed seal is intact with one horizontal fold line; another flattened horizontal fold goes through the top of Lincoln's clear and full signature but detracts little. A bit of light surface soiling, top left corner crinkled, else fine.
Charles Swain Lovell (1811-1871) was a career army officer. He enlisted as a private in the 2nd United States artillery in January 1831. He served in various garrisons, and rose through the ranks achieving 2nd lieutenant in October 1837, 1st lieutenant in July 1838, and captain in June 1846. As such, Lovell took part in the battles of Churubusco, Molino del Rey, Chapultepec, and the city of Mexico. He then served in the territories until the Civil War. After the promotion to major made official by the above document, Lovell commanded a brigade at Gaines's Mills, Malvern Hill, Second Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. From 1863-1865 he was on provost-marshal duty in Wisconsin. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the 18th infantry in January 1863, and colonel of the 14th infantry in February 1865. His Civil War brevet promotions include: lieutenant colonel for gallantry at Gaines's Mills; colonel for Malvern Hill; and brigadier-general, United States Army, for Antietam. After the war, he commanded his regiment at Fort Yuma, California, and on December 15, 1870, Lovell was retired from active service; he lived out his life in Louisville, Kentucky. This lot also includes two items related to Lovell's father-in-law, Robert Armstrong:
Robert Armstrong (1792-1854) Autograph Letter Signed "R A", likely to his daughter Margaret. Two+ pages on foldover lettersheet, 6.5" x 8", July 3 [no year], Washington [D.C.], a personal letter that mentions Captain Lovell. Also, a later manuscript family document (with newspaper clipping) that copies the Appleton biography of Armstrong and gives information regarding his well-known friendship with Andrew Jackson, a friendship so close that Jackson willed his "case of pistols and sword worn by me throughout my military career" to Armstrong. Armstrong was a U.S. Army officer, serving in the War of 1812, including on Jackson's staff at the Battle of New Orleans. He served as consul to Liverpool from 1845-1849, and later owned the Washington Union newspaper. Both of these additional pieces are in very good condition with fold weakness. A nice family grouping.
Also, Document Signed "James [?]". One page, 8" x 10.5", October 26, 1891, Cave Hill, Kentucky, National Military Cemetery, stating that the "vacant space between Genl. Lovells monument, and Headstone marked 1205 is reserved for Mrs. Genl. Lovell. By order of Col. H. C. Hodges." Fine. With hand-drawn map of Lovell's cemetery plot.
Charles Swain Lovell (1811-1871) was a career army officer. He enlisted as a private in the 2nd United States artillery in January 1831. He served in various garrisons, and rose through the ranks achieving 2nd lieutenant in October 1837, 1st lieutenant in July 1838, and captain in June 1846. As such, Lovell took part in the battles of Churubusco, Molino del Rey, Chapultepec, and the city of Mexico. He then served in the territories until the Civil War. After the promotion to major made official by the above document, Lovell commanded a brigade at Gaines's Mills, Malvern Hill, Second Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. From 1863-1865 he was on provost-marshal duty in Wisconsin. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the 18th infantry in January 1863, and colonel of the 14th infantry in February 1865. His Civil War brevet promotions include: lieutenant colonel for gallantry at Gaines's Mills; colonel for Malvern Hill; and brigadier-general, United States Army, for Antietam. After the war, he commanded his regiment at Fort Yuma, California, and on December 15, 1870, Lovell was retired from active service; he lived out his life in Louisville, Kentucky. This lot also includes two items related to Lovell's father-in-law, Robert Armstrong:
Robert Armstrong (1792-1854) Autograph Letter Signed "R A", likely to his daughter Margaret. Two+ pages on foldover lettersheet, 6.5" x 8", July 3 [no year], Washington [D.C.], a personal letter that mentions Captain Lovell. Also, a later manuscript family document (with newspaper clipping) that copies the Appleton biography of Armstrong and gives information regarding his well-known friendship with Andrew Jackson, a friendship so close that Jackson willed his "case of pistols and sword worn by me throughout my military career" to Armstrong. Armstrong was a U.S. Army officer, serving in the War of 1812, including on Jackson's staff at the Battle of New Orleans. He served as consul to Liverpool from 1845-1849, and later owned the Washington Union newspaper. Both of these additional pieces are in very good condition with fold weakness. A nice family grouping.
Also, Document Signed "James [?]". One page, 8" x 10.5", October 26, 1891, Cave Hill, Kentucky, National Military Cemetery, stating that the "vacant space between Genl. Lovells monument, and Headstone marked 1205 is reserved for Mrs. Genl. Lovell. By order of Col. H. C. Hodges." Fine. With hand-drawn map of Lovell's cemetery plot.
Abraham Lincoln Autograph Endorsement Signed as President. One page, 3.25" x 8", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], December 8, 1864. Upon the expulsion of Trusten Polk from the United States Senate in 1862, John Brooks Henderson was appointed to fill the vacancy for the state of Missouri. In 1863, he was elected for a full term, serving as chairman on the Committee on Indian Affairs. Henderson was one of the seven Republican senators whose votes defeated the impeachment of Andrew Johnson.
In December 1864, Senator John Brooks Henderson penned a brief note to President Lincoln making a recommendation for the promotion of Capt. Frank Eno, Assistant Adjutant-General for the Department of the Missouri. Henderson's note is headed "Senate Chamber" and reads in full: "Resp'y referred to the President with the hope that Capt. Eno may be promoted. He is a good and reliable man. I would esteem his promotion a personal favor to myself. J.B. Henderson."
Upon receipt, the President penned his endorsement beneath Henderson's request: "If this is consistent, I shall be glad for it to be done. A. Lincoln. Dec. 8, 1864."
With the President's approval, Henderson then contacted Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, recommending that Capt. Eno be promoted to Major or Lieutenant Colonel. With Stanton's tacit approval, Henderson then sent a more formal request to the President on December 24th. That letter was also signed by President Lincoln on December 28, 1864, and countersigned by Lincoln's personal assistants John Hay and John George Nicolay as witnesses. The matter was then turned over to Secretary of War Stanton, who approved Eno's promotion to Major. Letter is faintly age toned and in very fine condition.
In December 1864, Senator John Brooks Henderson penned a brief note to President Lincoln making a recommendation for the promotion of Capt. Frank Eno, Assistant Adjutant-General for the Department of the Missouri. Henderson's note is headed "Senate Chamber" and reads in full: "Resp'y referred to the President with the hope that Capt. Eno may be promoted. He is a good and reliable man. I would esteem his promotion a personal favor to myself. J.B. Henderson."
Upon receipt, the President penned his endorsement beneath Henderson's request: "If this is consistent, I shall be glad for it to be done. A. Lincoln. Dec. 8, 1864."
With the President's approval, Henderson then contacted Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, recommending that Capt. Eno be promoted to Major or Lieutenant Colonel. With Stanton's tacit approval, Henderson then sent a more formal request to the President on December 24th. That letter was also signed by President Lincoln on December 28, 1864, and countersigned by Lincoln's personal assistants John Hay and John George Nicolay as witnesses. The matter was then turned over to Secretary of War Stanton, who approved Eno's promotion to Major. Letter is faintly age toned and in very fine condition.
Abraham Lincoln Partial Document Signed "Abraham Lincoln" and countersigned by Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. One partially printed vellum page, 13" x 6.75" (sight), February 26, 1863. This is a Civil War military appointment, though the appointee is unknown since the top assignment portion has been removed. Following the resignation of Simon Cameron, Lincoln's first secretary of war, Lincoln appointed Stanton on January 15, 1862. When Lincoln died from a shot fired by John Wilkes Booth, Stanton lamented at Lincoln's bedside, "Now he belongs to the ages." With few exceptions, Lincoln typically only signed his full signature on documents. Below Lincoln and Stanton's signature are impressive martial vignettes which nicely frame the important signatures. Some stains and foxing throughout. Also, contains several small holes (the largest, a .5" x .5" hole along the right border). Both signatures have faded, but are easily recognizable. Overall, a display piece in very good condition. Attractively framed and matted below an engraved image of the sixteenth president to an overall size of 21.5" x 24".
Abraham Lincoln Clipped Signature "A. Lincoln" as president, on small slip, 3.25" x 1.5", February 4, 1864, n.p., affixed at top to another slip of paper (same size). On verso of signature slip is writing, probably of the manuscript that Lincoln is signing.
[Abraham Lincoln] Joseph Cosey Forged Civil War Dated Pass. One page, 7" x 2.5", Executive Mansion, September 26, 1863. Here, Joseph Cosey has ambitiously forged a note signed "A. Lincoln" addressed to the "Hon. Sec. of War" to "allow this person to pass over and see Gen. Meade". Notorious for his forgeries, Cosey specialized in Lincoln documents like this one, though he never quite perfected the signature. As obvious here, Cosey's forgeries of Abraham Lincoln's signatures are on the same plane, but Lincoln's own signatures are not as tidy, often on as many as three different planes.
Joseph Cosey (1887-1950) was involved in petty crime until he began forging historical documents and signatures by such figures as Lincoln, George Washington, James Monroe, and Mark Twain. Though outstanding at his craft, the he made mistakes and was arrested in 1937 after attempting to sell a Lincoln forgery. After his release three years later, he continued producing forgeries until his death. When detected, his forgeries have become collectors' items themselves. (Charles Hamilton, Great Forgers and Famous Fakes; Glenbridge Publishing LTD.: 1996). This document has some surface roughness and the writing is a bit faded, all common tricks of the forger's trade. Elaborately matted and framed to an overall 24" x 33.5" with a handsome period engraving of Lincoln by Sartain. Very fine condition.
Joseph Cosey (1887-1950) was involved in petty crime until he began forging historical documents and signatures by such figures as Lincoln, George Washington, James Monroe, and Mark Twain. Though outstanding at his craft, the he made mistakes and was arrested in 1937 after attempting to sell a Lincoln forgery. After his release three years later, he continued producing forgeries until his death. When detected, his forgeries have become collectors' items themselves. (Charles Hamilton, Great Forgers and Famous Fakes; Glenbridge Publishing LTD.: 1996). This document has some surface roughness and the writing is a bit faded, all common tricks of the forger's trade. Elaborately matted and framed to an overall 24" x 33.5" with a handsome period engraving of Lincoln by Sartain. Very fine condition.
[Abraham Lincoln] Anti-Lincoln Convention Autograph Letter. Two pages, two-sided, 8.25" x 10.5", Philadelphia, July 1, 1864. A somewhat lengthy letter inviting Lewis C. Cassidy to join others at a convention dedicated to removing President Lincoln from office. Cassidy was active in Philadelphia politics, serving as a member of the state legislature, secretary of the Judiciary Committee, Solicitor of the District of Moyamensing, District Attorney, and finally attorney general of Pennsylvania.
In 1864, anti-Lincoln sentiments had reached a fever pitch among a certain segment of the population, and these people began organizing in hopes of defeating Lincoln in his campaign for reelection. A group of nine gentlemen got together in Philadelphia that July, and made their plans for a great convention in New York City. This letter discusses those plans.
It reads, in part: "Dear Sir, An informal meeting of citizens representing the feelings and wishes of the Democracy of various sections of the state of Pennsylvania was held in the city on the 22nd ult. The subject under consideration was the tendency of public affairs resulting from the maladministration of the Federal Government by Mr. Lincoln and his advisers, and the mode best to be adopted to prevent a continuation of executive power in unworthy hands." The letter goes on to state that a more formal meeting will be held in New York City on August 10, 1864, and encourages Mr. Cassidy to attend. Signatories include: James C. Van Dyke, J.S. Black, C. Furguson, William D. Reed, Richard Vauk, John C. Bullitt, Robert Krane, Samuel A. Gilmore, and William A. Wallace. Letter is pristine, and very attractively penned. Interesting, historical content! Very fine.
In 1864, anti-Lincoln sentiments had reached a fever pitch among a certain segment of the population, and these people began organizing in hopes of defeating Lincoln in his campaign for reelection. A group of nine gentlemen got together in Philadelphia that July, and made their plans for a great convention in New York City. This letter discusses those plans.
It reads, in part: "Dear Sir, An informal meeting of citizens representing the feelings and wishes of the Democracy of various sections of the state of Pennsylvania was held in the city on the 22nd ult. The subject under consideration was the tendency of public affairs resulting from the maladministration of the Federal Government by Mr. Lincoln and his advisers, and the mode best to be adopted to prevent a continuation of executive power in unworthy hands." The letter goes on to state that a more formal meeting will be held in New York City on August 10, 1864, and encourages Mr. Cassidy to attend. Signatories include: James C. Van Dyke, J.S. Black, C. Furguson, William D. Reed, Richard Vauk, John C. Bullitt, Robert Krane, Samuel A. Gilmore, and William A. Wallace. Letter is pristine, and very attractively penned. Interesting, historical content! Very fine.
[Abraham Lincoln] Contemporary Copy of a Letter by Pennsylvania Governor Andrew G. Curtin to President Lincoln. Three pages, 8" x 9.75", September 30, 1862, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on "Pennsylvania Executive Chamber". Governor Curtin takes advantage of President Lincoln's suggestion at the War Governors' Conference for the governors to "put their suggestions in writing." The governor suggests in part: "I have the honor to refer to some of the topics of our conversation last week, at which time you were pleased to say, that you desired the govoners [sic] of the loyal states present [sic] to put their suggestions in writing. I proposed at that time, to fill the regiments in service most reduced by the casualties of war, by retiring a given number from the more active service with the armies in the presence of the enemy. . . . . Most of our regiments that have participated in the recent battles are reduced to mere skeletons. . . . I suggest that the corps be returned to the state, and placed in the camp at this capital, and, if I am correct in my impression, the success would affect the minds of our people favorably, and other regiments in the service could be filled in their turn promptly. It is proper that, in this connection, I should say, that the suggestions reflects the opinion of all the officers of the corps. I take this opportunity of again renewing the suggestions of all the governors on the occasion referred to, that so far as consistant with the interest of the public service, sick and wounded volunteers be taken taken [sic] to the hospitals within the state within [sic] which they were enlisted./ Very respectfully,/ Your obedient-servant".
Andrew Gregg Curtin (1817-1894) was the governor of Pennsylvania throughout the Civil War. Under his leadership, Pennsylvania took a leading role in preserving the Union. Curtin had a running feud with Lincoln's first secretary of war (and fellow Pennsylvanian) Simon Cameron. Despite this, Curtin was known for his cooperation with the federal government in recruiting and conscription of U.S. soldiers. Camp Curtin, near Harrisburg, became one of the largest recruiting points in the Union. Five days before writing this letter, the governor hosted the Loyal War Governors' Conference in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Thirteen governors attended to discuss state troops, the war effort in general, and President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. At the conference, the governors recommended, among other things, the replacement of General George B. McClellan. (This Lincoln did six weeks after the conference.) This letter, written only days after the conference, discusses state troops. Soon after the Battle of Gettysburg, Governor Curtin invited President Lincoln and others to the dedication of the National Cemetery (he sat beside the president during the ceremony). On verso of third page: "Copy of letter/ sent A. Lincoln/ President U.S. October/ 1st, 1862". This contemporary copy has clean, clear writing. Toned with some separation beginning at folds (with some tape repairs); fine.
Andrew Gregg Curtin (1817-1894) was the governor of Pennsylvania throughout the Civil War. Under his leadership, Pennsylvania took a leading role in preserving the Union. Curtin had a running feud with Lincoln's first secretary of war (and fellow Pennsylvanian) Simon Cameron. Despite this, Curtin was known for his cooperation with the federal government in recruiting and conscription of U.S. soldiers. Camp Curtin, near Harrisburg, became one of the largest recruiting points in the Union. Five days before writing this letter, the governor hosted the Loyal War Governors' Conference in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Thirteen governors attended to discuss state troops, the war effort in general, and President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. At the conference, the governors recommended, among other things, the replacement of General George B. McClellan. (This Lincoln did six weeks after the conference.) This letter, written only days after the conference, discusses state troops. Soon after the Battle of Gettysburg, Governor Curtin invited President Lincoln and others to the dedication of the National Cemetery (he sat beside the president during the ceremony). On verso of third page: "Copy of letter/ sent A. Lincoln/ President U.S. October/ 1st, 1862". This contemporary copy has clean, clear writing. Toned with some separation beginning at folds (with some tape repairs); fine.
Books
[Abraham Lincoln Assassination] Lot of Three Newspapers Including New York Times, April 15, 1865. The full eight-page edition, published between the time Lincoln was shot and his death a few hours later. Column one headlines read, in order: "AWFUL EVENT. President Lincoln Shot by an Assassin. The Deed Done at Ford's Theatre Last Night. The Act of a Desperate Rebel. The President Still Alive at Last Accounts. No Hopes Entertained of His Recovery. Attempted Assassination of Secretary Seward. Details of the Dreadful Tragedy."
Front page printed with mourning rules, four of the six columns on the front page are filled with various reports of the event. In generally very good condition, with light ink at the left side of the mast head, and small tear at left margin of horizontal fold. Very clean light foxing throughout.
Together with:
New York Times, April 17, 1865. 8pp., featuring mourning rules throughout and detailed stories accounting the last hours of Lincoln's life. Very clean and in near fine condition.
The Philadelphia Inquirer, April 19, 1865. 8pp. Uncut at top, mourning rules. Front page headlines announce Sherman's capture of Raleigh, and General Johnston's surrender. Further news on Lincoln's assassination and the arrest of the conspirators. Even toning throughout, rough edges at right margin.
Front page printed with mourning rules, four of the six columns on the front page are filled with various reports of the event. In generally very good condition, with light ink at the left side of the mast head, and small tear at left margin of horizontal fold. Very clean light foxing throughout.
Together with:
New York Times, April 17, 1865. 8pp., featuring mourning rules throughout and detailed stories accounting the last hours of Lincoln's life. Very clean and in near fine condition.
The Philadelphia Inquirer, April 19, 1865. 8pp. Uncut at top, mourning rules. Front page headlines announce Sherman's capture of Raleigh, and General Johnston's surrender. Further news on Lincoln's assassination and the arrest of the conspirators. Even toning throughout, rough edges at right margin.
[Abraham Lincoln Assassination] Group Lot of Twelve Newspapers With Accounts of the Assassination.
Boston Morning Journal, April 15, 1865. 4pp. Headlines on page two include: "The President Shot and Mortally Wounded. Escape of the Murderer. Attempt on the Life of Secretary Seward. The Recovery of Mr. Seward Doubtful. J. Wilkes Booth, the Actor, the Alleged Assassin." Heavy wear, with separations occurring at horizontal fold.
Daily Advertiser, April 16, 1865. Extra edition, 2pp. Giving "Giving Full and Trustworthy Accounts" on these stories: "John Wilkes Booth the Assassin. His Previous Movements. His Intemperance. The Murder, the Escape, and the Pursuit. Abraham Lincoln's Death-bed." Heavy wear, soiling and separations at folds. Just fair condition.
Boston Daily Advertiser, April 17, 1865. 4pp. and Daily Advertiser Supplement, April 17, 1865. 2pp. With the latest reports on the assassination and investigation. Heavy wear, good.
National Intelligencer, April 22, 1865. 4pp. Washington, D.C. Giving accounts of the removal of the President's remains, and the arrests of the conspirators. Previously bound, otherwise near fine.
New York Tribune, April 27, 1865. 8pp. With mourning rules. Reporting on Lincoln's funeral at Albany, N.Y. and the arrest of Hunnius Bruits Booth. Also, good content on Sherman's capture of Raleigh and the surrender at Mobile. Near fine.
The New York Herald, May 5, 1865. 8pp. Giving an account of Lincoln's internment in Springfield. Disbound, dampstaining. Very good.
New York Tribune, May 11, 1865. 8pp. With front page headlines reading: "The Assassination. The Flight of Davis. The Case of Harrold. His Journeys to Canada. The Complicity of Mrs. Surratt. How the Prisoners Look." With evidence of having been formerly bound, otherwise very good.
Walton's Morning Journal, two issues dated July 7 and 8, 1865. Montpelier, Virginia. Containing stories on the sentencing and execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators. Near fine.
Salem Gazette, July 11, 1865. 4pp. Salem, Massachusetts. Containing an article reporting on the execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators on page two, column one. Light dampstaining at top corner, otherwise very good.
New York Times, August 4, 1865. 8pp. With stories on Dr. Samuel Mudd's confession, also stories on Andersonville. Small tears in masthead, otherwise very good.
Boston Morning Journal, April 15, 1865. 4pp. Headlines on page two include: "The President Shot and Mortally Wounded. Escape of the Murderer. Attempt on the Life of Secretary Seward. The Recovery of Mr. Seward Doubtful. J. Wilkes Booth, the Actor, the Alleged Assassin." Heavy wear, with separations occurring at horizontal fold.
Daily Advertiser, April 16, 1865. Extra edition, 2pp. Giving "Giving Full and Trustworthy Accounts" on these stories: "John Wilkes Booth the Assassin. His Previous Movements. His Intemperance. The Murder, the Escape, and the Pursuit. Abraham Lincoln's Death-bed." Heavy wear, soiling and separations at folds. Just fair condition.
Boston Daily Advertiser, April 17, 1865. 4pp. and Daily Advertiser Supplement, April 17, 1865. 2pp. With the latest reports on the assassination and investigation. Heavy wear, good.
National Intelligencer, April 22, 1865. 4pp. Washington, D.C. Giving accounts of the removal of the President's remains, and the arrests of the conspirators. Previously bound, otherwise near fine.
New York Tribune, April 27, 1865. 8pp. With mourning rules. Reporting on Lincoln's funeral at Albany, N.Y. and the arrest of Hunnius Bruits Booth. Also, good content on Sherman's capture of Raleigh and the surrender at Mobile. Near fine.
The New York Herald, May 5, 1865. 8pp. Giving an account of Lincoln's internment in Springfield. Disbound, dampstaining. Very good.
New York Tribune, May 11, 1865. 8pp. With front page headlines reading: "The Assassination. The Flight of Davis. The Case of Harrold. His Journeys to Canada. The Complicity of Mrs. Surratt. How the Prisoners Look." With evidence of having been formerly bound, otherwise very good.
Walton's Morning Journal, two issues dated July 7 and 8, 1865. Montpelier, Virginia. Containing stories on the sentencing and execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators. Near fine.
Salem Gazette, July 11, 1865. 4pp. Salem, Massachusetts. Containing an article reporting on the execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators on page two, column one. Light dampstaining at top corner, otherwise very good.
New York Times, August 4, 1865. 8pp. With stories on Dr. Samuel Mudd's confession, also stories on Andersonville. Small tears in masthead, otherwise very good.
[Abraham Lincoln Assassination] Twelve Newspapers With Content Regarding the Lincoln Assassination. Includes:
Cincinnati Daily Gazette, April 15, 1865. 4pp.
With news of Lincoln's assassination appearing on page 3, having arrived only that morning by telegraph.
New York Tribune. Two issues dated April 17 and 18, 1865. Both copies missing interior pages. The April 17 issue claiming, "No hope of his son Frederick [Seward]"; and reporting on April 18, "His [Seward] son Conscious". Evenly toned, minor tears at margins.
The Semi-Weekly Times. New York. Four issues dated April 18, 21, 25, and 28 for the year 1865. All with mourning rules and giving up to date news and speculations on the assassination. All uncut at top, in very good to near fine condition except for the April 18th issue which shows heavy soiling and wear to top half of front page.
The World. New York. April 24, 1865. 8pp. Mainly war content, particularly with regard to General Sherman. Very good, save ragged margin to second sheet.
New York Daily News. April 25, 1865. With mourning rules. Front page announces arrival of the President's remains and the arrival of the cortege at City Hall. Only lightly toned. Near fine.
New York Herald. Three issues date April 24, 25 and 27 for the year 1865. All with mourning rules; first two issues report on Lincoln's funeral, and the 27th focuses on General Sherman. All in good condition with some wear at folds.
Cincinnati Daily Gazette, April 15, 1865. 4pp.
With news of Lincoln's assassination appearing on page 3, having arrived only that morning by telegraph.
New York Tribune. Two issues dated April 17 and 18, 1865. Both copies missing interior pages. The April 17 issue claiming, "No hope of his son Frederick [Seward]"; and reporting on April 18, "His [Seward] son Conscious". Evenly toned, minor tears at margins.
The Semi-Weekly Times. New York. Four issues dated April 18, 21, 25, and 28 for the year 1865. All with mourning rules and giving up to date news and speculations on the assassination. All uncut at top, in very good to near fine condition except for the April 18th issue which shows heavy soiling and wear to top half of front page.
The World. New York. April 24, 1865. 8pp. Mainly war content, particularly with regard to General Sherman. Very good, save ragged margin to second sheet.
New York Daily News. April 25, 1865. With mourning rules. Front page announces arrival of the President's remains and the arrival of the cortege at City Hall. Only lightly toned. Near fine.
New York Herald. Three issues date April 24, 25 and 27 for the year 1865. All with mourning rules; first two issues report on Lincoln's funeral, and the 27th focuses on General Sherman. All in good condition with some wear at folds.
Autographs
Andrew Johnson Document Signed "Approved/ Andrew Johnson/ Mil - Governor". One page, partly printed, 8" x 10", April 5, 1863, Nashville. In part: "We, Thomas B. Florida of Wilson County State of Tennessee principal and Paulding [?] Anderson of Wilson County, State of Tennessee, surety, are held and firmly bound unto the United States of America in the penal sum of Three Thousand Dollars. . . . The condition of this obligation is such that whereas, the above bounden Thomas B. Florida has this day given his Parole of Honor without any mental reservation or evasion, that he will support the Constitution of the United States, and the laws made in pursuance thereof; that he will not take up arms against the United Stated, or give aid or comfort, or furnish information directly or indirectly, to any person or persons belonging to any of the so-styled Confederate States." Thomas B. Florida was a second lieutenant in Tennessee's 18th Infantry when captured by the Union.
Andrew Johnson was the only southern senator not to resign his position when the state he represented (Tennessee) seceded from the Union. As a result, he was appointed by President Lincoln to be the military governor of Union-occupied Tennessee. He was elected vice president during Lincoln's second term as president. When Lincoln was assassinated in April 1865, Johnson became the seventeenth president. This document, on blue paper, has clear and crisp printing and handwriting. Two small tape remnants are conspicuous along the right margin; else fine. Attractively framed and matted with an image of Johnson to an overall size of 19.5" x 16.25".
Andrew Johnson was the only southern senator not to resign his position when the state he represented (Tennessee) seceded from the Union. As a result, he was appointed by President Lincoln to be the military governor of Union-occupied Tennessee. He was elected vice president during Lincoln's second term as president. When Lincoln was assassinated in April 1865, Johnson became the seventeenth president. This document, on blue paper, has clear and crisp printing and handwriting. Two small tape remnants are conspicuous along the right margin; else fine. Attractively framed and matted with an image of Johnson to an overall size of 19.5" x 16.25".
Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed "U. S. Grant" as president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy George M. Robeson. One page on vellum, 16" x 19.5", Washington, D.C., March 21, 1870. This document appoints Samuel L. T. Ayers as "Chief Engineer in the Navy". Robeson, who had served as a Union general during the Civil War, was appointed by President Grant as secretary of the navy in June 1869. He served until the end of Grant's term in 1877. Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal. Fine. Beautifully framed and matted to an overall size of 25" x 29".
Ulysses S. Grant Naval Commission Signed "U. S. Grant" as the eighteenth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy George M. Robeson. One vellum page partially printed, 15" x 17.5", Washington, D.C., May 23, 1871. This document appoints James N. Carpenter as "Pay Inspector in the Navy". Robeson, who had served as a Union general during the Civil War, was appointed by President Grant as secretary of the navy in June 1869. He served until the end of Grant's term in 1877. Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal. Fine. Beautifully framed and matted to an overall size of 25" x 29". Margins have been folded back from previous framing, resulting in some minor tears. Else, near fine.
Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed "US Grant" as quartermaster during the Mexican War. One page, 8.25" x 10.25", Tacubaya, Mexico, December 31, 1847. Lieutenant Grant served in the Mexican-American War under Generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott where, despite his assignment as a quartermaster, he got close enough to the front lines to see action, taking part in the battles of Resaca de la Palma, Palo Alto, Monterrey, and Veracruz. Grant was twice brevetted for bravery: at Molino del Rey and Chapultepec. He was a keen observer of the war, watching and learning from the actions of the colonels and generals around him.
Document reads, in part: "Invoice of Clothing, and Camp and Garrison Equipage turned over to Lieut Jenks. Beamer. Com'dg 'E' Company, by Lieut U.S. Grant, A.Q.M. 4th Infantry." There follows a list of items including capes, jackets, shirts, stockings, knapsacks, canteens, and more. Boldly signed "US Grant" at lower right. Document bears staple holes at upper left, else very fine.
Document reads, in part: "Invoice of Clothing, and Camp and Garrison Equipage turned over to Lieut Jenks. Beamer. Com'dg 'E' Company, by Lieut U.S. Grant, A.Q.M. 4th Infantry." There follows a list of items including capes, jackets, shirts, stockings, knapsacks, canteens, and more. Boldly signed "US Grant" at lower right. Document bears staple holes at upper left, else very fine.
Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed. One page, 17.5" x 11" (sight), September 6, 1871, Washington, D.C. The partially printed document names Joshua Nye of Maine as a member of the 1876 American Independence Centennial Exposition Commission. The document is counter signed by Acting Secretary of State William Hunter and has a blind embossed paper seal of the United States. There is slight weakness at the folds, light soiling, and a small repaired tear at the bottom, else near fine.
Attractively framed (33.25" x 18.5" overall) with a fine 1869 engraving of Grant.
Joshua Nye was very active in Maine Republican politics serving as a member of the legislature, the presidency of a railroad, and appointed political office. Nye was a leading member of the Temperance Republicans in Maine.
Attractively framed (33.25" x 18.5" overall) with a fine 1869 engraving of Grant.
Joshua Nye was very active in Maine Republican politics serving as a member of the legislature, the presidency of a railroad, and appointed political office. Nye was a leading member of the Temperance Republicans in Maine.
[Ulysses S. Grant] Grant's Retained Secretarial Copy Concerning the Panama Canal. Two pages, two sided, 4.5" x 7", "Fifth Ave. Hotel, N.Y., Jan 1st 1881." While president, Ulysses S. Grant sent seven expeditions to study the feasibility of building a canal across the Colombian Isthmus of Panama, but in the end, believed the task impossible. In 1881, the French Compagnie Universelle du Canal Interocéanique began work on such a canal. Ferdinand de Lesseps, builder of the Suez Canal, led the project, which called for a sea-level canal to be dug along the path of the Panama Railroad.
Following a failed attempt at a third presidential term in 1880, Grant was contacted by Nathan Appleton, the youngest son of the American merchant congressman of the same name, who encouraged Grant to involve himself in the French project. Appleton's eight page letter is included in this lot, and reads, in part: "I take pleasure in sending you by express one of the relief maps of the Panama Canal I have just received from Paris. . . . I called one morning upon Admiral Baron Roncière Le Noury . . . he told me then that in his opinion an American should have the first position in the Company after Mr. De Lesseps. . . . That same afternoon we met Mr. De Lesseps . . . and he said at once. . . . 'That is an excellent idea of yours, and I am going to offer Gen. Grant at once the first honorary presidency of the company.'"
Grant responded, in part: "I note what you have to say about my taking the American Directorship. The position was tendered to me, and declined on the ground that I do not believe the project feasible in the first place, and I should oppose it at any rate under any European management. My judgment is that every dollar invested in the Panama Canal, under the present scheme of a throughout, or sea level, will be sunk without any return to the investors, and without a canal to promote Commercial interest. If I was to advise the investment of money in the scheme I would feel that I was advocating a swindle equal to the south sea Bubble! . . . I do not believe the proposed plan practicable with any amount of money that can be raised, nor that interest could be paid in it by all the commerce the canal could carry if built, to say nothing of the human lives that would be sacrificed in its construction."
As history would reveal, Grant was right to doubt de Lesseps' canal plan. In 1893, after a great deal of work, the French scheme was abandoned. The high toll from disease was one of the major factors in the failure; as many as 21,900 workers are estimated to have died during the main period of French construction (1881-1889). In 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt bought out the French equipment and excavations and revived the project, placing John Frank Stevens in the Chief Engineer position. One of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken, when the canal was completed in 1914 it had an enormous impact on shipping between the two oceans, replacing the long and treacherous route via the Drake Passage and Cape Horn at the southernmost tip of South America. Both letters are lightly age toned and in very fine condition.
Following a failed attempt at a third presidential term in 1880, Grant was contacted by Nathan Appleton, the youngest son of the American merchant congressman of the same name, who encouraged Grant to involve himself in the French project. Appleton's eight page letter is included in this lot, and reads, in part: "I take pleasure in sending you by express one of the relief maps of the Panama Canal I have just received from Paris. . . . I called one morning upon Admiral Baron Roncière Le Noury . . . he told me then that in his opinion an American should have the first position in the Company after Mr. De Lesseps. . . . That same afternoon we met Mr. De Lesseps . . . and he said at once. . . . 'That is an excellent idea of yours, and I am going to offer Gen. Grant at once the first honorary presidency of the company.'"
Grant responded, in part: "I note what you have to say about my taking the American Directorship. The position was tendered to me, and declined on the ground that I do not believe the project feasible in the first place, and I should oppose it at any rate under any European management. My judgment is that every dollar invested in the Panama Canal, under the present scheme of a throughout, or sea level, will be sunk without any return to the investors, and without a canal to promote Commercial interest. If I was to advise the investment of money in the scheme I would feel that I was advocating a swindle equal to the south sea Bubble! . . . I do not believe the proposed plan practicable with any amount of money that can be raised, nor that interest could be paid in it by all the commerce the canal could carry if built, to say nothing of the human lives that would be sacrificed in its construction."
As history would reveal, Grant was right to doubt de Lesseps' canal plan. In 1893, after a great deal of work, the French scheme was abandoned. The high toll from disease was one of the major factors in the failure; as many as 21,900 workers are estimated to have died during the main period of French construction (1881-1889). In 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt bought out the French equipment and excavations and revived the project, placing John Frank Stevens in the Chief Engineer position. One of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken, when the canal was completed in 1914 it had an enormous impact on shipping between the two oceans, replacing the long and treacherous route via the Drake Passage and Cape Horn at the southernmost tip of South America. Both letters are lightly age toned and in very fine condition.
[Ulysses S. Grant] Grant Family Archive, including: (1) Philip Sheridan autograph note signed in the third person, accepting an invitation to dine with President and Mrs. Grant, February 12, 1870; (2) Hamilton Fish autograph note signed in the third person, accepting an invitation, April 28; (3) Gustav Kruell autograph letter signed, regarding a wood engraving of General Grant, April 4, 1892; (4) Lord Carnarvon partially printed invitation to General Grant, June 6, with transmittal envelope; (5) Olga de [?] autograph letter signed, presenting birthday flowers to Mrs. Grant, 26 January 26, 1871; (6) Frederick Grant autograph letter signed, regarding a power of attorney for General Grant, December 27, 1880; (7) Francis Vinton autograph letter signed, to President Grant recommending E. Delafield Smith for an appointed position, June 22, 1870; (8) Japanese diplomatic autograph letter signed, to General Grant regarding the Japanese seizure of Riu Kiu (Okinawa), June 27, 1882, Tokio; (9) John Church Hamilton (son of Alexander Hamilton) signed letter, sending best wishes to Grant on his recovery from an illness, July 7, 1882 (Hamilton died eighteen days later at the age of eighty-nine); (10) John A. Logan (senator from Illinois, Union general, and leader of the Radical Republicans) autograph letter signed, to Jesse Grant about a meeting with the secretary of state, August 20, 1885; (11) Sami Bey cabinet card signed (Bey was assigned by the Khedive of Egypt to escort the Grants on their visit during their 1877-1879 world tour); (12) Queen Consort Sukumalmarsri of Siam cabinet card, the youngest of the four wives of King King Chulalongkorn (holding Sutatipyaratana, Princess of Ratanakosin) whom the Grants met on their 1877-1879 world tour; (13) Thomas Nast letter signed, to Mrs. Grant asking that she look at a portrait of the General by Gustav Kruell, April 2, 1892; (14-16) John P. Newman (a Bishop in the Methodist Episcopal Church who delivered Grant's funeral oration) cabinet card signed and two autograph letters signed; (17) Ferdinand Ward autograph note signed, "General U. S. Grant/ Compliments of/ Ferdinand Ward/ Apl. 27/82", the failure of the firm of Grant and Ward in 1884 impoverished the entire Grant family and tarnished Grant's reputation; (18) Gustav Kruell autograph letter signed regarding an engraving, with pencil notation by Julia Grant, April 9, 1892; (19) Benjamin Butler typed letter signed to Julia Grant regarding the transfer of land, December 24, 1891; (20) Cyrus Ballou Comstock (A.D.C. to General Grant) autograph letter signed to Julia Grant regarding a military appointment, May 28; (21) Caroline Crane Marsh (wife of the United States Minister in Rome) autograph note signed to Julia Grant regarding a gift to the Queen of Italy, May 31, 1882; (22) Joseph A. Bingham (United States Minister to Japan) to Frederick Grant regarding a railway concession in Japan, March 8, 1881; (23) Cornelius Roosevelt (grandson of Theodore Roosevelt) autograph latter signed to Chapman Grant (grandson of President Grant, n.d., Groton, Massachusetts; (24) program for the Memorial Day ceremony at Grant's Tomb, May 30, 1895; (25) Jessie Grant autograph letter signed, October 1, 1918; (26) Frederick Grant photograph, in uniform of Brigadier General; (27) Ulysses Grant engraving, 1866; and, (28) Ulysses Grant, carte de visite, Rice & Allen. Most show signs of previous mounting, else near fine.
[Ulysses S. Grant] Matías Romero Three Autograph Letters Signed. All the letters have four integral pages, 5.25" x 8.25", Mexico City, on monogrammed stationary, in English. All three letters are from Matías Romero to Ulysses Grant regarding negotiations with the Mexican government to enable Grant and other investors to build and operate a railroad in Mexico. The letters are dated May 31, 1881 (one written page); July 13, 1881 (three written pages); and, July 26, 1881 (three written pages). The letter of May 31 has tears on pages three and four where it was once mounted, but they do not affect the text. All have toning and folds, else near fine.
In April 1881, Ulysses Grant, his wife, and son toured Mexico with Romero, the former Mexican minister in Washington. Grant had recently been named president of Jay Gould's Compañía Ferrocarril Meridional Mexicana (Mexican Southern Railway Company) with Romero as the railroad's superintendent. Matías Romero not only served as Minister of Mexico in the United States, he also served as Mexican Minister of Treasury, colonel in the Mexican Army, substitute senator for Chiapas, deputy to Congress, and administrator general of the Mexican postal system. In the letter of July 13, Romero writes of a private meeting with Mexican President Manuel González regarding the proposed railroad. In the same letter, Romero says, "We have received very satisfactory news about the health of President Garfield." Garfield was shot eleven days earlier.
In April 1881, Ulysses Grant, his wife, and son toured Mexico with Romero, the former Mexican minister in Washington. Grant had recently been named president of Jay Gould's Compañía Ferrocarril Meridional Mexicana (Mexican Southern Railway Company) with Romero as the railroad's superintendent. Matías Romero not only served as Minister of Mexico in the United States, he also served as Mexican Minister of Treasury, colonel in the Mexican Army, substitute senator for Chiapas, deputy to Congress, and administrator general of the Mexican postal system. In the letter of July 13, Romero writes of a private meeting with Mexican President Manuel González regarding the proposed railroad. In the same letter, Romero says, "We have received very satisfactory news about the health of President Garfield." Garfield was shot eleven days earlier.
Photography
Ulysses S. Grant, Six Cartes de Visite and Cabinet Card Images, including: three CDVs of Grant as general (one with clipped corners); two different cabinet cards of Grant and his family taken at the Grant cottage at Mt. McGregor, Saratoga Springs, New York, June 10, 1885, 6.5" x 4.25"; and, a cabinet card of a dying Grant taken on the porch of his cottage at Mt. McGregor, copyrighted on July 22, 1885 by J. G. Gilman. The cabinet cards have been trimmed and shaved. Most have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
James Garfield Letter Signed as an Ohio member of the U.S. Congress. One lined page, 8" x 10", December 22, 1869, Washington, written to P. W. Cook of Glenville, Cuyahogo County, Ohio. This letter concerns the U.S. census of 1870, the ninth census. In part: "The bill for taking the Ninth Census, which passed the House recently provides that the next census is to be taken by the appointment of one superintendent for each Congressional district, who is authorized to employ a sufficient number of enumerators to do the work in a shorter time than has usually been required." The way the U.S. census has been conducted has changed drastically since the first census in 1790. In this letter, Garfield writes of a change to the 1870 census that would allow it to be done quicker; still, it took almost a decade for the results to be published. The process was finally mechanized for the 1890 census, which was completed and published in two and a half years. The 1870 census counted over thirty-nine million U.S. residents; an increase of 22 percent from the 1860 census. Garfield served as Ohio's representative in congress from 1863 until his election as the twentieth president in 1881. With some tape repairs on verso along fold separations. Fine.
Also included is a memorial service program for the death of President Garfield on September 19, 1881 (one page, 6" x 9.25", "State Arsenal, Syracuse, On September 26 1881, at 2.30 P.M."). Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, by Charles J. Guiteau, who was angry that he was not appointed U.S. consul in Paris. Less than a year later, in June 1882, Guiteau was hanged in Washington, D.C. With smoothed folds; toned and fine.
Also included is a memorial service program for the death of President Garfield on September 19, 1881 (one page, 6" x 9.25", "State Arsenal, Syracuse, On September 26 1881, at 2.30 P.M."). Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, by Charles J. Guiteau, who was angry that he was not appointed U.S. consul in Paris. Less than a year later, in June 1882, Guiteau was hanged in Washington, D.C. With smoothed folds; toned and fine.
Lucretia Garfield Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two sided, on black-edged mourning paper with her crest at top, 3.75" x 5.5", n.p. [Pasadena CA], March 22, 1911. Lucretia Garfield, wife of the twentieth president of the United States and first lady for a short seven months, outlived her husband by 36 years. Although she was not particularly interested in the first lady's social duties, she was deeply conscientious and her kind and generous hospitality made her dinners and twice-weekly receptions enjoyable. Following the assassination of her husband, Mrs. Garfield continued to honor his memory by using black-edged mourning paper for her correspondence.
This brief letter reads, in part: "Good morning My Dear Miss Sabine. A dear word from you is the greeting that meets my eye this morning. . . . I hope you three are all very well this morning. I am so well that I hope to go over to Los Angeles this afternoon to hear Mr. Roosevelt speak!" Letter is very fine, with sharp, unchipped edges.
This brief letter reads, in part: "Good morning My Dear Miss Sabine. A dear word from you is the greeting that meets my eye this morning. . . . I hope you three are all very well this morning. I am so well that I hope to go over to Los Angeles this afternoon to hear Mr. Roosevelt speak!" Letter is very fine, with sharp, unchipped edges.
[James A. Garfield] Charles Guiteau Autograph Document Signed Three Times, as attorney for the plaintiff. One page, 8" x 6.75", New York City, June 12, 1874; with a the third signature appearing as an endorsement on the verso. Removed from a larger legal affidavit, Guiteau swears before a witness as attorney for the plaintiff that "the allegations contained in the [illegible word] and counterclaim herein are true of his own knowledge except as to the matter therein stated upon information and belief..." Signed in the third person int the text, a second signature in the closing, and again in the docket on the verso. Some showthrough; with light soiling and uneven toning on verso.
William McKinley Marine Corps Commission Signed as the twenty-fifth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy John D. Long. One vellum page partially printed, 15" x 17.75", Washington, D.C., January 29, 1900. This document appoints Henry W. Carpenter as "First Lieutenant in the Marine Corps". John Long, who served as the governor of Massachusetts in the early 1880s, served as President McKinley's secretary of the navy from 1897 through 1902. Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal with a bold McKinley signature. Margins have been folded back from previous framing, resulting in some minor tears. Else, near fine.
Theodore Roosevelt Photo Signed and Dated 1912. An elegant formal seated portrait of our 26th president with the blind copyright stamp of the venerable New York photo studio Pach Brothers, 9.5" x 13.25" image size, mounted to a 14" x 17" board. Roosevelt is dressed in a three-piece tweed suit and is seated with leg crossed in an elaborately carved armchair. He has signed in the lower border: "Faithfully yours/ Theodore Roosevelt/ Feb 12th 1912". This is one of six portraits the Pach Brothers made of him. This photo is in very fine condition save for some light "silvering" in the darkest areas that is only noticeable when the photo is turned to certain angles--mentioned for strictest accuracy. The outside edges of the mount exhibit some toning and light staining, all of which would easily mat out.
The date of this photo makes it particularly interesting. Not only was it signed on Abraham Lincoln's birthday, but also this was the month that TR made the famous announcement of his presidential candidacy by declaring "My hat is in the ring." After winning the vast majority of the Republican primaries, Roosevelt felt that the party's nomination was being "stolen" from him and his progressive wing by Taft at the Republican National Convention in Chicago. On the last night of the convention, TR called for all his supporters to leave and convene on their own to endorse the formation of a national progressive party. The Progressive Party was formed later that summer and it nominated Roosevelt as its presidential candidate. When questioned by the press, he said that he felt as strong as a "bull moose," thus giving the party its commonly known moniker. After a vicious and hard fought campaign, the Democratic nominee, Woodrow Wilson, was elected.
The date of this photo makes it particularly interesting. Not only was it signed on Abraham Lincoln's birthday, but also this was the month that TR made the famous announcement of his presidential candidacy by declaring "My hat is in the ring." After winning the vast majority of the Republican primaries, Roosevelt felt that the party's nomination was being "stolen" from him and his progressive wing by Taft at the Republican National Convention in Chicago. On the last night of the convention, TR called for all his supporters to leave and convene on their own to endorse the formation of a national progressive party. The Progressive Party was formed later that summer and it nominated Roosevelt as its presidential candidate. When questioned by the press, he said that he felt as strong as a "bull moose," thus giving the party its commonly known moniker. After a vicious and hard fought campaign, the Democratic nominee, Woodrow Wilson, was elected.
Theodore Roosevelt Marine Corps Commission Signed as the twenty-sixth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy Victor H. Metcalf. One vellum page partially printed, 15.5" x 19", Washington, D.C., March 10, 1908. This document appoints Edwin N. McClellan as "Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps". McClellan, who served during World War I, later wrote United States Marine Corps in the First World War. Metcalf served as President Roosevelt's secretary of commerce and labor from 1904 through 1906, when he was appointed secretary of navy. He resigned in 1908 because of his bad health. Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal. Fine.
Theodore Roosevelt Document Signed as the twenty-sixth president. One page, 22" x 17", September 20, 1904, Washington, countersigned by Postmaster General Henry C. Payne (1843- 1904), who died two weeks later. This document appointed Charles Newhall postmaster of Danvers, Massachusetts. Toned with the post office seal intact; some separation along folds which have been repaired with tape. Fine.
Woodrow Wilson Signed Princeton Diploma. One page, vellum, 19" x 23", Princeton, New Jersey, 1911, being a partly-printed baccalaureate diploma in Latin presented to Hugh C. Burr. There is a large vignette at the top engraved by J. Neagle from a T. Sully painting. At left is an elaborate ribbon with an intact gold seal. Wilson, who served as president of Princeton University from 1902-1910, is among the signatories at the bottom. Very fine condition with some wrinkling; Wilson's signature is just a bit light but quite readable.
Warren G. Harding Typed Letter Signed as President with Appointment Archive. Two pages including integral blank, 7" x 9" on White House letterhead, Washington, D.C., February 4, 1922. In 1921, U.S. senator Howard Sutherland began a letter-writing campaign to have West Virginia attorney Richard Randolph McMahon appointed Solicitor of the Treasury. The appointment was highly charged due to political affiliation - McMahon had changed parties from Democratic to Republican - and Republican Senator Sutherland had a long struggle convincing President Harding to accept and approve McMahon's nomination.
The archive consists of 16 letters, most of them yellow carbon copies, from Senator Sutherland's files, and culminates with a Typed Letter Signed by President Harding. The letters span the dates from August 1, 1921, through February 4, 1922. Three of the carbon copies are directed to President Harding, three are directed to McMahon, and two are from McMahon. The others are addressed to Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon, U.S. Senator David Elkins, West Virginia Governor George Atkinson, and others. There is also a letter of complaint from one of Sutherland's constituents, and a carbon copy of Sutherland's response.
After several attempts to engage the president on this matter, Sutherland finally received a response from Harding. It reads, in part: "I am trying to work this situation out. I have had so much of complaint and so many expressions of doubt and suspicion concerning the particular department in mind that I am going to be very sure of my choice before I send any nomination to the Senate. This particular appointment is quite above and beyond geographical or personal preferences of any kind." Letter bears a hole punch and two pin holes at upper left, else very fine. A great study in partisan political appointments!
The archive consists of 16 letters, most of them yellow carbon copies, from Senator Sutherland's files, and culminates with a Typed Letter Signed by President Harding. The letters span the dates from August 1, 1921, through February 4, 1922. Three of the carbon copies are directed to President Harding, three are directed to McMahon, and two are from McMahon. The others are addressed to Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon, U.S. Senator David Elkins, West Virginia Governor George Atkinson, and others. There is also a letter of complaint from one of Sutherland's constituents, and a carbon copy of Sutherland's response.
After several attempts to engage the president on this matter, Sutherland finally received a response from Harding. It reads, in part: "I am trying to work this situation out. I have had so much of complaint and so many expressions of doubt and suspicion concerning the particular department in mind that I am going to be very sure of my choice before I send any nomination to the Senate. This particular appointment is quite above and beyond geographical or personal preferences of any kind." Letter bears a hole punch and two pin holes at upper left, else very fine. A great study in partisan political appointments!
Warren G. Harding Photograph Signed as president, 11" x 14". The large and dramatic photograph, taken by an Indianapolis photographer, is signed and dated "1920". Harding inscribed the photograph, "To Dr. L. S. Rowe/ and all good wishes in the/ furtherance of the Pan American mission/ Warren G. Harding". Dr. Leo S. Rowe, a former professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania was, for many years, the secretary general of the Pan American Conference. One crease in the lower right corner, mounting residue on the verso, else fine.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Check Signed as president. One page, 6.5" x 2.5", New York, June 15, 1955. This pristine check, written against the president's personal account at the Guaranty Trust Company of New York, is made out to the Sun Oil Company in the amount of $134.05. Accomplished in a secretarial hand, the check bears Roosevelt's bold signature; "Franklin D. Roosevelt." Check bears a hole-punched "PAID" cancellation, as well as an ink-stamped deposit notice on verso. In very fine condition.
Dwight D. Eisenhower Archive consisting of numerous correspondence from both Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower to Major General Howard McC. Snyder, M.D. and his wife, Alice, spanning the years 1947-1970. Most are typed on either White House or personal letterhead. The archive more precisely contains the following:
(1) near a dozen letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower dated post-WWII through the election, 5 of which are autopen signatures on "War Department/ Chief of Staff, U.S. Army" signature cards;
(2) over 45 letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower as the thirty-fourth president (1953-1961), including 2 autograph notes signed on note cards bearing the presidential seal (although undated, Snyder has docketed in pencil the dates on the transmittal envelopes);
(3) over 20 letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower during his post-presidency years;
(4) near 60 letters, cards, or notes from Mamie.
Almost all correspondence still has the original transmittal envelopes.
One typed letter signed "Ike E.", one page, March 13, 1951, notifies Snyder, "You have been nominated by your country to serve as a member of Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. Your selection is clear proof of the professional reputation you enjoy and of the confidence placed in you by your government."
Another, a Mamie Eisenhower typed letter signed on her own personal letterhead and dated September 23, 1970, offers Alice Snyder condolence following the death of Dr. Snyder: "I am thinking of you at this sad time. . . . There are many things to be grateful for like memories of happy days. . . . This has helped me over the months 'Ike' has been gone."
Also included is a Nelson A. Rockefeller Typed Letter Signed as governor of New York, one page, September 24, 1970, offering condolence to Mrs. Snyder following the death of her husband, "a great man."
Major General Howard McC. Snyder, MD (1881-1970) served a long military-medical career that paralleled that of his good friend and patient, Dwight Eisenhower. From 1940-1945, he served as Assistant to the Inspector General of the War Department. By the end of World War II, he served as General Eisenhower's personal physician. He then retired from the military, though he remained close to the Eisenhower family, treating Mamie in 1945 for pneumonia. In 1951, Dr. Snyder was assigned to Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers, Europe (SHAPE) (the notification letter signed by Eisenhower is included in this archive). During Eisenhower's 1952 presidential campaign, Snyder rode in the campaign train with the future president and was a special advisor. After Eisenhower's election, Snyder served as Eisenhower's personal physician. In this capacity, he traveled with the president on trips, vacations, and to even to the golf course. Throughout both of Eisenhower's terms, he monitored the president's health and treated him following his 1955 heart attack and 1956 ileitis operation. After Eisenhower left office, the two remained close. Snyder began gathering Eisenhower's medical history, hoping to write a book on his subject; however, he died in 1970 before the book was finished. Although a cursory examination of the archive reveals that the majority are authentically signed by either the Dwight Eisenhower or Mamie Eisenhower, a small percentage bear secretarial or autopen signatures. It is urged that bidders view material prior to bidding. This archive has been well-cared for and is in fine condition.
(1) near a dozen letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower dated post-WWII through the election, 5 of which are autopen signatures on "War Department/ Chief of Staff, U.S. Army" signature cards;
(2) over 45 letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower as the thirty-fourth president (1953-1961), including 2 autograph notes signed on note cards bearing the presidential seal (although undated, Snyder has docketed in pencil the dates on the transmittal envelopes);
(3) over 20 letters, cards, or notes from Eisenhower during his post-presidency years;
(4) near 60 letters, cards, or notes from Mamie.
Almost all correspondence still has the original transmittal envelopes.
One typed letter signed "Ike E.", one page, March 13, 1951, notifies Snyder, "You have been nominated by your country to serve as a member of Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. Your selection is clear proof of the professional reputation you enjoy and of the confidence placed in you by your government."
Another, a Mamie Eisenhower typed letter signed on her own personal letterhead and dated September 23, 1970, offers Alice Snyder condolence following the death of Dr. Snyder: "I am thinking of you at this sad time. . . . There are many things to be grateful for like memories of happy days. . . . This has helped me over the months 'Ike' has been gone."
Also included is a Nelson A. Rockefeller Typed Letter Signed as governor of New York, one page, September 24, 1970, offering condolence to Mrs. Snyder following the death of her husband, "a great man."
Major General Howard McC. Snyder, MD (1881-1970) served a long military-medical career that paralleled that of his good friend and patient, Dwight Eisenhower. From 1940-1945, he served as Assistant to the Inspector General of the War Department. By the end of World War II, he served as General Eisenhower's personal physician. He then retired from the military, though he remained close to the Eisenhower family, treating Mamie in 1945 for pneumonia. In 1951, Dr. Snyder was assigned to Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers, Europe (SHAPE) (the notification letter signed by Eisenhower is included in this archive). During Eisenhower's 1952 presidential campaign, Snyder rode in the campaign train with the future president and was a special advisor. After Eisenhower's election, Snyder served as Eisenhower's personal physician. In this capacity, he traveled with the president on trips, vacations, and to even to the golf course. Throughout both of Eisenhower's terms, he monitored the president's health and treated him following his 1955 heart attack and 1956 ileitis operation. After Eisenhower left office, the two remained close. Snyder began gathering Eisenhower's medical history, hoping to write a book on his subject; however, he died in 1970 before the book was finished. Although a cursory examination of the archive reveals that the majority are authentically signed by either the Dwight Eisenhower or Mamie Eisenhower, a small percentage bear secretarial or autopen signatures. It is urged that bidders view material prior to bidding. This archive has been well-cared for and is in fine condition.
John Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as Senator with Holograph Inscription. One page, 6" x 8" (sight), on United States Senate letterhead, Washington, D.C., January 7, 1955. Following his second back surgery, Senator Kennedy sent this friendly letter to Homer Facto, who served as machinist on his second boat, PT-59, which JFK took command of shortly after the loss of PT-109.
In the Autumn of 1954, Evelyn Lincoln (JFK's secretary) reminisced that "The last day of the [Congressional] session he was in tremendous pain. As soon as the Senate adjourned, he went to the airport, where a private plane was waiting to take him to Hyannis to his family's house. He hoped the rest there would cure him." Of course, it did not, and after several weeks in agonizing pain, Kennedy finally agreed to a second surgery, telling friends he'd gladly take the chance of dying - he just couldn't stand any more pain.
Kennedy's letter reads: "Dear Homer: Many, many thanks for your kind message to me when I was in the hospital in New York. Hospitals are gloomy places, I am afraid; and it makes a tremendous difference when friends remember you as you did. I am feeling much better and am looking forward to getting back to Washington around the first of March. Perhaps then I will have a chance to thank you again in person. Until then, Jackie and I want to wish you and your family a very happy and successful New Year. Sincerely, John Kennedy." The Senator then adds a personal handwritten note: "I was very glad to hear from you Homer. Hope all goes well."
Kennedy's second surgery was a limited success; his pain was greatly reduced, although he still walked with a slight limp. Letter is pristine, and has been professionally matted and framed, together with a steel engraving of Kennedy, to an overall size of 21" x 17". Very fine condition.
In the Autumn of 1954, Evelyn Lincoln (JFK's secretary) reminisced that "The last day of the [Congressional] session he was in tremendous pain. As soon as the Senate adjourned, he went to the airport, where a private plane was waiting to take him to Hyannis to his family's house. He hoped the rest there would cure him." Of course, it did not, and after several weeks in agonizing pain, Kennedy finally agreed to a second surgery, telling friends he'd gladly take the chance of dying - he just couldn't stand any more pain.
Kennedy's letter reads: "Dear Homer: Many, many thanks for your kind message to me when I was in the hospital in New York. Hospitals are gloomy places, I am afraid; and it makes a tremendous difference when friends remember you as you did. I am feeling much better and am looking forward to getting back to Washington around the first of March. Perhaps then I will have a chance to thank you again in person. Until then, Jackie and I want to wish you and your family a very happy and successful New Year. Sincerely, John Kennedy." The Senator then adds a personal handwritten note: "I was very glad to hear from you Homer. Hope all goes well."
Kennedy's second surgery was a limited success; his pain was greatly reduced, although he still walked with a slight limp. Letter is pristine, and has been professionally matted and framed, together with a steel engraving of Kennedy, to an overall size of 21" x 17". Very fine condition.
John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed "Jack" as senator. One page, 8" x 10.5", July 13, 1957, on United States Senate stationary. Kennedy writes to Lewis Weinstein, a leader in the Boston Jewish community and early Kennedy supporter, regarding the senator's speech on the Senate floor regarding the situation in Algeria. "I hope that a reading of them [the speech and a supplementary statement] will resolve some of your doubts about the wisdom and validity of my remarks." Weinstein would later serve as a member of President Kennedy's Committee on Equal Opportunity in Housing. Framed with a photograph of Kennedy, 21" x 17" (overall). Filing holes at the top, else fine.
John F. Kennedy Signed (as a Student) Copy of Cyrano de Bergerac, by Edmond Rostand. New York: Henry Holt and Company, [1932]. 8vo. Boldly signed in black ink "John F. Kennedy/ French IV/ Mr. Procter" on the front free endpaper under the penciled name of his elder brother, Joe Kennedy, who was a student at Choate from 1933-1934 and certainly used the book before John. John, who crossed out the name of his elder brother, has written his name in some form lightly in pencil thirteen times throughout the book (on pages 34, opposite 48, 50, 53, 63, 71, 114, 115, 118, 121, 123, 125, and opposite 128). Doodles and notes in the same hand also occur on pages v of the introduction (a grammar correction to the text), 51 (an elephant), opposite 128 (a house), 110 (handwritten in pencil "When are you coming out for wrestling?/ Joe Kennedy"), and 177 (underlining of "John the Fearless of Burgundy" in the text). On the tail, Joe Kristan, a previous owner (his name is also written on the front paste-down endpaper below the name of "Jules Kristan") has printed his name over the handwritten name of "Joe Kennedy".
John Kennedy graduated from Choate, a private university preparatory boarding school for boys grades 9-12 in Wallingford, Connecticut, in June 1935 and went on to graduate from Harvard. This book, in blue buckram, is lightly worn, certainly from being used by several students, including the Kennedy brothers. Fine condition.
John Kennedy graduated from Choate, a private university preparatory boarding school for boys grades 9-12 in Wallingford, Connecticut, in June 1935 and went on to graduate from Harvard. This book, in blue buckram, is lightly worn, certainly from being used by several students, including the Kennedy brothers. Fine condition.
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy and Lee Bouvier Signed Limited Edition Copy of One Special Summer. New York: Delacorte Press, 1974. Large 4to. With color and black and white illustrations. Publisher's blue boards, pictorially stamped in metallic blue. Publisher's slipcase. With discoloration to the spine and slipcase. With some buckling likely caused by water damage to the slipcase. Autographed edition, one of 500 copies signed by the authors. The book recounts the Bouvier sisters' experiences on their first trip to Europe and was originally presented to their mother as a Christmas present.
[John F. Kennedy] Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Quotation Signed "Lee Oswald". One beige album page, 3.5" x 4.5", Beauregard Junior High School, New Orleans, 1954. In full: "Roses are Red/ Violites [sic] are blue/ People like/ you should/ be in a zoo." Included is the original autograph book from which the page came from; it belonged to his friend Ivan Hurlestone. Also included is a photo of Oswald from the period. All three items are matted with burled wood fillets and beautifully set into a handsome burled wood frame; the overall framed size is 22" x 23". In the center is a 4" x 1" engraved bronze plate stating, "LEE HARVEY OSWALD/ Beauregard Jr. High School/ 5-22-55/ Taken From Ivan Hurlstone's Autograph Book". Very fine condition and ready for display.
Jack Ruby Autograph Letters Signed. Four fascinating letters written by Jack Ruby, the killer of JFK's assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald.
1. Three pages, 6" x 4", written from 505 Main Street, Dallas, Texas (the Dallas jail), February 7, 1964, to "Miss Jenseen D. Petersen", in pencil, with original stamped envelope addressed by Ruby. In this letter, Ruby writes about his four dogs. Fine.
2. Three pages, 6" x 4", written from 505 Main Street, Dallas, Texas (the Dallas jail), March 29, 1964, to "Mrs. Patrick (Joan) O'Connell", in pencil, with original stamped envelope addressed by Ruby. In part: "This letter should have been written many weeks ago, but with the trial and other complications, please do forgive me." Earlier that month, Ruby was convicted of murder with malice. He received the death penalty. Fine.
3. Eighteen pages, 6" x 4", n.p., March 21, 1966, to "Dear Friend Thomas", in pencil. Thomas E. "Tub" Miller was a prisoner in the Dallas County Jail for eight months. During this time, he became well-acquainted with Ruby. This fascinating letter begins with Ruby requesting to be remembered for his better qualities: "Someday I hope you will look back and remember the nicer qualities and what made me tick." He continues the letter by writing about "the many projects we spoke about" which includes many stories about Ruby's life as a night club manager working with famous performers of the time. In part: "How Jimmie Dickens had berated Hank Williams for his not wanting to visit my club when they came in for the Tennessee - North Carolina game at the cotton Bowl, and telling Hank that he should kiss my feet (literally) for the way I sacrificed my time and staying away from my club so I could look after him when he was in one inebriated condition. My run in with Tex Ritter. . . .My falling out with Bob Wills. . . . Tennessee Ernie Ford. . . ." A very remarkable letter! Fine.
4. Also included is an autograph note signed and written in pencil, one page, 8" x 5", n.p., October 5, 1966. In full: "I have no desire in suing the attorneys./ Jack Ruby." By this date, the appellate court had decided on a new trial and on this date-October 5, 1966-ruled that a change of venue at the original trial should have been granted. He died before the trial on January 3, 1967. Fine.
1. Three pages, 6" x 4", written from 505 Main Street, Dallas, Texas (the Dallas jail), February 7, 1964, to "Miss Jenseen D. Petersen", in pencil, with original stamped envelope addressed by Ruby. In this letter, Ruby writes about his four dogs. Fine.
2. Three pages, 6" x 4", written from 505 Main Street, Dallas, Texas (the Dallas jail), March 29, 1964, to "Mrs. Patrick (Joan) O'Connell", in pencil, with original stamped envelope addressed by Ruby. In part: "This letter should have been written many weeks ago, but with the trial and other complications, please do forgive me." Earlier that month, Ruby was convicted of murder with malice. He received the death penalty. Fine.
3. Eighteen pages, 6" x 4", n.p., March 21, 1966, to "Dear Friend Thomas", in pencil. Thomas E. "Tub" Miller was a prisoner in the Dallas County Jail for eight months. During this time, he became well-acquainted with Ruby. This fascinating letter begins with Ruby requesting to be remembered for his better qualities: "Someday I hope you will look back and remember the nicer qualities and what made me tick." He continues the letter by writing about "the many projects we spoke about" which includes many stories about Ruby's life as a night club manager working with famous performers of the time. In part: "How Jimmie Dickens had berated Hank Williams for his not wanting to visit my club when they came in for the Tennessee - North Carolina game at the cotton Bowl, and telling Hank that he should kiss my feet (literally) for the way I sacrificed my time and staying away from my club so I could look after him when he was in one inebriated condition. My run in with Tex Ritter. . . .My falling out with Bob Wills. . . . Tennessee Ernie Ford. . . ." A very remarkable letter! Fine.
4. Also included is an autograph note signed and written in pencil, one page, 8" x 5", n.p., October 5, 1966. In full: "I have no desire in suing the attorneys./ Jack Ruby." By this date, the appellate court had decided on a new trial and on this date-October 5, 1966-ruled that a change of venue at the original trial should have been granted. He died before the trial on January 3, 1967. Fine.
JFK Assassination Archive containing the following: numerous large black and white photographs and color slides of individuals and places connected to the assassination; limited collectors edition of JFK: Retired Dallas Police Chief Jesse Curry Reveals His Personal Assassination File, 1969, 131 pages; Texas Governor John Connally Parkland Memorial Hospital statement (with admission and discharge dates) and "Midnight Census" (dated November 22, 1963) containing Governor Connally's name; The Torch is Passed, Published by the Denton Record-Chronicle, 100 pages, large quarto; signatures of Sarah T. Hughes and John Connally; letters or manuscripts signed by Evelyn Lincoln, M. A. LeHand, J. Edgar Hoover, Rev. Oscar L. Huber, Ralph W. Yarborough, H. D. Holmes, Dr. Sheff D. Olinger; various manuscripts and articles on the assassination, including some by Dr. John K. Lattimer; photos signed by Nick McDonald and Luis Alvarez; three newspapers with articles about the assassination; two VHS tapes with assassination footage, and more. Bidders are encouraged to view the material prior to bidding. All material in very good to fine condition.
Ronald Reagan Signed and Inscribed Book and Signed Typed Forward for Norman Rockwell's Patriotic Times, by George Mendoza with forward by President Ronald Reagan, (New York: Viking Press, 1985). Reagan inscribes the book on the title page to the author, "To George Mendoza - With great appreciation and every good wish & Very Best Regards. Ronald Reagan / Sept. 26, 1986". Included is the original Reagan signed typed forward for the book, two pages, 7" x 10.5", December 13, 1986, Washington, D.C., on embossed White House letterhead. The letter and signature are reproduced in the book. Mendoza, author of several books on the art of Norman Rockwell, chose a study of Ronald Reagan by Rockwell for the back of the book jacket. Mendoza donated his profits from the book to the Community Foundation of Greater Washington for the Nancy Reagan Drug Abuse Fund. Near very fine.
Ronald Reagan Autograph Letter Signed "Ron". On Reagan's personal card, 6.25" x 4.25", November 30, 1989, n.p. (likely California). To journalist Joseph Kingsbury-Smith ("Joe") in part: "Thanks for sending me Bill Hearsts 'Editors Report'. Will you please tell him I'm very grateful for his generous words and impressed by his entire coverage of the present world situation. I don't get too many chances to be heart warmed by pieces in the media." Three days after this letter was written, Reagan's successor, President George H. W. Bush, met U.S.S.R. leader Mikhail Gorbachev at the Malta Summit, considered the end of the Cold War. Joseph Kingsbury-Smith (1908-1999) was the chief foreign writer for Hearst Newspapers. He had shared the 1956 Pulitzer Prize for a series of 1955 interviews with Nikita Khrushchev. Clearly written in black ink. Very fine.
George W. Bush Signed Book, Our Mission and Our Moment: Speeches Since the Attacks of September 11, by George W. Bush. The paper bound book measures 7" x 11" and has 62 pages. There is no date or publisher information, but a menu for "Evermay with the President / Friday, October 13, 2006" is included with the book. The cover of the book is very boldly signed by President Bush. The book is housed in a red leatherette clamshell box with the title in gold embossed letters on the cover and "President George W. Bush" on the spine. Light scuffs to the book, else very fine.
[Presidents and First Ladies] White House Photograph Signed by George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George Herbert Walker Bush, Jimmy Carter, Gerald Ford. The photograph also bears the signatures of Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barbara Bush, Rosalynn Carter, and Betty Ford. The nine signatures are in either blue or black marker and are clear and bold. A scarce collection of signatures on one photograph. Very light wear, thus fine.
Samuel Clemens Photo Signed "Mark Twain". 9" x 11.25" (sight), July 17, 1909, n.p. Elegant studio portrait of Twain wearing his trademark white suit, inscribed to his attorney, Charles T. Lark: "Mark Twain/ To Charles T. Lark/ 17 July '09". On the left shoulder has been handwritten, "Copyright 1907 by/ Underwood & Underwood".
Samuel Clemens was born in Florida, Missouri; he tried several failed careers including printer and miner and eventually he settled on being an editor for the Virginia City Territorial Enterprise in Nevada. Later he began writing, and some of his early tales include: The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County and Innocents Abroad. His best known works are The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and, of course, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Ernest Hemingway once said, "All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn . . . all American writing comes from that. There was nothing before. There has been nothing as good since." A large, bold signature; very good. Framed and matted to an overall size of 18.5" x 21".
Samuel Clemens was born in Florida, Missouri; he tried several failed careers including printer and miner and eventually he settled on being an editor for the Virginia City Territorial Enterprise in Nevada. Later he began writing, and some of his early tales include: The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County and Innocents Abroad. His best known works are The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and, of course, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Ernest Hemingway once said, "All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn . . . all American writing comes from that. There was nothing before. There has been nothing as good since." A large, bold signature; very good. Framed and matted to an overall size of 18.5" x 21".
Samuel Clemens Autograph Letter Signed, Accompanied by Ulysses S. Grant's Personal Memoirs, Vols. I and II. One page, 5.5" x 8.75", "Hartford, May 5/85." The great author and humorist sends a letter to his publisher James Osgood, whose firm, J. R. Osgood & Company, had gone into bankruptcy the day before. It reads, in full: "My Dear Osgood, I am exceedingly sorry to hear the bad news, and I shall hope that the suspension will be only temporary. Mrs. Clemens and I wish you a speedy deliverance from trouble & an early return to prosperity. Truly yours, S.L. Clemens."
Clemens and Osgood became friends and business associates when Osgood's firm published Twain's The Prince and the Pauper and The Stolen White Elephant in 1882. That same year, Osgood accompanied Clemens on a riverboat trip collecting material for Life on the Mississippi, published by Osgood in 1883. These successful publications, however, did not keep Osgood's firm, reportedly one of the most successful in Boston, from failing.
Clemens also had a close association with former President Ulysses S. Grant. The writer had heard that the ex-president and Civil War hero was interested in publishing his memoirs. He visited Grant and proposed a deal. If Grant would let Clemens publish his memoirs, he would give Grant 75% of the profits. Like Clemens, Grant suffered financial troubles. After some consideration, he agreed to let Clemens do the job.
Clemens appreciated Grant's writing, and praised Grant's memoirs sincerely, saying they were "The best of any general's since Caesar." Charles L. Webster & Company, a publisher that he co-owned, published Grant's Memoirs in 1885, shortly after Grant's death. Clemens sent salesmen all over the country to sell the two-volume work, a copy of which accompanies the letter to Osgood that is offered here.
Samuel Clemens' letter has been wonderfully framed and mounted, together with Grant's Memoirs, in a splendid large shadow box measuring 34" x 19" x 3.75". The shadow box lid was created using a walnut burl frame with beading and UV filtering conservation clear glass; the base is a walnut-stained box frame; the background of the shadow box is made with archival suede matting. The full-calf-bound books show moderate rubbing and scuffing of edges and corners, with some professional repair done to edges, corners, and binding; generally fine condition. The letter is in very fine condition. All together, an outstanding set of items, ready prominent for display!
Clemens and Osgood became friends and business associates when Osgood's firm published Twain's The Prince and the Pauper and The Stolen White Elephant in 1882. That same year, Osgood accompanied Clemens on a riverboat trip collecting material for Life on the Mississippi, published by Osgood in 1883. These successful publications, however, did not keep Osgood's firm, reportedly one of the most successful in Boston, from failing.
Clemens also had a close association with former President Ulysses S. Grant. The writer had heard that the ex-president and Civil War hero was interested in publishing his memoirs. He visited Grant and proposed a deal. If Grant would let Clemens publish his memoirs, he would give Grant 75% of the profits. Like Clemens, Grant suffered financial troubles. After some consideration, he agreed to let Clemens do the job.
Clemens appreciated Grant's writing, and praised Grant's memoirs sincerely, saying they were "The best of any general's since Caesar." Charles L. Webster & Company, a publisher that he co-owned, published Grant's Memoirs in 1885, shortly after Grant's death. Clemens sent salesmen all over the country to sell the two-volume work, a copy of which accompanies the letter to Osgood that is offered here.
Samuel Clemens' letter has been wonderfully framed and mounted, together with Grant's Memoirs, in a splendid large shadow box measuring 34" x 19" x 3.75". The shadow box lid was created using a walnut burl frame with beading and UV filtering conservation clear glass; the base is a walnut-stained box frame; the background of the shadow box is made with archival suede matting. The full-calf-bound books show moderate rubbing and scuffing of edges and corners, with some professional repair done to edges, corners, and binding; generally fine condition. The letter is in very fine condition. All together, an outstanding set of items, ready prominent for display!
Samuel Clemens Autograph Letter Signed "SL Clemens". One page, 5.5" x 8.5", February 18, Hotel Royal, Berlin, Germany, written to "C & W" (Chatto & Windus Publishers). In part: "Who is Mr. Kingscote? He keeps writing me. If an answer is due him, I will furnish it-otherwise not. . . . In a week I shall be well enough to travel-no, in 10 days. Then I shall go to the Riviera for my health. I haven't seen the 'Idler' yet." Under the signature at the foot of the page, Clemens has written, "Address after end of February, c/o Brown Shipley & Co. Drexel Harjes & Co., Paris." Clemens has drawn a line through "c/o Brown Shipley & Co. Drexel Harjes & Co."
Also included in this lot is a postcard (5.5" x 3.5") signed "A. F. Kingscote" and addressed to "S. Clemens, Esqr./ (alias Mark Twain)/ Hotel Royal/ Berlin", postmarked February 16, 1892, two days before Clemens' letter. The postcard reads in part: "I sincerely trust that you are getting better. my letter of 4th reached you quiet safely, I trust? It will give me great satisfaction to hear from you yrself [sic] soon how you really feel." Clemens' letter to his publisher shows his concern about receiving such an intimately written postcard from the unfamiliar Mr. Kingscote.
Clemens' own letter was likely written while he was still in bed recovering from his illness. That winter, Clemens had been the center of Berlin's attention; he had visited the Kaiser earlier in the month. Earlier in February after delivering a lecture, he had caught an onerous cold which developed into pneumonia. Idler, the play Clemens had not yet seen, was written by Australian-born author Charles Haddon Chambers. Clemens' letter has some separations at folds, some which have been repaired on verso. Both items are toned and in very good condition.
Also included in this lot is a postcard (5.5" x 3.5") signed "A. F. Kingscote" and addressed to "S. Clemens, Esqr./ (alias Mark Twain)/ Hotel Royal/ Berlin", postmarked February 16, 1892, two days before Clemens' letter. The postcard reads in part: "I sincerely trust that you are getting better. my letter of 4th reached you quiet safely, I trust? It will give me great satisfaction to hear from you yrself [sic] soon how you really feel." Clemens' letter to his publisher shows his concern about receiving such an intimately written postcard from the unfamiliar Mr. Kingscote.
Clemens' own letter was likely written while he was still in bed recovering from his illness. That winter, Clemens had been the center of Berlin's attention; he had visited the Kaiser earlier in the month. Earlier in February after delivering a lecture, he had caught an onerous cold which developed into pneumonia. Idler, the play Clemens had not yet seen, was written by Australian-born author Charles Haddon Chambers. Clemens' letter has some separations at folds, some which have been repaired on verso. Both items are toned and in very good condition.
Charles Dickens Autograph Letter Signed, one page, 4.25" x 7.25". Broadstairs, September 12, 1843. To actor and dramatist T[homas] J[ames] Serle, who served as Dickens' acting manager. He writes: "I shall see you tomorrow evening, of course. Will you send Miss Elton the enclosed? She ought to have had it last Friday, but I had no memorandum of her address." Dickens writes from his Bleak House address in Broadstairs, Kent, a coastal town where the Dickens family spent most summers and holidays. Published in The Letters of Charles Dickens, Pilgrim Edition (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1974).
"Miss Elton" was Esther or Rose Elton, eldest daughters of actor Edward William Elton (1794-1843) and "the enclosed" was likely a check. Elton's wife had died in 1840, leaving him a widower with seven children to care for. Two months before the date of this letter, Elton drowned while returning home from an acting engagement in Edinburgh. He had been Chairman and Treasurer of the Theatrical Fund.
Dickens, along with other theatre members, organized to raise funds for the support of the large family of orphans. Advertisements for benefits were placed in London newspapers, the first appearing on July 26, 1843, headed: "THE ORPHAN FAMILY of the late Mr. W. ELTON." The ad read: "A Committee is formed for the purpose of arranging a Benefit for the seven fatherless and motherless CHILDREN of Mr. W. ELTON, late of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, a sufferer in the fatal wreck of the Pegasus. The performances will be announced as soon as possible; in the mean time offers of professional service on the occasion will be gratefully received, as well as subscriptions in money, by CHARLES DICKENS." Serle was a member of aforementioned Committee.
The letter is in near fine condition with a bold signature finished with an elaborate flourish. A thin mounting remnant remains along the right edge of the blank integral sheet on verso.
"Miss Elton" was Esther or Rose Elton, eldest daughters of actor Edward William Elton (1794-1843) and "the enclosed" was likely a check. Elton's wife had died in 1840, leaving him a widower with seven children to care for. Two months before the date of this letter, Elton drowned while returning home from an acting engagement in Edinburgh. He had been Chairman and Treasurer of the Theatrical Fund.
Dickens, along with other theatre members, organized to raise funds for the support of the large family of orphans. Advertisements for benefits were placed in London newspapers, the first appearing on July 26, 1843, headed: "THE ORPHAN FAMILY of the late Mr. W. ELTON." The ad read: "A Committee is formed for the purpose of arranging a Benefit for the seven fatherless and motherless CHILDREN of Mr. W. ELTON, late of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, a sufferer in the fatal wreck of the Pegasus. The performances will be announced as soon as possible; in the mean time offers of professional service on the occasion will be gratefully received, as well as subscriptions in money, by CHARLES DICKENS." Serle was a member of aforementioned Committee.
The letter is in near fine condition with a bold signature finished with an elaborate flourish. A thin mounting remnant remains along the right edge of the blank integral sheet on verso.
Charles Dickens Autograph Letter Signed "C D" one page, 4.25" x 7.25". Devonshire Terrace, May 2, 1844. To actor and dramatist T[homas] J[ames] Serle, who served as Dickens' acting manager. He writes: "As Rosa will most probably have to take a letter of credit, I have thought it best to make a round sum, and fill up the cheque for five and twenty pounds. May some Nova-Scotia bedlamite fall in love with her and marry her! The passage cheque was £ 39..18..0. She will have to give the Steward a Guinea besides, and the Stewardess summut [something] for herself." Published in The Letters of Charles Dickens, Pilgrim Edition (Oxford: Oxford University Press).
Dickens had strong ties to the theater, often performing in amateur theatrical productions and sometimes serving as director. Actor Edward William Elton (1794-1843), a widower with seven children, had drowned while returning home from an acting engagement in Edinburgh. He had been Chairman and Treasurer of the Theatrical Fund. See previous lot for more information.
Nine months after her father's death, in early May 1844, Rosa Elton, Elton's second eldest daughter sailed on the Britannia for Nova Scotia, her passage paid for by Dickens as attested by this letter. In writing, "May some Nova-Scotia bedlamite fall in love with her and marry her!" Dickens shows evidence of perhaps having grown tired of the responsibility of helping to provide for the orphans. The term "bedlamite" was a colloquial word fool, particularly said in contempt of young men between the ages of 16 and 20. ("Journal of American Folklore", Vol. 9, No. 32; Jan.-Mar. 1896).
Dickens had strong ties to the theater, often performing in amateur theatrical productions and sometimes serving as director. Actor Edward William Elton (1794-1843), a widower with seven children, had drowned while returning home from an acting engagement in Edinburgh. He had been Chairman and Treasurer of the Theatrical Fund. See previous lot for more information.
Nine months after her father's death, in early May 1844, Rosa Elton, Elton's second eldest daughter sailed on the Britannia for Nova Scotia, her passage paid for by Dickens as attested by this letter. In writing, "May some Nova-Scotia bedlamite fall in love with her and marry her!" Dickens shows evidence of perhaps having grown tired of the responsibility of helping to provide for the orphans. The term "bedlamite" was a colloquial word fool, particularly said in contempt of young men between the ages of 16 and 20. ("Journal of American Folklore", Vol. 9, No. 32; Jan.-Mar. 1896).
Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) Autograph Letter Signed "C. L. Dodgson". Two pages (front and back), 7" x 4.25", September 3, 1894, Eastbourne [Sussex, England]. In this letter, Lewis Carroll offers Mrs. Martin-Harvey an apology and a copy of Nursery Alice. In part: "After you had left the house, I bethought me that I wished I had said 'If you call again, & would like to bring Miss Amy Coleridge with you, please do so.' So I wrote it, & took the note to the theatre on Sunday; but it was all shut up. If you had called, I had a nice little apology all ready for you, for the brutal candour with which I told you I didn't care for children of 3! May I make amends for my rudeness by sending her the 'Nursery Alice'? (It has twenty coloured pictures, & text adapted to children.) You can show her the pictures, & perhaps read her the text, if you think her old enough to care for it."
English author Lewis Carroll, the pen name for Charles Dodgson(1832-1898), published Alice in Wonderland (Alice's Adventures in Wonderland) in 1865; he later adapted a young children's version of the story called Nursery Alice, first published by Macmillan Publishers Ltd. with twenty illustrations from the original book.
Mrs. Martin-Harvey was actress Angelita Helena Maria de Silva Ferro (1865-1949). She married actor Sir John Martin-Harvey in 1889, keeping the stage name Miss N. de Silva. She had met Carroll in 1874, when, as a child, she was rescued from an angry mob by Carroll. Carroll next saw her after many years with her husband in Eastbourne following one of their performances during the summer of 1894. This letter is a follow-up to their meeting. In a postscript, Carroll writes that he went to visit the couple at "Tower Cottage, Winchester" but "there was nobody at home!" Carroll closes by quoting Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem, In Memoriam: "all the magic light Died out at once from bower & hall." "Miss Amy Coleridge" was also an actress; she appeared on Broadway in 1902. One central fold; lightly soiled. Bold, clear writing; fine.
English author Lewis Carroll, the pen name for Charles Dodgson(1832-1898), published Alice in Wonderland (Alice's Adventures in Wonderland) in 1865; he later adapted a young children's version of the story called Nursery Alice, first published by Macmillan Publishers Ltd. with twenty illustrations from the original book.
Mrs. Martin-Harvey was actress Angelita Helena Maria de Silva Ferro (1865-1949). She married actor Sir John Martin-Harvey in 1889, keeping the stage name Miss N. de Silva. She had met Carroll in 1874, when, as a child, she was rescued from an angry mob by Carroll. Carroll next saw her after many years with her husband in Eastbourne following one of their performances during the summer of 1894. This letter is a follow-up to their meeting. In a postscript, Carroll writes that he went to visit the couple at "Tower Cottage, Winchester" but "there was nobody at home!" Carroll closes by quoting Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem, In Memoriam: "all the magic light Died out at once from bower & hall." "Miss Amy Coleridge" was also an actress; she appeared on Broadway in 1902. One central fold; lightly soiled. Bold, clear writing; fine.
Alexandre Dumas, père, Autograph Note Signed. One page, 8" x 5", n.d., n.p., in pencil, French, untranslated. Dumas was a French writer best known for his historical adventure novels including, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Three Musketeers, Twenty Years After, and The Vicomte de Bragelonne. These, his non-fiction works, and his many plays made Dumas one of the most widely read French authors in the world. The bottom of the page is trimmed cutting the lower flourish of the signature. Folds, else very good.
Alexandre Dumas, père, Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 9" x 7.25" sight size, January 12, 1861, Naples, in French, retaining the original red wax seal. Dumas writes to "Capitane di Rohan alla Vittoria", "A thousand thanks for your offer, Sir. I accept wholeheartedly, but I don't want to be indebted to you. And I would very much like to have the honor to see you to thank you and speak a while about Caprera. [translated]." Attractively matted and framed with a Carte de Visite of Dumas, 14.5" x 18.5", overall. Folds and residue of mounting at the edges, else fine.
Dumas's letter was written shortly after the famous meeting between Giuseppe Garibaldi and Victor Emmanuel II of Piedmont, Savoy, and Sardinia at Teano when Garibaldi addressed him as King of Italy and shook his hand. Garibaldi rode into Naples at the king's side on November 7, 1860, then retired to the rocky island of Caprera, refusing to accept any reward for his services. Alexandre Dumas co-authored The Memoirs of Garibaldi published in 1861. An interesting letter worthy of further research.
Dumas's letter was written shortly after the famous meeting between Giuseppe Garibaldi and Victor Emmanuel II of Piedmont, Savoy, and Sardinia at Teano when Garibaldi addressed him as King of Italy and shook his hand. Garibaldi rode into Naples at the king's side on November 7, 1860, then retired to the rocky island of Caprera, refusing to accept any reward for his services. Alexandre Dumas co-authored The Memoirs of Garibaldi published in 1861. An interesting letter worthy of further research.
Robert Frost Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.25" x 10.25", on a typed letter to him from Marjorie Nicholson on Reader's Digest letterhead, January 6, 1960, no place [Cambridge, Massachusetts]. The original letter to Frost had asked permission to use a quote of his in the magazine for a payment of ten dollars: "A man will sometimes devote all his life to the development of one part of his body - the wishbone." In his shaky, old age handwriting, Frost answers on the blank lower portion of the letter, in part: "That's no joke of mine, nor is it my kind of joke. People are getting to flatter me with putting good sayings into my mouth. The best way is to squelch this one..." A red pencil note at the top left shows that the publication obeyed his wishes, "running without cr[edit] line". Original mailing folds, paperclip indentation at the top, else fine.
Interestingly, an internet search will show that this quote is widely attributed to Frost.
Interestingly, an internet search will show that this quote is widely attributed to Frost.
Ernest Hemingway Typed Letter Signed "Papa." One page, 8.25" x 11" on his personal Finca Vigía letterhead, Cuba, July 19, 1954. The great American novelist, short-story writer, and journalist, Hemingway was part of the 1920s expatriate community in Paris. He received the Pulitzer Prize in 1953 for The Old Man and the Sea and the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954.
Finca Vigía (Spanish for "Lookout Farm") was Hemingway's home near Havana, where he spent a great deal of his writing and fishing. It was here that he wrote most of The Old Man and the Sea and For Whom the Bell Tolls. The house was built in 1886 by Catalan architect Miguel Pascual y Baguer. Hemingway lived in the house from 1939 to 1961; today it is a museum.
During the winter of 1954-55, on a safari in Africa, the great author was seriously injured in two successive plane crashes; he sprained his right shoulder, arm, and left leg, had a grave concussion, temporarily lost vision in his left eye and the hearing in his left ear, suffered paralysis of the spine, a crushed vertebra, ruptured liver, spleen and kidney, and first degree burns on his face, arms, and leg. Some American newspapers mistakenly published his obituary, thinking he had been killed.
Hemingway was badly injured again the following month in a bushfire accident which left him with second degree burns on his legs, front torso, lips, left hand, and right forearm. The pain left him in prolonged anguish and he was unable to travel to Stockholm to accept his Nobel Prize. It was during this time of recovery that Hemingway retreated to Finca Vigía to recover.
This letter is directed to novelist and screenwriter Peter Viertel, to discuss making a movie from Hemingway's novel The Old Man and The Sea. In part: "Leland called and I said what we'd agree; Zinnerman [noted film director Fred Zinnemann] [sic] best; better to do Old Man [and The Sea] later and with him; same as you said and wrote. Leland wants you to do the script. . . . He seemed sort of cooled on Spence; maybe everybody has. It all sounded as though put-off was The Word. I think it's just as well. None of us want to do it right now and I'm not in shape yet. . . . Everything about me is clearing up good. Have the blood pressure down to 160 over 70 and it will get further down. Kidneys functioning good. Liver same. Back clearing up good. . . . It has been hot as hell but every place else worse. . . . When you come down will put you in some big fish. Haven't been out yet as the big ones are running and I didn't want to do anything stupid with back." Viertel did go on to direct The Old Man and The Sea, which starred Spencer Tracy.
Letter is boldly signed "Papa" and is in fine condition. Hemingway's letters come to auction very rarely, this one being an excellent example with wonderful content!
Finca Vigía (Spanish for "Lookout Farm") was Hemingway's home near Havana, where he spent a great deal of his writing and fishing. It was here that he wrote most of The Old Man and the Sea and For Whom the Bell Tolls. The house was built in 1886 by Catalan architect Miguel Pascual y Baguer. Hemingway lived in the house from 1939 to 1961; today it is a museum.
During the winter of 1954-55, on a safari in Africa, the great author was seriously injured in two successive plane crashes; he sprained his right shoulder, arm, and left leg, had a grave concussion, temporarily lost vision in his left eye and the hearing in his left ear, suffered paralysis of the spine, a crushed vertebra, ruptured liver, spleen and kidney, and first degree burns on his face, arms, and leg. Some American newspapers mistakenly published his obituary, thinking he had been killed.
Hemingway was badly injured again the following month in a bushfire accident which left him with second degree burns on his legs, front torso, lips, left hand, and right forearm. The pain left him in prolonged anguish and he was unable to travel to Stockholm to accept his Nobel Prize. It was during this time of recovery that Hemingway retreated to Finca Vigía to recover.
This letter is directed to novelist and screenwriter Peter Viertel, to discuss making a movie from Hemingway's novel The Old Man and The Sea. In part: "Leland called and I said what we'd agree; Zinnerman [noted film director Fred Zinnemann] [sic] best; better to do Old Man [and The Sea] later and with him; same as you said and wrote. Leland wants you to do the script. . . . He seemed sort of cooled on Spence; maybe everybody has. It all sounded as though put-off was The Word. I think it's just as well. None of us want to do it right now and I'm not in shape yet. . . . Everything about me is clearing up good. Have the blood pressure down to 160 over 70 and it will get further down. Kidneys functioning good. Liver same. Back clearing up good. . . . It has been hot as hell but every place else worse. . . . When you come down will put you in some big fish. Haven't been out yet as the big ones are running and I didn't want to do anything stupid with back." Viertel did go on to direct The Old Man and The Sea, which starred Spencer Tracy.
Letter is boldly signed "Papa" and is in fine condition. Hemingway's letters come to auction very rarely, this one being an excellent example with wonderful content!
Ernest Hemingway Letter Signed. Six pages, one-sided, 8.5" x 11", on his personal Finca Vigía letterhead, San Francisco de Paula, Cuba, September 5, 1960. Finca Vigía (Spanish for "Lookout Farm") was Hemingway's home near Havana, where he lived from 1939 until just prior to his death in 1961; today it is a museum.
This lengthy letter was penned for Hemingway by his secretary Valerie Danby-Smith, as Hemingway was suffering from eye trouble at the time. It is directed to his longtime friend Nathan "Bill" Davis and discusses his difficulties in completing an assignment for LIFE magazine on the subject of bull fighting. Hemingway finally submitted a 75,000 word manuscript to the magazine, from which a 30,000 word extract was published in three consecutive installments in LIFE in September 1960, the first installment having been published the same day this letter was written. The book, The Dangerous Summer, was published posthumously by his American publisher Charles Scribner's Sons in 1985 and is often described as Hemingway's last novel.
The letter reads, in part: "Thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job with the two Krauts. Annamarie's letter finally came through and you were right. . . . I cannot give her exact publication dates nor give her 'some clarity as to her working program for the next few years' having just this morning . . . gone over 92,000 words on something that I hoped would not exceed 18,000 when I started with it. Still at least 15 days of steady work to go. . . . I took this advance from Life & it has been nothing but a headache. . . . I think it would be a bad play to take an advance now, which the Revenue Department at any time in the future might consider taxable. . . . If I get short of cash at any time we can take an advance on the Paris book." Hemingway goes on to request that Davis do some research on bull fights for him, then ends with complaints about his eyesight, which had been failing steadily. "Have been having some trouble with my eyes the last two weeks. . . . It could very well be fatigue, or writing in a tricky light. Have had them bother at other times but never for quite as long as this." Signed "Ernest."
Although he does not mention it in this letter, Hemingway was greatly upset by the photographs used in his LIFE article. This, combined with his failing eyesight, high blood pressure and liver problems, caused him to seek medical care. A few months after this letter was written, he traveled to the Mayo Clinic where he received electric shock therapy, which only increased his depression because it damaged his memory. He told biographer A.E. Hotchner, "What is the sense of ruining my head and erasing my memory, which is my capital, and putting me out of business? It was a brilliant cure but we lost the patient." In the spring of 1961, Hemingway attempted suicide and was again subjected to electric shock therapy. On the morning of July 2, 1961, the great author was found dead in his Ketchum, Idaho home, from a self-inflicted shotgun blast to the head. This amazing letter, with incredible literary content, is in very fine condition.
This lengthy letter was penned for Hemingway by his secretary Valerie Danby-Smith, as Hemingway was suffering from eye trouble at the time. It is directed to his longtime friend Nathan "Bill" Davis and discusses his difficulties in completing an assignment for LIFE magazine on the subject of bull fighting. Hemingway finally submitted a 75,000 word manuscript to the magazine, from which a 30,000 word extract was published in three consecutive installments in LIFE in September 1960, the first installment having been published the same day this letter was written. The book, The Dangerous Summer, was published posthumously by his American publisher Charles Scribner's Sons in 1985 and is often described as Hemingway's last novel.
The letter reads, in part: "Thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job with the two Krauts. Annamarie's letter finally came through and you were right. . . . I cannot give her exact publication dates nor give her 'some clarity as to her working program for the next few years' having just this morning . . . gone over 92,000 words on something that I hoped would not exceed 18,000 when I started with it. Still at least 15 days of steady work to go. . . . I took this advance from Life & it has been nothing but a headache. . . . I think it would be a bad play to take an advance now, which the Revenue Department at any time in the future might consider taxable. . . . If I get short of cash at any time we can take an advance on the Paris book." Hemingway goes on to request that Davis do some research on bull fights for him, then ends with complaints about his eyesight, which had been failing steadily. "Have been having some trouble with my eyes the last two weeks. . . . It could very well be fatigue, or writing in a tricky light. Have had them bother at other times but never for quite as long as this." Signed "Ernest."
Although he does not mention it in this letter, Hemingway was greatly upset by the photographs used in his LIFE article. This, combined with his failing eyesight, high blood pressure and liver problems, caused him to seek medical care. A few months after this letter was written, he traveled to the Mayo Clinic where he received electric shock therapy, which only increased his depression because it damaged his memory. He told biographer A.E. Hotchner, "What is the sense of ruining my head and erasing my memory, which is my capital, and putting me out of business? It was a brilliant cure but we lost the patient." In the spring of 1961, Hemingway attempted suicide and was again subjected to electric shock therapy. On the morning of July 2, 1961, the great author was found dead in his Ketchum, Idaho home, from a self-inflicted shotgun blast to the head. This amazing letter, with incredible literary content, is in very fine condition.
C. S. Lewis Autograph Letter Signed twice- once in manuscript, once in capital letters. One page with address handwritten on verso, 8" x 9.5" British Air Letter, February 9, 1960, Magdalene College, Cambridge, to Miss Nicholson of Reader's Digest. Lewis writes, in full: "I agree to you reprinting the homage quoted in your letter of Feb 5 with payment of $35, provided the Saturday Evening Post makes no objection. Yours sincerely..." On the verso, Lewis has addressed this fold-and-seal air letter to Miss Nicholson in block letters, also writing "C. S. LEWIS, MAGDALENE COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND" as the sender's name and address. Original folds and rough edges from opening, else fine.
Clive Staples Lewis (1898-1963), a prolific and popular author, essayist, educator, medievalist, and Christian apologist, moved from Magdalen College, Oxford in 1953 to become Cambridge's first Professor of Medieval and Renaissance Literature. There he spent the last ten years of his life. Quite likely, this letter of permission deals with a piece he wrote for a December 1959 issue of the Saturday Evening Post as a satire on the American and British educational systems. A brief sequel to his 1942 book The Screwtape Letters, this op-ed essay was titled "Screwtape Proposes a Toast" and has the senior demon Screwtape giving an after-dinner speech to the "Tempters' Training College for Young Devils."
Clive Staples Lewis (1898-1963), a prolific and popular author, essayist, educator, medievalist, and Christian apologist, moved from Magdalen College, Oxford in 1953 to become Cambridge's first Professor of Medieval and Renaissance Literature. There he spent the last ten years of his life. Quite likely, this letter of permission deals with a piece he wrote for a December 1959 issue of the Saturday Evening Post as a satire on the American and British educational systems. A brief sequel to his 1942 book The Screwtape Letters, this op-ed essay was titled "Screwtape Proposes a Toast" and has the senior demon Screwtape giving an after-dinner speech to the "Tempters' Training College for Young Devils."
Ernest Hemingway Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.25" x 11" "Finca Vigia" letterhead, November 5, 1952, San Francisco de Paula, Cuba, to a Miss Johnson, of Reader's Digest. In full: "I am very sorry that I cannot give you permission to re-publish 'On the Blue Water,' which first appeared in the April 1936 issue of Esquire. There is one book by me about the sea on sale at present and have no wish to saturate the public. For your future information I would never be interested in re-printing anything, ever, anywhere, for the fee you name. With best wishes, Yours very truly,..." Beneath the letter, in pencil, is written, "We offered $600" and "Story Killed" likely in the hand of Miss Johnson. Also in pencil, at the top, is written, "Esquire" and "File Hemingway". Letter has original mailing folds, staple holes at top left, and is a bit crinkled, else fine condition.
The book Hemingway mentions in this letter is, of course, The Old Man and the Sea. Its first publication had taken place in the September 1, 1952 issue of LIFE Magazine, an issue that sold over five million copies in two days. It was actually a reworking of the earlier 1936 Esquire story, a tale about a "Cuban fisherman who fought a swordfish for four days and four nights only to lose it to sharks." At this point in time, it's no wonder that he turned down $600 for a re-publication of "On the Blue Water!" The Old Man and the Sea was the last major fictional work of Hemingway's that was published in his lifetime; it contributed heavily to his winning of the 1953 Nobel Prize for Literature. This letter was obtained directly from the recipient who worked in the offices of Reader's Digest.
The book Hemingway mentions in this letter is, of course, The Old Man and the Sea. Its first publication had taken place in the September 1, 1952 issue of LIFE Magazine, an issue that sold over five million copies in two days. It was actually a reworking of the earlier 1936 Esquire story, a tale about a "Cuban fisherman who fought a swordfish for four days and four nights only to lose it to sharks." At this point in time, it's no wonder that he turned down $600 for a re-publication of "On the Blue Water!" The Old Man and the Sea was the last major fictional work of Hemingway's that was published in his lifetime; it contributed heavily to his winning of the 1953 Nobel Prize for Literature. This letter was obtained directly from the recipient who worked in the offices of Reader's Digest.
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. Autograph Poem and Letter Signed "Oliver Wendell Holmes". One page, 4.5" x 7", June 23, 1871, Boston. This letter, written to an unnamed recipient, incorporates an eight line poem following the closing and signature of the letter. Entitled "To a Bright Boy", Holmes describes the poem in the letter as "not very good poetry":
I trust my counsel you will heed,
You're almost too quick witted;
Your brain is like a fiery steed
That needs to be well bitted:
Don't treat it like a wooden toy
A child may safely play with;
You'd better hold it tight, my boy,
Or you'll be run away with!
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. (1809 - 1894) was a physician by training; however, he is best remembered for wielding a clever pen and for siring the great Supreme Court justice who carried his name. Toned with folds; fine.
I trust my counsel you will heed,
You're almost too quick witted;
Your brain is like a fiery steed
That needs to be well bitted:
Don't treat it like a wooden toy
A child may safely play with;
You'd better hold it tight, my boy,
Or you'll be run away with!
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. (1809 - 1894) was a physician by training; however, he is best remembered for wielding a clever pen and for siring the great Supreme Court justice who carried his name. Toned with folds; fine.
Jack Kerouac Thrice Signed Check. One page, 6.25" x 2.75", January 16, 1959, for $100 drawn on the Security National Bank of Northport, New York. The payee is "Jack Kerouac"; "PAID/ 1 1959" perforation holes through "Kerouac". The front of the check is also signed "Jack Kerouac" as the drawer. Kerouac endorsement on verso has been stamped by the Second National Bank of Huntington. There is no memo line; the check number is 56. The account's owners are listed as Jack Kerouac and Gabrielle Kerouac, his mother. Kerouac (1922-1969) was an important early voice of the Beat Generation, expressing himself through his books like On the Road (1957), The Dharma Bums (1958), and Big Sur (1962). He moved to Northport, New York, in 1958 to care for his mother. Fine.
Jack London Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", Sonoma, CA, September 18, 1906. In response to an inquiry about the main character in his story The Unexpected (McClure's, August 1906), London sent this letter to Reverend R.F. Johonnot. The story was based on newspaper reports which offered an account of the double murder committed by Michael Dennin and of his subsequent hanging by Mrs. Nelson and her husband Hans. London's letter reads, in part: "No, I never met Mrs. Nelson. She was tried before Commission [sic] Malcolm at Juneau in the Spring of 1900, and of course, promptly acquitted. . . . You can get all kinds of interesting information concerning Mrs. Nelson and my story, from the following papers: The Seattle Post-Intelligencer for July 28 and July 29. And the Seattle Sunday Times, for July 29. Sincerely yours, Jack London." Letter bears London's ink stamped "Glen Ellen" address at upper right, and is lightly age toned. Unfortunately, London has added the handwritten date "1906" beneath his signature and drawn connecting lines to the newspaper story dates, which cross his signature in two places. Minor edge damage at upper right. Jack London letters are not often seen, and those discussing his stories and characters are particularly desirable. Fine condition.
Herman Melville Signature, 4" x 1", n.d., n.p. Melville (1819-1891), the author of the great American masterpiece Moby Dick, has boldly and clearly signed this slip which has been cleanly excised from a larger document. With mounting remnants on verso; fine. Matted with an image from Moby Dick.
Katherine Anne Porter Autograph Letter Signed and Autograph Note Signed. Porter was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist, essayist, short story writer, novelist, and political activist. This two-piece collection consists of the following:
Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 9", n.p., July 20, 1945. A brief note to a fan, in part: "The books will have to make rather a long journey, but I will be very happy to sign them for your husband and return them at once." Fine condition.
Autograph Note Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", n.p., March 9, 1975. Porter has penned a brief note to Shirley Cohen at the bottom of a page featuring a portion of her acclaimed short story, Rope. The note reads: "For Shirley Cohen - With all good wishes. Who found in this story, written nearly fifty years ago, that young married people sound much alike through the ages, in tone and feeling, if in endless variety of incidents." Very fine.
Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 9", n.p., July 20, 1945. A brief note to a fan, in part: "The books will have to make rather a long journey, but I will be very happy to sign them for your husband and return them at once." Fine condition.
Autograph Note Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", n.p., March 9, 1975. Porter has penned a brief note to Shirley Cohen at the bottom of a page featuring a portion of her acclaimed short story, Rope. The note reads: "For Shirley Cohen - With all good wishes. Who found in this story, written nearly fifty years ago, that young married people sound much alike through the ages, in tone and feeling, if in endless variety of incidents." Very fine.
Dante Gabriel Rossetti Autograph Letters Signed. Two letters, one trimmed, 4.5" x 7.25" and 4.5" x 3.25" respectively, n.p., n.d. [London]. Noted English poet, illustrator, painter and translator, Dante Rossetti sent these brief, friendly notes to unknown recipients, although one is addressed to "My dear Wm." This first letter, to William, mentions "a pressing matter of business," because of which Rossetti hopes to reschedule their meeting time from Monday to Wednesday. It is signed "Yours affect. DGR." The second, trimmed letter was written in response to a request for a comment; Rossetti writes that "I could not give any distinct answer just at present," and signs the letter "Yours very truly, D.G. Rossetti." The untrimmed letter has been affixed to a 6" x 10" piece of heavy paper, which also features two of Rossetti's printed poems, A Superscription and Sea-Limits, clipped from unknown publications. Both letters are age toned and bear minor soiling. Very good condition.
Sir Walter Scott Autograph Letter Signed "God Bless you my good friend, Walter Scott". Three pages, 7.75" x 10", November 28, 1825, Edinburgh. Scott writes this letter to English poet Robert Southey concerning changes in the editorship at the Quarterly Review. In part: "Whatever you may have to complain of with respect to Murray's conduct, was totally unknown to me. till the middle or rather the end of October, I had no more idea of Lockhart's being manager of the Quarterly than of my being to-night on the top of Skiddaw. Neither do I know at this moment with whom the plan originated, or how many or how few of those connected with the Review were concerned. Indeed, I neither wrote nor spoke to any friend that I have in the world on the subject, until I wrote on the same day to Heber and yourself - to both my old friends, and literary men, and to you as a most valuable contributor to the work. . . . In respect to Mr. Coleridge, nothing would give me more pain than the idea that either Lockhart or I were edging him out of a lucrative and honourable situation. The situation was offered to Lockhart by Mr. Murray as open and disengaged; he put the question whether Mr. Coleridge's retiring was a thing determined on, and he received a positive answer in the affirmative. He had no access to Mr. Coleridge personally, but never doubted that a full explanation had taken place between Mr. Murray and him. The first question I asked was concerning Mr. Coleridge's connection with the Review, and I was assured it terminated with the new year's commencement. An accident would have confirmed me in this belief had I doubted it for a moment. Lord Giffored, in my house, and in conversation, mentioned Mr. Coleridge's prospects of rising at the bar, and his Lordship expressed a regret that his management of the Quarterly was like to interfere with them. This seemed perfectly to explain why the situation was open. . . . It requires some time to know John Lockhart, and you have been accustomed to associate his name with disagreeable matters. But when you do know him, remember I tell you beforehand, you will like him. If I had not occasion to know him to be both safe, well-tempered, and competent, with a high feeling of honour and public principle, I would rather put my hand in the fire than accept of your generous offer to continue on my account your support to the work which he must in future manage. I shall mention to him when he comes to town this week, that although you are not satisfied with the manner in which the change of Editorship has been intimated to you, yet in consideration of our old friendship, you are not disposed to withdraw from the work an assistance which I know Lockhart will highly appreciate."
The Quarterly Review, founded in 1809 by John Murray, was going through a change in editor at the time Sir Walter (1771-1832) wrote this letter, a change which worried Robert Southey (1774-1843). This letter was written in part to soothe Southey's concerns. The Review, a political and literary periodical with such notable contributors as Scott, Southey, and Charles Lamb, had just assigned John Gibson Lockhart to replace John Taylor Coleridge, an English judge who had served as editor for less than a year. Lockhart, who would serve as the Review editor until 1853, later wrote a notable biography on the life of Sir Walter in the 1830s. This letter is mildly soiled and age toned. Page three, which has been framed in archival paper with verso visible, contains a "v" cut along the right edge. The verso of page three contains the address, postmark, and red wax seal. This letter offers interesting insight on the early nineteenth century English literary scene; very good.
The Quarterly Review, founded in 1809 by John Murray, was going through a change in editor at the time Sir Walter (1771-1832) wrote this letter, a change which worried Robert Southey (1774-1843). This letter was written in part to soothe Southey's concerns. The Review, a political and literary periodical with such notable contributors as Scott, Southey, and Charles Lamb, had just assigned John Gibson Lockhart to replace John Taylor Coleridge, an English judge who had served as editor for less than a year. Lockhart, who would serve as the Review editor until 1853, later wrote a notable biography on the life of Sir Walter in the 1830s. This letter is mildly soiled and age toned. Page three, which has been framed in archival paper with verso visible, contains a "v" cut along the right edge. The verso of page three contains the address, postmark, and red wax seal. This letter offers interesting insight on the early nineteenth century English literary scene; very good.
Voltaire Autograph Letter Signed "Voltaire". Written in Italian on two and one-half pages, 7" x 8.5", Potsdam, July 8, 1752, to Father Jacquier, a priest living in Rome, who possibly had some role at the Vatican. Voltaire, the pen name for Francois-Marie Arouet, writes in part: "My wish to see you again was the most powerful incentive to cause me to wend my way to Rome, but up till now my poor health and the joyous leisure that I have here in the palace of a Philosopher-King have kept me at Potsdam. . . I pray you, please present my most reverent respects to the Cardinal-Secretary. If the most esteemed Cardinal Alberoni to whom I wish many more years of life, wishes me to write the history of his activities in Spain he should send his personal papers to me in Potsdam by public carrier; I am full of ambition to erect a monument dedicated to his glory with those materials."
Voltaire (1694-1778), a French Enlightenment philosopher and prolific writer, produced plays, novels, essays, and scientific and historical works. He influenced the leaders behind the American and French revolutions. At Potsdam, Voltaire stayed at the summer palace of Frederick the Great, the "Philosopher-King", from 1750 until 1753, one year after this letter was written, when their friendship came to a nasty end. Giulio Alberoni, the subject of the letter, was an Italian cardinal who served the Spanish King Philip V from 1711 through 1719. The letter, which has been spread open displaying pages two and three, with an engraving of Voltaire are matted to an overall size of 26.75" x 14.5". On the back of the mat, page one is viewable through a cut-out. Included with lot is a typed English transcription. The letter is age-toned, in fine condition, and ready to be prominently displayed.
Voltaire (1694-1778), a French Enlightenment philosopher and prolific writer, produced plays, novels, essays, and scientific and historical works. He influenced the leaders behind the American and French revolutions. At Potsdam, Voltaire stayed at the summer palace of Frederick the Great, the "Philosopher-King", from 1750 until 1753, one year after this letter was written, when their friendship came to a nasty end. Giulio Alberoni, the subject of the letter, was an Italian cardinal who served the Spanish King Philip V from 1711 through 1719. The letter, which has been spread open displaying pages two and three, with an engraving of Voltaire are matted to an overall size of 26.75" x 14.5". On the back of the mat, page one is viewable through a cut-out. Included with lot is a typed English transcription. The letter is age-toned, in fine condition, and ready to be prominently displayed.
Thornton Wilder: Two Autograph Letters Signed. The first: one page, 6" x 7", "50 Deepwood Drive" letterhead, July 10, 1959, Hamden, Connecticut, to Miss Nicholson of Reader's Digest. In full: "You sent me (a cheque and) a remark about matters permitted and forbidden in various European countries. I never said it; it's not the kind of thing I say (slap-dash epigrams, so wide-swinging that they cease to be instructive). I return the cheque - with thanks - but allow me to keep the letter and the quotation for my enlarging collection of remarks I never made. Sincerely yours..." A single mailing fold and a paperclip indentation at the top, else very fine.
The second: one page, 5.5" x 3.5" "Miss Isabel Wilder" personal postcard (with stamp and cancellation on verso), July 22 [1959], Hamden, Connecticut, to Miss Nicholson again. In full: "Don't ever go to the trouble of suppressing it. I've even had recipes ascribed to me - and I can barely make toast. In Europe even more than here young journalists try to get their squibs sold by attaching them to 'names'. Lately I saw Sismondi's beautiful epigram ascribed to me: 'The rich are always telling us how unhappy they are; it's their way of wishing to monopolize everything'. I wish I'd said that. Sincerely yours..." Penciled notes at the left give the full name of Sismondi and his death date. Postal cancellations affect a few words at the beginning of the letter but are well away from the signature, else very fine. Two interesting and humorous letters from this popular playwright and novelist.
The second: one page, 5.5" x 3.5" "Miss Isabel Wilder" personal postcard (with stamp and cancellation on verso), July 22 [1959], Hamden, Connecticut, to Miss Nicholson again. In full: "Don't ever go to the trouble of suppressing it. I've even had recipes ascribed to me - and I can barely make toast. In Europe even more than here young journalists try to get their squibs sold by attaching them to 'names'. Lately I saw Sismondi's beautiful epigram ascribed to me: 'The rich are always telling us how unhappy they are; it's their way of wishing to monopolize everything'. I wish I'd said that. Sincerely yours..." Penciled notes at the left give the full name of Sismondi and his death date. Postal cancellations affect a few words at the beginning of the letter but are well away from the signature, else very fine. Two interesting and humorous letters from this popular playwright and novelist.
Miscellaneous
Large Reader's Digest Autograph Archive. Compiled by Ms. Marjorie Nicholson of Reader's Digest, in connection with the publication's reprinting of comments, articles, humor, etc., made by a wide range of public servants, artists, writers, humorists, and other celebrities, primarily in the 1960s. Includes approximately 58 items. The list of names includes: Bertrand Russell, Pierre Daninos, Spring Byington, Henry Youngman, Mick Connolly, George Romney, Senator Harry Byrd, Goodman Ace, Senator Olin Johnston, Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen, Manuel Komroff, Lord Taylor, Dr. Theodor Reik, Ellis Briggs, Sir Julian Huxley, Postmaster General John Gronouski, Canadian Prime Minister Lester Pearson, Secretary of State Dean Rusk, Harry Emerson Fosdick. British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, Former Prime Minister of France Pierre Mendes-France, Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs Abba Eban, Maurice Chevalier, Irving Stone, Edith Sitwell, Dr. Wernher von Braun, Sam Levinson, Senator Barry Goldwater, actor Tristram Coffin, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, Edna Ferber, Jean Cocteau, Norman Rockwell, operatic contralto Sigrid Onegin, Lucius Beebe, Westbrook Pegler, Henry Ford, Al Capp, and more. Letters range in condition from very good to very fine. Prospective buyers are advised to view the lot carefully prior to bidding.
Autographs
Franz Liszt Autograph Letter Signed "F. Liszt", one page, 4.5" x 7", Weimar, Germany, May 15, 1878. In German, untranslated. With toning, otherwise very good.
Liszt had first taken up residence in Weimar in 1842 at the invitation of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna of Russia. He had retired from touring as a pianist and was appointed Kapellmeister Extraordinaire. He remained in Weimar until 1861, but would periodically return thereafter. Although untranslated this letter appears to regard touring and mentions Paris.
Liszt had first taken up residence in Weimar in 1842 at the invitation of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna of Russia. He had retired from touring as a pianist and was appointed Kapellmeister Extraordinaire. He remained in Weimar until 1861, but would periodically return thereafter. Although untranslated this letter appears to regard touring and mentions Paris.
Miscellaneous
Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided, in French, 8" x 12.25", "Paris, 5 Germinal." Rouget de Lisle was a French composer, famous for writing La Marseillaise, the French national anthem, in 1792. The song's lyrics reflect the invasion of France by foreign armies (from Prussia and Austria) which was ongoing when it was written, and it became the rallying call of the French Revolution.
Here, the famed composer writes a sarcastic letter to the "Citizens Directors" to complain that he was not granted an unnamed request. Referencing himself, he says: "Since the man who passed through the crucible of the Revolution, who has served the Fatherland with pen and his sword, whose outstanding service, courageous actions, national recognition and solemn decrees have long summoned rewards, in place of which he has suffered only persecutions, since that man may not lay the slightest claim to your favor, it would be urgent for you to indicate to worthy men how they ought to present themselves to you to determine it." Letter is lightly age toned and in generally fine condition.
Here, the famed composer writes a sarcastic letter to the "Citizens Directors" to complain that he was not granted an unnamed request. Referencing himself, he says: "Since the man who passed through the crucible of the Revolution, who has served the Fatherland with pen and his sword, whose outstanding service, courageous actions, national recognition and solemn decrees have long summoned rewards, in place of which he has suffered only persecutions, since that man may not lay the slightest claim to your favor, it would be urgent for you to indicate to worthy men how they ought to present themselves to you to determine it." Letter is lightly age toned and in generally fine condition.
Autographs
John Philip Sousa Typed Letter Signed and Typed Manuscript Signed. Letter: One page, 8.5" x 11", Willow Grove, PA, August 4, 1924. Manuscript: Ten pages, 8.5" x 11", Willow Grove, PA, August 4, 1924. The great composer and band leader sends the following cover letter to Major E. N. McClellan of the Marine Corps's Historical Department. "I am sending with this the article I promised, together with a photograph taken during the time I was with the Marine Band. I hope the Article will suit you. Believe me, Most Sincerely, John Philip Sousa." The letter is accompanied by Sousa's article about his time with the U.S. Marine Band. The article, titled "The Band of the United States Marine Corps" is also accompanied by an original 10" x 8" photograph of the 1891 Marine Corps band, which features Sousa as conductor.
Letter and manuscript are lightly age toned with occasional moderate soiling; punch holes and pin holes at upper edge. Photo shows light wear; minor damage and a small tear at upper left of very wide margin. A great little Sousa archive in very good condition.
Letter and manuscript are lightly age toned with occasional moderate soiling; punch holes and pin holes at upper edge. Photo shows light wear; minor damage and a small tear at upper left of very wide margin. A great little Sousa archive in very good condition.
Photography
John Philip Sousa Signed Photograph, 7" x 9.5", sepia tone. Although the photographic print is later, the date below the signature is "1885". The image shows Sousa in 1885 when he was the head of the Marine Band. It is interesting to note, that Sousa, an active Freemason, is wearing a Masonic Medal or Jewel on the left breast of his Marine Corps uniform. The photo has been clipped with light surface abrasions and folds, a small tear below the signature, else very good.
Autographs
Aubrey Beardsley Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 4.5" x 3.5", with transmittal envelope postmarked September 30, 1897, Paris. In full: "My Dear LS./ The Wagner (a sumptuous vol[ume]) has arrived. Many thanks/ Yours a". The transmittal envelope is addressed with beautiful penmanship to "Leonard Smithers Esq/ 4 Royal Arcade/ Old Bond Street/ London/ W/ Angleterre". Beardsley (1872-1898), an English Decadent movement illustrator and writer, had been in Paris for two weeks when he wrote this letter to his close associate Leonard Smithers, a London publisher also associated with the Decadent movement. The two wrote many letters to one another and, together with writer Arthur Symons, began the Savoy, a magazine published in 1896 that dealt with anti-Victorian art and literature. The magazine did not last long; only eight issues were published.
Beardsley was an admirer of the writings and music of German composer Richard Wagner. During Beardsley's most creative years from 1892 through 1896, he yielded over twenty Wagnerian-related drawings. Even though he suffered from chronic tuberculosis-the cause of his death at age twenty-five-Beardsley still managed to attend many Wagner operas. At the top of this letter is written "Foyot" (while in Paris, Beardsley stayed in Foyot's Hotel in the Luxemburg Quarter).The short letter is written on beige cardstock. Envelope and card have three small areas of tape discoloration. Fine.
Beardsley was an admirer of the writings and music of German composer Richard Wagner. During Beardsley's most creative years from 1892 through 1896, he yielded over twenty Wagnerian-related drawings. Even though he suffered from chronic tuberculosis-the cause of his death at age twenty-five-Beardsley still managed to attend many Wagner operas. At the top of this letter is written "Foyot" (while in Paris, Beardsley stayed in Foyot's Hotel in the Luxemburg Quarter).The short letter is written on beige cardstock. Envelope and card have three small areas of tape discoloration. Fine.
Mary Cassatt Autograph Letter Signed, circa 1892. One page, two-sided, in French on her personal mourning stationery, 5" x 6.5", "10, Rue de Marignan, Paris," n.d. [Wednesday"]. This enigmatic letter is addressed to an unknown correspondent, and translates, in full: "Your letter from this morning tells me that you are no longer in Paris and therefore cannot take care of Madame Lepine's affairs. Since her daughter is now in the process of earning a living, I shall send Madame Lepine a sum for her to pay off her debts and a bit of money until the sale. But I am nevertheless decided not to give her anything more than I promised. If you only knew what that sum could do for some poor families of workers! It would save children from death. I have no sympathy for those who are capable of working but do not wish to do so. You know that you told me that Madame Lepine and her brothers are not able to do anything. But it is obvious that when it is a question of working or doing something for friends, nothing is ever done. I hope that you will have a nice stay in the Midi. I have not had a reply from Madame Ernest Rouart about the copy of Corot, but I will no doubt have a reply one of these days."
Mary Stevenson Cassatt was an American painter and printmaker who lived much of her adult life in France. Her father, Robert Simpson Cassat (later Cassatt), was a politician, stockbroker, land speculator, and founder of the Philadelphia banking house of Lloyd, Cassatt & Co. Mary's brother, Alexander J. Cassatt, was the president of the Pennsylvania Railroad from 1899 to 1906. Letter is likely dated following her father's death on Dec. 9, 1891, and possibly prior to February 17, 1892, when Cassatt departed Paris for the South of France. The artist's fiery temper is evident in this mysterious letter, revealing an impressive work ethic and compassion for those unable to do for themselves. Madame Lepine cannot be identified; Madame Rouart is a reference to Julie Manet, the daughter and only child of artist Berthe Morisot and Eugene Manet (younger brother of painter Édouard Manet), who married Ernest Rouart, grandson of painter Henri Rouart. The "copy of Corot" is a reference to an unknown work by French landscape painter Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot. Letter is in very fine condition and suitable for prominent display.
Mary Stevenson Cassatt was an American painter and printmaker who lived much of her adult life in France. Her father, Robert Simpson Cassat (later Cassatt), was a politician, stockbroker, land speculator, and founder of the Philadelphia banking house of Lloyd, Cassatt & Co. Mary's brother, Alexander J. Cassatt, was the president of the Pennsylvania Railroad from 1899 to 1906. Letter is likely dated following her father's death on Dec. 9, 1891, and possibly prior to February 17, 1892, when Cassatt departed Paris for the South of France. The artist's fiery temper is evident in this mysterious letter, revealing an impressive work ethic and compassion for those unable to do for themselves. Madame Lepine cannot be identified; Madame Rouart is a reference to Julie Manet, the daughter and only child of artist Berthe Morisot and Eugene Manet (younger brother of painter Édouard Manet), who married Ernest Rouart, grandson of painter Henri Rouart. The "copy of Corot" is a reference to an unknown work by French landscape painter Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot. Letter is in very fine condition and suitable for prominent display.
Marc Chagall Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8.25" x 10.5", 1959, Vence, on "Les Collines" stationary, in Yiddish. Chagall writes to "Dear Aronson". Perhaps the recipient was Boris Aronson, a very influential Russian-born scenic designer for Broadway and Yiddish theatre who, in 1924, wrote a short monograph on Chagall and his art. The two men, sharing a common heritage and view of art, remained friends. In 1964, Aronson collaborated with Harold Prince designing the sets for Fiddler on the Roof, which took its title from Chagall's 1911 painting, The Fiddler. In this letter, Chagall discusses various art exhibitions. He also tells Aronson, "I hope that David at the Hotel des Ventes does not offer the historical paintings for sale . . . I love them." In closing, Chagall urges Aronson to "remain a true Jew among the torn [or divided] Jews." Folds and light soiling, else fine.
Winslow Homer 1907 Autograph Letter Signed "Winslow Homer," four pages, 5" x 7.75". Scarboro, Maine, January 22, 1907. To Mr. William Clausen. In full: "Please send me the bill for the frame 24 x 28. I shall send the picture for it soon. I will leave it with you for a month. As I am in love with it and have been for thirty years I put a price on it so that it will not be sold at present. I know all the faults in it, but they are useful to the whole thing & I leave them untouched. If you will place some article of furniture in front of this in your Gallery or hang it up high to keep people from smelling of it - and at their proper distance. Three times its width. I should say that would be a good hint to them & something they should know. [drawing -- see note below] This must net me $2400.00 as I now can afford to have it hanging in my own house. You see I care how old I am - the amount of money I have in my pocket & the limits of old age. The years & money are all right but pictures are scarce." At the lower margin of the third page, Homer has drawn a sketch of a gallery wall with rails in front of it to illustrate how his painting should be displayed.
The painting was likely Shall I Tell Your Fortune, picturing an early love, which corresponds to the date and size mentioned. Homer is best known for his paintings of American landscapes and seascapes, that show considerable originality and reflect the American pioneering spirit. Clausen was the owner of an art gallery. Letters by the artist discussing his work are rarely encountered. Dampstained at margins of edges, bordering the once mid-vertical fold, which has separated. Twenty-six words of text (most at the ends of lines) are affected. Shaded upper edge. Tip of left corner of page three is missing. Paper clip rust stain at upper left edge touches all pages.
The painting was likely Shall I Tell Your Fortune, picturing an early love, which corresponds to the date and size mentioned. Homer is best known for his paintings of American landscapes and seascapes, that show considerable originality and reflect the American pioneering spirit. Clausen was the owner of an art gallery. Letters by the artist discussing his work are rarely encountered. Dampstained at margins of edges, bordering the once mid-vertical fold, which has separated. Twenty-six words of text (most at the ends of lines) are affected. Shaded upper edge. Tip of left corner of page three is missing. Paper clip rust stain at upper left edge touches all pages.
Claude Monet Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided, written in French in purple ink on black-bordered mourning stationery, "Giverny par Vernon, Eure.," September 21, 1912. One of the founders of French impressionist painting, Monet was the most consistent and prolific practitioner of the movement's philosophy of expressing one's perceptions of nature, as opposed to strict replication of natural scenes. The term Impressionism is derived from the title of Monet's painting Impression, Sunrise.
Shortly after the death of his second wife Alice, the great artist penned this letter to his stepson Jean-Pierre Hoschede, regarding the sale of Alice's estate. It reads, in part: "send me, as soon as you get it, the letter notifying you about the sale to take place on the 20th. . . . M. Michel [Monet's other son] . . . wrote that the auctioneer would be happy to reschedule for the 27th, but that Jacques' attorney refused to do so, citing as a reason that the summons had already been sent to the heirs and that we were in fact abusing the situation." Less than two years later, Monet's son Jean-Pierre would also pass away. Letter is very boldly penned with a large and vibrant signature. Lightly age toned; generally fine.
Shortly after the death of his second wife Alice, the great artist penned this letter to his stepson Jean-Pierre Hoschede, regarding the sale of Alice's estate. It reads, in part: "send me, as soon as you get it, the letter notifying you about the sale to take place on the 20th. . . . M. Michel [Monet's other son] . . . wrote that the auctioneer would be happy to reschedule for the 27th, but that Jacques' attorney refused to do so, citing as a reason that the summons had already been sent to the heirs and that we were in fact abusing the situation." Less than two years later, Monet's son Jean-Pierre would also pass away. Letter is very boldly penned with a large and vibrant signature. Lightly age toned; generally fine.
Edmund Osthaus Original Drawing of Dogs Signed. One page, 6.5" x 3.75", n.d., n.p. German-born American artist Edmund Osthaus (1858-1928), known for his paintings of dogs, signs this original drawing of two English Setters with bold signature. Matted and framed to an overall size of 12" x 10". Fine.
Susan B. Anthony Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 10", January 21, 1899, Rochester, New York. The letter is to Mrs. Bertha Poole, president of the Livingston Park Seminary Association, asking that Mrs. Poole and a delegate attend a meeting at Watson House, January 25, 1899, to hear the reports of the Committee on Constitution and Nominations of the Local Council of Women. The original National American Woman Suffrage Association transmittal envelope, addressed in Anthony's hand, and a post card showing Anthony's Rochester home, accompanies the letter. The letter and envelope are toned, else all are near fine. Bertha Poole was a reform activist and magazine writer who, in 1907, married Walter Weyl, one of the founders of The New Republic, whom she met at Hull House.
Belva Lockwood Autograph Letter Signed. One page, with docketing on the verso, 7.75" x 9.75", July 8, 1874, Washington D.C. The letter regards the delivery of evidence in a court trial. Lockwood was one of the first female lawyers in the United States. She was the first woman to be allowed to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. Lockwood ran for president in 1884 and 1888 on the ticket of the National Equal Rights Party and was the first woman to appear on official ballots. Light folds, else fine.
Books
Clarence Darrow Signed Copy of The Story of My Life. New York & London: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1932. First edition. 8vo. 465pp. Blue cloth boards, with gilt title. Inscribed on the half title page: "Inscribed to Andrew P Canning with the kind regards of his old time friend. Clarence Darrow Chicago August 5th 1932". Gently toned throughout, with spot of light red ink at top right corners of al interior pages. Sun toning to spine, otherwise gently worn cover. Very good.
Autographs
Ezra Cornell Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages including integral address leaf, written on recto of first page only, 7.75" x 9.75", Newburgh NY, October 3, 1848. Written on blue lined paper; wax seal remnants on address leaf. Docketed on recto of first page and verso of second page. American businessman and founder of Cornell University, Ezra Cornell made his fortune in the telegraph business as an associate of Samuel Morse, having gained Morse's trust by constructing and stringing the telegraph poles between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, to create the first telegraph line of substance in the U.S. After joining with Morse, Cornell supervised the erection of many more telegraph lines, earning a substantial fortune as a founder of the Western Union Company.
Approximately five years after constructing that first telegraph line, Cornell penned this letter to D. Boardman, regarding the sale of subscriptions for telegraph stock and the necessary funds to pay his workmen. It reads, in part: "If you have not already done so, I wish you would give . . . and order to pay me what funds there may be. . . . My men in that vicinity want funds. Honesdale has filled up their subscriptions. Carbondale has nearly done so. I expect to bring Newburgh up to $5000 today and tomorrow I have a meeting at Singsing. Our work is going on finely, and our prospects for the most profitable telegraph line in the country, is increasing." In a postscript, Cornell adds: "I address this to you for the reason that I do not know whether you have organized or not and if so who of you is chairman." Letter is lightly age toned and in very fine condition. Excellent content!
Approximately five years after constructing that first telegraph line, Cornell penned this letter to D. Boardman, regarding the sale of subscriptions for telegraph stock and the necessary funds to pay his workmen. It reads, in part: "If you have not already done so, I wish you would give . . . and order to pay me what funds there may be. . . . My men in that vicinity want funds. Honesdale has filled up their subscriptions. Carbondale has nearly done so. I expect to bring Newburgh up to $5000 today and tomorrow I have a meeting at Singsing. Our work is going on finely, and our prospects for the most profitable telegraph line in the country, is increasing." In a postscript, Cornell adds: "I address this to you for the reason that I do not know whether you have organized or not and if so who of you is chairman." Letter is lightly age toned and in very fine condition. Excellent content!
George Eastman Typed Letter Signed. Two carbon pages, 8.5" x 11", Rochester, NY, July 27, 1921. The well-known founder of the Eastman Kodak Company, George Eastman, writes to Senator Howard Sutherland concerning "the tariff on raw motion picture film contained in the House Bill now before the Finance Committee of the Senate." Eastman states that "A great deal of this propaganda contained in the Hearst newspapers has also come to our attention and it seems only fair that you should have before you at once a brief statement of the facts in the matter. . . . The purport of this propaganda . . . is that this tariff will prevent all competition by foreign made film and will be used by this Company to enable it to raise its present prices on photographic film. I desire to say as emphatically as possible that this Company has no intention, if a duty is placed on films, of advancing its price of motion picture films." This carbon copy has been very boldly signed by Eastman on the second page, and is accompanied by a badly decomposed strip of film bearing typed explanations regarding how tariffs affect the price of unexposed and exposed film. Also accompanied by a carbon copy flimsy of Senator Sutherland's response dated August 1, 1921: "My dear sir: I am in receipt of your letter of the 27th ult. relative to the pending tariff legislation. This matter will have my careful attention." Both letters are lightly age toned and in fine condition. Film is brittle and in poor condition. A terrific addition to any photography collection!
Thomas A. Edison Annotated Typed Notes Signed "E". A total of seventeen pages, 8.5" x 11", [1919]. Questions and answers prepared by Jeffrey P. Buchanan, manager of disc record manufacturing, to be posed to civil engineers and mechanical engineers seeking employment at Edison Laboratories. There are eight pages of thirty-nine questions and answers designed to test mechanical engineers and another six pages of twenty-four questions and thirty-one answers for civil engineers. There are an additional three pages with Edison's pencil notes regarding the questions and answers. Included is an undated and un-attributed newspaper article critical of Edison's methods of questioning of applicants and his assertion that college men are "amazingly ignorant" when it comes to answering his questions. Toning and minor chipping at the edges, else very good.
Thomas A. Edison Typed Letter Signed on his imprinted laboratory letterhead. One page, 8.5" x 11", Orange N.J., Dec. 16, 1913. Writing to H.N. Marvin, president of the Motion Picture Patent Company, declining a dinner invitation due to illness. He write, "I would brace up and make the attempt to go over, but 'my wife wont [sic] let me'." Signed "Thos A Edison", adding his trademark umbrella flourish. Usual folds, with a few stray stains.
Thomas A. Edison Typed Letter Signed "Thos. A. Edison". One page, 8.5" x 11", Orange, New Jersey, January 16, 1924, on Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison stationery. In the letter, addressed to Mr. George Kleine, Edison accepts an invitation to attend a luncheon with members of the motion picture industry. Edison explains that, "I rarely attend such functions on account of my extreme deafness".
Edison, "The Wizard of Menlo Park", was one of the first inventors to apply the principles of mass production to the process of invention, and therefore is often credited with the creation of the first industrial research laboratory. Among his many inventions Edison built a Kinetoscope, that allowed people to watch short, simple films. In 1908, Edison started the Motion Picture Patents Company, which was a conglomerate of nine major film studios (commonly known as the Edison Trust), that controlled much of the motion picture industry. Edison thought that talkies "spoiled everything" in motion pictures. Later Edison lamented, "There isn't any good acting on the screen. They concentrate on the voice now and have forgotten how to act. I can sense it more than you because I am deaf."
Edison, "The Wizard of Menlo Park", was one of the first inventors to apply the principles of mass production to the process of invention, and therefore is often credited with the creation of the first industrial research laboratory. Among his many inventions Edison built a Kinetoscope, that allowed people to watch short, simple films. In 1908, Edison started the Motion Picture Patents Company, which was a conglomerate of nine major film studios (commonly known as the Edison Trust), that controlled much of the motion picture industry. Edison thought that talkies "spoiled everything" in motion pictures. Later Edison lamented, "There isn't any good acting on the screen. They concentrate on the voice now and have forgotten how to act. I can sense it more than you because I am deaf."
Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed "Father" and Writing "Einstein" in the Address. A humorous ALS in German, written on the back of a postcard, 5.5" x 3.5", with a view of Mt. San Jacinto, postmarked Palm Springs, Jan. 27, 1931. Einstein has penned in blue ink: "Dear Tetel! Thank you for the note. My brain is right now being distilled in the California desert. It's very pleasant. Mama is getting cacti, but I don't have the written-down name with me here. Heartfelt greetings to you both. Your Father." Addressed in Einstein's hand to Eduard (nicknamed "Tetel"): "Herrn Eduard Einstein, Huttenstr. 62, Zurich, Switzerland." On the front of the postcard Ilsa Einstein (his wife) has added: "Heartfelt greetings from the California desert. Ilsa". Near fine condition.
Eduard was Einstein's son from his previous marriage to Mileva Maric, the couple had two sons. In sending greetings "to you both", Einstein is likely including Mileva, as she lived with Eduard who had developed schizophrenia and required continual care.
Eduard was Einstein's son from his previous marriage to Mileva Maric, the couple had two sons. In sending greetings "to you both", Einstein is likely including Mileva, as she lived with Eduard who had developed schizophrenia and required continual care.
Sigmund Freud Autograph Document Signed. "freud". One page, 5.25" x 3.5", Vienna, Feb. 28, 1934, on a correspondence card printed with Freud's name and address "Wien, IX., Berggasse 19", in German. The card, addressed to Professor R. Grinker, is an invoice for 20 hours of Freud's services at a rate of 100 Austrian schillings per hour. Minor mounting remnants on verso, otherwise near fine.
Miscellaneous
John D. Rockefeller Standard Oil Trust Stock Certificate Signed. One page, 16" x 7.75", New York City, May 25, 1888. Magnificent engraved stock certificate for 100 shares of Standard Oil Trust stock. John D. Rockefeller organized Standard Oil Co. in 1870, gained a monopoly in the oil business and organized the Standard Oil Trust in 1882. It was dissolved by court decree in 1892.
We offer a very impressive document, engraved in black and brown ink, issued in the name of A. J. Pouch, one of the trustees of the company. The intricate borders and engraved corner decorations of this handsome issue are offset by a large vignette of the Washington Capitol building at upper center. Engraved by Franklin Bank Note Company and boldly signed by H. M Flagler as secretary and J. D. Rockefeller as president.
Verso is equally attractive with a completed section entitled "For Value Received," which documents the sale of these shares to one Ephriam S. Force. Accompanied by a bust print image and biographical information about Rockefeller. Suitable for prominent display! Very fine condition.
We offer a very impressive document, engraved in black and brown ink, issued in the name of A. J. Pouch, one of the trustees of the company. The intricate borders and engraved corner decorations of this handsome issue are offset by a large vignette of the Washington Capitol building at upper center. Engraved by Franklin Bank Note Company and boldly signed by H. M Flagler as secretary and J. D. Rockefeller as president.
Verso is equally attractive with a completed section entitled "For Value Received," which documents the sale of these shares to one Ephriam S. Force. Accompanied by a bust print image and biographical information about Rockefeller. Suitable for prominent display! Very fine condition.
Autographs
Ty Cobb Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 3.5" x 5", on his personalized letterhead, n.p., September 6, 1955. Cobb sends his response to a request for an autograph. In part: "Appreciate your sentiment, feel honored to comply with your request. I am, Ty Cobb."
Nicknamed The Georgia Peach, Tyrus Raymond Cobb is considered to be one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Cobb broke and set countless Major League records while playing for the Detroit Tigers, and later for the Philadelphia Athletics; some of his records stand to this day. At the time of his death in 1959, Cobb's estate was reported to be worth approximately $12 million, including $10 million worth of General Electric stock and $1.78 million in Coca-Cola stock. In today's dollars, Cobb's estate was worth more than $86 million.
This note is written in green ink and in very fine condition; matted alongside a full-color "Donrus Grand Champion" depiction of Cobb in his prime and framed to an overall size of 11.25" x 8.5". An outstanding baseball collector's piece.
Nicknamed The Georgia Peach, Tyrus Raymond Cobb is considered to be one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Cobb broke and set countless Major League records while playing for the Detroit Tigers, and later for the Philadelphia Athletics; some of his records stand to this day. At the time of his death in 1959, Cobb's estate was reported to be worth approximately $12 million, including $10 million worth of General Electric stock and $1.78 million in Coca-Cola stock. In today's dollars, Cobb's estate was worth more than $86 million.
This note is written in green ink and in very fine condition; matted alongside a full-color "Donrus Grand Champion" depiction of Cobb in his prime and framed to an overall size of 11.25" x 8.5". An outstanding baseball collector's piece.
Harry Houdini Signature and Sentiment, one page, 4.25" x 3", irregular cut. The note reads, "With all good wishes / Houdini". It is attractively framed with eight Houdini images, 25" x 21" overall. Very fine.
Richard E. Byrd Photo Signed. A formal B&W portrait in Navy dress uniform by noted Auburn, New York photographer Ernsberger (who has signed the photo at lower right), 10" x 13" image attached at corners only to a 12.5" x 17.5" mount. Byrd, the legendary aviator and polar explorer, has signed on the lower border: "To William J. Callanan/ with cordial regards/ R E Byrd/ April 30, 1932". Very fine condition.
Charles Lindbergh Autograph Letter Signed "Charles A. Lindbergh". One page, 8.5" x 11", Hawaii, February 9, 1969. Lindbergh writes to Miss Lola Morrow, of the Astronaut Support Office at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, regarding copies of a NASA flight book, which Marrow requested he sign. The letter reads in part: "I have been travelling [sic] in Europe and Asia, and out of contact with my mail. Your January 8th note and list of astronauts catches up with me here in Hawaii. Many thanks. I'll get the books off as soon as I can after I return to my home in Connecticut later this week." The great aviator provides his Connecticut mailing address and ends with a brief note asking Miss Morrow if the books should be sent to her business address in Florida. The signed books were distributed to the Apollo 11 astronauts, who would make their historic landing on the moon a few months after this letter was penned.
Also included is the original transmittal envelope which has a return address of "Lindbergh/ 21 Tokeneke Trail/ Darien, Conn." The letter is matted together with a handsome black and white photograph of a young Lindbergh. Framed to an overall size of 20" x 16.25", the letter is in very fine condition and makes an excellent addition to any aviation collection.
Also included is the original transmittal envelope which has a return address of "Lindbergh/ 21 Tokeneke Trail/ Darien, Conn." The letter is matted together with a handsome black and white photograph of a young Lindbergh. Framed to an overall size of 20" x 16.25", the letter is in very fine condition and makes an excellent addition to any aviation collection.
Charles Lindbergh Book Signed. The Voyage to Lourdes, by Alexis Carrel. New York: Harper & Brothers, [1950]. First edition. 8vo. Signed on the half-title page, "To John and Adelaide Marquand/ With admiration and best wishes/ from Charles A. Lindbergh/ 1950". Lindbergh, an aviation pioneer who piloted the first nonstop solo transatlantic flight from New York to Paris, and Alexis Carrel worked together to construct the perfusion pump, which kept living organs alive outside of the body during surgery. Their work laid the foundation for the artificial heart decades later. Together they co-authored a book, The Culture of Organs, first published in 1938. John Marquand, the recipient of this book, was a Pulitzer Prize winning American author and personal friend of Lindbergh. Lightly rubbed along edges; fine.
Charles Lindbergh Inscribed Presentation Copy of Of Flight and Life. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, [1948]. 8vo. Inscribed by the author on the title page, "To Dr. Dana Atchley/ with great admiration/ and best wishes from/ Charles A. Lindbergh/ August 1948". Lindbergh rose from virtual obscurity to become one of the earliest media superstars after flying the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic from New York to Paris in 1927. He authored several books, including Of Flight and Life. One of his books, The Spirit of St. Louis, won a Pulitzer Prize in 1954. Dr. Dana Atchley, the recipient of this book, helped care for Lindbergh during his final illness. Lindbergh was written in 1998 accusing Atchley of having an affair with Lindbergh's wife, Anne.
Charles Lindbergh's The Spirit of St. Louis Inscribed on the title page, "To Rita Berman/ With best wishes,/ Charles A. Lindbergh". New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1953. Blue cloth, 8vo. The end papers are illustrated with a reproduction of Burnell Poole's aquatint, The Epic of the Air. Lindbergh won the Pulitzer Prize in 1954 for this book about his 1927 transatlantic solo flight in the Spirit of St. Louis. Some fading on spine and around the edges of the front board; fine.
Also offered here is a fascinating Harold L. Ickes typed letter signed as secretary of the interior, two pages, 8" x 10.5", Washington, July 23, 1941. In this letter, Ickes is responding to a letter from Dr. Paul Boller, Minister of the First Presbyterian Church, Far Rockaway, New York. Lindbergh was suspected of being a Nazi sympathizer and Ickes defends his right to criticize Lindbergh as freedom of speech, not its denial. Ickes writes in part: "The right of freedom of speech also covers the right to object to that speech and to criticize it. . . for example, Mr. Lindbergh has the right - which he undoubtedly has and which no one has ever denied him - to attack the President of the United States, then you, or I, or any other citizen has the same right (no more and no less) to attack Mr. Lindbergh for that criticism." Very fine.
Also offered here is a fascinating Harold L. Ickes typed letter signed as secretary of the interior, two pages, 8" x 10.5", Washington, July 23, 1941. In this letter, Ickes is responding to a letter from Dr. Paul Boller, Minister of the First Presbyterian Church, Far Rockaway, New York. Lindbergh was suspected of being a Nazi sympathizer and Ickes defends his right to criticize Lindbergh as freedom of speech, not its denial. Ickes writes in part: "The right of freedom of speech also covers the right to object to that speech and to criticize it. . . for example, Mr. Lindbergh has the right - which he undoubtedly has and which no one has ever denied him - to attack the President of the United States, then you, or I, or any other citizen has the same right (no more and no less) to attack Mr. Lindbergh for that criticism." Very fine.
Charles A. Lindbergh Inscribed Copy of Book Of Flight and Life, "To David B. Dill/ With best wishes, Charles A. Lindbergh". 8vo, New York, 1948, 56 pages. Dust jacket contains some tearing and chipping, but is in good condition. Signature well-preserved on title page. Overall, book is in fine condition.
George III Partially Printed Document Signed "George R." as the King of England. One page, 13.25" x 8.75" (sight size), September 3, 1801, St. James, London, on vellum. The document is a commission naming "Our Trusty and Beloved Thomas Fernyhough" Ensign in the 60th (Royal American) Regiment of Foot, under the command of His Royal Highness Frederick, Duke of York, the King's second, and favorite son. The document contains the original embossed paper seals. Attractively framed with a printed picture of King George III, 27" x 16" (overall). The holographic portion of the commission appears to be re-inked, but the King's signature is strong and untouched, thus near fine.
Thomas Fernyhough was one of four brothers whose military exploits were chronicled in his 1828 book, the Military Memoirs of Four Brothers. The book follows the Fernyhough brothers through the Napoleonic Wars. Henry Fernyhough, a second lieutenant in the Royal Marines, died in 1803 as a result of an accident. Brother John was also a second lieutenant in the Marines, seeing action in various actions from the West Indies to the Mediterranean. He lived through the Battle of Trafalgar only to die while trying to save captured Spanish crewmen from drowning. Robert Fernyhough began in the Royal Marines participating in the British capture of the Cape of Good Hope from the Dutch, the disastrous South American campaign, the Walcheren Expedition, and service as a volunteer officer with the 95th Regiment in the Peninsular Wars. Thomas Fernyhough served in the 60th (Royal American) Regiment of Foot until illness forced him on to half-pay. He became a noted historian and researcher and held the office of Governor of the Military Knights of Windsor. He died in 1844.
Thomas Fernyhough was one of four brothers whose military exploits were chronicled in his 1828 book, the Military Memoirs of Four Brothers. The book follows the Fernyhough brothers through the Napoleonic Wars. Henry Fernyhough, a second lieutenant in the Royal Marines, died in 1803 as a result of an accident. Brother John was also a second lieutenant in the Marines, seeing action in various actions from the West Indies to the Mediterranean. He lived through the Battle of Trafalgar only to die while trying to save captured Spanish crewmen from drowning. Robert Fernyhough began in the Royal Marines participating in the British capture of the Cape of Good Hope from the Dutch, the disastrous South American campaign, the Walcheren Expedition, and service as a volunteer officer with the 95th Regiment in the Peninsular Wars. Thomas Fernyhough served in the 60th (Royal American) Regiment of Foot until illness forced him on to half-pay. He became a noted historian and researcher and held the office of Governor of the Military Knights of Windsor. He died in 1844.
[Lord Horatio Nelson] Frances Nelson Autograph Letter Signed "Frances H. Nelson & Bronte". One page, 7" x 9.5", Paris, May 7, 1822. In full: "I have instructed Monsieur Laffitte & Co. to Draw Bills on your for fifteen Hundred pounds Sterling Which I request you will pay on My account./ I am Gentlemen/ Your Humble Servant,/ Frances H. Nelson & Bronte." Lady Nelson was the wife of Lord Horatio Nelson, the British officer most known for his participation in the Battle of Trafalgar. Lady Nelson, though a good woman and faithful to her husband, bored Lord Nelson, so he treated her badly. He had a long affair with Emma Hamilton, who bore him a child (Frances bore no children). This letter contains docketing and remnants of seal on verso. Stained with some foxing; usual folds with some repairs to the center fold. A rare historical letter in very good condition related to a favorite British historical figure.
Victoria, Queen of England Signed Presentation Copy of The Life of His Royal Highness the Prince Consort by Theodore Martin. London: Smith Elder & Co. 1875-1880. Five volumes. Important association set inscribed on the front endpage: "To Principal Tulloch from Victoria R / Balmoral / June 6. 1875." John Tulloch (1823-1886) was ordained in 1845 into the church of Scotland, where he served as parish minister until 1854. He then served as principal and professor of theology at St. Mary's College, St. Andrew's University until 1859, when he was appointed a chaplain to Queen Victoria.
Signature and inscription are in near fine condition. All five volumes had cracked hinges, and some wear to original cloth boards. Volume one shows heavy wear to spine, especially along joints.
Signature and inscription are in near fine condition. All five volumes had cracked hinges, and some wear to original cloth boards. Volume one shows heavy wear to spine, especially along joints.
Edward VIII, King of Great Britain, Document Signed. Four integral pages, written on pages one and three and signed on page three, 8" x 12.75", April 7, 1936, Saint James, London, partially printed. The document, to President José Luis Tejada Sorzano of Bolivia, renews the credentials of Thomas Joseph Morris as Britain's envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary to the Bolivian Republic following the death King George V of Great Britain, "His late deeply-lamented Majesty, Our most honoured and beloved Father, of Blessed Memory". King George V died January 20, 1936. The first page of the document is bordered in black and with a black blind embossed Royal Arms above King Edward VIII's titles. Small holes along the left border where the document was bound, page numbers stamped in upper right corner, and a central horizontal fold, else near very fine.
Winston Churchill Signature, "Winston S. Churchill". One page, 4" x 1.75", n.d., n.p.. The signature is sold with a transmittal envelope postmarked London, April 8, 1946, and a typed letter that reads, "I am desired by Mr. Churchill to thank you for your letter of March 14 and to send you herewith his autograph as requested." N. E. Sturdee, Churchill's principal private secretary, signed the letter. All three items are attractively framed (16" x 13" overall) with a sepia picture of Churchill. Paper clip dimples and light rust well below the signature, else fine.
Prince Charles and Princess Diana Christmas Card Signed with Original Photograph. Heavy cardboard cardstock measuring 5" x 7.25", London, 1977. This card and photograph, issued by Charles and Diana early in their marriage, is addressed in Charles' hand to "Mr. Lawson" and is signed "from Charles and Diana." Opposite the printed Christmas greeting, is a 4" x 5.5" color photograph of Charles (wearing a kilt) and Di, standing next to their two sons who are seated on a pony. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope, which bears the ink stamp of "Lord Chamberlain, St. James's Palace" at lower left. Somewhat rare and quite desirable, this item would make a wonderful addition to any Royals collection. Very fine condition.
Napoleon Bonaparte Document Annotated and Signed, "Nap". One page, 7.75" x 8.25" (sight), June 23, 1814, Portoferraio, Elba, in French. Napoleon annotates and endorses a report to "La Majesté l'Empereur" from General Antoine Drouot regarding the administration of the Island of Elba. Framed with an engraving of the Emperor (24.5" x 21.75" overall). Light toning and foxing, else fine.
Following his unconditional abdication, the Treaty of Fontainebleau gave Napoleon sovereignty over the island of Elba and allowed him to retain his title of Emperor. General Drouot, already Napoleon's aide-de-camp, followed his Emperor into exile along and became Governor of Elba. In the first few months of exile Napoleon created a small navy and army on the island and developed iron mines. He also issued decrees modernizing agricultural methods. After three hundred days on Elba, Napoleon, with Drouot by his side, made a brief comeback known as the Hundred Days.
Following his unconditional abdication, the Treaty of Fontainebleau gave Napoleon sovereignty over the island of Elba and allowed him to retain his title of Emperor. General Drouot, already Napoleon's aide-de-camp, followed his Emperor into exile along and became Governor of Elba. In the first few months of exile Napoleon created a small navy and army on the island and developed iron mines. He also issued decrees modernizing agricultural methods. After three hundred days on Elba, Napoleon, with Drouot by his side, made a brief comeback known as the Hundred Days.
Napoleon Bonaparte Partly Printed Document Signed as First Consul of France. One page, on vellum in French, 9.25" x 13", Paris, "16 Germinal l'an 11 [April 5 or 6, 1803]". This military appointment, naming one Simon Didier Gombert a Sub-Lieutenant in the French Army, is boldly signed by Napoleon Bonaparte during his tenure as First Consul of the Republic.
Issued by the "Départment de la Guerre," the document is headed " République Française " and features an attractive engraved vignette of a seated goddess bearing the legends "au nom du peuple Français" and "Bonaparte, 1er Consul de la République." The appointment expresses "confidence in the valor and loyalty of Citizen Gombert" and includes a handwritten description of Gombert's "Detail of Service." The First Consul has affixed his one-name signature at lower center: "Bonaparte." Countersigned by Minister of War Alexander Berthier and by Secretary of State Hughes Joseph Maret. Some faint age toning, else very fine.
Issued by the "Départment de la Guerre," the document is headed " République Française " and features an attractive engraved vignette of a seated goddess bearing the legends "au nom du peuple Français" and "Bonaparte, 1er Consul de la République." The appointment expresses "confidence in the valor and loyalty of Citizen Gombert" and includes a handwritten description of Gombert's "Detail of Service." The First Consul has affixed his one-name signature at lower center: "Bonaparte." Countersigned by Minister of War Alexander Berthier and by Secretary of State Hughes Joseph Maret. Some faint age toning, else very fine.
Group of 13 Imperial French Military Letters. From an old collection as follows: Each letter is dated between 1848 and 1869 and is an autograph letter signed by one of the following: Gustave Montebello, Charles Montauban, Mollard, Bourbaki, Hautpoul, Emile Felix Fleury, Mellinet, Ornano, Charles Frossard, Goyon, Vinoy, Coffiniers, or Gallifet. In general, the letters are lightly toned with archival tape on left edge for mounting; overall very fine condition.
[Anglo-Spanish War] Prince Philip III of Spain Document Signed. Two disbound pages with integral address leaf, written on recto of first page only, 8.25" x 11.5", Madrid, March 1598. Philip III reigned from April 14, 1598 until his death on March 31, 1621, but the Anglo-Spanish War (1585-1604) began well before Philip ascended to the throne. The intermittent and undeclared conflict between Spain and England began with England's unsuccessful 1585 military expedition to the Netherlands in support of the resistance of the Estates General to Habsburg rule. Spain sent an Armada to battle the English in 1588 and lost, but regained that advantage a year later. In the following decade, Spain strengthened its navy and successfully defended its transport of precious metals from the Americas. The war became deadlocked around the turn of the century during campaigns in Brittany and Ireland, at about which time this letter was written. The war finally ended with the Treaty of London, negotiated in 1604 between representatives of Philip III and James I, the new Scottish king of England.
Here, just one month before taking the throne as King of Spain, Prince Philip authorizes a shipment of "money and other things" to Great Britain for unspecified reasons, possibly as an early attempt to negotiate for peace. The document is headed "El Rey" and is beautifully penned, with Philip's very large "Yo El Príncipe" and stylized initials at lower center. The document is lightly age toned, but bears heavy water stains along the left edge, slightly affecting the "Yo" in the signature. Very good condition.
Here, just one month before taking the throne as King of Spain, Prince Philip authorizes a shipment of "money and other things" to Great Britain for unspecified reasons, possibly as an early attempt to negotiate for peace. The document is headed "El Rey" and is beautifully penned, with Philip's very large "Yo El Príncipe" and stylized initials at lower center. The document is lightly age toned, but bears heavy water stains along the left edge, slightly affecting the "Yo" in the signature. Very good condition.
Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna Letter Signed "A.L. er Sta. Anna". Written on one of the four integral pages, 5" x 8", July 21, 1866, New York, to John Q. Adams, namesake and descendant of the former president. A brief letter complying with the recipients arrest for an autograph. Santa Anna was president of Mexico on eleven non-consecutive occasions over a period of 22 years. In 1855, a group of liberals led by Benito Juárez overthrew Santa Anna, sending him into exile. As the extent of his corruption became known he was tried in absentia for treason and all his estates confiscated. During his exile he lived in Cuba, the United States, Colombia, and St. Thomas. In 1874 he took advantage of a general amnesty and returned to Mexico. Crippled and almost blind from cataracts, Santa Anna died in Mexico City two years later, penniless and heartbroken. Lightly toned, with mail folds and minor mounting remnants on the blank integral page, else fine.
18th and 19th Century Cuba. An extensive archive of documents dating from as early as 1776. Approximately 200 pages bound into a folio size book, consisting of attestations and appointments confirming the "purity of blood" and lineage of Doña Maria del Carmen de Acosta y Morejon and her deceased husband Don Antonio Maria de Gordon y Lopez of Habana, Cuba. Archive includes several appointments bearing secretarial signatures of Spanish Royals, as well as lengthy statements on paper stamped with Spanish revenue stamps. One statement by Pedro Thadeo de Acosta details his lineage and asserts: "lineage on both sides to be of old Christians, pure of all bad Indian, Black, and mixed bloods..." Accompanied by a color reproduction of an ancestor, Don Clemente Alonso, affixed to linen canvas. The archive is bound in a tall folio book with leather covers which is in fair condition. Overall interior pages are evenly toned with a few instances of wormholes and ink burn. Worthy of extensive research.
Fidel Castro Handwritten Manuscript. Two pages (front and back), 6" x 8.75", no place, no date. The notes are written in Spanish on a single piece of paper, with cross-outs and marginal notations, and read as follows: "Hiram of Lubrijón [not sure] The Revolutionary Government is very aware of the desperate efforts that is [illegible] the efforts that reflect in the last days [lined out on text] the open [lined out on text] activity that the imperialism has been realizing during the last weeks in order to promote at all cost [illegible] revolutionaries, terrorism acts, murder attempts and all type of fights that have a tendency to interfere with the revolutionary process [illegible]. That activity has been doubled after after [lined out on text] reports have been expressed to the ONU to the Prime Minister of the Government. It seems like they are worried within the Justice department of the United States Government, every time the anger and desperation increases, because of our solid activity and the victorious and uncontrollable development of our revolution that translates each time in a less dissimulated support of anti-revolutionaries, the war criminals and the worse [lined out on text and partly illegible] traitors, mercenaries of all type that [illegible] of service. Disembark between Moa and Baracoa [not sure] group of expatriates and gringos coming from [lined out on text] They left the United States. They are 27 in total Leader dead. One hurt and another prisoner [illegible lined out on text] quickly attacked combated [lined out on text] by the army forces and militia's farmers. [Next all lined out on text] The Ministry of the Arm Forces communicates the following: In the day of yesterday [illegible] communicates the headquarters of [illegible] Militia of the West."
In March of 1960, a French freighter unloading munitions from Belgium exploded in Havana taking 75 lives and injuring 200, some of who subsequently died. The U.S. denied Cuba's accusation of sabotage but admitted that it had sought to prevent the shipment. And so it went, reaching a high point in April of the following year in the infamous CIA-organized invasion of Cuba at the Bay of Pigs. Over 100 exiles died in the attack. Close to 1,200 others were taken prisoner by the Cubans. It was later revealed that four American pilots flying for the CIA had lost their lives as well. The Bay of Pigs assault had relied heavily on the Cuban people rising up to join the invaders, but this was not to be the case. As it was, the leadership and ranks of the exile forces were riddled with former supporters and henchmen of Fulgencio Battista, the dictator overthrown by Castro, and would not have been welcomed back by the Cuban people under any circumstances. Despite the fact that the Kennedy administration was acutely embarrassed by the unmitigated defeat- indeed, because of it- a campaign of smaller-scale attacks upon Cuba was initiated almost immediately, under the rubric of Operation Mongoose. Throughout the 1960s, the Caribbean island was subjected to countless sea and air commando raids by exiles, at times accompanied by their CIA supervisors, inflicting damage upon oil refineries, chemical plants and railroad bridges, cane fields, sugar mills and sugar warehouses, infiltrating spies, saboteurs, and assassins, anything to damage the Cuban economy, promote disaffection, or make the revolution look bad.
In March of 1960, a French freighter unloading munitions from Belgium exploded in Havana taking 75 lives and injuring 200, some of who subsequently died. The U.S. denied Cuba's accusation of sabotage but admitted that it had sought to prevent the shipment. And so it went, reaching a high point in April of the following year in the infamous CIA-organized invasion of Cuba at the Bay of Pigs. Over 100 exiles died in the attack. Close to 1,200 others were taken prisoner by the Cubans. It was later revealed that four American pilots flying for the CIA had lost their lives as well. The Bay of Pigs assault had relied heavily on the Cuban people rising up to join the invaders, but this was not to be the case. As it was, the leadership and ranks of the exile forces were riddled with former supporters and henchmen of Fulgencio Battista, the dictator overthrown by Castro, and would not have been welcomed back by the Cuban people under any circumstances. Despite the fact that the Kennedy administration was acutely embarrassed by the unmitigated defeat- indeed, because of it- a campaign of smaller-scale attacks upon Cuba was initiated almost immediately, under the rubric of Operation Mongoose. Throughout the 1960s, the Caribbean island was subjected to countless sea and air commando raids by exiles, at times accompanied by their CIA supervisors, inflicting damage upon oil refineries, chemical plants and railroad bridges, cane fields, sugar mills and sugar warehouses, infiltrating spies, saboteurs, and assassins, anything to damage the Cuban economy, promote disaffection, or make the revolution look bad.
Che Guevara Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 8.5", "S.M. 20 Febrero 1958. Commonly known as Che Guevara or El Che, Che Guevara, was an Argentine Marxist revolutionary, politician, author, physician, military theorist, and guerrilla leader.
Following a chance meeting with Fidel Castro in Mexico, Guevara joined Castro's 26th of July Movement and in December 1956, he was among the revolutionaries who invaded Cuba under Castro with the intention of overthrowing United States-backed Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista. Guevara soon rose to prominence among the insurgents, was promoted to Comandante, and played a pivotal role in the successful two-year guerrilla campaign that deposed Batista.
While still deeply involved in the fight to drive Batista from power, Guevara wrote this short letter to "Salvador" concerning guerrilla activities. He writes from "S.M.," Sierra Maestra Mountains where Castro's rebel army was entrenched, and mentions the occupation of towns, regulating the army, and the need to avoid crossfire on the upcoming mission.
Just four days after this letter was written, on the 63rd anniversary of the beginning of José Martí's War of Independence, Radio Rebelde began transmitting from "the free territory of Cuba." Founded by Guevera, the station transmitted from Pata de la Mesa, Che's command post in the Sierra Maestras, the generator and the first radio equipment arriving on or about the day this letter was written. Twice a day, the station broadcasted first-hand reports on battles against the Batista Army, including actions carried out by the urban underground movement. It would denounce the atrocities of the dictatorship, and carry statements by rebel leaders to the general population. Guevara had apparently been inspired to create the station by observing the effectiveness of CIA supplied radio in Guatemala in ousting the government of Jacobo Arbenz Guzmán.
Letter is moderately age toned, and soiled around edges. Brittle, with complete fold separation and several small tears and chips at upper edge. Although fragile, this is an extremely rare and desirable item from one of the greatest revolutionary fighters in modern history.
Following a chance meeting with Fidel Castro in Mexico, Guevara joined Castro's 26th of July Movement and in December 1956, he was among the revolutionaries who invaded Cuba under Castro with the intention of overthrowing United States-backed Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista. Guevara soon rose to prominence among the insurgents, was promoted to Comandante, and played a pivotal role in the successful two-year guerrilla campaign that deposed Batista.
While still deeply involved in the fight to drive Batista from power, Guevara wrote this short letter to "Salvador" concerning guerrilla activities. He writes from "S.M.," Sierra Maestra Mountains where Castro's rebel army was entrenched, and mentions the occupation of towns, regulating the army, and the need to avoid crossfire on the upcoming mission.
Just four days after this letter was written, on the 63rd anniversary of the beginning of José Martí's War of Independence, Radio Rebelde began transmitting from "the free territory of Cuba." Founded by Guevera, the station transmitted from Pata de la Mesa, Che's command post in the Sierra Maestras, the generator and the first radio equipment arriving on or about the day this letter was written. Twice a day, the station broadcasted first-hand reports on battles against the Batista Army, including actions carried out by the urban underground movement. It would denounce the atrocities of the dictatorship, and carry statements by rebel leaders to the general population. Guevara had apparently been inspired to create the station by observing the effectiveness of CIA supplied radio in Guatemala in ousting the government of Jacobo Arbenz Guzmán.
Letter is moderately age toned, and soiled around edges. Brittle, with complete fold separation and several small tears and chips at upper edge. Although fragile, this is an extremely rare and desirable item from one of the greatest revolutionary fighters in modern history.
Sun Yat Sen Photograph Signed. Rare black and white bust image of the great revolutionary and political leader Sun Yat Sen, measuring 3.75" x 5.25". The image is affixed to a 5.25" x 7.25" cardboard mount identifying K.T. Thompson as the photographer. The photograph is boldly signed along the lower edge in dark ink, and bears an added inscription at the upper edge of the photographer's mount in an unknown hand: "Presented by Sun Yat Sen to Edwin North McClellan at Shanghai in 1912."
Considered one of the greatest leaders of modern China, Sun Yat Sen was the first provisional president when the Republic of China was founded on January 1, 1912, a post he held for four months. It is very likely this photograph was produced and signed during Sun Yat Sen's brief tenure as president, and presented to Major Edwin McClellan at that time. McClellan was a noted military leader during the First World War, who later wrote several important books on the war and on the Marine Corps.
At the lower right corner of the mount, in yet another hand, the name "Sun Wen." Like many Chinese, Sun Yat Sen used different names at various periods in his life. When he was ten years old, he entered his village's Confucian school and received his so-called "school name," Sun Wén (wen meaning literary). When Sun Yat Sen later became known by Chinese authorities for his revolutionary activities, he was listed as "Sun Wén," and this is how he was known by Chinese authorities until his death. After attaining public office, he consistently used the name Sun Wén to sign official documents. Both the image and the photographer's mount are lightly scuffed and soiled, with moderate wear to mount corners and edges. A sheet of white paper has been glued to the back of the mount. A rare and highly collectible item in very good condition.
Considered one of the greatest leaders of modern China, Sun Yat Sen was the first provisional president when the Republic of China was founded on January 1, 1912, a post he held for four months. It is very likely this photograph was produced and signed during Sun Yat Sen's brief tenure as president, and presented to Major Edwin McClellan at that time. McClellan was a noted military leader during the First World War, who later wrote several important books on the war and on the Marine Corps.
At the lower right corner of the mount, in yet another hand, the name "Sun Wen." Like many Chinese, Sun Yat Sen used different names at various periods in his life. When he was ten years old, he entered his village's Confucian school and received his so-called "school name," Sun Wén (wen meaning literary). When Sun Yat Sen later became known by Chinese authorities for his revolutionary activities, he was listed as "Sun Wén," and this is how he was known by Chinese authorities until his death. After attaining public office, he consistently used the name Sun Wén to sign official documents. Both the image and the photographer's mount are lightly scuffed and soiled, with moderate wear to mount corners and edges. A sheet of white paper has been glued to the back of the mount. A rare and highly collectible item in very good condition.
David Ben-Gurion Histadrut Membership Register Signed "D. Ben-Gurion" in Hebrew as secretary general of Histadrut. Thirty pages, 4" x 5", December/January 192?. This records the register of a 69-year-old member of the Teachers' Union. Ben-Gurion's signature appears on the first page. Blanks occurring in the first two pages and referring to membership number 4647 are filled in with Hebrew script (age: "69"). Later printed pages are not filled in. On the last two pages are seventy-five notations in Hebrew.
Under the leadership of Ben-Gurion, Histadrut, the General Federation of Laborers in the Land of Israel, was founded in Haifa in December 1920. The organization's goal was to build a Jewish workers' society in Israel through settlement and involvement. Ben-Gurion served as the secretary general from 1921 through 1935; the Histadrut represented 25,000 workers by 1927. Ben-Gurion represented Histadrut in the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency; he was elected chairman of both organizations in 1935.
Under the leadership of Ben-Gurion, Histadrut, the General Federation of Laborers in the Land of Israel, was founded in Haifa in December 1920. The organization's goal was to build a Jewish workers' society in Israel through settlement and involvement. Ben-Gurion served as the secretary general from 1921 through 1935; the Histadrut represented 25,000 workers by 1927. Ben-Gurion represented Histadrut in the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency; he was elected chairman of both organizations in 1935.
David Ben-Gurion Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 4.75" x 8.5", written in Hebrew, Sde Boker, May 13, 1968. Ben-Gurion writes to Naim Giladi to discuss a book that was written about the great Israeli leader by an unidentified author. He offers personal insight into the political and personal matters surrounding his stepping down from power. In part: "I was not 'forced to' resign - not because of misunderstandings with those around me - but for my own personal reasons - in which no other motivation, person, or external event had any role. . . . I do not know whether you have received my book about meetings with Arab leaders. In the book I only tell about meetings with Arab leaders before the establishment of the State. The material I have about attempts since the establishment of the State are still forbidden for publication."
Ben-Gurion was the first Prime Minister of Israel. His passion for Zionism, which began early in life, culminated in his instrumental role in the founding of the state of Israel. After leading Israel to victory in the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Ben-Gurion helped build state institutions and oversaw the absorption of vast numbers of Jews from all over the world. Ben-Gurion stepped down as prime minister for what he described as personal reasons in 1963, and retired from political life in 1970, when he moved to Sde Boker, where he lived until his death in 1973. Letter is written on an age toned leaf from a journal, with printed page number "15" at upper left. Leaf has been affixed to a slightly larger sheet of paper. Fine condition. Excellent content!
Ben-Gurion was the first Prime Minister of Israel. His passion for Zionism, which began early in life, culminated in his instrumental role in the founding of the state of Israel. After leading Israel to victory in the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Ben-Gurion helped build state institutions and oversaw the absorption of vast numbers of Jews from all over the world. Ben-Gurion stepped down as prime minister for what he described as personal reasons in 1963, and retired from political life in 1970, when he moved to Sde Boker, where he lived until his death in 1973. Letter is written on an age toned leaf from a journal, with printed page number "15" at upper left. Leaf has been affixed to a slightly larger sheet of paper. Fine condition. Excellent content!
David Ben-Gurion Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 4.5" x 8", written in Hebrew, Sde Boker, October 13, 1954. Penned on a flimsy leaf from a notebook, the page bears a printed "42" at upper left. The untranslated letter bears Ben-Gurion's firm signature and is accompanied by the original transmittal envelope addressed to an unknown correspondent. Letter shows moderate wrinkling and has been unevenly torn from the notebook; generally fine condition. Envelope is moderately soiled and heavily worn; good condition.
Nikita Khrushchev Typed Document Signed and Top Secret Military Report. Letter: One page, 8" x 11.25", in Cyrillic, headed "Top Secret," Moscow, January 1, 1944. Throughout World War II, Khrushchev served as the senior political officer in the south of the Soviet Union, reporting directly to General Secretary Stalin. Here, he has signed a cover letter to "Comrade I.V. Stalin" noting the enclosure of "a medical report concerning the state of health of Comrade Vatutin." Nikolai Vatutin was the top Soviet military commander during World War II. On February 28, 1944, Vatutin was ambushed by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) far behind the front lines; he succumbed to his injuries six weeks later, on April 14, 1944.
This lot also includes a "Top Secret" military report concerning "the formation of Czechoslovakian units in the territory of the USSR." Twenty-two pages, 8.5" x 11.75", Moscow, May 24, 1944. This brief report is addressed to the "Commander of Forces of the Moscow Military Region," Georgy Zhukov, and discusses the formation and equipping of Yugoslavian Infantry brigades in Moscow. The first page of this communication has been signed by several individuals using different colored wax pencils. The remainder of the report contains the "Roster of the Independent Yugoslavian Infantry Brigade." Cover letter is bright and sharp, but bears significant damage to left edge, where it was torn from its binding; easily matted over. Large pencil signature. Fine condition. Report is moderately age toned with occasional chips and small tears to edges. Very good condition.
This lot also includes a "Top Secret" military report concerning "the formation of Czechoslovakian units in the territory of the USSR." Twenty-two pages, 8.5" x 11.75", Moscow, May 24, 1944. This brief report is addressed to the "Commander of Forces of the Moscow Military Region," Georgy Zhukov, and discusses the formation and equipping of Yugoslavian Infantry brigades in Moscow. The first page of this communication has been signed by several individuals using different colored wax pencils. The remainder of the report contains the "Roster of the Independent Yugoslavian Infantry Brigade." Cover letter is bright and sharp, but bears significant damage to left edge, where it was torn from its binding; easily matted over. Large pencil signature. Fine condition. Report is moderately age toned with occasional chips and small tears to edges. Very good condition.
Session 2
[George Washington] Autograph Letter Regarding George Washington's Inaugurations. Two pages, front and verso, 7.75" x 12.75", n.d., n.p., to "Col. [William L.] Stone". With the author's observations of both of President Washington's inaugurations and laments the loss of leaders with the "wisdom of Franklin, Madison & Hamilton". Toned and fine.
James Madison Document Signed as the fourth president. One page, 12.5" x 8.5", May 8, 1812, "city of Washington". This naval appointment is countersigned by Secretary of Navy Paul Hamilton. Some separation at folds; some staining. Madison's signature has lightly faded; overall good condition. Framed and matted with a likeness of Madison to an overall size of 27" x 15.5".
James Monroe Land Grant Signed as President. One page, 16.25" x 9.75", City of Washington, August 1, 1823. Grant for eighty-six acres assigned to Solomon Remley in Cincinnati, Ohio. With foxing and toning. Embossed seal is absent. Good condition.
James Monroe Document Signed as president. One page, docketing on the verso, 13.5" x 9.25, December 15, 1823, Washington, D.C., partially printed on vellum. The document is toned and soiled with some insect damage at the folds, else very good. The signature is bold and clear.
President James Monroe and Secretary of State John Quincy Adams Document Signed. One page, partially printed, 7.75" x 5.5", January 8, 1823, Providence, "Rhode Island and Providence Plantation". This partial document has been excised from a larger document. Toned with smoothed folds. Fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of both men to an overall size of 32.5" x 15".
John Quincy Adams Land Grant Signed as President. One page, 15.25" x 9.75", City of Washington, July 15, 1825. Granting James Hill 78.69 acres of land in the "District of Tuskaloosa and State of Alabama." With a bold signature, and intact embossed seal. Very good.
[Andrew Jackson] Broadside: Farewell Address, "To the People of the United States". One page, 22" x 25.5", published by "A. Mead, Guardian Office, Paterson, 1837", in three columns. With some separation along folds and two darkly toned stains along the vertical center fold. A piece at the top right corner is missing, else near very good.
Martin Van Buren Partially Printed Document Signed "M. Van Buren" as president. One page, 7.5" x 9" (sight size), June 8, 1840, Washington, D.C. The document instructs the secretary of state to to "affix the seal of the United States to the order for the pardon of Robert Scott." Attractively matted and framed with a colored engraving of Van Buren (12.75" x 25"). Usual folds, else very fine.
Martin Van Buren Signed Free Frank and Autograph Address, "M Van Buren". One page, 4" x 7" sight size, postmarked June 12 [?], Kinderhook, New York. The folding envelope, addressed to "Mr. George L. Osborne / 147 Mulberry / Street / New York", retains the wax seal. Attractively framed (8" x 16.5" overall) with a fine engraving of Van Buren. Folds, light soiling and a sealing tear at the top, else fine.
Jonathan Dayton Steele Autograph Poem "The Death of President Harrison", unsigned. Two pages, front and verso, 7.75" x 12.5", April 10, 1841, Elmira, New York. The poem, titled "The Death of President Harrison", was published, in part, in the Elmira Republican of the same date. Toning, staining, and weakness at folds, else very good.
Zachary Taylor Signature, "Very Respectfully/ Your obt Sevt/ Z. Taylor", on lined paper, 3.75" x 2", n.d., n.p., affixed to a toned 6.25" x 9.25" toned page. Boldly and clearly written; fine.
Millard Fillmore Autograph Letter Signed as the thirteenth president of the United States. One and one-half pages, 5" x 8", November 19, 1851, Washington, to "Commander L.[ouis] M. Goldsborough" thanking him for his assistance. With a wonderful Fillmore signature; fine. Matted to an overall size of 8.25" x 11.25".
Millard Fillmore Letter Signed. One page, 8" x 9", October 21, 1853, Buffalo. In this letter, Fillmore informs Captain Henry W. Benham of Washington that he has received "the Portfolio containing a set of the Maps and Charts of the last survey". Fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of Fillmore to an overall size of 25" x 17.25".
Franklin Pierce Signature. "Yr. obedient & Servt./ Franklin Pierce/ Concord, N.H./ March 12, 1866". This bright and clear signature is on lined paper; fine. Framed and matted with an image of the fourteenth president to an overall size of 12" x 17".
James Buchanan Document Signed as secretary of state. One page, 7.5" x 9.75", February 3, 1847, "City of Washington". Toned with top right corner missing. Department of State paper seal and green ribbons in lower left of document. Fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of Buchanan to an overall size of 24.5" x 17.5".
Photography
Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson Images, including two cabinet cards (6"x 4" and 6.5" x 4") and a print (4"x 5.25") of Lincoln and a print (5.75" x 7.25") of Andrew Johnson, all copies of Brady images. The versos have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels. The prints have surface abrasions and crazing, else near very good.
Books
[Abraham Lincoln] Issue of The Rhode Island Pendulum Containing Lincoln's First Thanksgiving Proclamation. 4 pp. 17.5" x 23.75", October 9, 1863. Lincoln's Proclamation is printed in its entirety on p. 2, sixth column; signed in type Abraham Lincoln. Overall toning, minor dampstaining, with wear along integral fold.
[Abraham Lincoln] Illustrations from Harper's Weekly Announcing Lincoln's Assassination, (New York: Harper Brothers, 1865) elephant folio (11.5" x 16"). Four pages from the April 29, 1865 issue featuring an engraving of John Wilkes Booth on the cover with a lurid account of the killing of the president. Together with 3 additional illustrated papers:Harper's Weekly, Nov. 10, 1860; with cover featuring a large engraving of Abraham Lincoln. Harper's Weekly, January 21, 1865; with cover featuring engraving titled "View of General Butler's Dutch Gap Canal Before the Explosion of the Bulk-head". Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, New York, May 24, 1862; featuring two engravings, "Capture of Fort Macon..." and "The End of the Merrimac...". All newspapers in just good condition with wear and chipping at all margins.
Photography
Ulysses S. Grant, Four Cartes de Visite, as General, all 2.5" x 4". One CDV has a tax stamp on the verso and another has a facsimile Grant signature affixed to the verso. Light wear, else near fine.
Ulysses Grant and Family Imperial Cabinet Card, 10" x 8", 1870, at Long Branch, New Jersey. The card pictures Grant and wife, Julia Dent, and their four children; Jesse, Ulysses Jr., Nellie, and Frederick in front of their cottage. The card, marked Pach Brothers, New York, has been shaved and clipped. The verso has photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels, else fine.
Autographs
Rutherford B. Hayes Partial Military Appointment Signed. One page, 15.5" x 11", Nov. 27, 1877. Framed with an image of Hayes. Document appoints an unknown soldier to the rank of "Second Lieutenant in the Eighteenth regiment of Infantry". Matted and framed to an overall size of 24" x 30". Item contains some small indentions in the matting and some folding, but overall this piece is in very good condition.
Rutherford B. Hayes Signed Executive Mansion Card. One page, 4.5" x 2.75", n.d., Washington, D.C.. Mounting residue on the verso, else near fine.
James Garfield Letter Signed "J. A. Garfield" as an Ohio member of the U.S. House of Representatives. One page 7.5" x 9.5", April 3, 1869, Washington, on House of Representative stationery, to Von Frederick Kinsman of Warren, Ohio, concerning some experimental "choice seeds". With smoothed folds; fine. Attractively framed and matted with a likeness of Garfield to an overall size of 26.5" x 17.25".
Chester Arthur Document Signed "C. A. Arthur" as Collector of the Port of New York. One page, 9.5" x 16", August 31, 1876, "District of New York". This document is a "Statement of Moneys deposited with [Assistant Treasurer of the U.S.] Thomas Hillhouse." With some separation and tape-repair at folds. Near fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of Arthur to an overall size of 26" x 23.5".
Grover Cleveland Document Signed as governor of New York. One page, 10.5" x 16", July 20, 1883, Albany. Framed with Cleveland's image to an overall size of 27.5" x 22.75". The document orders a business to install a device to condense or combust "all vapors or gases generated in the conduct of . . . business." Fine condition.
Photography
Benjamin Harrison, Six Photographic Images, including: a large image, 9" x 6.5", of President Harrison onboard ship approaching New York Harbor for the 1889 George Washington Centennial Celebration; a photograph, 8.25" x 6" of Harrison in New York for the same occasion; a modern enlargement, 9.5" x 7", of the preceding image; a photo, 4.75" x 3.75", of Harrison speaking at the Washington Centennial Celebration on April 30, 1889; president at a speech in Washington D.C., 4.75" x 3.75"; a picture of Mrs. Benjamin Harrison washing dishes at a campsite, 7" x 5". Most are mounted, have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Benjamin Harrison Autograph Sentiment Signed, "Benj. Harrison". Excised portion of a larger document, 5.5" x .75", n.d., n.p. The inscription above the signature reads, "Love & kisses to the dear little ones. Affectionately yours". Near fine.
William McKinley Autograph Note Signed, Executive Mansion Card. One page, 4.5" x 2.75", n.d., Washington, D.C. The card reads, "For Edith Greene / With every good wish & happy New Year." Light mounting residue on the verso, else near fine.
William McKinley Typed Letter Signed. One page, 5.25" x 8.25", February 21, 1896, Canton, Ohio, to Ezra A. Carman. McKinley in this letter declines an invitation "to the citizens of Washington County, Md., to take part in their celebration on next Memorial Day." Nicely framed with oval picture to an overall size of 22.5" x 15.5". Very fine.
William McKinley Stereo Cards. Thirty-three fantastic images relating to the twenty-fifth president around 1900. Many images are of the funeral of the president following his assassination by Leon Frank Czolgosz in September of 1901. All are 7" x 3.5" and in fine condition.
Theodore Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as assistant secretary of the navy. One page, 8" x 10.5", December 23, 1897, Washington, on Navy Department stationery. Written to Morris Klein of New York. Contains one handwritten sentence in Roosevelt's hand. With some separation at the folds; near fine. Attractively framed and matted with a likeness of Roosevelt to an overall size of 25" x 17".
Theodore Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed on the Outlook letterhead (with "Office of/ Theodore Roosevelt"); includes original transmittal envelope. One page, 6.5" x 7.75", May 5, 1911, New York, to Charles Welsh of Scranton, Pennsylvania. With large Roosevelt signature; fine, though the envelope has a tear on the cover.
[Theodore Roosevelt] Stuyvesent Fish Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", June 3, 1902, New York, to D. LeRoy Dresser of New York, requesting that he "suggest to the President [T. Roosevelt]" the importance of inviting cabinet members on an upcoming bear hunt in Mississippi. The "teddy bear" originated from this trip. Toned with some separation beginning at the folds; near fine.
William Howard Taft Marine Corps Commission Signed "Wm. H. Taft" as the twenty-seventh president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy George von L. Meyer. One vellum page partially printed, 15.5" x 19.25", Washington, D.C., January 4, 1911. This document appoints Edwin N. McClellan as "First Lieutenant in the Marine Corps". Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal. Fine.
William Howard Taft Naval Appointment Signed. One page, 16" x 15.5", October 7, 1910, appointing Robert F. Sheehan to the position of "Assistant Surgeon in the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant, junior grade". Beautifully matted and framed to an overall size of 32.5" x 23.25". Handwriting is crisp, and overall this item is in fine condition.
William Howard Taft Typed Document Signed "Wm. H. Taft" as secretary of war. One carbon copy page with docketing on the verso, 8.5" x 14", November 29, 1905, n.p. [Washington, D.C.], with an attached folded blueprint, 23.5" x 13.5". Some weakness at the folds, very minor staining, and one-half or the seal missing, else very good.
Photography
William Howard Taft, Nine Photographic Images, including; two photographs of Taft inspecting construction of the Panama Canal, 6.5" x 4.75"; a photograph of Taft at a ball game, 6.5" x 4.25"; a Taft campaign train at a stop in Evansville, 7" x 5"; a hatless Taft speaking, 4.25" x 6.5"; Taft in a top hat as secretary of war, 4" x 5"; Chief Justice Taft and Mrs. Taft on the steps of the White House, 6" x 8"; Taft and Lord Richard Melville outside the White House, 6" x 8"; and, President Taft and General Clarence Edwards on horseback, 5.25" x 4". In the 1908 presidential campaign Theodore Roosevelt advised Taft against horseback riding, as it was "dangerous for him and cruelty to the horse." Three are mounted on card. All have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Woodrow Wilson Marine Corps Commission Signed as the twenty-eighth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels. One vellum page partially printed, 15.5" x 19.5", Washington, D.C., March 16, 1917. This document appoints Edwin N. McClellan as "Captain in the Marine Corps". Engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U.S. Navy seal. Fine.
Woodrow Wilson Document Signed as the twenty-eighth president. One page, 18" x 14", December 1, 1919, "District of Columbia", countersigned by Postmaster General Albert S. Burleson (1863-1937), appointing Thomas P. Hammond postmaster of Middleport, New York. President Wilson signed this document only two months after he suffered a paralyzing stroke which left him confined to a wheelchair for several months. Toned with most of the seal still affixed; fine.
Woodrow Wilson Typed Letter Signed as the twenty-eighth president. One page, 7" x 8.75", December 2, 1916, Washington. On White House stationery, Wilson expresses to author Maurice F. Lyons "my warmest thanks for your generous message". Very fine. Framed and matted with a likeness of Wilson to an overall size of 23.5" x 15.5".
Woodrow Wilson Typed Letter Signed. Typed on one of the four integral pages, 7" x 9", November 18, 1915, Washington, D.C., on White House stationary. Central fold and light soiling, else fine.
Warren G. Harding Document Signed. One page, 17.5" x 13", February 2, 1923, Washington, D.C., partially printed. The document is a commission for the postmaster of Ashville, Alabama, Marion F. Boatwright. The commission, also signed by Postmaster General Hubert Work, is attractively framed (20" x 15.25" overall). Chipping at the corners, a central vertical fold, modest soiling, and a water stain on the Harding signature, else very good.
Warren G. Harding Typed Letter Signed as president. One page, 7" x 8.75", September 5, 1922, Washington, D.C., on White House stationary. Harding, in the letter addressed to United States Senator Howard Sutherland, accedes to the senator's request for the restoration of a constituent to a government position. Pin filing holes in the upper left corner, else very fine.
Florence Kling Harding Print Signed as first lady, 9.5" x 13.5". The photographic print is of a study of Mrs. Harding's 1921 White House portrait by Philip Alexius de Laszlo de lombos. The image is inscribed, "To Troops 2, Brookline Girl Scouts - With a message of good wishes/ Florence Kling Harding". The print is mounted on heavy card stock. Very fine.
Calvin Coolidge Typed Letter Signed as president. One page, 6.5" x 8" (sight) on White House letterhead, Washington, D.C., December 9, 1926. Headed "Personal," and addressed to an unknown correspondent in New York City, Coolidge inquires when his friend will next be in Washington and hopes for a visit. Large signature; slight ink smudge to last name. Matted and framed with a color image of Coolidge to an overall size of 11.5" x 17.25". Very fine condition.
Calvin Coolidge Signature as vice president. One card, 4" x 2.25", n.d., though Coolidge served as the 29th vice president from 1921 through 1923. He became the thirtieth president at the death of Warren Harding in 1923. With "The Vice-President's Chambers/ Washington" printed at the top. Toned; fine.
Photography
Calvin Coolidge and Family, Five Photographs, including: three real photo postcards, 5.5" x 3.5", of Coolidge at his family farm in Plymouth, Vermont (holding his cat "Tim", on horseback, and sharpening his scythe); a photograph, 5" x 7", picturing President and Mrs. Coolidge arriving in New York, November 19, 1925, in which Coolidge is almost smiling; and a photograph, 9.25" x 7.5", of the Coolidge family: Calvin Jr., Mrs. Coolidge, the president, son John, and Colonel John Coolidge, the president's father. In this picture Coolidge seems to confirm Alice Roosevelt Longworth's observation that, "He looks as if he'd been weaned on a pickle." The postcards and large photograph are mounted on cards. All have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels on the verso, the prints have surface abrasions and crazing, else near very good.
Autographs
Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed. One page, 7.25" x 10.75", August 13, 1952, Stanford University, on Herbert Hoover letterhead, to Paul Kieser of Toledo, Ohio. With folds; fine. Handsomely framed and matted with an image of the thirty-first president to an overall size of 25" x 20".
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as assistant secretary of the navy. One page, 6.75" x 9" (sight), Washington D.C., August 9, 1916. Roosevelt writes to the Mayor of Saco, Maine, regarding the transfer of a chaplain, and the USS Southery. Matted and framed to an overall size of 13.5" x 15.5". Boldly signed and in very fine condition.
Harry S. Truman Typed Letter Signed as the thirty-third president. One page on White House letterhead, 7" x 9", May 9, 1947, Washington, to General H. H. Arnold of Sonoma, California, with transmittal envelope. This letter, thanking General Arnold for the "birthday message", is in fine condition.
Harry S. Truman Typed Letter Signed "Harry" as president. One page, 7" x 8.75", October 29, 1945, Washington, D.C., on White House stationary. Truman writes to his old friend, Harry H. Woodring, thanking him for his views on the situation in Kansas. The letter is attractively matted and framed with the original transmittal envelope and an engraving of Truman, 24.5" x 20.5" (overall). Fine.
Harry Truman Typed Letter Signed on White House letterhead. One page, 7" x 8.75", April 23, 1947, thanking Harry G. Hoffman for "a bunch of extracts from letters in regard to the Allis-Chalmers strike." Framed to an overall size of 24" x 21" with original envelope and image of the president. Minor wear to frame, near fine condition.
Dwight Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed. One page, 6.75" x 9", August 11, 1955, Washington, D. C., on White House stationery. Eisenhower thanks the recipient for a copy of "The Poems of the Fiftieth Reunion" honoring Columbia University's Class of 1905. One central fold and very fine.
Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed. One page, 6.75" x 10" (sight) on his personal imprinted stationery, Palm Desert, California, March 30, 1961. Two months after leaving office, former President Eisenhower declines giving a firm commitment to an appearance to receive an award from the Women of the Twentieth Century Republic Club of Buffalo, NY. Bold signature. Matted and framed to an overall size of 12.5" x 15.5". Very fine condition.
John F. Kennedy Annotated Typed Letter Unsigned and Autograph Notes. The letter is one page, 6.75" x 9", April 29, 1963, Washington, D.C., on White House stationery to economist Leon H. Keyerling. The notes are on one page, 5.25" x 8", n.d., n.p., United States Senate memorandum sheet in green ink. Scuffs on the notes and staple holes in upper left on letter, else fine.
John F. Kennedy Three Autograph Notes, One Signed "Jack". The clipped notes include: (1) 8" x 1.5", "I cannot remember making a reservation to extend my remarks on. . . ." The verso reads, "his Bill"; (2) 5.75" x 1.25", "Best / Jack / October 30th"; (3) 6.25" x 3", "Cash for / trans letters [?] to / work. / 40.00". All fine.
John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed "John Kennedy" as U.S. congressman. One page, 6.25" x 9", June 16, 1952, Washington, D.C., on his "Congress of the United States, House of Representatives" letterhead, to Mrs. Eleanor Coleman of Springfield, Massachusetts, sending thanks and asking for future campaign help. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope with a stamped congressional frank; fine.
John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed "John Kennedy" as U.S. senator. One page, 6.25" x 9", July 20, 1955, Washington, D.C., on his "United States Senate" letterhead, to William Earle of Sandusky, Ohio, sending thanks for Mr. Earle's kind letter. This letter, which contains smoothed folds, has a boldly written Kennedy signature in black ink; fine.
John F. Kennedy Inauguration and other Ephemera, including a Robert Kennedy Signed Card, 4" x 2.5", n.d., on Department of Justice card with "The Attorney General/ Washington" at top. This fascinating group of President Kennedy related items also includes official envelopes, correspondence from Jacqueline Kennedy's office, an invitation to JFK's inauguration, an "Inauguration Ceremonies Program", an Adlai Stevenson Photograph Signed "Adlai E. Stevenson", a JFK photograph, and more. All are near fine to fine.
Political
John F. Kennedy Lock of Hair. Offered here are several strands of hair safely kept in 2" x 2" clear plastic mounted on an 8.5" x 11" paper bearing a photograph of President Kennedy. Cut by barber Harry Gelbart of Los Angeles in July of 1963, these rare strands come with provenance from John Reznikoff, president of University Archives. Fine.
Autographs
[John F. Kennedy] Typed Manuscript Giving an Account of JFK's Last Rites Signed by Reverend Oscar L. Huber, the Priest Who Administered the Rites. Four pages typed annotations, 8" x 10.5", November 22, 1963, Parkland Memorial Hospital, Dallas, Texas, entitled "Father Huber, C. M., Holy Trinity Church, Dallas, Texas, Administers Last Rites of the Catholic Church to President John F. Kennedy." Lightly toned pages; very fine.
Jack Ruby Drawings Signed. Six geometrical pencil drawings, all 7" x 4", with the edges folded back and dated 1965, from the Dallas County Jail, Dallas, Texas. Four are to Ray Pennington and two are to Thomas Miller. Also included is a 1991 New York Times article entitled "Ruby's Family Gets Gun Used to Kill Oswald". Some staining; fine.
Jack Ruby Collection of Drawings and Documents. Includes a pencil drawing of a woman (n.d.); three geometrical drawings signed on the versos and all dated 1965; two handwritten notes to Edgar H. Higdon, both dated October 1966; one tax statement; one loan statement; one sheet (front and back) written by Ruby listing friends to be notified if anything should happen to him, n.p., n.d.; one photo of Ruby with girlfriend, 1955; several newspaper clippings. All fine.
Jack Ruby Group of Documents. Twelve items which include a Texas certificate for the Royal Parma Pizza Company, three unsigned Royal Parma Pizza Company deposit slips, two unsigned delivery receipts, two unsigned invoices, one "J. Ruby" signed invoiced, one check signed, an unsigned hotel receipt, and a handwritten business card. All fine.
[Lyndon Johnson] 1968 Presidential Christmas Card. One page, 17.5" x 13", with printed inscription and signatures of President and Mrs. Johnson wishing the recipient "the joys of Christmas" for 1968. Matted and framed 25.5" x 21" (overall). Included is the original ribbon and presidential gold foil seal from the transmittal envelope, also framed and matted, 11" x 20" (overall). Fine.
Lyndon B. Johnson Inscribed and Signed Photo. A matte finish photo of 9.75" x 7.75" mounted to a 12.5" x 12" white mat board, March 15, 1966 (written on verso). LBJ has written in the lower wide border: "To Warren Magnuson/ My good friend - / Lyndon B. Johnson". Magnuson, who is shaking hands with Johnson in the photo, was a Democratic senator from Washington from 1944-1980. Light soiling on the mount and minor chipping to the edges of the photo, else fine.
Richard Nixon Typed Letter Signed. One page, 6.75" x 9", July 30, 1974, Washington, D. C., on embossed White House stationary. Nixon thanks the recipient for their "message of support at this time." Uneven toning due to glue residue, else very good.
Richard Nixon, Spiro Agnew, and Gerald Ford Signed Card. One page, 8" x 6", n.d., n.p., on card stock with a Bureau of Engraving and Printing engraving of the White House. The signatures are: "Richard Nixon", "Spiro Theodore Agnew", and "Gerald R. Ford". The Agnew signature has light bleeding, else fine.
Richard Nixon Signed and Inscribed Book, Leaders. The book, published by Warner Books in 1982, is clearly and boldly signed. Light edge-wear to the book and a tear on the back of the dust jacket, else fine.
Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford Signed Bookplate, 3.5" x 4.5". It reads, "The Museum Shop / The / Richard Nixon / Library & Birthplace / Yorba Linda California / USA", and is signed "Richard M. Nixon" and "Gerald R. Ford". Mounted on red paper. Very fine.
Gerald Ford Bookplate Signed "Gerald R. Ford". 3.25" x 4.5", with Ford's name and "38th President of the United States of America" stamped in gilt below U.S. seal. Framed and matted with color image of Ford to an overall size of 10.5" x 9". Very fine.
Gerald R. Ford Book Signed. A Vision for America. Signed "Gerald R. Ford" on the colophon page. [Northridge: Lord John Press, 1980.] Edition limited to 500 numbered copies, of which this is number 60. Octavo. Unpaginated. Blue cloth-covered boards. The book, which is a speech delivered in Detroit to the 1980 Republican National Convention, is mounted and framed to an overall size of 20.5" x 17" which makes the true condition difficult to ascertain, but it appears to be in fine condition.
Presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter Signatures. (1) Gerald Ford signed photograph, 6.75" x 10", black and white; and (2) Jimmy Carter document signed, one page, 9" x 12", March 9, 1977, Clinton, Massachusetts. Several slight tears along edge of Carter document and a light surface abrasion to the Ford photo, else both fine.
Gerald Ford Group of Two Signatures on Facsimile White House Cards, 4" x 2.5" with "The White House/ Washington" at top. Both signatures are in blue ink; one has "1989" written under the signature by Ford. Very fine.
Gerald Ford Photograph Signed. One page, 8" x 10", n.d., n.p. The bold signature lies in a white strip at the foot of this color photograph of the thirty-eighth president, who is in a distinguished pose holding his glasses. Near extra fine.
Jimmy Carter Photo Signed and Inscribed to Arthur Goldberg, 9.25" x 7.5", May 1977. The inscription reads, "Best wishes/ to my good friend Arthur Goldberg/ Jimmy Carter/ 5-77". Signed during President Carter's first year in office, this photo is in fine condition and matted to an overall size of 15" x 13.25".
Jimmy Carter Book Signed. Farewell Address of President Jimmy Carter, January 14, 1981. Signed "Jimmy Carter" on the title page. [Winston-Salem, N.C.]: Palaemon Press Limited, [1981]. Edition limited to 300 numbered copies. Octavo. Nine pages. Bound in blue cloth-covered boards, in slipcase. Book is mounted and framed (to an overall size of 20" x 18"), and, as such, condition is difficult to ascertain, but it appears to be in fine condition. President Carter's signature is sun-faded. A scarce item.
Jimmy Carter Signed Envelope stamped and postmarked August 11, 1980, three months prior to losing a second term to Ronald Reagan; 6.5" x 3.5", with images of Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale. Framed to an overall size of 9.75" x 7.25". Fine.
Ronald Reagan Signature, "Best Regards/ Ronald Reagan", on 3" x 2.25" slip of white paper. N.d., n.p. Ink has faded; near fine. Framed and matted with a color image of the fortieth president to an overall size of 12.5" x 9.5".
George Bush Typed Letter Signed as U.S. Congressman. One page, 7.75" x 10.25", December 11, 1970, Washington, D.C., thanking the recipient for the "letters from your students". Very fine. Handsomely framed and matted to an overall size of 13.5" x 16.25".
White House Photo Signed by Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter, Jacqueline Kennedy, Gerald ["Jerry Ford"] and Betty Ford. Color photograph of the sunny south façade of the White House with the signatures of two presidents, their wives, and the widow of President Kennedy. The Carters have signed in black ink; the Fords and Ms. Kennedy in blue. A beautiful display piece in very fine condition.
Three Presidents' Signatures, including a Dwight Eisenhower typed letter signed and dated January 9, 1953 (with light foxing; fine); a Ronald Reagan signature and a George H. W. Bush signature, all wonderfully matted and framed with an invitation to Reagan's inauguration. Very fine.
Three President Signed Proposal for a Perle Mesta Commemorative Stamp: Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, and Gerald R. Ford. One page, 7.25" x 10.5", n.d. (ca. 1980s), on "State of Oklahoma Office of the Governor [George Nigh]" letterhead. Very fine.
Photography
[Presidents] Five Photographic Images, including: a postcard of President Theodore Roosevelt and his family, 5.25" x 3.5"; a Carte de Visite of Abraham Lincoln, 2.5" x 4"; a modern print of a Brady photograph of Millard Fillmore, 4" x 6.25"; a photograph of a bespectacled Warren G. Harding, 7" x 5"; and, another photo of Harding by "Bachrach", 9.25" x 7.75". All but the last are mounted on card. All have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Aaron Burr Autograph Letter Signed "A. B." One page, 7.5" x 9", April 6, 1824, Albany, to Samuel C. Reid of New York, concerning a meeting after "the arrival of the Steam Boat of that day." Toned with some separation at the folds; addressed on verso. Very good.
Walter Butler Letter Signed. Two pages, 7.5" x 8.75", December 14, 1774, Buttersburg, [?]. In the letter Butler writes regarding the legal affairs of "the Warren family". Light toning, else fine.
George Clinton Land Grant Signed, "Geo. Clinton". One page, 18" x 11.5", July 8, 1790, New York, New York, partially printed, with the original 3.5" paper-covered wax seal. Docketing on the verso. Two holes at the folds of the document, else fine.
Oliver Ellsworth Revolutionary War Document Signed "O. Ellsworth". One page, 8" x 6.25", June 19, 1776, Hartford. This is an order to pay Captain Abraham Mead "Five Hundred & Eighty pounds" so he can pay his "own Company" of soldiers. Countersigned by Ezra Williams and Treasurer John Lawrence. Docketed on verso; very good.
Oliver Ellsworth Revolutionary War Document Signed "O. Ellsworth". One page, 7.5" x 6.25", May 27, 1778, Hartford. This is an order to pay Captain Charles Burrell "One Hundred & Eighty Eight Pounds Seven Shillings & Eleven pence and charge the State". Countersigned by James Church and Treasurer John Lawrence. Docketed on verso; very good.
Arthur Lee Autograph Letter Signed Three Times to French Naturalist Michel Adanson. Two pages, 7.25" x 8.75", London, Nov. 18, 1765. With an ALS by Adanson on the integral sheet. Separation at integral fold, with some tearing and paper loss (no loss to text) where the seal was opened.
Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee Land Grant Signed as Governor of Virginia. One page, 15" x 12", Nov. 29, 1793. Granting Michael Alt fifty acres. Some light staining to surface, traces of wax remain where embossed seal has been detached. Large and visible signature.
Timothy Pickering Autograph Letter Signed "T. Pickering" as secretary of state. One page, 9.75" x 8", January 10, 1799, n.p. The letter, addressed to Dwight Foster, asks, "Have you got the Bridget? - Please let me know by the Beaver." Both the Beaver and the Bridget were undoubtedly ships. At the time Pickering was involved in procuring ships for the United States Revenue Cutter Service to limit smuggling. Folds and wax seal marks, else fine.
John Rodgers Letter Signed. One paged, 8" x 10", April 20, 1835, n.p., with the heading, "Nav[al] Comm[ission] Off[ice]". This is an order issued to Commodore James Barron concerning ship repairs. Toned with two filing holes on left margin; fine.
[Georgia Archive] George Walton Signature and Lyman Hall Related Document. The Walton signature is 3.5" x 3" and excised from a larger printed document with light insect damage. The other document, that refers to a bond placed with Lyman Hall on November 19, 1783, is four integral pages, 8" x 12", September 15, 1789, Richmond County, Georgia, partially printed, and signed by Matthew McAllister. Both George Walton and Lyman Hall were Revolutionary War patriots and signers of the Declaration of Independence. The bond relating to Lyman Hall is fragmentary.
John Augustine Washington Document Signed and countersigned by William Augustine Washington. One page, 7.5" x 6", August 1, 1777, n.p., partly printed. This partly printed promise to pay "Mr. James Sorrell . . . fifty Six pounds five Shillings currency on demand." Toned with some separation at folds; very good.
Arthur Wellesley Wellington Autograph Letter Signed "Duke of Wellington" in the third person. One page, 4.5" x 7" (sight), April 9, 1851, London, to George Sinclair. Toned and fine. Matted and framed with an impressive image of the Duke to an overall size of 13" x 22.5".
Miscellaneous
Revolutionary War Bond, "Committee of War/ No. 3721". One page partly printed, 7" x 7", March 21, 1777, "State of Massachusetts-Bay". This bond paid six percent interest on this fifty pound bond and is signed by Treasurer "D. Jeffries". Intricately engraved border; near fine. Matted and framed to an overall size of 11.25" x 11.25".
Books
Journal of the Second Session of the Senate of the United States of America, Begun and Held at the City of New York, January 4th, 1790. (New York: John Fenno, 1790), folio, 220 pages, paper covers. The pages are lacking the string binding, considerable toning, foxing, and chipping at the edges, else good.
The Political Magazine, and Parliamentary Navel, Military, and Literary Journal. For March 1780. London: J. Bew, 1780. 180 - 232 pp. [and:] another issue, for April, 1780. 292 - 344 pp. [and:] another issue, for May 1780. 348 - 404 pp. All 8vo issues disbound. Very good.
The Political Magazine, and Parliamentary Navel, Military, and Literary Journal. For August 1780. London: J. Bew, 1780. 8vo. 520 - 572 pp. Disbound. Folding engraved plate of "military utensils" and a "general plan of fortification." Also, a folding map of the island of Jamaica, dated 1780, showing parish boundaries and "bays, harbours, rocks, soundings & co." Very good.
Miscellaneous
Four Maps from Pinkerton's Modern Atlas, including Peru, La Plata, "Spanish Dominions in North America, Southern Part", and "Spanish Dominions in North America, Middle Part". Each of the four pages is 31.5" x 22", "London, Published Sept. 1st, 1811 [or December 1, 1810, or June 25, 1812] by Cadell & Davies Strand, & Longman, Hurst Rees, & Brown, Paternoster Row." Each has fine hand-colored national borders and is "Drawn under the direction of Mr. Pinkerton by L. Hebert". All are toned with a small amount of separation along some central folds; fine.
Autographs
The Illustrated London News Magazine Collection, containing sketches of the ruins of Chicago after the fire of 1871. Also includes an obituary (Aug. 9, 1851 volume) of the English novelist Harriet Lee. Pages included are from the following volumes: Aug. 9, 1851, March 26, 1859, Oct. 28, 1871, Nov. 11, 1871, and May 24, 1873. All are toned, but in fine condition.
Miscellaneous
[Newspaper] The Columbian Centinal. Four pages, 12" x 19", April 6, 1793, Boston, Massachusetts, printed and published by Benjamin Russell. Includes reports from the Second U.S. Congress and rumors of European wars. Age toned with some foxing; very good.
[The Federalist] The New-York Spectator. Four pages, 14.5" x 21", December 30, 1817, New York. This article with heading "The Federalist" devoted one and one-half columns to outlining each of the eighty-five articles from the Federalist Papers. With some irregular edges and dampstaining, especially in top right corner; some paper loss along the bottom edge. "R Leonard" is handwritten above the banner. Good.
The Salem Gazette. Four pages, 14" x 21", June 2, 1820, Salem, Massachusetts, "Published on Tuesdays and Fridays, by Thomas C. Cushing, Essex Street". Toned with foxing, in very good condition.
Autographs
[George Custer] Group of Three Newspapers Containing Articles on the Custer Massacre. (1)Chicago Daily Tribune. Eight pages, 18" x 23", September, 9, 1876, with article "Story of the Custer Massacre by an Eye-Witness of the Whole Affair" and more. Fragile with some separation at the folds; good. (2) Pages five and six from the Cincinnati Daily Enquirer, 17" x 22.5", July 9, 1876, with heading, "Custer's Calamity". Very good. (3)The New York Evening Post, four pages, 23.5" x 31", with heading "Custer's Defeat". Fragile; good.
Miscellaneous
[New Jersey] "An Act relative to unincorporated religious and other associations in this state". Three and one-half pages, 8" x 12.25", n.d. Page one and page four are unevenly toned. With two text corrections. Toned and fragile with smoothed folds. Very good.
Autographs
[Louisiana Territory] Frederick Bates Document Signed as secretary of the Louisiana Territory. Three pages, 7.75" x 12.75", July 31, 1809, St. Louis, Missouri. This deposition concerning a land dispute in the Louisiana Territory bears a blind embossed paper seal of the Territory of Louisiana. Docketed on verso. Toned with folds; very good.
[U.S. Silver Coins] James B. Beck Autograph Letter Signed, "J. B. Beck". One page, 8.5" x 10", November 5, 1887, Lexington, Kentucky, on Beck & Thornton Attorneys and Counselors-at-Law stationary, to Edwards Pierrepont. Interesting content concerning the continued minting of silver coinage by the United States government. Minor spotting and slight weakness at the folds, else fine.
James G. Blaine Cabinet Card Signed, 4.25" x 6.5", October 8, 1892. A particularly attractive pose of the congressman, senator, secretary of state, and Republican Party presidential nominee, the cabinet card is in fine condition.
Simon Cameron Autograph Letter Signed as secretary of war. Two page, front and verso, 6.5" x 7.75", November 30, 1861, Washington, D.C. The letter, addressed to "Colonel Fitz Henry Warren, Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Missouri", tells of "Paymaster [Thomas J.] McKean" being appointed brigadier general by "The President [Lincoln]". The letter has water stains, folds, and various holes, else good.
Daniel Carroll Canal Lottery Ticket Signed, "Danl. Carroll of Dud." One ticket, 4" x 1.5", ca. 1810, "Washington City", marked as number twelve. Landowner and businessman Daniel Carroll was the cousin of Declaration of Independence signer Daniel Carroll of Upper Marlboro. Heavily toned; fine.
Lewis Cass Autograph Letter Signed as a U.S. senator from Michigan. One page, 5" x 8", October 7, 1851, Washington. This is a brief recommendation, in part: "The enclosed application and recommendation I have received . . . For I have a large regard for [Captain] A.[ugustus] Canfield who as a nephew of the late General [Mahlon] Dickerson." Fine.
Salmon P. Chase Lot of Two Autograph Letters Signed to Justice John McLean. One page each, 8" x 10". Cincinnati, Sept. 21, 1838; and New York, July 8, 1850, with great personal content including mention of his third wife's failing health, and the spread of cholera in Cincinnati. Each is docketed on the verso of the integral sheet by McLean. Both letters in fine condition.
Henry Clay Autograph Letter Signed as U.S. senator from Kentucky. One page, 8" x 10", August 10, 1837, Ashland, to Charles L. Theil, mentioning his "preparations for my journey to Washington". Toned; fine.
George Clinton Document Signed, "Geo. Clinton". One page, 18" x 11", September 13, 1790, New York, New York, partially printed, with docketing on the verso. The document, granting 600 acres of land in Locke Township, Montgomery County, New York to John Jeremiah, retains the original 3.5" paper-covered wax seal of the State of New York affixed by ribbon. Two holes and weakness at the folds of the document, else near fine.
William H. Crawford Printed Treasury Department Circular Signed "Wm H Crawford" as Secretary of the Treasury. One page, 7.75" x 9.5", April 29, 1817. Great financial content circular directing that "pursuant to arrangements made with the Bank of the United States, the weekly returns of the money deposited in the several Offices and State Banks, employed for that purpose, to the credit of the Treasurer of the United States, which have heretofore been made to this Department, are to be made hereafter to the Cashier of that Bank." Light toning, uneven left margin; otherwise very good. Should be reviewed for more content.
George M. Dallas Autograph Letter Signed, "G. M. Dallas". One page, 7.75" x 10", August 20, 1849, n.p.. Writing to Major-General Persifer F. Smith, military commander of the department of California, Dallas recommends Mr. Bernard Samuel Blitz for a military position. Blitz, Dallas explains, "proposes to seek his fortune in California." Dallas served as vice president under James K. Polk. Weakness at folds, light foxing, and archival tape on the left side, else near fine.
George M. Dallas Two Autograph Letters Signed, "G. M. Dallas". (1) Written on page one of the four integral pages, 4.75" x 7", December 12, 1858, London. Dallas writes from the Legation of the United States thanking the recipient for sheet music composed for a poem lauding the Atlantic Cable. "I very much fear that the music is too good for the rhymes, or for their abortive subject". (2) Written on page one of the four integral pages, 8" x 9.75", December 2, 1849, n.p.. Dallas refers to "the department of Mr. Dickens already overstocked." Conservation tape on the left of the first letter and docketing on page four of the second letter. Both are fine.
Edward Everett Two Autograph Letters Signed and an Autograph Note Signed. The note is one page with addressing on the verso, 5" x 8", n.d., n.p., declining an invitation, signed in the third person, and addressed by Everett. The earliest letter is one page with addressing and docketing on the verso, 8" x 9.75", July 30, 1828, Boston. The letter is postmarked Boston, July 31, and still retains Everett's black wax seal. The other letter is two pages, front and verso, 8.25" x 10.5", August 7, 1846, Cambridge Massachusetts. All letters are addressed to Mr. John McLean. The last letter discusses the weaknesses shown by McLean's grandson at Harvard University and suggests "that he better not return to Cambridge." All have folds, light chipping, and soiling on the verso, else very good.
[Benjamin Franklin] Document Secretarially Signed. One page, 13.25" x 8", May, 3, 1787, [Philadelphia], partially printed. The document is a grant of 100 acres of land in York County to Gasper Sailer. The document is counter signed by surveyor Edward Lynch. Attractively framed, 19.5" x 14.25" (overall). Some weakness at the folds, light foxing and toning, else near fine.
John Hay Photograph Signed. The 4" x 5.5" photo of the former private secretary of President Lincoln is affixed to an 8" x10" toned card stock, which has some dampstaining with moderate bumping to edges. Very good.
Alger Hiss Autograph Letter Signed as "secretary to Justice Holmes" on Supreme Court letterhead. One page, 5" x 8", March 18, 1930, Washington, D.C. Following graduation from Harvard Law School, Hiss served one year (1930) as clerk to Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. This letter, regarding a requested Justice Holmes' bookplate, is toned and fine.
Charles Evans Hughes Photo Signed as U.S. Chief Justice. A formal portrait in his Supreme Court robes with the blind stamp of legendary Washington photographers Harris & Ewing, 9" x 12.75" image size, 11.25" x 16.25" overall. One insignificant flaw in the photo and a small stain in the left border, else fine.
Nine Supreme Court Justices' Signatures on a Single Sheet. One page, 8" x 10.5", n.d. (ca. 1934), n.p. Signatures under the heading "Supreme Court of the U. S." include the following: Charles E. Hughes, Willis Van Devanter, Louis D. Brandeis, James Clark McReynolds, George Sutherland, Pierce Butler, Harlan F. Stone, Owen Roberts, Benjamin N. Cardozo. Nice bold signatures; fine.
Thomas Hutchinson Seal and Signature, "T. Hutchinson". One page, excised from a larger document and mounted on paper, 3.25" x 4.75" (overall), n.d., n.p. The seal is paper-covered red wax with a rampant lion, armed and langued on a field of Bottony Crosses; the whole is topped by a ducal coronet and a crest of a cockatrice. Both the signature and seal are excellent.
James Jackson Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, 8" x 12.75", August 30, 1789, New York, to Joseph Clay of Savannah, Georgia. Jackson, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1789-1791, introduces "Col. Humphrys" and writes that "Congress will rise next month & meet again in December". Addressed on verso; separations at folds with some repairs throughout. Good.
Thomas McKean Land Patent Signed "Tho. M:Kean" as governor of Pennsylvania. One partly printed vellum page, March 13, 1806. Docketed on verso by American Revolutionary War figure and Continental Congress delegate Timothy Matlack. In near fine condition save usual folds.
Thomas Mifflin Pennsylvania Land Warrant Signed as governor. One page, 20.75" x 11.25", November 3, 1796, [Philadelphia]. With blind embossed Seal of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the upper left corner, above Mifflin's bold signature. With an 1856 copy of the 1794 survey of the tract of land, 8.25" x 13.25". Two light holes at the folds of the warrant, else near very fine.
Zebulon Pike Document Signed, "Z. M. Pike", one page, 7.75" x 3.25", May 3, 1799, Reading [Pennsylvania]. The document is a receipt for the return of "two drum heads". Some paper loss in the upper right corner and mounted on another sheet, else fine. Included is a photographic copy of an engraving of Pike.
Zebulon Pike Document Signed, "Zebu. Pike". Two page, front and verso, 7.5" x 4.5", April 16, 1798, Fort Massac [Illinois]. The document is a receipt for the payment of five dollars to a hewer and scorer of wood. Some chipping at edges, weakness at folds, and ink burns, else near very good. Included is a photographic copy of an engraving of Pike.
Gifford Pinchot Two Typed Letters Signed. (1) Three pages, 8.5" x 11", February 16, 1919, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Senator Howard Sutherland, regarding defects in the "Mineral Leasing Bill". (2) Two pages, 7" x 8.75", February 28, 1919, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, again to Senator Howard Sutherland, regarding the senator's view of the seniority system in the United States Senate.
Eugene Semple Typed Proclamation Signed Designating Thanksgiving 1888 in Washington Territory. One page with docketing on the verso, 8.25" x 12.5". November 12, 1888, Olympia, Washington Territory. Signed by both Washington Territorial Governor Semple and the secretary of the territory, N. H. Owings. An embossed gold foil seal of Washington Territory is affixed to the proclamation. Folds and light soiling, else fine.
William Seward Three Autograph Letters Signed. All are one page, the largest is 5.75" x 9" and the smallest is 5" x 7.5", the dates are: April 24, 1857, Washington, D.C.; April 15, 1859, Auburn [New York]; and, April 12, [1862-1868], [Washington, D.C.], the last as secretary of state. Sold with a fine engraving of Seward. All with light foxing and even toning, the letters have folds, else fine.
Charles Sumner Letter Signed as Massachusetts' senator. One page, 5" x 8", March 18, 1862, "Senate Chamber", Washington, D.C. This letter is addressed to Venango County, Pennsylvania, though the recipient's name has been erased so that it is undecipherable. With congressional franked envelope containing Sumner's signature "C. Sumner". Envelope is slightly stained, most likely from its original transit. The letter has smoothed folds; fine.
Daniel D. Tompkins Document Signed as the fourth governor of New York. One page, 15.5" x 9.75, June 13, 1808, Albany. This promotion of Cornelius Van Antwerp to ensign is countersigned by New York Deputy Secretary Anthony Lamb. With docketing on verso; folds with bottom marginal fraying, else very good.
Daniel Webster Autograph Letter Signed "Yrs. D Webster". One page, 5" x 8", n.d., n.p., to Judge Joseph Story concerning something that "discouraged" him and made him "sick". Toned with smoothed folds; fine.
John E. Wool Autograph Document Twice Signed. One page, addressed and franked on the verso, 7" x 9.75", June 14, 1810, Troy [New York]. The document is a weekly enlistment return for the Thirteenth Regiment of Infantry, stationed in Troy. Dark, uneven toning, else fine.
Mixed Lot of Typed Letters Signed by Political and Government Leaders. Twelve typed letters are included in this lot, from the following individuals: Pierre Salinger as White House Press Secretary, Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, Congressman Sam Rayburn, FBI Chief J. Edgar Hoover, former President Harry S. Truman, former President Herbert Hoover, Senator George D. Aiken, New York gubernatorial candidate Nelson A. Rockefeller, Judge Learned Hand, and former Secretary of State Dean Acheson. Truman letters bear secretarial signatures; LBJ letter is likely an autopen. Letters are in fine to very fine condition.
Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century Statesman Group of Eight Signatures signed on cards and paper from 3.25" x 2". Signatures included are John Hay, Carl Schurz, Albert Gallatin, George S. Boutwell, William Winter, William H. Seward, Robert M. LaFollett, and George Bancroft. Signatures are signed in ink and most have light pencil markings that identify the signer. Signatures range from very good to very fine.
[Political] William Jennings Bryan, William Cullen Bryant, and Oliver Wendell Holmes, Letters Signed, including: (1) William Jennings Bryan typed letter signed, "W. J. Bryan" one page, 7.25" x 10.25, May 14, 1913, Washington, D.C., on secretary of state letterhead, regarding a cartoon about Bryan's serving of grape juice at diplomatic functions; (2) William Cullen Bryant autograph letter signed, "W. C. Bryant", one page, 4" x 3.75" (trimmed), September 13, 1858, New York, sold with a fine engraving of Bryant; (3) Oliver Wendell Holmes autograph letter signed, "O. W. Holmes", one page, 4.5" x 3.5", October 28, 1887, Boston, Massachusetts, with original autograph transmittal envelope, regarding the signing of three volumes, mounted on paper. All with light soiling, else fine.
Group of Six Items Signed by Early Governors of Georgia. Documents signed by George Rockingham Gilmer (1821, with partial large wax seal), John Clark (1821, with paper encased wax seal of Georgia), William Schley (1826), Benjamin Catching (1785), Wilson Lumpkin (1808), George M. Troup (n.d., signature only). Fragile early documents.
Photography
Authors, Politicians, Abolitionists, and Temperance Activists: Group Lot of Nine Cartes de Visite. William T. Adams, Anthony Trollope, Bret Harte, Eliza Cook, William D. Howells, Wendell Phillips, Edward Everett, William Lloyd Garrison, and John B. Gough. Only the Harte and Everett signatures are authentic. All fine and each is hinged to 6" x 8" beige mat.
[Western Crime] Dalton Gang, Cole Younger, Wild Bunch Four Photos, including: a postmortem image of the Dalton Gang, Bill Powers, Bob Dalton, Grat Dalton and Dick Broadwell, 5.5" x 3.25"; a postmortem picture of Cole Younger, 3.25" x 5"; a picture of the Wild Bunch including Harry A. Longabaugh, alias the "Sundance Kid", Ben "The Tall Texan" Kilpatrick, Robert Leroy Parker, alias "Butch Cassidy", Will Carver, and Harvey Logan, alias "Kid Curry", 6.75" x 5"; and a postmortem picture of Ben "The Tall Texan" Kilpatrick and Ed Welch, 4.75" x 6.75". All but the last, mounted on cards. All are later re-prints, have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels on the verso, surface abrasions and crazing, else near very good.
[Western] Group of Seven Images of the Old West, including; a 5" x 8" cabinet card of "Mt. Of the Holy Cross" on a W. H. Jackson Photo Co. card; a cabinet card, 8.5" x 5", of a horse on a card marked "W. G. Walker/ Photographer/ Cheyenne, Wyo."; a carte de visite of George Armstrong Custer, 2.5" x 4", with rounded corners; a tin type of a baby, 2.5" x 3.5"; a Kodak photo, 3.25" x 5.5", of Jules Verne Allen, "The Singing Cowboy" signed on the verso; a Foxtone photo, 4" x 5", of a man named "Ericson" who was an early Arizonian; a modern print of an image of Major Frank North, organizer of the Pawnee Scouts. Most have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Queen Kapiolani, Queen Consort of Hawaii, Signed Card. One page, 3" x 2". The signed card is sold with the original mounting card that reads, "Autograph of the Queen of the Sandwich Islands, May 10, 1887". Uneven toning and light mounting residue on the verso, else near fine.
Kalakaua, King of Hawaii, Signature. One page, excised from a larger sheet, 4" x 3.5", n.d., n.p. The signature is on watermarked paper with an embossed gold seal of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Office of the H. M. Chamberlain. Very fine.
Fugitive Slave Law: Joseph Hornblower Autograph Letter Signed "Jos. C. Hornblower". Four pages, 5" x 8", June 13, 1854, Newark, New Jersey, to "Wm. Ropes Esq". Former New Jersey Chief Justice Hornblower writes this letter during the disquieting pre-Civil War years of the 1850s. In it, he refers extensively to his previous opinion on slavery and his disagreement with Senator Daniel Webster (this letter was written two years after the death of Webster). The letter contains later penciled annotations at the top of page one and the bottom of page four. Near fine.
Slave Document, Last Will and Testament of Thomas Sovell. Written on page one and two of the four integral pages, 7.5" x 11.75", April 24, 1729, Christ Church Parish, Barbados, on laid paper with a British Royal Crest watermark. Docketed on page four. Some tape repairs on verso, a few fold splits (mostly small) and a couple of tiny holes from iron gall ink. Boldly penned and very good.
Indentured Servant Agreement. 2pp., 7.75" x 12.5", Pickaway County, Ohio, August 3, 1831. Indenture by which "Catherine Bost aged twelve years" is bound to six years of service by her mother, a widow, to Jacob Ludwig. Content includes all terms and goods to be provided and exchanged. Signed with their marks. With recorder's office docket on integral sheet. Very good.
Photography
Mrs. Adele Cutts Douglas, Two Cartes de Visite, Wife of Stephen A. Douglas. Both images are 2.25" x 4", mounted on card with photo archive stamps, pencil notations, labels on the verso, and light surface abrasions, else near fine.
[Nineteenth Century] Group of Seven Cartes de Visite and Cabinet Cards, including, CDVs of: Second Assistant Secretary of State Augustus Alvey Adee; General Andrews; natural history professor Jean Louis Rodolphe Agassiz of Harvard University; actor Edwin Forrest; and, operatic singer and actress Emilie Melville. Most have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody Cabinet Card and Imperial Card of Torpedo Station on the James River, 1864. The Cody card is 4.25" x 6.5" by Wendt of Boonton, New Jersey. The imperial card is 8.5"x 7.25" (trimmed and shaved) and shows a Union station on the James River established for extracting gunpowder from Confederate torpedoes, photographed by Egbert Guy Fox for Brady in 1864. The versos have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels, light chipping at the edges, else near fine.
Autographs
John Ross Autograph Addressed Envelope Signed, "Jno. Ross". One page, 11" x 7.75", n.d., n.p. The folded envelope is addressed in Ross's hand to the "Honbl. Louis Riley, Judge of the Dist. Court, Canadian Dist., Cherokee Nation". Soiled and weak at the folds, the envelope has seal tears and remnants of previous mounting on the verso, else very good.
1832 Alabama Personal Estate Inventory including slaves. Written on two of four integral pages, 8" x 12", Wilcox County, Alabama, April 18, 1832. This "Inventory and appraisment [sic] of the personal estate of Samuel Bonner, Esq., Deceased" lists personal items and their value; included in the list are the names and values of twenty-seven slaves. Toned with some foxing. Has some tape repairs along some folds. Some chipping; good.
Benjamin Butler Letter Signed, "Benj. F. Butler". One page with docketing on the verso, 7.75" x 9.5", October 31, 1864, Headquarters, Department of Virginia and North Carolina [Fort Monroe, Virginia]. The verso is docketed with a steel stamp dated November 1, 1864. The stamp resulted in a light tear through the signature. Slight weakness and soiling at folds, else very good.
Edwin Booth, Two Cartes de Visite, each 2.5" x 4", back marked with the Gurney Photography Studio name and logo. Booth, whose brother assassinated Abraham Lincoln, was a leading Shakespearian actor of his day. Both have pencil notations, one has a photo archive stamp and label on the verso and surface abrasions, else very good. The other is fine.
William T. Sherman Signature, "W. T. Sherman" on white card 3.25" x 2". Signature is crisp, clear, and very fine.
David G. Farragut Letter Signed "D. G. Farragut/ Rear Admiral". One page, 7.5" x 9.5", June 27, 1864, "Off Mobile", aboard the "U.S. Flag Ship Hartford", giving orders to "Paymaster/ W. T. Meredith/ U.S.S. Hartford/ off-Mobile" to "proceed . . . to New Orleans". Clean; fine.
Civil War Soldier's Incomplete Letter. Eight pages, 8" x 10", n.d., n.p. This engaging letter written by a Union soldier is full of military action that takes place near the Civil War's end. The top half of page one has separated at a fold and is missing. Toned on blue-lined paper, some pages contain ink stains. Page two/three has a .5" x .5" piece missing near an upper corner. Still, near fine with great content; worthy of further research.
[James Longstreet] Helen D. Longstreet Archive containing two typed letters signed in purple ink, both dated 1922 and concerning women's political issues. Also included, a pamphlet about the career of Mrs. Longstreet and an unsigned carbon copy of a letter to Mrs. Longstreet. All are fine.
[Civil War] Outlawing of Liquor Trafficking Among the Troops signed "Jos. C. Wheeler, Capt." Four pages, November 26, 1863, "Provost Marshall's Office", Charleston, to Brigadier General Alfred Nattie Duffie, concerning an order issued by Duffie "prohibiting the traffic in Spirituous Liquors inside of your lines." With folds and some foxing and staining, else very good.
Military & Patriotic
Confederate Soldier's Letters. Two letters by Lieut. James A. Edwards to his wife, 2pp., 6" x 9", "Camp 15th GA / Near Guinea Station Va.", January 25, 1863. In part: "The two great armies are still facing each other at Fredericksburg with nothing between them but the Rappahannock River... I think that the enemy will hardly attempt a crossing at the same place after being so thoroughly whipped..." With dampstaining, otherwise very good and completely legible. A second letter dated July 13, 1862 notes: "Dr. Edwards informs me that you and our little Confederate are well. Several of our boys have died who were wounded in the fight.". Dampstaining, and a cello repair to a separation at a fold. Together with a third letter from the homefront purported to be to a Confederate soldier.
Autographs
[General Joseph Hooker] Secretarially Written and Signed Letter. Two pages, 5" x 8", Garden City, New York, September 4, 1878, to General W. B. Franklin. With the usual fold creases, else a bright, sharp letter in fine condition. From the collection of Henry E. Luhrs.
Alexander H. Stephens Archive, including one 6.5" x 4" card signed, three cartes de visite of the boyish-looking Confederate vice president, and three envelopes addressed to Stephens (two postmarked). One CDV has been signed at the bottom by an elder Stephens. All in very good to fine condition.
South Carolina Nullification Autograph Letter Signed "F. H. McKinnie" of Augusta, Georgia, to attorney Charles H. Shockley of Appling, Georgia, discussing South Carolina nullification and referring to "northern vampires". Three pages, 8" x 10", September 18, 1832, Augusta. The top one-fourth has completely separated at a fold. Small piece missing along right margin of page three. Still, clear, bold writing; good.
Jedediah Huntington Document Signed "J Huntington collector". One page, 7.5" x 6.5", September 10, 1801, "District and Port of New-London", allowing "the Sloop Betsy . . . to proceed to the Port of New York." A toned document, but a bold, clear signature. Very good. Offered with two additional documents signed with seafaring content.
[Civil War] Autograph Letter Describing the Battle of the Crater, Siege of Petersburg. Four pages, front and verso, 8" x 12.5" and 8" x 7", August 10, 1864, "Camp 6th N.Y. Arty". Fine.
Confederate Archive of Fourteen Items related to Confederates from Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Including documents, letters, pay vouchers, and signatures of Robert Toombs, Richard Hobbs, Georgia Governor Joseph E. Brown, Colonel Frank Huger, Colonel John W. Hinsdale, Colonel Robert F. Graham, Captain Miles Hazzard, Attorney Charles H. Simonton, E. M. Seabrook, Robert M. Gourdin, and General Thomas Reade Rootes Cobb (not signed by Cobb). Worthy of further research!
Sherman's March to the Sea: Two Items. (1) Captain Lorenzo D. Myers Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.75" x 10", August 1, 1864, Atlanta, Georgia, Army of the Cumberland, "Headquarters". (2) "Inventory & Inspection Report of Unserviceable Camp and Garrison Equipage" listing items (knapsacks, canteens, etc.), all in "worn-out" condition. One page, 15.5" x 10", January 5, 1865, Savannah, Georgia. Both fine.
Howell Cobb Autograph Letter Signed, 2pp., 8" x 10", Macon, Jan. 8, 1866. Responding to a question about a current court case on the issue of fraud and indemnification bonds. Hinged along left margin. Together with five pre-war used covers addressed to Cobb (including one to his wife).
Civil War: Confederate Soldier's Letter With Accompanying Sickness Verification Letter. One page, 7.75" x 9.75", Berea, N.C., Sept. 16, 1861. R.S. Wood of the 12th North Carolina Infantry, Co. D writes to Capt. George Wortham Thanking him for allowing him recuperate at home. Together with an ALS, one page, 7.75" x 4.5", stating that Wood had suffered "an attack of jaundice which prevented his returning to camp..." With original transmittal cover. Near fine.
[Civil War Service Record and Archive] Private Horace E. Eames, 1st Heavy Artillery Massachusetts. Three partially printed items and one photograph, including: (1) service record, 8.5" x 10.75", June 28, 1865, Fort Warren, B.H. [Boston Harbor, Massachusetts]; (2) marriage certificate, 8" x 9.5", March 13, 1872, Lynn, Massachusetts; (3) copy of record of birth for Harvey Edward Eames (son of Horace Eames), August 28, 1926; and (4) photograph, 8" x 10", of Horace Eames [age 91], dressed in the uniform of the Grand Army of the Republic, being helped into an automobile. The service record has been folded and the ink dim, else all very good.
Photography
Nathaniel Prentiss Banks, Four Cartes de Visite, all 2.5" x 4". The CDV of the full standing pose is back marked "E. & H. T. Anthony" from a negative by Brady. Two are mounted on cards. All have photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels on the verso, and minor surface abrasions, else near very good.
[Military] Nine Cartes de Visite, Cabinet Cards, and Photographic Images, including: two CDVs of Ulysses S. Grant as general; a CDV of General Nathaniel Prentiss Banks; a CDV of General Louis Ludwig Blenker; a CDV of Commander Edward Barrett, U.S.N. (signed on the verso); a CDV of a British officer of the Indian Army wearing the ribbon bar for the Indian Mutiny, standing next to his wife, captioned "Col. & Mrs. German"; an image, 6.25" x 4.25", of the managers of the House of Representatives of the impeachment of Andrew Johnson, the group includes former generals Benjamin Butler and John A. Logan; an image of General Grant's Headquarters at City Point on the James River, 8" x 6"; and a cabinet card of a young second lieutenant of the Indian Wars, 4.25" x 6.5". The images of Grant's headquarters, the impeachment managers, and the British couple are all mounted on card. All photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Robert E. Lee, Carte de Visite, 2.5" x 4". The image is engraved and produced by L. Prang & Co. Boston. The card is edged in green. Moderate wear, foxing, soiling, else near very good.
Albert Sidney Johnston, Carte de Visite, 2.5" x 4". Johnston, who saw extensive combat during his military career, fighting in the Texas War of Independence, the Mexican-American War, the Utah War, was the highest ranking officer, Union or Confederate, killed during the entire Civil War. The image, with "Gen. A. S. Johnson [sic]" printed at the bottom, is low contrast, but very clean, thus fine.
Military & Patriotic
Civil War Veterans Pension Claims Archive, being the case files of West Virginia Congressman Howard Sutherland. An extensive group of more than 400 documents, letters, and printed handbills spanning the years 1913-1922 related to his work with Civil War veterans in their plight to obtain a fair pension. The archive includes many personal letters from surviving veterans or their widows detailing when they enlisted, were injured and discharged. Also includes correspondence from lawyers and other lawmakers on their efforts to increase the benefits of the now elderly veterans. With many retained carbon copies of letters by Sutherland kept on file alongside the originally received letters. A great research archive.
Autographs
Jefferson Davis Autograph Letter Signed "Jeffer. Davis" as U.S. senator from Mississippi. One page, 8" x 10", January 18, 1849, n.p., with "Com. Mil. Affairs" as header. Davis, who served as the chairman for the Committee of Military Affairs, writes this letter to "Col. Talcott/ U. S. Ordnance" asking for advice. Bold writing; near fine.
Varina Davis Autograph Letter Signed "V. Jefferson Davis". One page, 5" x 8", April 6, 1890, Beauvoir, Mississippi, to Mr. Dirmitry, concerning research done for her biography about her husband entitled Jefferson Davis, a Memoir. On lined paper, toned with some foxing and some separation along folds. With tape repairs on verso; near very good.
[Texas Republic] Francis R. Lubbock Document Signed as comptroller. One partly printed certificate, 6.75" x 3.25", September 1, 1837, "City of Houston", and listed as number 1189. This $100 certificate was issued to John Dunn and is countersigned by Stock Commissioner William G. Cook. John Dunn has endorsed the certificate on the verso. Very good.
Miscellaneous
[Civil War Newspaper] The Charleston Daily Courier. Two pages, 16.5" x 23", May 10, 1864, with lower banner reading, "Charleston, S.C., Confederate States of America." Contains news of General Lee's efforts and news of the "Siege of Charleston. Three Hundred and Sixth Day." Toned with a rough left edge. Very good.
[Civil War Newspaper] Chicago Tribune. Four pages, 21.5" x 29", October 13, 1864, Chicago, with war news from several states, including "The War in Missouri-Price on the Skedaddle". Interesting war content; with folds. Near fine.
[Civil War Newspaper] The Memphis Daily Appeal. Two pages, 19" x 23", May 24, 1864, Atlanta, Georgia, with Civil War content, including news from the Confederate States Congress and a list of casualties from the 7th Mississippi regiment. The paper is somewhat fragile with some separation at the folds. Good.
[Civil War Newspaper] The Philadelphia Inquirer with printing errors. This curious copy is a large uncut sheet with both the Monday, March 14, 1864, and the Tuesday, March 15, 1864, issues, each on opposite sides of the large sheet. The total of eight pages are well-preserved and contain Civil War political and military news from both days. A printing oddity with some foxing in fine condition.
[Civil War Newspaper] The New York Times. Six pages, January 23, 1862, 15.5" x 21". This well-preserved original copy contains Civil War political and military news, including news of "The Great [Union] Victory" at the Battle of Mill Springs, important because the Union had not had a major victory by that time. Fine.
[Civil War Newspaper] The Springfield Daily Republican. Eight pages, 15.75" x 21.5", November 9, 1864. This well-preserved and well-protected original copy contains Civil War political and military news, including an article entitled "Our Friends in Southern Prison". With usual fold; fine.
[Civil War Newspaper] The New-York Times. Eight pages, March 10, 1862, 15.5" x 21". This well-preserved original copy contains Civil War political and military news, including a large front page map with reports of the early Peninsula Campaign, including news of the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac. Fine.
[Civil War Newspaper] The Boston Daily Advertiser. Four pages (in two cut sheets), 21.25" x 29", January 29, 1864, with an advertisement for "Mr. Everett's Gettysburg Address." Also includes Civil War political and military news. Near fine.
[Two Civil War Newspapers] (1) The Sugar Planter. Two pages, 14.75" x 19.75", November 2, 1861, West Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With some foxing; fine. (2) The Daily Journal. Four pages, 15" x 22.5", May 8, 1861, Wilmington, North Carolina. Fine. Both include Civil War military and political news.
Books
[Civil War Newspapers] Three Issues of the Cincinnati Daily Commercial, each 22" x 27", four pages, and dated 1864 (August 11, August 13, and August 16), with Civil War news. Folds with some stains; very good.
[Civil War Newspaper] Southern Confederacy. Four pages, 15.75" x 21.25", October 28, 1862, Atlanta, Georgia. Contains interesting Civil War content. Age toned with some separation at center vertical fold; near very good.
Miscellaneous
Confederate States of America $100 Loan Bond. One page, 13.75" x 9.5", June 10, 1862, Richmond, with eleven attached $4 coupons (four have been removed). The certificate was redeemable on July 1, 1869, though by that time, the Confederacy was deceased. This bond was printed by B. Duncan of Richmond. Light browning, uneven lower edge. Very good condition.
Confederate States of America $1,000 Loan Bond. One page, 13.5" x 14.5", February 11, 1863, Richmond, with twenty-four $40 coupons. The certificate was redeemable on January 1, 1877, though by that time, the Confederacy was deceased. This bond was printed by B. Duncan of Columbia, South Carolina. Age toned with some chipping along edges; very good.
Two Confederate States of America Loan Bonds, (1) 14" x 10", December 29, 1862, Richmond, with three $4 coupons (some coupons are missing). (2) 13.75" x 17, July 1, 1864, Richmond, with sixteen coupons (one coupon is missing). Both documents are toned and fine.
Confederate States of America $1,000 Loan Bond. One page, 15" x 14", March 2, 1863, Richmond, with seven $40 coupons (some coupons are missing). The certificate was redeemable on July 1, 1868, though by that time, the Confederacy was deceased. This bond was printed by Evans & Cogwell of Columbia, South Carolina. Age toned with folds; very good.
Autographs
[Confederate States of America] Georgia $500 Bond Signed by Governor Joseph Brown. One page, 16" x 19", February 1, 1862, with twenty-eight $8.75 coupons (two have been removed). Age toned with weakness and separation along the smoothed folds; good.
World Wars I and II Collection of Items Signed by Officers and Soldiers. Includes:
(1) Carl Spaatz signed Second Act of Military Surrender signed May 8, 1945 in Berlin Germany, (2) James M. Gavin three signed photos, (3) Douglas Campbell signed photo, (4) Arthur W. Tedder addressed cover, (5) William D. Leahy, Ernest J. King, and Jackson D. Arnold signed photo, (6) Chester W. Nimitz signed photo, (7) Alexander M. Patch three items: ANS, two TLS and a SP, (8) [Jimmy Doolittle] cards signed by Doolittle's Tokyo Raiders, (9) Jimmy Doolittle a TLS and SP.
(1) Carl Spaatz signed Second Act of Military Surrender signed May 8, 1945 in Berlin Germany, (2) James M. Gavin three signed photos, (3) Douglas Campbell signed photo, (4) Arthur W. Tedder addressed cover, (5) William D. Leahy, Ernest J. King, and Jackson D. Arnold signed photo, (6) Chester W. Nimitz signed photo, (7) Alexander M. Patch three items: ANS, two TLS and a SP, (8) [Jimmy Doolittle] cards signed by Doolittle's Tokyo Raiders, (9) Jimmy Doolittle a TLS and SP.
World Wars I and II U. S. Military Figures, including: 1. General Maxwell D. Taylor, document signed, a photocopy of the SHAEF message announcing the end of hostilities, one page 8.5" x 11", May 7, 1945; 2. Major General John W. O'Daniel, typed letter signed, one page, 8" x 10.5", September 21, 1950, Fort Monroe, Virginia, included is a newspaper clipping about O'Daniel; and 3. Elliott Spring typed letter signed, one page, 8.5" x 11", July 9, 1951, Lancaster, South Carolina. All fine.
U.S. WWI and WWII Military Hero Group of Three Typed Letters Signed by Alvin York, Hap Arnold, and Eddie Rickenbacker. All near fine to fine.
Miscellaneous
[World War II] Newspapers and Posters, including: six copies of Stars and Stripes from 1945; a July 12, 1944, front page of the Evening Standard; two "Safe Conduct Passes" with a printed facsimile of General Eisenhower's signature; an Office of War Information "The Sound That Kills" color poster, 14" x 20"; two Office of Facts and Figures "The Enemy is Listening" posters, 20" x 28"; a Seagram's "Look Who's Listening" poster, 21.5" x 28"; and, a German propaganda poster, 9.5" x 14". The newspapers are brittle. The posters have chipped edges, else near fine.
Autographs
George Dewey Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8" x 10", February 8, 1908, Washington, D. C., on Office of the Admiral of the Navy stationary. Dewey agrees to attend the May 1908 arrival of the fleet in San Francisco Bay. Slight water damage to the left side and evidence of mounting on the verso, else near fine.
Photography
[Pearl Harbor] Photograph of the Battleships USS Tennessee (BB-43) and USS West Virginia (BB-48) on December 7, 1941. The modern print is 7" x 5", in black and white, shows both ships moored together on "Battleship Row" when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. The verso has photo archive stamps, pencil notations, and labels, light surface abrasions, and a central vertical fold, else good.
Autographs
John A. Lejeune Two Typed Letters Signed and Marine Corps Archive. Two pages (the Lejeune letters) and twenty-five pages total (including carbon paper copies), most 8" x 10.5", various dates (May - October 1922), and various places. The Lejeune letters were written to United States Senator Howard Sutherland regarding the cases of two marines, George F. Jackson and Dennis W. Hager. All letters have file holes at the top, else near fine of better.
Douglas A. MacArthur Photograph Signed "Best Wishes! Douglas MacArthur ". Matte finish black and white photographic print, 8" x 10". Written in another hand on the verso, "from General Douglas MacArthur to Vernon E. Rickard" and the date, "10-31-51". Slight weakness to the signature, else fine.
Benito Mussolini and King Victor Emmanuel III, Two Documents Signed, including: (1) a royal proclamation announcing military promotions, 4pp, signed by both the King and Mussolini on page three, 9.75" x 14.5", April 4, 1929, [Rome], partially printed, in Italian, sold with the eight page advancement and service record (Specchio di Avanzamento ad Anzianita) of Pietro Spano, also in Italian; (2) another royal proclamation announcing military promotions, 10pp, signed by both the King and Mussolini on page nine, 9.75" x 14.5", August 25, 1939, [Rome]. Light soiling on all, the signed documents show signs of once being bound, else all are near fine or better.
George S. Patton, Jr. Envelope Signed Twice, 9" x 4", postmarked Sep. 23, 1944. Patton signs, "Censored G S Patton Jr. Lt Gen"; with a second signature occurring in the address to his wife, "Mrs. G S Patton Jr.". Some soiling and creasing, nevertheless a good example of a war-dated signature with rank. Accompanied by a reprint photo of Patton in uniform.
George Patton Signature "Censored/ G S Patton/ Lt. Gen." on slip of paper, 2.5" x 2" (sight), n.d., n.p. Nicely matted and framed to an overall size of 16.25" x 20.5" with three gold military stars and a cover of Life Magazine featuring a smiling General Patton in uniform. Very clear, bold signature; fine.
Archive of Eight Marine and Naval Documents and Letters, including an unsigned Franklin Roosevelt document. All are dated between 1884 and 1935 and broadly trace the military careers of Henry W. Carpenter and Edwin N. McClellan. All are very good to fine.
Miscellaneous
[World War II] Currency Conversion Poster Issued by General Dwight Eisenhower, 15" x 20", in French. The 1942 poster, with a printed facsimile of General Eisenhower's signature, gives the exchange rates between United States dollars, British pounds sterling, and French francs. Folds, else fine.
[Weimar Republic] 1000 Mark Debenture Bond of the Association of Greater Berlin. One page, 11" x 14.75", August 13, 1919, Berlin, in German, with a printed ornamental border. The bond has both ink and embossed seals bearing the crowned Imperial eagle. Slight weakness at the folds and minor soiling, else very good.
Autographs
Robert Baden-Powell Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, 4.25" x 5.5", July 11, 1910, n.p., to "Mrs. Hastie", with references to the Boy Scouts. Contains penciled notations .5" below signature; hinged with tape to a larger page. Very good.
Richard E. Byrd Signed Book with Fabric Samples, Skyward, by Commander Richard Evelyn Byrd, (New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons / The Knickerbocker Press, 1928). First Edition, number 397 of 500 copies, signed by the author and the publishers. Octavo, xv, 348 pages, with foldout map at the end, 10 photogravure plates, and 23 other plates. On the front blue paste-down endpaper are mounted two fabric samples, under which is printed, "Above is a portion of the fabric (showing both sides) which covered the plane Josephine Ford on her historic flight over the North Pole on May 9th, 1926 piloted by Commander Richard E. Byrd". Light edge bumps and wear to the book, no dust jacket, the signature is very fine.
Robert E. Peary Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8" x 10.5", May 22, 1905, Portland, Maine, asking the editor of the Portland Daily Advertiser to insert a wanted ad for three whaleboats. Some light soiling; fine.
Orville Wright Signature. One dinner ticket reminder, 4" x 2.75", n.d., n.p., signed on verso in pencil. These tickets were given to train passengers to remind them to "Please have [your Dinner Ticket] ready." A few small stains; fine.
James B. Irwin and Eddie Rickenbacker Signatures. (1) James B. Irwin Check Signed. One page, 6" x 2.75", April 2, 1984, Colorado Springs, Colorado, to CSCS for $149.00, drawn on the First Bank of Colorado Springs. (2) Eddie Rickenbacker Typed Letter Signed. One page on Rickenbacker's personal letterhead, 7.25" x 10.25, December 31, 1931, New York City, wishing Larry E. Williams holiday cheer. Both are fine.
Charles Lindbergh Signature, "Charles A. Lindbergh", on one page, 6" x 4", April 17, 1939, Washington, D.C., in black ink. Fine.
Charles Lindbergh Typed Letter Signed, "C. A. L." One page, 8.5" x 11", December 13, 1968, Scotts Cove [Darien, Connecticut]. To his personal secretary Mrs. Jean Saunders. "I am most anxious to get some copies of the enclosed address." Included are copies of addresses delivered by Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh at the National Institute of Social Sciences on November 21, 1968 and signed letters of authentication by Jean Saunders. Paper-clip indention and staple holes in upper left corner, else fine.
Collection of 15 Aviation Stereo Cards. Splendid stereo card images showing early airplanes in flight, planes landing on water, and one view of a German village from a British plane during World War I. Many contain captions; all are 7" x 3.5" and in fine condition.
Belva Lockwood Autograph Card Signed. One page, 3.5" x 2", n.d., n.p. The card, inscribed "Yours for peace, / Belva A. Lockwood", is mounted on a larger card. Light soiling and chipped lower left corner, else fine.
Carrie Chapman Catt Typed Letter Signed as president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association and written on that association's letterhead. One and one-third pages, 8.5" x 11", March 18, 1920, New York, to "the Legislators of Delaware". Toned and in fine condition.
Laura Bridgman Autograph Quotation Signed "Be of good cheer/ Laura D. Bridgman" on 5.25" x 3" slip of paper. Bridgman (1829-1889), born fifty-one years before Helen Keller, was one of the first deaf-blind Americans to become well-educated. Bridgman's amazing signature is readable and in very fine condition.
Jane Addams Signed Photograph, 6.5" x 10.5", sepia tone. The photo, signed in pencil by the photographer "Water", is inscribed in ink, "Faithfully yours, Jane Addams". The very attractive photo has one slight smudge on the upper right edge, else very fine.
Authors' Group of Seven Signatures, each on age-toned cards ranging from 3.5" x 1.75" to 5" x 3.25". Signatures included are from Bayard Taylor, Charles Dudley Warner, George Washington Cable, Israel Zangwill, Wilkie Collins, Edward Everett Hale, and Julia Ward Howe. All signatures are signed in ink or pencil with light pencil markings at the top left that identify the signer. Signatures range from very good to very fine.
[Samuel Clemens] John Clemens Autograph Promissory Note Signed "John M. Clemens". One page, 8" x 4", January 29, 1844, n.p., accompanied by a list of groceries, one page, 6.25" x 15.75". Both are toned and near fine.
Charles Dickens Signed Page. One page, 6" x 7.75", March 14, 1842, Washington, D.C.. The note reads, "Faithfully yours / Charles Dickens". The top of the page has a nicely engraved fountain with drinking birds. Uneven toning and light chipping at the right and left sides, else near fine.
Ralph Waldo Emerson Signed Check, "R. Waldo Emerson". One page, 7.5" x 2.5" (sight), October 20, 1873, Concord, Massachusetts. This partly printed check, drawn on the Concord National Bank for $35.02, does not list a payee. It is stamped "PAID" and contains a two cent revenue stamp. Fine. Matted and framed to an overall size of 12.5" x 8".
Julia Ward Howe Autograph Letters (Two) Signed. (1) Four pages, 5" x 7.5", January 15, 1871; (2) Two pages, 4" x 5.5", February 22, 1908, "241 Beacon St.", to H. B. Sanborn of Concord, Massachusetts. Transmittal envelope is included. Both letters, written by the author of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic", are in near fine condition.
Harper Lee Signed 40th Anniversary Edition of To Kill a Mockingbird. New York: Harper Collins, 1999. 8vo. 323pp. Signed "Harper Lee" on the half title page. With dust jacket and in very fine condition.
Photography
Whitelaw Reid, Two Photographic Images. One, with Reid standing next to Andrew Carnegie, is 7" x 5". The other image, 3.75" x 5.5", shows Reid alone. Both are mounted on card and have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
James Russell Lowell Autograph Poem Signed "J. R. Lowell". One page, 4.25" x 4.75", June 17, 1881, n.p. This four-line poem was written to an unnamed recipient. Fine. The poem is framed and matted with an image of the poet to an overall size of 15.5" x 12.25".
James Russell Lowell Autograph Letter Signed, "J. R. L.". Four integral pages, written on page one, 4.5" x 7", February 9, 1888, Cambridge, on embossed notepaper. The letter is addressed to "My dear Curtis", most likely fellow author George William Curtis, who eulogized Lowell upon his death. Fine.
Ira Remsen Autograph Letter Signed. Four integral pages, written on pages one and three, 4.5" x 7", December 21, 1882, Baltimore, Maryland. The letter, addressed to "My dear Mr. Gilder" [Richard Watson Gilder, editor of the magazine The Century], commends the recipient on his suggestion to publish a "round-robin" to which, "I am sure the signatures of the prominent scientific men all over the county can be secured." Hinge-mounted to another sheet with pencil notations on page three, else very good.
Walter Scott Autograph Letter Signed, "Yours truly, W. Scott". One page, 4" x 4.25", "Sunday Morning", n.p. The small letter is addressed to "Dear Sharpe" asking that he "Pray look in here if at Kale-burn viz! five o'clock". Attractively framed (22.25" x 17.5" overall) with a fine engraving of Scott. Folds, else fine.
Walter Scott Document Twice Signed. One page with docketing on the verso, 12.25" x 8.25", January 6, 1821, Edinburgh. The document is a registered protest filed by Campbell Macintosh against Peter Fraser of Inverness and Reverend James D. Smith of Urquhart for nonpayment of a debt. The front of the document is signed "W. Scott" and the verso has "[McQueen] Mackintosh, W.S." in Scott's hand. Damp staining to the right edge, else near fine.
Photography
Mark Twain, Samuel L. Clemens, Three Photographic Images, including a cabinet card of Twain, 4.25" x 6.5", (shaved and chipped); an image of Twain writing in bed, 3.25" square; and, an image of Twain in a white linen suit on a porch at Tuxedo Park, New York, 4" x 6". The two later images are mounted on card. All have photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Lew Wallace Autograph Ben-Hur Quotation Signed. On card stock, 4.5" x 3.5", November 16, 1887, Crawfordsville, Indiana. Toned with light staining; fine.
H. G. Wells Autograph Letter Signed. Three pages, 4.5" x 7", n.d., Dunmow [Essex, United Kingdom], on Easton Glebe stationery, regarding his current projects. Mounting residue at the corners, else fine.
Camille Saint-Saens Two Musical Quotes Signed. One page, 4.5" x 5", sight size, n.d., n.p. The two bars are titled, Valse en [?] A minor and Rhapsodie en [?] minor. The page is signed at the bottom and is attractively matted and framed with a bronze medal featuring a bust of Saint-Saens. The back of the frame has a certification of authenticity and a red wax seal from Charles Hamilton Autographs. The frame measures 12.5" x 14.5" overall. Fine.
Camille Saint-Saens Musical Quote Signed. One page, 4.75" x 2.75", 1906, n.p., with a pasted image of Saint-Saens in the upper right corner. Saint-Saens has written a bar from Le Déluge and drawn a fish body under his head. The piece is signed and dated along the bottom. Mounted on cardstock, else fine.
John Philip Sousa, Autograph Musical Quote Signed. One page, 7" x 3.5", 1916. Four bars from the "The Stars and Stripes forever" and dated "1916".
John Philip Sousa Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 9", Dec. 9, 190[?], Kansas City, Missouri, on Baltimore Hotel Co. stationery, to Will George Butler. This unevenly toned letter is affixed to cardboard backing for an overall size of 6.5" x 9". Very good.
Norman Rockwell Signed Book with Caricature, Norman Rockwell Illustrator, by Arthur L. Guptill (New York: Watson - Guptill Publications, 1946), First Edition, 208 pages, folio, 9" x 12". The book is inscribed "To Miss Cunnius from her faithful friend, Norman Rockwell". The inscription is illustrated with a caricature of a dog with a tin can tied to his wagging tail. The book shows some shelf wear and has chipping on the dust jacket. The ink inscription, signature, and illustration are all very fine.
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Typed Letter Signed. Typed on one of the four integral pages, 5" x 8", August 19, 1948, Seal Harbor, Maine, on "The Eyrie" stationary. Central fold, else very fine.
Friedrich Wilhelm "Fritz" Strassmann Signed Souvenir Copy of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty ratified Oct. 7, 1963. Strassmann signs in blue ink in the lower right corner. Very fine. Strassmann's work with Otto Hahn on the uranium atom set the groundwork for the understanding of atomic energy and chain reactions.
Photography
Coolidge, Edison, Ford, and Firestone Real Photo Post Card, 5.5" x 3.25", unused, August 19, 1924, Plymouth, Vermont. The post card pictures Harvey Firestone, President Coolidge, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Russell Firestone, Mrs. Grace Coolidge, and Colonel John Coolidge, the president's father. Fine.
Thomas Alva Edison, Two Photographic Images. The smaller is a later print of a young Edison, slouched in a chair, listening to the phonograph, 7" x 4". The larger print is also a later copy of Edison, seated in an automobile, recording on a phonograph. The auto print has airbrushing. Both are mounted on card with photo archive stamps, pencil and pen notations, labels on the verso, and surface abrasions, else near very good.
Autographs
Thomas A. Edison Typed Letter Signed on his laboratory letterhead trimmed to 7.25" x 8.5", Orange, N. J., March 6, 1913. Brief letter thanking the recipient for birthday greetings received. Signed "Thos A Edison" adding his trademark "umbrella" flourish. Usual mail folds, otherwise very good.
[Thomas Edison] William H. Meadowcroft Typed Letter Signed and Annotated. One page, 8.5" x 11", January 6, 1927, Orange, New Jersey, on Edison Laboratory letterhead. Folds and even toning, else fine.
Clarence Darrow Sentiment and Signature, "To Mr. Henry W. Jones / With the kind regards of / Clarence Darrow". One page, 9" x 5.5", March 30, 1913, Los Angeles. Toned with some weakness at the folds, else near fine.
Booker T. Washington Typed Letter Signed on Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute Letterhead. One page, 8" x 10.5", November 15, 1904, Tuskegee Institute, Alabama, written to "Editor Advertiser, Portland, Maine." Toned; fine.
Phineas T. Barnum Autograph Letter Signed "P.T. Barnum" on his office letterhead. One page, 5.5" x 8.75", Bridgeport, Connecticut, Dec. 5, 1882. A letter to A. W. Thayer writing that "There seems to be nothing sufficiently unique in your vicinity to add to the interest of my great show." Light feathering to the last line of text and the signature, otherwise fine.
Robert L. Ripley Signed Photograph and Autograph Letter Signed. The 1929 photo is 8" x 10", and signed "To / James J. Carmichael Jr. / with best wishes / of / Ripley / Believe It or Not!" The autograph letter, 8.5" x 11", also to Carmichael, is undated. Folds to the letter, else both fine.
Marlene Dietrich Document Signed "M Dietrich". One page, 7.25" x 10.5", Reader's Digest letterhead, November 9, 1967, Lunt-Fontaine Theater, New York City. Dietrich signs her name at the close of a typed letter from Marjorie Nicholson, giving permission for them to publish an article of hers appropriately titled "How to be Loved By a Man," that had originally run in the January 1954 issue of Ladies' Home Journal. Document has multiple folds and a tear at top right with no paper loss. Fine condition.
John Wayne Typed Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 8.25" personal letterhead, October 29, 1973, Hollywood, California, to Marjorie Nicholson of Reader's Digest. In full: "I was pleased to receive the 'loot' for the laugh in your November Reader's Digest. Perhaps, it should have gone to the writer; however, I'll keep it unless you inform me differently. Regards..." One original center fold, very bold, dark signature. Very fine condition.
Casey Stengel Typed Letter Signed "Casey Stengel/ N.Y. Mets/ Hall of Famer" in blue ink. One page, 8.5" x 11", June 5, 1973, n.p., to "Mrs. Ellis and members of your sixth grade class" of Los Angeles. Stengel ended his protracted baseball career as the cherished manager for the New York Mets. Nice bold signature; very fine.
Mickey Mantle Signed Book, The Mick, by Mickey Mantle and Herb Glick, (New York: Doubleday & Co.), 1985. First Edition. Octavo, 248 pages with photo illustrations. There were 536 numbered copies printed to coincide with Mantle's 536 home runs. This copy is number 293, commemorating the home run Mantle hit at Comiskey Park, Chicago, Illinois, on June 17, 1960. Sold with the original transmittal box. Light edge bumps and wear to the book, no dust jacket, the signature is very fine.
William Pitt, the Younger, Letter Signed "W. Pitt" as the prime minister of Great Britain under King George III. One page, 7.5" x 9.5", May 18, 1790, Downing Street, to "My Lord" requesting support as a candidate for "The Office of High Steward of the University of Cambridge". With light foxing and some stains. The left margin has three tears, one which results in the loss of a few letters of the text. Still, very good.
[George III] Indenture. One page with docketing on the verso, 35" x 28.5", June 4, 1775, Christ Church Parrish, Surrey, England, partially printed on vellum. The document, for the transfer of land, is signed and sealed by John Bristow, Frances Bristow, John Adams, and Richard Adams. The verso is signed by John Bristow again and two witnesses, Robert Tyler and [J] Prince. Staining at some folds, else very good.
Victoria, Queen of Great Britain, Document Signed. Two page, front and verso, February 19, 1851, Saint James, London. The document is countersigned on the verso by Sir George Grey, the home secretary of the day and has three stamps; a blind embossed the Royal Arms, a blind tax stamp, and an ink filing stamp "21-2-51". Sold with a fine 1870 engraving of Queen Victoria, 8" x 11". The "Victoria" signature on the document is particularly large and strong.
[Elizabeth II and Prince Philip] Christmas Card Signed. This card, framed an overall size of 18" x 14" and dated 1970, bears facsimile signatures of Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. It is framed along with a printed photograph of the couple.
Winston Churchill Signature "From / Winston S. Churchill / November 1937". One page, 4.25" x 3.75" (sight size). Attractively framed with a printed image of Churchill, 18.75" x 14.5" (overall). Light water staining to the last two letters of Churchill's signature, else fine.
Ramsey MacDonald Signed Print. One page, 9" x 12.25", n.d., n.p., on board. The printed sketch, by cartoonist David Low, shows a vibrant Prime Minister Ramsey McDonald standing at the Government Despatch Box in the House of Commons. Boldly signed "Ramsey MacDonald" near the title of the sketch, "Ramsey". Fine.
[Ferdinand VII of Spain] Document with Stamped Signature, "Yo el Rey", written on three of the four integral pages, 8.5" x 12", partially printed, n.p., March 11, 1819, in Spanish. The first page has the Spanish Royal Arms printed at the top. The document commends church officials in Nuevo Reyno de León (which included lands to the north) for their loyalty and financial support for the Spanish Crown during the war between France and England. The King promised that they would be treated as gentlemen as a reward. The King's promise was short-lived. Spain recognized Mexico's independence in the Treaty of Córdoba, a mere two years after this document was issued. Usual folds, else fine.
Jerome Bonaparte Autograph Letter Signed, "Jerome", two pages in French with integral address panel, 5.25" x 8", Stuttgart, Germany, October 28, 1847 to Felix Davidski (?), Marseilles. On personal stationery carrying an embossed and colored family crest. Light stains, very fine condition.
[Napoleon Bonaparte] Group of 12 Letters by French Marshals From Napoleon's Reign. From an old collection. For a full listing of the items visit HA.com. Toned, averaging fine condition.
[Napoleon Bonaparte] Group of 29 Letters by Imperial French Personalities Associated with Napoleon. For a full listing of items contained go to HA.com. Toned and light stains on some letters as expected. Overall fine condition.
Wilhelm II, Emperor of Germany and King of Prussia, Photo Signed. A formal full-length monotone photogravure portrait, 8" x 14.5" image size on a 14.5" x 22.5" sheet, Berlin, 1907. He has signed "William/ FM/ 1907" in pencil beneath the photo. The "FM" refers to his rank as field marshal of the British Army; he was a grandson of Queen Victoria. Very fine condition.
[Pius IX] Manuscript Papal Document. One page with notations on the verso, 17" x 10", on vellum, date and place indistinct, in Latin. Written in a distinctive hand, the document, a Papal Bull, retains its original lead seal (bulla) bearing "PIVS PAPA IX" on one side, and the effigies of the founders of the Church of Rome, the Saints Peter and Paul, on the other side. The seal is attached to this document by cords of hemp. The white cord suggests that the document is a case of letters of justice or executory. The document shows some loss due to insect damage, but the seal is in fine condition.
World Notables Group of Four Signatures, each on cards or paper ranging from 2" x 1.25" to 4.75" x 3". Signatures included are Hudson Maxim, Nathanial Bowditch, Benjamin Disraeli, C. Aubrey Smith. All signatures are signed in ink and have light pencil markings at the top left that identify the signer. Signatures range from very good to fine.
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Mailing Address:
PO Box 619999
Dallas, TX 75261-6199
Street Address:
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261-4127
(Northwest corner of W. Airport Freeway & Valley View Lane)
All Rights Reserved
1-800-872-6467 / (214) 528-3500 / Fax: (214) 443-842