2008 October Grand Format Manuscripts Auction

American Revolution: The Extraordinary Manuscript Diary of Massachusetts Soldier David How (1758-1842), kept in the field, which chronicles his one eventful year of service with the Continental Army during the campaign of 1776. Manuscript diary, 54 leaves, 5.25" x 6.25" [various places], December 27, 1775 to April 7, 1777, string-bound bearing leather wraps removed from another book. Titled by How on front page "Camp @ Cambridge December the 27 AD 1775 David How His Book Bought Decm. the 27 AD 1775."

The seventeen-year-old How was present at the British evacuation of Boston, White Plains, Washington's crossing of the Delaware and the critical victory at Trenton on Christmas Day, 1776. Interspersed one finds news of other events nearby including the naval and land skirmishes that raged around Boston in the spring of 1776, the Battles of Long Island and Harlem Heights, the Fall of Forth Washington and the capture of General Charles Lee by the British in New Jersey. How also records the daily rigors of military life: long marches, severe punishments for infractions great and minor, the deaths of comrades, and the subjects of Sunday sermons.

Meticulously transcribed in 1865 by Henry B. Dawson of Morrisania, New York, this rich diary has been cited by numerous historians ranging from George Otto Trevelyan to David Hackett Fischer. Dawson's published work provides valuable background and has allowed scholars to use this work as primary source material. Of the hundreds of extant and/or published diaries, journals, memoirs and autobiographies from the American Revolution, contemporary diaries maintained by enlisted men in the Continental Army are the most rare and desirable. Of the near 538 soldier's and sailors indexed by J. Todd White and Charles H. Lesser, less than 50 were contemporary diaries maintained by enlisted men in the Continental Line. Almost all the known surviving manuscripts are part of institutional collections, save for this diary and one other. (See J. Todd White & Charles H. Lesser, eds., Fighters for Independence: A Guide to Sources of Biographical Information on Soldiers and Sailors of the American Revolution. 1977, pp. 64-109.)

According to an introduction in the published edition by Hingham, Massachusetts historian, George Wingate Chase, How was a currier by trade -- one of ten children born to Deacon James and Jemima How of Methuen, Massachusetts. At age 16, he answered the Lexington Alarm, marching with the Minutemen from Andover. According to Chase, How was also present at Bunker Hill and would often regale his family and friends with stories form the fabled battle.

How's 1832 pension application indicates he first marched with Capt. Poor's company to Lexington, then to Cambridge on April 19 1775, and serving until May. He then enlisted in Col. James Frye's Regiment and served at Bunker Hill. After the disbandment of Frye's, he joined Col. Paul Dudley Sargent's regiment as a private and was promoted to corporal some time in the spring of 1776. (Pension Application of David How, June 7, 1832, Revolutionary War Pension Rolls, Series M805, Roll 445, Images 446-449).

How's diary opens quite simply noting his enlistment in the Continental Army on Dec. 27 1775: "This Day I [in] Listed With Sergt Barnker for one year". As was common of soldier life, boredom was the rule of the day. Camp life was rife with drinking, carousing and other typical activities that tempt bored soldiers. On February 7 How recorded: "This Day two Men In Cambridge got a bantering [about] Who wodd [sic]Drink the most and they Drink'd so much That one of them Died In About one houre [sic]or two after." Prostitution was also an issue in camp. On February 10, "There was two women Drum[me]d out of Camp This fore noon..." Two days later "There was a man found Dead in a room with A woman; this morning. It is not known what killed him." He does not note if the woman was drummed out of camp or not. How, like many soldiers of the period, engaged in side businesses: On January 30 he reported that "We have sold Nuts and Cyder Every Day This weak [sic]."

Besides recording the diversions of camp life, How was always sure to report on major actions around the lines. The day following his enlistment, he reported "There want a bought 12 Hundred men Down to Cobble Hill In the Night In order To go over to Bunker hill but The Ice wa[s]nt Strong a nuf [sic]" The next week , on Jan. 8 1776: "...this Night our soldiers wint [sic]over into Charlestown and Burnt up Eleven houses took Six prisoners Non[e] Killed." The British staged occasional raids of their own. On February 14 How noted, "This morning Bout 4 Clock the Troops at Boston Landed At Dorchester hill and Burnt 4 or 5 Houses & Took one old man that Be Long in them. Our people ware [sic]soon A Larm'd & went Down and Drove them Back as fast again as they came." He also writes of the continuing American efforts to tighten the noose around the British trapped in Boston. Feb. 25 "...Our men have carried Four pieces of Cannon To Litchmores [sic]point this Night" On March 3: "Last Niht [sic]there was Fireing [sic]Amost [sic]all Night on both Sides Six[?] of our morters [sic]Splet [sic]in pieces at Litchmorspont; there was a shell sent from Boston to prospeckhill [sic]This morning and fell on a platform in the Fort...Our people are carrying Cannon to Rosckbury [sic]& to Litchmore point" The next evening as well, "there was A fireing [sic]all Night with Cannon, and morters [sic]on both Sides; our people Splet [sic]The Congress the third Time that they fired it. Three Reg[i]ments went From Cambridge to Roxbuary [sic]& carried some Field Pieces with them. The Militia from Several towns are called In to Stay 3 Days." These were the cannon dragged across Massachusetts from Fort Ticonderoga and on March 5 "Our people went to Dodgster [sic, Dorchester] hill Last Night And built a fort there. There was a fireing of Bums [read Bombs] all Night and they killed one man at Litchmeres point with a Bum They have been fireing at Dogester a[l]most all Day". Again on March 10: "Last night our people Went to Dogester [sic]neck And there was a hot fire From Boston which killed 4 men with one ball. We kept up the fire all Night from Cobble hill and Roxbury."

With artillery now on Dorchester Heights threatening to play on British Ships in the harbor, the British command at Boston chose to evacuate the city. On March 17, How recorded, that at "Nine a clock there was A Larlm [sic] and our people Hear [sic] went into the boats For to got to Boston...With a party of men Went to Bunker hill & Took possession of it & This afternoon I went Down to Charlestown neck..." The next day he "...went to Bunker hill & Charles town Fort to see the Ruins of the Town. This Day four Regiments Went From hear [sic] to go To New York". On March 22 "Our Reg[i]ment went through Roxbury & came to Boston And we Staid [sic] hear at Night in the Barracks." Most of the British ships had departed by March 24 "...most all the Kings Ships Lays off in Sight..." The resultant celebration of victory did result in a breakdown of what was already, very shaky discipline: [Mar. 27]: "There was four Capt Wiley men Whept [sic]ty 1rst fifteen stripes for dening [sic]his Duty the 2nd 39 Stripes for Stealing & Deserting 3rd for 10 lashes for getting Drunk & Dening Duty 4d 20 Lashes Dening his duty & get[t]ing Drunk." Much of April and May was spent making cartridges and working at the fort at Bunker Hill as well as constructing fortifications in Boston harbor: "...went to for teag this forenoon This after noon I washed my shirt and stockings There went about 200 men from Boston to Nattels Island for to Build a fort there."

How also reports on the numbers naval engagements in and around Boston harbor as New England privateers raided British shipping in the spring of 1776. On May 12 "There was one or two of the Kings Ships came in Sight & was 24 guns fired from the ships." On May 17 "...This morning Capt Muckford of Marblehead In a privite tear [privateer]. Took Large Ship from Corke [sic] Bound to Boston - and brought It in hear [sic] She had on board 1500 Barrels of Powder 1000 Carbines with a Cuterments [sic] all fixed..." On May 19: "about 2 of the clock 14 or 15 Boats come from the enimys [sic] ships up To pudden[?] pont in order To take Capt muggfords priviteteur [sic] the private Tear fired upon them & Sank 2 or 3 Boats and Its thought killed and Drowned a grate many of them. They Killed Capt Mugford only and were obliged to go off A Shamed." On June 14, "This morning they Fixed the cannon to Play upon the [British] Ships at Long Island -- and kept up a brisk fireing [sic] Up on them so that They were glad to cut there [sic]cables and Leave the harbour Immediately And at Night our people Came back & at there [sic]Return there were 5 of the Two and forty p[ounder]s fired Besides a grate [sic]many small arms."

How would occasionally take leave and go to Boston, even returning to his home to visit family and take care of personal business. On June 11, "This Day I came to Andover & went to Mr. Peters Poors and he Paid me 8 Shilling For coming Down att [sic]Concord fight." On May 4, while in Boston procuring provisions for the fatigue party in Boston harbor, "I Bought Cyperhing Book at Boston price 2/" His penmanship took some time to improve. It was not until August that he had some time to practice. On August 8, 1776, his penmanship improved dramatically, but began to decline once again in the autumn.

In mid-summer, with British forces beginning to mass on Staten Island in New York harbor, Washington began calling for reinforcements to defend the city. On July 18, How wrote, "Our Regmt. Marchd of this Day for New york" How remained behind for smallpox inoculation, the previous day he recorded "I went to the Small Pox hospetal [sic]Suals Point [Sewell's Point, a fort in Brookline that commanded the entrance to the Charles River]." During his stay, he reports on several comrades who died from smallpox. How survived the ordeal and was discharged on July 28. He first returned home, attending a "publick Fast" that was observed "through out the Province I went to Me[e]ting @ methuen."

On August 6, he left Meuthen and returned to Brookline. On the 11th he was marching overland to Norwich, Connecticut, then sailing down to New London, and from there "Beeting a gainst the wind" down the Long Island Sound to Horn's Hook, in present-day Yorkville on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. There he rejoined his regiment that had arrived at the post on July 29. Arriving on August 27, he arrived just in time to learn the news of the Battle of Long Island "Our army on long Island Have be[e]n Engaged in battle with the Enimy and Killd And taken a good many on Both sides." The next day, How was ordered to New York City, six miles south carrying "let[t]ers to Mr. Dudley Bailey" where he reported "There has be[e]n a very hot fire Kept up with Cannon and Small arms all Day with the Scouting parties on long Island" On the 29th Washington evacuated Long Island: "This night our army on long Island All left it & Brought all there [sic]Bag[g]age to N. York" His regiment participated in the evacuation by going "over to long Island to get off Cattle and Horses" and losing 3 men as prisoners in the process. On September 1st, his regiment was involved in gathering every available boat on the river, in an effort to prevent their use by the British: "We have down the River After all the Boats we Could find & Brought them here this Night."


As the British consolidated their position on Long Island, his regiment "be gun a fort hear [sic]" on September 2. The same day they received a visit by the commander in chief: "Gnral Washington has Be[e]n here at the fort This Day." On the 4th of September, his battery "fireed several Shot From the fort at the Enimy on long Island." On the 6th there was another visit from the commanding general: "Gnl. Washington Has be[e]n Here at the fort At Horns Hook." The fort prompted a competing work opposite the East River from Horn's Hook, and on the morning of the 8th "there be gan A very hot fire from a Battery Erected Right Oppiset To our fort -- and they Killed Corp Hadua of Cpt Perry's Compa. The fire Was kept up on both Sides very Brisk all Day."

The action continued through September 14 with several casualties including Isaac Fowls who "had His head Shot off with a Cannon Ball this morning" The morning of the 15th, "the Enimy on Long Island -- Crossed [to] Turcle [Turtle] Bay and Landed on York Island." In order not to be cut off in the city "Our people thought it best to Leave the lower part of the Town so that the Shipping Might no play on us. Our army all march[e]d to the upper part of the Town this after Noon." The following day, he reports on the Battle of Harlem Heights: "Some of our Army Had a Smart fight with The Enimy in Harlem Woods -- Our Army Drove them And Killed a Grate many on Both Sides."

On October 9 "this Morning Three Ships Saild Up the North River Our people Kept A hot fire at them..." On the 12th, "This morning the Enimy Landed at Frogg's point [Throg's Neck] We ware all a larmed and March[e]d Down Almost there And Staid all Day the Enimy Did not offer to March any Distance from there [sic]Ships." On the 18th, near present-day Pelham, "The Regulars Landed above Frogg's point on the main Land. Our people fought Them Killed a great many Both sides we have not The Particulars as yet..." On October 25 "This Evening We all march[e]d To East Chester In order to At[t]ack the Enimy there But the Gnrl Thought Best Not to a tack them there And we Return[e]d to Camp In the Morning..." On the 28th the British advanced to White Plains "Within 1 Mile of our Camps...Army Engaged them on their March Killed a good many on both Sides..."

Retreating further on November 1: "This morning we Set fire to all the Barns on the Plains. And [sic] Left The Line by the Light of them..." The British quit the area several days later. On November 17th he reports the news of the tragic fall of Fort Washington, the last rebel holdout on the island of Manhattan the previous day.

How's regiment, under the overall command of General Charles Lee, remained on the east side of the Hudson river until December 2, after weeks of cajoling by Washington, who had crossed to New Jersey in early November. Washington had now retreated to New Brunswick and How recounts the leisurely journey taken by Lee on his march to rendezvous with Washington. They did not reach Morristown until December 10 and staid there for two days. On the 12th they took the High Road south to Bernards Township where, General Lee, unaware of the danger to his person chose to stay, unguarded, in a local tavern. The next day How recorded: "This morning the Light Horse Took Genl Lee as He was 3 miles form our Army And we went with aparty [sic]to Persue [sic]them and went 8 miles But ware tow [sic]late..."

Without the arrogant Lee to impede progress, How moved much faster, reaching the Delaware River only two days. Moving southward toward Trenton over the next week, he records preparations for the climatic battle at Trenton. On the 20th "We have be[e]n Drawing Stockings And Shoes of the Colon[el] this Day." On the 22 they drew a rum ration, and on Christmas Eve, they were "Drawing Cateridges [sic]and provisions in order for a Scout" The next day "at 12, aClock we March[e]d Down the River about 12 miles. in the Night we Crossed the River Dullerway [sic]With a large Body of men And Field Pieces." The next morning, Boxing Day, "at 4 aClock We set off with our Field pieces March[e]d 8 miles to Trenton Whare we ware At[t]acked by a Number of Hushing [sic, Hessians] & we Toock [sic]1000 of them besides killed Some Then we march[e]d back And got to the River at Night And got over all the Hushing."

The surprise victory at Trenton was one of the most important ones of the Revolutionary War. Washington took the bold step for a number of reasons, but primary in his mind was holding together his disintegrating army. With a large portion of enlistments due to expire on January 1, 1777, (including How's) Washington needed a decisive victory to improve morale and Trenton accomplished this all-important goal. In Trenton on December 31, 1776, How wrote, "The Gnrl ordered all to parade And see How many wood [sic] Stay 6 Weaks [sic] Longer and a Grate [sic] Part of the Army Stays for that time."

For unexplained reasons, How was one of those who chose to go home. On January 1, he drew his wages "& Sase money [an allowance for vegetables, or 'sauce'] This after Noon we set out For New England..." In two weeks, he had taken the northern route, across the Hudson via Peeksill, to Metheun on January 15. How's decision to return home despite Washington's entreaties to remain underscores the complexities of what motivated men to join the Continental Army. Washington had asked his army to do a great deal for very little in return, and for some men, the sacrifice was too much to bear. According to How's pension application, he did serve again, with the militia in September 1777 as a sergeant in Colonel Wade's Regiment to reinforce the army facing Burgoyne at Saratoga arriving just in time to see Burgyone surrender at Stillwater and "marched as a guard to the British prisoners to Winter hill Charlestown." (Pension Application of David How, June 7, 1832, Image 448).

While on the surface many of How's diary entries appear superficial and merely informational, they actually speak volumes about the real-life experiences of the average soldier in the American Revolution and allow us to better understand the conflict as it appeared to them. These were not the decision makers, the generals and officers who possessed an overall understanding of grand strategy and tactical maneuver. Thus his entry for the disastrous Battle of Long Island, of which he only heard second hand news, he being stationed in northern Manhattan at the time: "[August] 27, [1776]...Our army on long Island Have be[e]n Engaged in battle With the Enimy [sic]and Kill[e]d And taken a good many on Both sides."

One must remember too, that diaries like this were never meant for public consumption. In his eloquent introduction to the published edition, Henry Dawson noted "Among the 'materials for history,'... there is little which possess more real value, notwithstanding the uncouth form in which they often appear, than Diaries which were written only for the private use of their authors, and at the time to which they refer. There is less Art in all such productions, and more Nature; there is more outspoken honesty, even in their misstatements, and erroneous conclusions, than in the writings which were originally intended for the pubic eye; or expected to fall into other hands than those of the writers; and for this reason, in the hands of an historical student, they possess great value." (Henry B. Dawson, ed., Diary of David How, A Private in Colonel Paul Dudley Sargent's Regiment of the Massachusetts Line... 1865, vii.).

Pages overall clean with some light toning, usual rubbing to leather wraps, else very good condition.

Revolutionary War - Battle of Long Island: A superb set of two manuscripts likely in the hand of Captain Oliver Soper during the weeks preceding the Battle of Long Island. Soper (d. 1821) was a captain in Walker's Massachusetts Regiment, May to December, 1775, captain in the 13th Continental Infantry (Read's) January 1, 1776 to December 31, 1776. Soper's company served in Israel Putnam's Division at Long Island (August 27) manning the defenses on Brooklyn Heights.

Soper's first manuscript, 2pp., 6" x 8", [Brooklyn, August 13, 1776] is a transcription of Washington's stirring orders to his army as Howe and his army prepared to assault American positions in New York. With his army already under stress due to desertion and smallpox, Washington exhorted: "...be it Remembered that Liberty, Property, Life and Honour are all at Stake that upon their Courage and Conduct Rests the hopes of their Bleeding and Insulted Country -- That their Wife Children and Parents Expect Saf[e]ty from them only, and that we have every Reason to expect heaven will Crown with Success in so Just a Cause the Enemy will indeavour [sic] to intimidate by Shew and appearance; but remember how they have been repulsed on various occations [sic] by a few brave Americans their Cause is Bad their men are Conscous [sic] of it and if opposed with firmness ad Coolness at their onset without advantages of works and Knowlege of the ground victory is most assured by ours every good Soldier will be Silent and attentive wait for orders and Reserve his fire till he is sure of Doing execution -- The Officers to be particular Carefull [sic] of this. the Cols or Commanding Officers of Regts. are to see [illeg.] Officers so posted as to keep up their men to their Duty and it may not be amiss for the Troops to know that if any infamous Raskel in time of action should attempt to sculk [sic] hide himself or retreat from the enemy without the order of his Commanding Officer he will presently be shot Down as an example of Cowardice on the other hand the Genl Solemnly Promises that he will reward those who shall Distinguish themselves by Brave and Noble Actions and he Desires every Officer to be attentive to this particular that such men may be afterwards Suitably noticed."

Several days later, the British began ferrying troops across the Narrows from Staten Island to Gravesend assembling over 10,000 British and Hessian regulars on Long Island on August 23.

Together with a second manuscript signed in text "Capt Soper's", two pages, 6.25" x 7.75", [Brooklyn], August 26, 1776, being part of Soper's transcription of the General Orders for that day. Soper's company, part of the 13th Continental Infantry under Colonel Joseph Read, part of James Clinton's Brigade in Israel Putnam's Division. The orders read, in full: "Col. Smallwood to Command Lord Sterlings Brigade During his Absence on Long Island for the Day Genl. _______ Col. Smallwood. Lt. Col. Bedford Major Sprout - Main Guard Major Mc Donagh, Brigade Major Henley. Head Quarters 26th of August 1776 600 men Properly Officered from Genl. Wollcott's Brigade to Parade tomorrow morning at 6 oClock on the Grand Parade without Arms for Fatigue 400 to take Directions from Genl. McDougal and 200 form Lt. Fish and the same number to be Continued till the Work is Compleated [sic] to Leave work [sic] at Young Flood and go on at the Ebb -- The Genl is very anxious for the State of the Arms and Accoutrements the Frequent Rains giving too much Reason to fear they may suffer he therefore earnestly Enjoins Officers and men to be Particularly attentive to it and have them in the Best order --- Brigadier for the Day Genl. McDougal Col. Bailey Lt. Col. Rackling and Major Shearmon Main guard Major Porter --- Brigade Major Fish." The next day, the routine of constructing fortifications would be completely upset by a near complete British victory on Long Island beginning a long and dreadful series of retreats and lost battles that would nearly destroy Washington's army that year. Only the victories at Trenton and Princeton at the end of 1776 managed to lift morale just enough to sustain the military effort into the coming year. At the bottom of the manuscript, Soper, just evacuated across the East River to New York City, added a company return on August 30, 1776. Titled "A Weekly Return of Capt Soper[']s Company Col. Reads Regt. New York, August 30, 1776", he enumerates the company by rank noting the company strength at a mere 27 "Present fit for Duty" out of a total 71. Document is evenly toned with a complete separation at the center fold; separation is clean with no loss of paper.

George Washington Letter Signed "Go: Washington," as Commander-in-Chief, two pages, 7.5" x 9.75", Reading Furnace, [Pennsylvania], September 18, 1777, to Continental Congress President John Hancock concerning the deteriorating situation around Philadelphia following the American loss at Brandywine Creek. With integral address leaf bearing Washington's franking signature. Docket bears an Autograph Endorsement in the hand of John Hancock.

An important letter written in the midst of the Philadelphia campaign, Washington opens by informing Hancock that he had received his letter of the 17th "last night with Governor Livingston and Genl. Dickinson's Letters..." but conceding that "It is out of my power to do more than I already have for checking the Enemies progress in Jersey, and I should hope, that will be the case as soon as the Troops ordered from Peekskill arrive to reinforce the militia assembling under General Dickinson." Washington was losing men quickly. Eleven days following Brandywine, Washington's army, having marched over 150 miles in miserable weather with scant provisions, was reduced by 50% to a mere 6,000 men. In response, he ordered Israel Putnam in Peekskill, New York, to send 2,500 reinforcements together with the New Jersey militia under General Dickinson. (See Mark M. Boatner, Encyclopedia of the American Revolution, 1966 ed., p. 860).

Washington, faced with a superior British army to his south, was already attempting two contradictory things at once: protect the army's supply sources in the Pennsylvania interior while attempting to block Howe from capturing the American capital at Philadelphia. Following the loss at Brandywine, panic set in at Philadelphia. The day Washington wrote this letter, Hancock and the Continental Congress were preparing to flee the city. The army's supplies in the city had been removed. Washington observed "that all the Continental Stores which have been removed from Philadelphia were at Trenton on the 16h according to Genl. Dickinsons Letter. That place, in the first instance, was fixed on thro' necessity and conveying 'em there was better than to leave them where they were; But I am clear in opinion, that they should not be suffer'd to remain there a moment longer than can be avoided, and I would beg leave to recommend that the earliest and most vigorous measures should be adopted for removing 'em to Allen Town in North Hampton County." Moving the stores further north placed them safely out of reach of British raiding parties.

On September 26, British forces marched into Philadelphia unopposed. Congress reassembled in Lancaster and soon afterward, York, Pennsylvania. John C. Fitzpatrick, in the Writings of George Washington, notes that the next day Washington received advice from Congress: "The necessity of a speedy removal of Congress from Philadelphia, and the uncertainty as to the time of the next meeting, moved Congress to confer powers upon Washington which practically made him a dictator." (John C. Fitzpatrick, ed. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799, Vol. 9, p. 235-237.)

Following Brandywine, Washington had first moved eastward to Germantown, and then doubled back toward Lancaster where he chose to make a stand at Warren's Tavern. On September 16, two days before the date of this letter, Howe obliged Washington and advanced on the American position. However, just as British forces began flanking movements, a sudden downpour soaked the gunpowder on both sides rendering battle impossible. Washington ordered his forces northward to Reading Furnace in order to regroup, carry out vital repairs, and replenish their powder supply. Save for a contingent under the command of Anthony Wayne at Paoli, Philadelphia, lay exposed to the British. In this letter to Hancock, Washington notes the British movement against Swede's Ford, where Washington had placed Wayne's two brigades: "From advices receiv'd yes[ter]day morning & last Night, It apprear'd that [the] Enemy we[re] [p]ushing being a considerable force to the white Horse Tavern with a view it was proposed to fall on our right flank. This induced us to proceed this morning to this place where we are cleaning our arms with the utmost assiduity & replacing our cartridges, which unfortunately were mostly spoil'd by the heavy rain on Tuesday [September 16]. By Some of our Light Horsemen, this moment com in, It is said, the Enemy are advancing on the road toward Swedes Ford. As soon, as possible, the Troops will be put in motion, but I am doubtful whether that can be done before tomorrow morning for want of Provisions, which has impeded our movements very considerably, since we pass'd Schuylkill last."

Wayne's force would suffer a terrible catastrophe the following night (September 20-21) when a British detachment surprised them in camp resulting in a mêlée that killed 50 Continentals. Washington was too far off to come to his assistance. The Continental Army would have one more chance to attack Howe on October 4 at Germantown. Though the battle was a loss and the Americans suffered high casualties, the action was considered a morale booster in light of the boldness of the action. Washington was powerless to dislodge Howe from Philadelphia, and with the fall of the Delaware River Forts later in the autumn, Howe settled in for the winter. Washington moved his army into winter quarters at Valley Forge in December 1777.

Fitzpatrick notes a draft of this letter in the hand of Robert Hanson Harrison, although this draft appears to be in the hand of Richard Kidder Meade. Meade, a Virginia native, served as one of Washington's aides-de-camp from March 1777 to 1780. As aide to Washington, he supervised the construction of huts at Valley Forge. He later served under General von Steuben in Virginia. Letter published in John C. Fitzpatrick, ed. The Writings of George Washington, Vol. 9, p. 235-237. John Hancock dockets the letter "General Washington Dated Read[in]g Furnace Sep. 18, 1777"

Usual fold;, small loss to first leaf repaired on verso affects three words. Losses to address leaf repaired with tissue; light toning at margin; fold affects Washington's franking signature on address leaf, else very good condition.

[Benedict Arnold] Captain Benjamin Gould Autograph Manuscript (Unsigned) about Benedict Arnold's Command of West Point and the Capture of British Gen. John André. Three pages, 7.75" x 9.5", n.p., circa 1781. This fascinating account contains firsthand information about events which exposed the treasonous plans of Benedict Arnold. Gould, an American veteran of several Revolutionary War battles, begins his account "In the year 1780" when he was sent "to reinforce the garrison at West Point." From the time he arrived, Gould was suspicious of Benedict Arnold's leadership at West Point: "What I saw on the Point, I thought that all was not right. The two sentinels were [to] load their guns, and when relieved, to change them with the sentry that relieved them, so that the guard would all have strange pieces, and we should, in case of attack be thrown into the utmost confusion, our guns being of different bores, and our men having had their cartridges made to suit them." Gould's impressions were correct. Arnold had become the American commander of the fort at West Point in July 1780. Before doing so, he had secretly agreed to hand over the American fort to the British for £20,000. West Point had been chosen by the British because of it strategic importance: it would split the colonies in two.

According to Gould's manuscript, others at West Point were also suspicious of Arnold and wanted to notify Gen. George Washington, but they feared for their safety: "We could not find a safe opportunity to send to Gen. Washington, and he being expected on the Point in a few days, we thought best to wait until he should arrive. No doubt Arnold's spies had watched us."

One day after having tea with Arnold, Gould was given a task (probably to keep him busy and away from the fort) to construct a storage building several miles down the river. From that point in the manuscript, Gould's account quickly goes through the events that led to the capture and hanging of British Gen. André (André's arrival on the British ship Vulture and clandestine meeting in the woods with Arnold on September 21 and 22; André's capture by Americans; the investigation convened by Gen. George Washington; André's death by hanging; Benedict Arnold's fleeing to the British): "That day while we were at work, he [Arnold] went on board a British ship that lay in the river, and André was brought on the Point. Gen. Washington arrived also that night. . . [André] appeared much of a gentleman, and conversed freely with us. . . We did not see André executed."

In the closing paragraphs of this manuscript, Gould was "put in mind of what my father told me when Arnold was appointed Colonel to go to Canada. He said, 'I'm sorry for it.' I asked him why. 'Because,' said he, 'he's so avaricious he'd sell his country for money.'" This important document about one of America's most notorious traitors is lightly age-toned with some mild staining; boldly penned and in fine condition.

Page four of this manuscript contains an interesting account of the arrest of John Gould (possibly an ancestor of Benjamin Gould) on August 19, 1686, "for uttering wicked & treasonable language." The purpose of this account seems to have been aimed at the unpopular Edmund Andros, Governor of the Dominion of New England in 1686. It ends sourly, "Such was the administration of Andros."

[Revolutionary War] John Armstrong Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, 6.5" x 8", Carlisle, January 28, 1778, to "Coll. Lecy" who was "stationed on the East Side of Schuykill." In part: "A great deal of heat and publick [sic] clamour hath gone abroad against Genl. Potter and the members of a certain Court Martial . . . The sentence of which they say was to punish with Whipping and also paying for the arms thrown away . . .I shou'd be glad to hear that the Continental Commissaries have attended to purchasing up the Hoggs in yr. part of the Country, as the Article of meat will probably be scarce . . . " Armstrong was a major general in the Revolutionary War and a Pennsylvania delegate to the Continental Congress. Addressed on last page, this document is toned with beautiful, bold writing and affixed to a surrounding 1" beige border. Fine.

Sergeant Nathan Blood Signed Orders, Issued Days After Lexington-Concord. One page, 4" x 2", n.p., April 27, 1775. Blood is known as one of the "Martyrs of Bunker Hill," where he and approximately 140 soldiers in the Continental Army died early in America's fight for independence. Blood was a true patriot who lived in the Lexington area and enlisted in the Continental Army on the very day that war broke out between British and American forces at Lexington and Concord (April 19, 1775). Six days later, acting as Quarter Master for Dow's Company (Prescott's Regiment) of the Continental Army, Nathan Blood received this order for supplies.

In full: "April 25, 1775 to Comm. Davis. Deliver to Capt. Reuben Dow, six pots and twelve dishes and twenty wooden bottles. John Pigeon." Blood has docketed the order on verso: "Rec'd the Contents, by me Nathan Blood, Quarter M," and "Order from Cmd'g Genl & Rect. from Nathan Blood, 27th April."

A mere six weeks after docketing this supply order, Nathan Blood was killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill, making his signature extremely rare and desirable. Order is lightly age toned and has been tipped to larger sheet bearing a picture of a Bunker Hill Memorial honoring the men from Prescott's Regiment who gave their lives, which lists Blood as one of the fallen. Lightly age toned; very boldly penned. In fine condition.

British General John Burgoyne Autograph Document Signed. One page, 8" x 3.25", Bath, October 25, 1790. Sight draft sent to Nathaniel Collyer, a London merchant, penned by Burgoyne two years before his death. In full: "Three days after date pay to Mr. Henry Phillott on order one Hundred & fifty pounds, value received, & place it to account of J: Burgoyne." Although also known as a British politician and dramatist, Burgoyne is probably most remembered for having surrendered 6000 British soldiers at Saratoga, during the American Revolutionary War. Following Saratoga, there was great indignation in Britain against Burgoyne. He returned at once, with the leave of American General Horatio Gates, to defend his conduct and demanded but never received a trial. For his actions at Saratoga, he was deprived of his regiment and a governorship which he held. Document bears an embossed English revenue stamp at left; docketed on verso. Small area of paper loss at upper left corner; .25" fold separation at upper center. Light age toning; fine condition.

Horatio Gates Autograph Letter Signed. "Horatio Gates". 8.25" x 8", Hillsborough, August 25, 1780. Written to "Col. White or Officer commanding the Continental Cavalry at Hallifax." Written is a request to Col. Anthony Walton White to redeploy supplies to Col Long. At the time of composition, Horatio Gates was commander of the southern theater of war fighting against Lord Cornwallis. Col. White had only recently been defeated and captured by British Dragoons at Lanneau's Ferry, but had moved his command to Halifax where many of his soldiers were ill and unable to fight. Letter is in good condition. Contains some fold and tear damage, but writing is quite clear and legible.

Lord George Germaine Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.25" x 9.25", Pall Mall, Oct. 15, 1773, to Lady Macartney, assuring her that he "shall take the first opportunity of laying the Contents of [her Lord's letter] before his Majesty". He writes: "Nobody can be more sensible than I am of Lord Macartneys merit... Your Ladyships anxiety must be great... you hear more of Lord Macartneys situation, whatever intelligence I receive shall be immediately sent to you." Lord George Macartney had been the Chief Secretary for Ireland from 1769 until 1772, the year preceding the writing of this letter. Little over two years later, Lord Macartney was named governor of Grenada, the Grenadines, and Tobago, and soon thereafter elevated to the Peerage of Ireland, assuming the title Lord Macartney, Baron of Lissanoure. The document is very lightly and evenly toned, with dark ink that has feathered in a few places. Near fine condition, save a few tiny tears along left margin.

It is possible that this letter was a factor in the ascendancy of Baron Macartney, as Lord George Germaine, 1st Viscount Sackville (1737-1806,) became secretary of state for the American Department in 1775 and was in charge of managing the American colonies. Prime Minister Lord North and Germaine were both burdened with much of the blame for Britain's loss of the American colonies following the American Revolution.

Patrick Henry Autograph Letter Signed "P. Henry, Jr." One page, 7.25" x 4", n.p., n.d., to an unknown recipient concerning a land survey. Henry rarely added "Jr." to his name, usually using it to distinguish him from his uncle Patrick Henry. He writes in part: "I do not think it essential to mention precisely the spot where the surveyor is to begin. If he admits on his book an Entry in the words you mention I should think he may lawfully make the survey for Wilkinson." This document, along with a color portrait (7" x 8.5") of Henry and an engraved plaque (3.5" x .5"), are handsomely matted and framed to an overall size of 22.5" x 15.5". The document has flattened folds and is age-toned. The signature has a light stain across the "nry", but is bold and easily read; fine.

Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette Autograph Letter Signed. Four pages, written on first page only, 8" x 10", from his family home near Paris, known as La Grange, October 28 1825. Lafayette writes, in part: "I cannot let the Cadmus depart without writing a few lines to you, My dear friends; We are, my children, grand children and myself all in good Health at La Grange after I have paid to many friends in Paris a short visit of four days, nor will I return to town Before the beginning of the next year. Difficult it is, my dear Clary, to reconcile myself to the idea of passing this winter at such a distance from Washington and Kalorama. Yet I have cause to be gratified with the good reception from the people on my way to [illegible] my neighbors about La Grange. The inclosed [sic] part of the Constitutional may Amuse the one of you who knows Nolay and its environs, and interest you both, perhaps also Mr. Seaton, if it has not been published.... I expect the pleasure to hear from you, my dear friends, by the next packet; in the mean while accept the affectionate compliments from the family at La Grange, La Valle included. Remember me most affectionately to all the inhabitants of Kalorama, to Genl Brown, Genl Bernard, the Roberdeau family, and all friends in Washington and Georgetown. My most tender friendship and good wishes shall ever attend you. Lafayette."

General Lafayette's extraordinary military skills during the Revolutionary War won him the rank of Major General at the tender age of 20. When he returned to France in 1781, Lafayette was famous - a much loved hero of two nations - and he was awarded many honors. In 1824, President James Monroe invited Lafayette to return to the United States (August 1824 - September 1825), to celebrate the nation's semi-centenary. During his visit, he toured every American state and covered more than 6,000 miles, meeting new friends and renewing old acquaintances. This letter, addressed to "my dear Clary," was written upon his return to France, and is believed to have been directed to Clara Baldwin Bomford, wife of General George Bomford, owner of the Kalorama (Greek for "beautiful view") estate in what is now Northwest Washington, D.C. Lafayette had been close friends with the original owners of the estate, Thomas and Anica Barlow, as well as their friends George and Clara Bomford, who later purchased the house from the widow Barlow. The letter is moderately age toned and bears a few inconsequential chips at the lower left and along the right edge. An outstanding personal letter in fine condition.

[Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette] A Resolution and Act of the Third Congress of the U.S. One page printed, 8" x 13.25", Philadelphia, March 26 and 27, 1794. The resolution called for "an Embargo [to] be laid on all ships and vessels in the ports of the United States . . . bound to any foreign port or place, for the term of thirty days." The intention of this resolution was to retaliate against England for capturing near 250 American ships that had been trading in the French West Indies.

The act gave "Major General La Fayette his Pay and Emoluments while in the Service of the United States." The sum came to $24,424, which "was the amount of the pay and emoluments of a major general during the time he was in the service of the United States". Marie-Joseph du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette was a French military officer who served under General Washington. He was wounded in battle and later tried to negotiate the French into an increased commitment to the American cause. He was the first individual to be granted honorary U. S. citizenship.

This resolution and act were passed by the Third Congress during the first session, which met at Congress Hall in Philadelphia from March 4, 1793, through March 3, 1795, while George Washington was president. Each is separately approved by President Washington and signed in type by Washington, Speaker of the House Frederick Muhlenberg, and Vice-President John Adams. This broadside is toned with three pin holes in left margin. "13.2 Resol." has been lightly handwritten in pencil at the top. Fine.

Charles Willson Peale Autograph Note Signed as a member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, one page, 3" x 7", [Philadelphia], Jan 29, 1780, to State Treasurer David Rittenhouse. Peale requests that Rittenhouse pay Jacob Greiner £478.7.6 "For Nails Used on the Stadt [State] House and public stables..." Countersigned by William Hollingshead and Jacob Schreiner of the "Committee of Assembly."

The Philadelphia building now famous as Independence Hall, the birthplace of the United States as an independent nation, was originally known as the State House. Originally built to provide a headquarters for the Pennsylvania provincial government, its construction began in 1732. Although not completed in its entirety until about 1747, some areas were used as early as 1735.

As the Revolutionary War began, the Continental Congress met in the State House and continued doing so until the Summer of 1793. Both the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation were adopted there, and the bell which hung in its tower became known as the Liberty Bell. During the British occupation of Philadelphia between September of 1777 and June 1778, the State House suffered considerable damage. British troops were housed in it; and later one area served as a hospital for Continental soldiers wounded in the Battle of Germantown.

The adoption of Pennsylvania's Constitution in 1776 increased the size of the State Assembly so that, as it was still sharing the State House with Congress, conditions were rather cramped. Committees were named in the fall of 1779 to deal with alterations which would make the building more spacious; and apparently, there were still repairs to be made to the damage done by the British. In March 1780 there was a report of expenses for the alterations. The nails, which Peale as an Assembly member requests payment for in this 1780 note, must have been used in those renovations and repairs. The large sum being paid for them probably reflects inflated wartime currency.

Peale was in the process of establishing himself as a major portraitist in 1776 when he relocated from Maryland to Philadelphia. The artist was already involved in the patriotic cause when he arrived, and his service in the city militia later included the Battles of Trenton and Princeton. He was elected to the Assembly in 1779 and served on term. Interestingly, Peale had a later professional connection with the State House. In 1802, after the assembly had permanently moved out, he was given free use of the space for his pioneering museum (which first opened in 1785). Another footnote to this item is that Peale as an artist was responsible for what was probably the most widely-reproduced early image of the State House.

The use here of the German "Stadt" may have been an inside joke between Peale and Rittenhouse, referring to the speech of Germans who worked on the building (at this time the population of Pennsylvania was about 30% German). David Rittenhouse, several generations removed from his own German background, was another Renaissance man of Pennsylvania in these years. He made important contributions as an astronomer, mathematician and instrument maker. The high regard in which he was held caused him to be chosen for a number of public offices, such as that of State Treasurer; he was also in charge of the large clock housed in the State House Tower with the Liberty Bell.

The autograph of Charles Wilson Peale is one of the rarest of major American artists; in addition, this item is a remarkable document related to Independence Hall during the Revolutionary War. Very good to fine condition with the bold ink.

Paul Revere Historic Military Autograph Document Signed "Paul Revere" in text, one page, 7" x 1.75". [Boston], August 25, 1803. Revere handwrites his receipt to the "United States Navy Department" to "Paul Revere & Son" for "a Brass 10 Inch Sea Morter", weighing 2,175 lbs at $45 per pound for "$978.75." The docket on verso, in an unknown hand, reveals that the 10 inch Sea Mortar, "ordnance," made by Paul Revere was for the Brig Argus and that he was paid on August 31st. Portion of a paper seal at lower left. Faint vertical fold passes through second "e" of "Revere." Small mounting remnant in blank area on verso. Fine condition.

In 1784, the U.S. Congress had allocated money for payment of tribute to the Barbary pirates to assure they would not attack American ships in the Mediterranean, and instructed her British and French ministers (John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, respectively) to look for opportunities to negotiate peace treaties with the Barbary nations. When Jefferson became President in 1801, the Pasha of Tripoli demanded money from the new administration. Jefferson, who had opposed the previous tribute to the pirates, refused the demand. In May 1801, the Pasha declared war on the United States and the President sent a group of frigates to defend American interests in the Mediterranean.

The brig Argus was launched in Boston on August 21, 1803. With Paul Revere's mortar installed, she set sail on September 8, 1803 with Lt. Stephen Decatur in command. Arriving at Gibraltar on November 1, 1803, Decatur relinquished command to Lt. Isaac Hull. In March 1804, the Argus received orders to join the rest of the squadron off Tripoli in blockading the port. The Argus later docked at Alexandria, Egypt. In early 1805, Gen. William Eaton, former U.S. Consul at Tunis, began organizing an attack on Tripoli.

Under the command of Lieutenant Presley O'Bannon (who was serving on the Argus), Eaton, eight U.S. Marines, and about 500 Arab, Greek, and Berber mercenaries he had recruited in Alexandria with Hull's help, marched over 600 miles west across the Sahara to attack the Tipolitan coastal city of Derna (now, Libya). The force finally reached the port city of Bomba on April 35, 1805, where the Argus, Nautilus, and Hornet were docked. At Bomba, up the coast from Derna, Hull provided Eaton and his force with supplies and money to pay the mercenaries. On April 27, 1805, Hull's ships, anchored just a half-mile east of the Derna fortifications, opened fire and bombed the city's batteries for about an hour as the Tripolitans returned fire. A mortar fires shells at a much lower velocity and higher ballistic arc than other ordnance their shells explode on impact with the target. English scientist, mathematician, and engineer Benjamin Robins (1707-1751) had calculated that a 10-inch mortar would fire a 96-pound shell to a distance of about 3,350 yards (1.9 miles). Revere's brass mortar was perfect for this battle.

By 2:45 P.M., gunfire from the Argus and Nautilus had silenced all of the guns in the city. Lt. O'Bannon then led his Marines in a charge. The Tripolitan defenders fled in such haste, that they left their cannon loaded and ready to fire. O'Bannon raised the U.S. flag over the works as Eaton turned the captured batteries on the city and opened fire. By 4 P.M., the entire city had fallen. The Battle of Derna was the first recorded land battle of the United States on foreign soil and was the first time the American flag flew over a fortification in the Eastern Hemisphere. Derna's capture by the Marines, with crucial support by the Marines and with Paul Revere's 10 inch sea mortar firing on the city from the Argus, is immortalized in the "Marine's Hymn" in its opening verse:"....to the shores of Tripoli."

Baron von Steuben Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages including integral address leaf, written on first page only, 7.5" x 9", Fort Plain, September 8, circa 1794. Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin von Steuben was a German-Prussian army officer who served as inspector general of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He is credited with teaching the Continental Army the essentials of military drill and discipline, thus helping to guide it to victory. He wrote the book that became the standard United States drill manual until the War of 1812, and essentially served as General George Washington's chief of staff in the final years of the war. Following the war, Steuben became an American citizen and resigned from service in 1784.

This charming letter, penned in French, is directed to William North, von Steuben's war aide-de-camp and heir. In the letter, von Steuben directs North to remain in New York working with Mayor Duane, despite von Steuben's wish to see North again. He also discusses a proposed visit to German Flats, and mentions Peter Schuyler. Sadly, von Steuben died shortly after sending this letter to his friend, and the bulk of Baron Steuben's property was bequeathed to General North. Letter is quite attractive, with mild overall age toning and a few small areas of foxing. Address leaf has been professionally strengthened at edges and repaired a seal tear. A rare and desirable item in fine condition.

[Revolutionary War] Two British Gen. Sir Banastre Tarleton Letters, one signed "Gen. Tarleton". 1. Two pages, Bath, July 15, 1800, signed "R. Jackson". 2. Three pages, Bath, September 12, 1805, signed by Tarleton. Both 7.5" x 9.5", lightly age-toned; fine.

Gen. Tarleton, known as "Butcher" to American revolutionaries for his ruthlessness, was a commander under Cornwallis. The July 1800 letter is in regard to an expense not permitted by Tarleton. The September 1805 letter is a request by Tarleton to the Quarter Master General. Also included, an engraved portrait and battle scene.

American Revolution: Georgia - Rare Manuscript Document Signed "Thos Davenport Surg." one page, 8.5" x 12, [Savannah], April 7, 1778 , recording the sick members of the Third Georgia Regiment in the Continental Line. One of the greatest obstacles to successful campaigns in Georgia and the Floridas was malaria. This manuscript records those members of the Third Georgia suffering from the disease at the start of the 1778 campaign against St. Augustine. Titled "A Provision Return for the Sick in the Hospital of the third Georgia Battalion 7th April, [1778]," the document lists twelve men as "Very Sick" and fourteen listed as "Recovering," At the bottom, Surgeon Thomas Davenport recommends that "It is my opinion that the 12 Very Sick Draw half Rations And that the 14 Recovering Draw their Rations as Usual". On the verso, the commissary has requested rations that included beef, corn flour, rice, molasses, and salt. At the bottom, Curtis Linn, the "Orderly Man", noted his receipt of the rations. The ensuing campaign against the British in Florida was unsuccessful; the expedition rife with political acrimony that resulted in four individuals leading the army. The inconclusive campaign ended in July. The British would add insult to injury by capturing Savannah in December 1778. Material documenting Georgia soldiers in the American Revolution is quite rare. This document is fragile with chips and some separations beginning at folds. Has a small hole in the middle of the document, though no text has been lost. Even though the bottom portion has been removed, the bold writing stands out making the text very readable. Near good.

Securing Powder at West Point Manuscript Document, one page, 8.25' x 13", [West Point], January 15, 1782, being the "Garrison Orders" for the day at this key post on the Hudson. In full: "Major Velefrank[?] of the Corps of Engineers having reported that there is no Magazine secure for Powder in Cartridge or in grain in the Forts No 1 2 3 & 4 and as the Season is now arrived when the heavy rains may be expected, and as the river is now full of Ice, the Enemy cannot move against these Posts with celerity nor without giving sufficient warning -- The officers commanding in these posts will furnish the Non Commision'd Rank & file and full grown Drum[m]ers and Fifers of their respective commander with twenty rounds each, and retain thirty more for each man of the above description in their respective works -- The residence of the musquetry [sic] ammunition they will return into the magazine the first good day, to prevent its being damaged or distroyed [sic] by any other accident and report to the Commandant respectively the number of cartridges returned in -- No more wood will be Issued to the Artificers, Invalids, Quarter Master of the Garrison until the 1st day of February, as the present flight of snow ill enable them to get in wood to serve them till that period - Those who have not sleads [sic] will apply to the Quarter Master of the Garrison". Endorsed on verso by Captain Nathaniel Cushing who orders that "A Return to be made without delay, at all the ammunition now on hand in the Brigade". Cushing (1753-1814) was a Massachusetts officer in the Continental Army from 1777-83. He is best remembered for leading a daring raid that captured forty of De Lancey's loyalists in May 1780 following many previous but fruitless attempts. Muster rolls and other documents place Cushing at West Point soon before and after the date of this document. (See Massachusetts Soldier's And Sailors of the Revolutionary War, 4:297.)

[Revolutionary War] Autograph Document Signed. One page, 8.25" x 6.5", Caughnawaga [New York], 1781, concerning a man taken prisoner by a group of Tories and Indians. In full: "This may certify that Christiaan Hauney was taken prisoner at the same time with the Underwritten persons and was bound by a party of Tories and Indians at Caughnawaga May 22, 1781. The said Hauny is now a prisoner among the Indians. James Romine".

Caughnawaga was an Indian settlement established in 1667. The settlement moved several times over the years, finally settling on its present site near St. Regis in 1755. The Iroquois at Caughnawaga fought alongside the French in all the major colonial wars. At the conclusion of the American Revolution, it was clear that Loyalist Indians were no longer welcome in the United States, and by 1777 nearly all of the Mohawk-speaking Iroquois had immigrated to British North America and settled on reserves in Quebec and Ontario. In 1890, Caughnawaga contained approximately 25 percent of the Mohawks in North America. Toned with some foxing, though boldly written. Fine.

[Revolutionary War] London Newspapers. Three important newspapers giving the British point of view of the American revolution. 1. The London Gazette, Tuesday, March 27 to Saturday, March 31, 1781, eight pages, 7.5" x 12". Contains news of the American rebellion, battle details, and part of a letter from Lord Cornwallis to Henry Clinton, the British Commander-in-Chief during the American Revolution. Toned, with some foxing, yet in remarkably fine condition.
2. The Edinburgh Evening Courant from two dates: Saturday, December 21, 1782, and Monday, December 23, 1782; each four pages and 11" x 18". Contains annotations in black ink and news of parliamentary debates on the provisional treaty with America, which was eventually signed in 1783 as the Treaty of Paris. Both copies are weak at the center fold with some separation; toned with some stains, but all text is readable. Very good.

[Revolutionary War Newspaper] The London Chronicle. Eight pages, 9" x 12", December 1, 1781. On the front page the newspaper defends Sir Henry Clinton placing the blame for the surrender of Cornwallis on Sir William Howe, who "affected contempt for Washington's operations". Howe's actions had "fatal consequences". The article ends, "And, let us not forget, that the Independence of America is the ruin of Great Britain." Other articles include a defense of Cornwallis by William Pitt and a description of rebel activity in Georgia and Carolina. Very interesting reading. Minor chipping at the edges. A very attractive crimson tax stamp on page two.

Samuel Adams Document Signed as governor of Massachusetts and countersigned by "John Avery Secy". One page partly printed, 15" x 9.5", Boston, Massachusetts, October 28, 1796. This document was an official notice that David Shaw was to be "appointed Lieutenant of a Company in the first Regiment of the First Brigade, Eighth Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth [of Massachusetts]".

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. 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. With folds and two small holes at fold intersections. Toned and docketed on verso; fine.

Josiah Bartlett Pay Certificate Signed as governor of New Hampshire. One page, 6" x 4", New Hampshire, February 5, 1794, authorizing payment of 100 pounds to Bartlett, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Verso contains docketing and another signature by Bartlett. Uneven left margin and two cancellation holes, neither affects the signatures. Toned; fine.

Daniel Carroll Letter Signed "Danl Carroll of Dud." One page, 5" x 7.5", [Maryland], n.d. [though not before 1828], to "William A. Bradley Esq.". Carroll had owned the land where the U. S. capitol was built. This letter concerns the leasing of other property in Washington. In part: "Mrs Indermaugh has been with me respecting her lot in Square 462. This lot has been rented and leased for thirty odd years and all the taxes paid until rented to Indermaugh (leased)." This property today is across the street from the National Air and Space Museum. Carroll was a relative of Daniel Carroll of Upper Marlboro (a member of the Continental Congress) and Charles Carroll, both signers of the Declaration of Independence. This document has some stains and folds. Fine.

William Floyd Partly Printed Document Signed "Wm Floyd" as a Member of the State Senate. One page, 7.75"x 6". Inlaid to 8.5" to 7". Completed in manuscript. [Albany], New York, April 21, 1785. Floyd's salary receipt as State Senator. Countersigned "Abm. Yates Jun." Show-through of docket on verso in blank area in upper right although no docket appears on verso because the document was expertly inlaid. Fine condition.

In full, "The State of New-York, To William Floyd Dr. 1785. For my Attendance in Senate, as a Member from the Southern District, from the eighteenth Day of January to the twenty seventh Day of April including five travelling[sic] Days, is 92 Days, at 16/- per Day. £73..12..I Do hereby certify the above Account, amounting to Seventy three pounds Twelve Shillings-t to be just and true. As Witness my Hand [signed here by Yates]. Receiv'd 27th April 1785 from Gerard Bancker, Esquire, Treasurer for the State, Seventy three Pounds Twelve Shillings in full of the above Account." Long Island native William Floyd served in the State Senate from 1777-1778 and 1784-1788 when he was elected to the First Congress.

Abraham Yates, Jr. (1724-1796) was a member of the Provincial Convention from 1775-1777 and transitional Council of Safety (1777-1778), and served as New York State Senator and member of the Council of Appointment (1777-1790), Albany city recorder (1778-1779), and State Loan Officer (1779-1783). Yates was elected to the Continental Congress, serving from 1787-1788. He was first Postmaster of Albany in 1783 and Mayor of Albany from 1790-1796.

Benjamin Franklin Document Docketed and Signed as President of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania. After spending nine extremely successful years in France as commissioner for the United States, Ben Franklin returned to America in 1785 and was revered second only to George Washington as a great champion of American independence. For the next three years, Franklin served as the president of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, at which time he presided over the bankruptcy case of one John M. Taylor, merchant. Offered here is one item concerning that case. It reads, in full: "William Kellock being duly sworn, deponeth and saith that John M. Taylor, now or late of the City of Philadelphia, Merchant, is indebted to this deponent in the sum of Two Hundred Pounds & upwards, arising from a transaction subsequent to the sixteenth day of September, One Thousand Seven Hundred & eighty five, & that the said John M. Taylor is become Bankrupt within the meaning of the Act of Assembly pass'd on the said Sixteenth day of September, entitled 'An Act for the regulation of Bankruptcy' as this deponent informed and truly believes - and further saith, Wm. Kellock." The document bears Franklin's personal docket, which reads in full: "Sworn 4th November, 1786, before me, B. Franklin" with Franklin's decorative rubric below.

Six months after signing this document, Franklin became a delegate to the Philadelphia Convention, where he held an honorific position and seldom engaged in debate. However, when delegates became heated over the issue of proportional representation, Benjamin Franklin urged "great coolness and temper," telling the delegates, "We are sent here to consult, not to contend, with each other." As the eldest delegate at the Convention, Franklin acted on several occasions to restore harmony between delegates, with the ultimate result being the creation of the Constitution of the United States. The Convention was one of the key events in the history of the United States and Franklin remains the only man to become a signatory on all four of the major documents concerning the founding of the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris, the Treaty of Alliance with France, and the United States Constitution.

This moderately age toned document is in fine condition, with a light vertical crease bearing tiny areas of separation at the upper and lower edge. Professionally affixed to a backing sheet, and bearing Franklin's bold and attractive signature. Franklin signed items are greatly treasured by collectors and this is a particularly attractive document which will surely garner great interest. Perfect for framing and prominent display!

[Benjamin Franklin] Robert Spring Forgery of a Benjamin Franklin Autograph Letter Signed "B Franklin", one page, 7" x 9.5". Passy, April 22, 1779, to Mr. Bradford. In this forgery, "Franklin" apologizes to Mr. Bradford that "the gravel" (kidney stones) has prevented him from meeting King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. This forged letter (or one exactly like it) was so well-done that it was authenticated in 1865 by William B. Sprague, an early philographer of early American statesmen, who wrote that he had "no doubt of its genuineness."

Robert Spring forged letters by Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and other early American statesmen, and was described by Charles Hamilton as being very successful. Often spending hours practicing with a goose quill, Spring 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 one 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. On laid paper watermarked with fleur-de-lis. Usual folds. One hole effaces the "ir" in "their"; fine condition.

[Benjamin Franklin Imprint] David Hall, A Mite into the Treasury. or Some serious Remarks on that solemn and indispensable Duty attending assemblies for divine Worship, incumbent upon all Persons come to Years of Understanding (especially the professors of truth) whilst favour'd with Health, Strength and Liberty; together with some due Animadversions upon the Neglect thereof; as also a Word of Consolation to such sincere hearted Friends, as are render'd incapable of personally attending them, by reason of Old Age, some bodily Disorder, or Confinement, &c. To which is subjoin'd, An Epistle to Friends of Knaresborough Monthly-Meeting (Philadelphia: B. Franklin and D. Hall, 1758), 53pp, Octavo, paper wrappers (front wrapper loose). Edition of 3000 reprinted by Franklin in 1758 at the behest of the Philadelphia Monthly Meeting. An early ownership inscription, "This Book for Caleb Shreve Jnr." Scarce.

Elbridge Gerry Autograph Letter Signed "Elbridge Gerry," one page, 7.25" x 9". Mar[ble] Head, Massachusetts, September 28, 1773. In part, "I am in Want of Money at this Time & suffer an Inconvenience as well as Expence by falling short of your first payment although I sold you Fish...soon after I was obliged to agree for a Cargo of abt 1800...As yr first Payment has overrun a Month, yr last is due a Month sooner...I lost £20 lawful by weighing yr Fish over & have made an indifferent Bargain on yr Whole..." Remnants of an old newspaper article is in blank lower left. Portion missing at left edge has been expertly repaired. Glassine repairs on verso. Uniformly foxed. Very good condition with bold signature and elaborate paraph.

Elbridge Gerry owned a fish exporting merchant house in Marblehead inherited from his father. In the Massachusetts House of Representatives (1772-1775), Gerry served on the Committee of Supplies. Prominent Massachusetts fish merchants were able to convert well-worn trade routes to the West Indies into military supply lines. In July 1775, three months after Lexington and Concord, Gerry and the committee arranged for "One hundred & twenty hogsheads Fish, besides Boards, Shingles" to be shipped on board an unnamed brig from Newburyport to the Windward islands in the West Indies. Merchants from Marblehead, Glouchester, and Beverly delivered the fish to Newburyport "free of Charge." The fish would be traded for military stores. In August, Gerry reported to Washington: "We are in daily Expectation of some Powder from the West Indies, but cannot say what Success our plans will meet with."

Elbridge Gerry Book Signed. The Method of Teaching and Studying the Belles Lettres, Vol. II, by Mr. Rollin. London, [1758]. Fifth edition, 16mo. "E. Gerry" appears at the top of the front free endpaper, which is unevenly toned with foxing. At the top of the front paste-down endpaper has been written, "37 744/ 51". The "37 744" has been marked through. Gerry, a member of the Continental Congress, signed the Declaration of Independence, but refused to sign the Constitution. He later served as James Madison's vice president. As governor of Massachusetts, he approved a redistricting plan--gerrymandering (a term named for Elbridge Gerry)-- that guaranteed the Republican party's domination in the state.

Housed in a quarter morocco slip case with raised bands and gilded title on spine. The book is in fragile condition; the front cover has separated from the spine. Covers and spine rubbed and slightly discolored, corners bumped. Altogether a good copy.

John Hancock Document Signed as governor of Massachusetts. One page, partially printed, 6.5" x 8.5", Boston, Massachusetts, November 14, 1782. This document directed to pay "Hon'ble Nath[aniel] Gohham Esq., Speaker to the Hon'ble House of Representatives the Sum of Thirteen pounds & eight pence in full. . . for Forty six days attendance as Speaker over & above his pay as a Member of said House." Docketing on verso. Hancock's signature is bold and prominent, very similar to his famous Declaration of Independence signature. Perfect for display! The document has been laid onto a slightly larger border. Sharp, clear wording and slightly age-toned. Fine.

John Hancock Document Signed as Governor of Massachusetts appointing Jahleel Woodbridge to Justice of the Peace for the County of Berkshire. Partly printed, one page, 11.5" x 19", Massachusetts, February 16, 1781. Engrossed and countersigned by John Avery as Secretary. Document is in very good condition with some restoration to separations at folds and paper added to replace loss at lower left margin. Single fold runs beneath Hancock's signature affecting Just the "J" and "k".

[John Hancock] Perez Morton Autograph Letter Signed to John Hancock, one page, 7.25" x 8", Council Chambers, January 19, 1776. Morton pens in full: "Sir J, Agreeable to the direction of the inclosed [sic] Resolution, I am to acquaint you, that by a joint ballot of both House of Assembly for the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, You are elected one of the Delegates to represent that Colony in American Congress, until the first Day of January AD 1777- And the inclosed Resolve You are to make the general Rule of your conduct. By order of the General Court -Perez Morton." Hancock had served as president of the Continental Congress since May of 1775, and this letter confirms his re-appointment to serve as the state's representative for the historic year of 1776. As president of the Congress, Hancock would serve during some of the darkest days of the Revolution. As president he had little authority and the post was limited to that of a presiding officer. Although the Congress had no explicit legal authority, it took over all functions of a national government including taking charge if the war against Britain. Hancock's prowess as a businessman served well in efforts to fund and furbish the army.

As Congress moved forward in declaring independence from England, the delegates (including Hancock) lacked authority from the states that had appointed them to take any action. In May of 1776, Congress passed a resolution recommending (since it had no real authority to impose) that any colony without a proper government should create one. This would set the wheels in motion culminating in the Declaration of Independence which would be approved on July 4, 1776. This historic letter serves to notify Hancock of his place in Congress for this period. Letter has been silked trimmed, with tiny bits of paper loss restored. Light soiling otherwise very good to near fine.

[John Hancock and Samuel Adams] Printed Revolutionary War Act. Four pages, 7.5" x 13", Boston, Massachusetts, June 22, 1781. This act ordered Massachusetts towns to supply beef for General Washington's army. In part: "Whereas the supplies of beef hitherto made by the several towns and plantations in this Commonwealth, for the purpose of [furnishing our army] with that [article], are found to be insufficient; and without a further punctual and adequate supply, our brethren who are now hazarding their lives for our defence, must soon be obliged to quit the field, and leave the country to the merciless ravages of our enemies. And whereas the Commander in Chief of the army hath represented, in the most pressing terms, the necessity of an immediate supply of provisions, to enable him to carry on the operations of the present campaign with vigour. . . . That the inhabitants of the several towns and plantations in this Commonwealth be, and are hereby required, to furnish the quantity of live beef, including hides and tallow, set to such towns and plantations respectively, as is in the schedule hereunto annexed, or such sums of money as in the judgement of the superintendant shall enable him to purchase the same. . . ."

At the bottom of the second page is a listing of Massachusetts towns and plantations arranged by counties. The list fills the third and fourth pages where it is signed in type at the conclusion by the Speaker of the House, Nathaniel Gorham; President of the Senate, Samuel Adams; and the Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, John Hancock. The weight of the beef required is listed next to each town. Also included is a timetable requiring one-sixth of the town's quota to be delivered monthly beginning on or before July 10th, ending on December 10th. "Willmington" [sic] is written in the upper left margin of the first page of this document and, after the listing of "Wilmington" on the third page, the words "is Wtt 602½ pr month" have been added in ink. The quantity of beef listed is 3614; six beef deliveries of 602½ each amounts to 3615.

On October 19, 1781, four months after his act was passed, British General Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown to General Washington, ending the Revolutionary War. This toned document contains some chipping and margin tears, but remains an important and collectible Revolutionary War document. Near fine.

[John Hancock] Broadside. One page, 18" x 22.75", Cambridge, Massachusetts, July 20, 1791, in Latin. This large broadside was printed in Boston by Samuel Hall for Harvard University's 1791 commencement and headed with the names of Massachusetts Governor John Hancock and Lieutenant Governor Samuel Adams. The broadside goes on to list all 27 recipients of the Bachelor of Arts degree and 190 theses. One of the recipients, Nathaniel Cabot Lee, was the great grandmother of Theodore Roosevelt's first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee. On verso is a handwritten contemporary note, "1791 Commencment [sic]." Verso also contains repairs. This document is soiled, contains creases and uneven edges, and some holes at fold intersections. Near fine.

A Resolution by the Second Continental Congress, April 14, 1777 and printed by John Dunlap. One page, 8" x 13", Philadelphia. Signed in type by "JOHN HANCOCK, PRESIDENT", this rare resolution called for the substitution of the previous articles of the "Rules and Articles for the better Government of the Troops" with the four articles listed on this broadside. These articles allowed soldiers to bring their own provisions into American forts and garrisons; permitted officers to take complaints to the Continental General; allowed court-martials only be given after due process; and gave each states' Continental General the power to appoint military courts and pardon punishments (except for those sentenced to death).

The Second Continental Congress was composed of delegates from all thirteen colonies and met from May 1775 through 1781, when, after the ratification of the Articles of Confederation, it became known as the Congress of the Confederation. Massachusetts delegate John Hancock was elected president of the congress on May 24, 1775. John Dunlap was a successful American printer who was given a lucrative contract in 1776 to print for the Continental Congress. He is perhaps most notable for printing the earliest copies of the Declaration of Independence. This very collectable broadside is age-toned with minor foxing and some separation at the folds. Contains one small hole in the center where two folds meet. Near fine.

[John Hancock] Medical Bill for John Hancock Written During Revolutionary War. One page, 9" x 4", Philadelphia, July 27, 1778 for "two bottles of Moradants anti scorbutic drops and send forward to Thaddeus Burr Esq. of Connecticut at the desire of Mr. Hancock. . . £3." An antiscorbutic was used to treat scurvy. Added at the bottom of the page on March 22, 1779: "Please to allow the above acct. to Mr. Elias E. Warner & you'll oblige your humble servant." According to verso, this "Copy of Mr. Hancock's acct. & order. . .settled and paid."

Hancock, a merchant and shipbuilder, rose to become one of the wealthiest men in America. Earlier in July 1778, he had commanded 6,000 men in an attack against the British at Newport, Rhode Island. Bottom edge has been roughly cut; lightly age-toned, but boldly penned. Fine condition.

Stephen Hopkins Manuscript Document Signed "Step. Hopkins," "Peter Bours," and "Tho: Cranston" as members of the Committee of War, one page, 6" x 3.75". Inlaid to to 8.5" x 4.5" Newport, August 30, 1755. To Thomas Richardson, General Treasurer. In full "Please to pay Mr. Giles Russell Two hundred pounds old Tenor, being to enable him to pay the Bounty &c: of Soldiers he is now raising as Recruits to go to Crown Point, and Charge the Same to the Colony." Endorsed on verso "Giles Russel" who has acknowledged that he "Receivd the Contents of the within." Light show-through from verso.

On April 16, 1755, Sir William Johnson was commissioned by King George II with troops placed under his command "to be employed in an attempt to erect a strong Fortress before an eminence near the French Fort at Crown Point, and removing the encroachments of the French on His Majesty's land there." Probably the soldiers to be raised by Giles Russel were for this purpose as well as fighting the war.

Although born in Connecticut, Yale-graduate Russel (1729-1779) served with Rhode Island regiments in the French and Indian War. He was appointed Ensign in 1755, then Lieutenant (1756), Adjutant (1758), and Captain (1760). Russel would be wounded in the Battle of Ticonderoga, fought in July 1758 just south of Crown Point, where the French repulsed a British assault in one of the bloodiest battles of the colonial wars. The British seized both Ticonderoga and Crown Point from the French the following year. Russel practiced law until the Revolution. In 1776 , he served as Lieutenant-Colonel of Sage's Regiment in Gen. Washington's Army. Russel saw action at Germantown and Monmouth and wintered at Valley Forge(1777-1778). Ordered to march into Connecticut with his regiment at the time of Tryon's raid in July 1779, his old leg wound worsened and Col. Russel died in Danbury on October 28th.

In February 1755, a Committee of War had been chosen by the Assembly of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence plantations to have general direction of military matters during the French and Indian War. Signer of the Declaration of Independence Stephen Hopkins served on the Committee of War from 1755-1757, Peter Bours from 1755 until his death in 1761, and Thomas Cranston from 1755-1762. Bours (1707-1761) had been part owner of the Brig "Marygold" whose various cargoes included slaves, rum, and sugar. He was Speaker of the Assembly from 1744-1746. Hopkins had served as Speaker six times between 1738 and 1749. Cranston was Speaker from 1748-1749, 1750-1757, and 1760-1762. Cranston, Rhode Island, was first incorporated as a town in 1754. It was named Cranston in honor of then-Speaker Thomas Cranston and his family. His father Samuel had been Colonial Governor from 1698-1727.

Document Signed by Stephen Hopkins as Governor of the Colony of Rhode Island and Jonathan Nichols as Deputy Governor. One page, 8.5" x 6.5", "Colony of Rhode Island, April 26, 1756." 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. This interesting note signed by Stephen Hopkins and Jonathan Nichols as Rhode Island governor and deputy governor respectively, orders payment to one Daniel Jenike in the amount of "four Hundred pounds Lawfull[sic] money of the Colony of Rhode Island for the use of the present Expedition." Although the expedition is unidentified, it was clearly well funded and is presumed to have been initiated with the goal of surveying and mapping Rhode Island's land and waterways. Document is in very fine condition - bright, clean, and professionally mounted to a heavy paper "frame." Wonderful colonial item!

Samuel Huntington Book Signed. The Royal Dictionary Abridged in Two Parts: French and English, by A. Boyer. London, [1771]. Thirteenth edition, 8vo, unpaginated. This book has been re-backed with decorative leather spine stamped in gilt. Huntington has signed on a preliminary blank page, "Sam Huntington's book/ March 1780". Paste-downs and preliminary blank pages have been replaced except for the page with signature, which is unevenly toned and has been repaired below Huntington's signature. The top edge is soiled and pages are lightly toned. The book has been nicely restored to a very good condition.

Huntington joined the American revolutionaries after he resigned his post as King's Attorney. While a member of the Continental Congress, he signed the Declaration of Independence and presided over Congress when the Articles of Confederation were adopted. Later he was elected governor of Connecticut and helped lead that state's ratification of the Constitution.

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!

George Read Revolutionary War-dated Autograph Document Signed "Geo: Read fr Plff," one page, 8" x 3", inlaid to 8.25" x 4.25". [New Castle, Delaware], January 31, 1781. "To Gunning Bedford Esqr Propty", in full: "Issue Replevin against Jacob Likens late of New Castle County Tanner to answer Archibald M. Murphy in a Plea wherefore he took a Negro Man named York and the Slave of him the said Archibald and the same Slave doth unjustly detain against Sureties and Pledges." Slight surface abrasion at word "doth." Fine condition.

George Read, the only Signer of the Declaration of Independence to vote against it, lived in a mansion New Castle and owned slaves. Lawyer Gunning Bedford, Sr. was admitted to the Bar in 1779. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed as the Prothonotary (chief court clerk) of New Castle County. In 1775, Delaware's General Assembly had attempted to prohibit the import and export of slaves, but Gov. John Penn vetoed the measure. Between 1763 and 1767, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon surveyed the Mason-Dixon Line settling the western and southern borders of Sussex, Delaware's most southern county. After Pennsylvania abolished slavery in 1781, the western part of this line and the Ohio River became a border between free and slave states, although Delaware remained a slave state. New Castle is Delaware's most northern county. America's first census in 1790 in Delaware listed 8,887 African-Americans as slaves and 3,899 as free.

Roger Sherman Document Signed (also signed by Jonathan Trumbull). One page, 12.5" x 7.5", Fairfield, Connecticut, April 4, 1768, authorizing payment to "the Judges of the Supreme Court for their Attendance at a Special Supr. Court at Fairfield." Roger Sherman was the only person to sign the Articles of Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution. He served as justice of the Superior Court of Connecticut from 1766 to 1789. Jonathan Trumbull served as the first governor of Connecticut from 1776-1784. Docketed on verso. Age-toned; fine.

Matthew Thornton Document Signed "Matthew Thornton, Justice of Peace". One page, 9" x 1.25", "Province of New Hampshire", February 25, 1764. This has been excised from a larger document pertaining to James Rogers, a veteran of the French and Indian War and future participant in the American Revolution. Thornton, a physician, had a royal commission to serve as a New Hampshire justice of the peace. After the American Revolution began, he played a significant role in drafting a new government for New Hampshire. In 1774, he was elected to the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The original has been completely separated from top to bottom, but has been affixed to a backing which now holds it together. Thornton's rare signature has not been affected. Very good.

Declaration Signer George Wyeth Document Signed. Two pages, two sided, 8" x 12.5", n.p. [Richmond], August 22, 1799. George Wyeth's life was dedicated to public service. He was Virginia's foremost classical scholar, dean of its lawyers, a Williamsburg alderman and mayor, a member of the House of Burgesses, and house clerk. He was the colony's attorney general, a delegate to the Continental Congress, speaker of the state assembly, the nation's first college law professor, Virginia's chancellor, and a framer of the federal Constitution, as well as the first signer from Virginia on the Declaration of Independence. Considered the Father of American Jurisprudence, Wyeth's law students included President Thomas Jefferson and Chief Justice John Marshall. In 1789, Wythe accepted an appointment as judge of Virginia's Court of Chancery in Richmond, where he presided over the indentured servant case delineated in this document. Document is moderately age toned with a few open and closed chips at folds. Docketed on verso. Very large, bold signature. In fine condition.

William Few Document Signed as Commissioner of Loans. One page, 7.75" x 9.75", "United States Loan Office, New York, 6 May, 1807." Early financial instrument, transferring funds to the United States trust. In full, "I certify that Nathaniel Prime, the Proprietor of Eight per cent Stock Standing on my Books, has transferred to Thomas Tudor Tucker, Treasurer of the United States, in trust for said States, Nine Thousand Two Hundred Dollars of said eight per cent Stock, and that the original Certificates have been duly Surrendered and deposited at my Office, in testimony whereof I have given duplicate Certificates of this same tenor and date." Commissioner of Loans William Few has signed with a flourish. Few, a signer of the Constitution, represented Georgia in the Continental Congress (1780-1782, 1786-1788) and in the U.S. Senate (1789-1793). Nathaniel Prime was one of the earliest movers and shakers on Wall Street, who later became head of the powerful and legendary banking house Prime, Ward & King. Shortly after signing this document, William Few retired to his country home in Dutchess County, New York, from a long and successful life of public service. Document bears faint stains at lower corners, but is otherwise in very fine condition.

Robert Livingston Autograph Letter Signed to his brother concerning personal matters with some discussion of, possibly, the expedition against the Onondagas tribe. Three pages, 7.5" x 12.5", May 2, 1779. In part: "Dear Brother. . . It is now necessary to convince you that I have not forgot you and to . . . you of thanks for your remembrance of me testified by your two letters which I have rec'd. . . Which is the first thing of any moment done by our ships this war and may possibly have serious consequences in Georgia where by this time the . . . must be hardly. . . if the southern men have as much spirit in deed as in word. You have heard of Van. . .expedition. . . the bandages it was a clever little. . . by Schuyler and I think may by. . . of the hostages it has given us for the good behavior of the Indians be improved into the means of . . . with them at least it must delay their operations. I hardly know whether to advise you to proceed further in the sale of lands. . . ."

At the beginning of the Revolutionary War, the Onondagas were neutral, but after one of their main villages was attacked by Americans in April 1779, they began siding with the British. Livingston, from New York, was a member of the Committee of Five that drafted the Declaration of Independence. He never had a chance to sign the document, however, because he was recalled by New York before the final version was finished. He later administered the oath of office to George Washington from New York City at the beginning of his first term as president, making Washington the only president to have taken the oath in that city. Toned and chipped. A 1.5" x 1" section has been separated from the right margin; the section is still available. Some separation at the folds. Page three has two small sections missing, one on the left margin and one on the right, though no text is missing. Near fine.

Edward Livingston Autograph Letter Signed. Five pages, 8" x 9.5", New Orleans, February 4, 1823, to Henry Dearborn about his proposals to prepare a criminal code in Europe with references to his political struggles twenty years earlier. The letter reads in part: "Dear Sir, observing that the assertion of the Portuguese Government is directed towards a reform in their Civil Code, I have entertained some thoughts of becoming a competition for the honor of giving them a system of Jurisprudence. . . . The Civil being the common law of the Country, under which I have practiced for Twenty Years, and many of the laws of Spain, which are in force here, having been as I suppose introduced into Portugal, during the period of near a Country, that those countries were united. . . . He [Mr. Dearborn] will recollect the perilous political struggles we made in the same cause, and will learn perhaps with some surprise - that I am entering again on the same career, in the same station after an interval of more than Twenty Years."

Livingston was the brother of Robert Livingston, who successfully negotiated for the Louisiana purchase in 1803. A member of Congress (1823-1829) and senator (1829-1831) from Louisiana, he was an important legal mind of his time. As secretary of state under Jackson (1831-1833), he drafted the proclamation against nullification. A small portion of the original string tying the pages together is still present, though the pages aren't fully bound. Toned with some minor stains; fine.

An Act of the Third Congress of the U.S. One page printed, 8" x 13.25", Philadelphia, May 9, 1794. This act in six sections provided for "Raising and Organizing a Corps of Artillerists and Engineers" by calling for the voluntary enlistment of 764 "non-commissioned officers, privates and artificers, to serve as privates and musicians. . . and denominated the corps of artillerists and engineers". Their enlistments were to last three years. The act was passed by the Third Congress during the first session, which met at Congress Hall in Philadelphia from March 4, 1793, through March 3, 1795, while George Washington was president.

During the American Revolutionary War, the U. S. had established an engineer corps, but when the war ended in 1783, the engineers had mustered out of service. Now, ten years later, President Washington, Speaker Frederick Muhlenberg, and Vice-President John Adams signed in type this act which called for the establishment of a new corps. This broadside is toned with light foxing and three pin holes in left margin. Fine.

An Act of the Third Congress of the U.S. One page printed, 8" x 13.25", Philadelphia, March 20, 1794. This act in three sections provides for "the defence [sic] of certain Ports, and Harbors in the United States". Those ports and harbors were in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. This act, which came as a response to provocation from England and France, also permitted the president to use military troops if necessary.

The act was passed by the Third Congress during the first session, which met at Congress Hall in Philadelphia from March 4, 1793, through March 3, 1795, while George Washington was president. It has been approved by President Washington who, along with Speaker of the House Frederick Muhlenberg and Vice-President John Adams, have signed in type. This broadside is toned with light foxing and three pin holes in left margin. Fine.

George Washington Carver Archive of Ninety-seven Letters to his longtime friend and supporter Sophie Liston. The letters span the years 1925 through 1937 and contains 24 Typed Letters Signed (all but one are single page on 8.5" x 11", Tuskegee letterhead), and 73 Autograph Letters Signed (most are 2 pages) and cover all topics including religion, racial segregation, his work in agriculture, the Great Depression, travel, and health issues. All letters are signed "G.W. Carver". Sold with an oil painting, 18" x 36.25" (framed to an overall size of 22.5" x 40.5"), purportedly painted by Carver and Liston; and a small card hand-painted with daisies, signed "G.W. Carver", 2" x 4.25".

Sophie Liston first befriended Carver during his first year at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. Carver had enrolled at Simpson in hopes of continuing his education, particularly in the areas of art. Carver arrived at Simpson College with little resources and had hoped to make his way by setting up a laundry service for students. There are many versions of stories relating Carver's hardships during this period, but what can be established is that Sophie, a white woman, was one of the local townspeople who befriended Carver and helped by providing small jobs for him to earn money, clothing and furnishings for his stark shanty. They had an immediate bond that was likely founded on their strong faith in God and love for the arts. Sophie and her family eventually moved to California, and their friendship continued through letter-writing. This rich correspondence, shows many sides to Carver and is illustrative of the rather complicated place he held in society as an educated black man in the South.

"[Nov. 30, 1925]... I am sending you an announcement which we feel very proud over. This is one of the largest meetings that I have ever had in the South... It was a five hundred mile trip as we visited several points in Florida. One of the gentlemen had never heard me speak, after I had finished and gotten to my room he came in and said, 'Dr. Carver, I am thoroughly convenced [sic] that you are doing missionary work as well as along other lines, as you are doing so much in the way of better race relations while you did not say anything about them at all, what you have accomplished speaks for itself...' [Oct. 11, 1927] I had the privilege while in Oklahoma of inspecting officially one of the great oil refiners. It covers 1000 acres of land and they employ from 700 to 900 men and turn out from 100 to 150 cars of different products per day. They are, however, throwing away from six to seven tons per day of what is known as sludge, which is a varying composition. They are going to send me some of this sludge for further study..."

Carver originally enrolled at Simpson with the intent to study art. Although his focus would eventually turn to agriculture, his love for the arts is evident as it remained a frequent and important topic in his letters: "[Feb. 8, 1928]... It is so pleasing to know that you are still interested in art, and that you are keeping it up. How I wish that I could be there and have a real art discussion once more... I have just received the 1928 Maxfield Parrish Calendar, which is a wonderful picture. It is somewhat different from anything that I have seen. There are two figu[r]es sitting upon a rock overlooking a deep gauge. He has worked in those marvelous blues, which nobody except Maxfield Parrish can do. Through the central part of the picture there comes such an interesting exposition of purple... [Oct. 7, 1928] I am making some wonderful little sketches with charcoal made from the roots of the Fla. Palm. I have a dainty little landscape, study of each, and am now working on a study of apples. There are five apples lying on a table, they look like they will fall off... "

Of course, his scientific work was a major topic of discussion; in particular his research in the use of peanut oil massages for the treatment of infantile paralysis. In an undated letter he writes (typed):

"The special peanut oil to which you refer is not manufactured commercially, and will not be until I finish my investigations and get the range of its entire pharmaceutical possibilities.


I have only used it on two cases of infantile paralysis, each of which shows decided improvement. One of the cases has left and I will not see him any more. Three, 15 now [added in holograph], others have just come to me, so that I can go on with my investigations and give you truth and directions of value
It is practically impossible for me to make enough oil for my own investigation..."

The letter continues in holograph:
"My dear Mrs. Liston these oils I am working on now are for infantile paralysis. Even if it were available in its present state I would not recommend it for ladies as it grows hair as well as being a strong fat producer. Use the oil on the slip, if an oil at all is needed they will do the work. I cured a bad case on myself with them several years ago. Mine was in the knee, swelled terribly and the pain was almost unbearable, no sleep at night. I put the knee in a continuous heating pack at night and massaged night and morning with these oils it cured me. My infantile paralysis work is coming on fine. My physician says my 'strength' is not sufficient to undertake such a long trip. Don't know if I will ever get strong enough to make it..."

Carver's work on the treatment of infant paralysis would receive a lot of attention, and gave rise to copycat companies: "[Oct. 1. 1934]... One of my patients who lives in Washington D.C. secured a bottle of 'Velvet Vitalized Peanut Oil' for me. I was amazed when I saw the product and the advertising matter on the bottle and inner carton. I do not see how he could hope to sell a dozen bottles per month. I think the 'Pure Food and Drug Law' has censored it. They wrote the Add. Matter that I am allowed to send out on Penol, and I think they have done the same with Dr. Frischkorn..." There are also two letters on stationery of companies that produce peanut based products that have included Carver's name in the mast.

Carver makes frequent references to the growing number of letters received and patients traveling long distances for treatment. Eventually it was discovered that the effectiveness of Carver's treatments on infantile paralysis had nothing to do with the peanut oil, but with the massages themselves. Carver had been a trainer for the Iowa State football team and was skilled masseuse.

Carver's treatments and use of peanut oil begin to make sense when examined against the context of his religious beliefs. Sophie and Carver shared a strong religious faith, and the role of God in their lives was a frequent topic. "[June 5, 1936]...Yes I have read Mrs. Eddie's [Mary Baker Eddy] book, 'Secret of Health' [likely Science And Health, With Key To The Scriptures]. I have had it for many years and from time to time get copies of 'Unity'. I used to get it regularly. I also get the Christian Science Monitor. A recent issue had a nice article of the work that I am trying to do..." Nevertheless, he is not welcome to worship at their church, "[March 20, 1935]... I am so glad that you are better. My daily prayers are that 'The Great Physician' will come to you with healing spirits. There is no Christian Science Church nearer than 42 miles of us and it is a white church so you see I could not go if I was there. You, my great friend cannot understand what a terrible blight this prejudice is, but God will take care of it in His own good time and way..."

The subject of race arises on occasion, and although not a focus, it nevertheless remains a constant factor in his day-to-day life: "[Nov. 22, 1928]... It will probably be 50 years after I have been called hence, before the people can fully realize what a contribution to education the work I am doing is. Booker Washington is yet misunderstood by some, but with many there is growing understanding... I do not know if I told you that a recent offer had come to me for $10,000 per year as chief chemist for a large manufacturing plant in Ga. Of course I turned it down as usual..." Although the Depression had not quite hit full force, the nations' economy, particularly the agrarian economy, had already begun to see a downturn. He continues in the same letter: "I do hope your son will find a lucrative position. I trust also that conditions will be such that he can return with profit to the occupation of his choice. I think the country as a whole is pleased with Mr. Hoover. He is really a good man. Just what we need..."

In his next letter, dated December 25, 1928, he continues on the topic of the lucrative job offer: "... Today has been a wonderful day. I could accept no dinner invitations. O yes no one is more conscious of the fact that my time is about up than myself. I am not physically strong enough to take a heavy position like the $10,000 job, even though it was safe, which is not by any manner of means. All of my white friends who know about it advise me not to do it, because the rough element would not stand for a 'n*****' as chief chemist over them, here in the south under no circumstances . Were you here just 24 hours you would say no too."

Of course, the Depression did not discriminate, and Washington's letters tell of the crisis as it affected everyone: "[Jan. 2, 1931]... Yes the bank situation is just as it was when I wrote you last. No evidences of getting even part of it yet. I see so many people that are so much worse off than I am, that I wish I was able to help them. I was the largest depositor the bank had and therefore I am the heaviest looser [sic]. I am not grieving or worrying over it. I have asked God's guidance in the matter. I still have my job, and am able to do it, so they say, so why grieve... [Jan. 24, 1931]... The depression is something terrible sight around us. We found the children of one family eating swill, it was all the food they had... [April 17, 1932]... The financial condition of the U.S. is in such a state that down here we have no money with which to build roads. Some schools have already closed, others closing. Some teachers have not received any pay since last Sept... [Dec. 28, 1932]... I am not worrying Mrs. Liston, even though I have lost my savings, suffered a cut in salary, was not getting much and it looks as if though we will have to be cut again. Yet I am much better off than hundreds... [Jan. 15, 1933]... Thank God I am not suffering or worrying as I am so confident that God will provide for me. While millions are suffering I must suffer a little too, and then even though I have suffered such severe losses there are others much worse off that I am, yes millions of them. I am trying to point the way out to someone almost every day. I am telling them to make lye housing, salt rising bread etc. etc. I taught one poor fellow (white) who has a family was out of work, how to make soup from waste fats etc. from eating houses..."

The topic of Carver's celebrity often appears. Letters mention an invitation from the Russians to come to the Soviet Union to explore cotton as a crop, an invitation from the Bahamas for a week-long speaking tour, the publication of a biography on Carver, and a film documentary that was released to movie houses throughout the country (John Hix's "Strange as it Seems"). These letters are rich in content, revealing the complexities and contradictions of his life. Born into slavery, and raised by a white family, Carver seemed equally at ease with whites and blacks; although he likely felt an outsider with both. Biographies reveal that he was widely resented at Tuskegee because of the additional privileges he demanded and received; and these letters although telling of his daily life reveal nothing of any personal relationships he may have had. Despite his engaging nature, the bond he shared with Sophie Liston was only possible because it was through written correspondence and only inclusive of certain areas of his life.

This rich archive is accompanied by two original works of art by Carver. The first is a large oil painting (unsigned) of a corn stalk that had been stored with the letters by Sophie Liston's descendants. The story that has been passed down is that Sophie and Carver painted it together. This is not an unlikely possibility. Carver was an avid painter, and he and Sophie spent much of their time working in her garden or making art, prior to the Listons move to California. There is a photograph of Carver standing alongside one of his paintings in the biography, George Washington Carver, Scientist & Symbol, by Linda O. McMurry. Like the corn plant being offered here, the composition is vertical, and the depiction of the leaves and flowers is strikingly similar. The painting has areas of flaking and loss of paint as well as a small tear in the canvas. The second work of art is a small flower painting on a card signed "G.W. Carver". The letters reveal that Sophie and Carver sometimes included these small paintings in their letters to one another, so it is likely that Carver included this small painting in one of his letters. Although there are known examples of his artwork, many were destroyed in 1947 when fire struck the George Washington Carver Museum at Tuskegee.

Carver's advanced age and poor health can also be traced through the course of the letters. Although his early correspondence is handwritten, by December 1935 all letters are typed, bearing only his signature. In fact, two of these typed letters are secretarially signed (dated May 17 and December 6, 1937.) the last letter in this archive is a heartfelt letter of condolence handwritten by Carver to Sophie's husband on the occasion of her death: "Jan. 17 - 1937 [actually 1938] My dear Mr. Liston: - My heart is full to overflowing tonight, I felt so much the loss of your dear wife and my sainted friend. To me she was always an angel of light: her memory is so sweet and dear to me. How strange, it has been more than a year since I was able to use my hand in writing. I tried to use it Sat. and failed absolutely. May God ever bless, keep and guide you. With Love and best wishes always, G.W.Carver. Dr. says I must stop." Carver's writing is very palsied and frail. This is likely one of the last letters he ever wrote.

Overall condition of the letters is very good to near fine, and the majority are accompanied by the original envelope. It is recommended that bidders examine the letters as it is not possible to accurately represent the breadth of content included. This archive comes directly from descendants of Sophie Liston.

Also included are three biographies of Carver:
1) George Washington Carver The Man Who Overcame, by Lawrence Elliott. Englewood Cliffs, N.J.: Prentice Hall, Inc., 1968.
2) George Washington Carver An American Biography, by Rackham Holt. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, Doran, and Company, Inc., 1943.
3) George Washington Carver Scientist & Symbol, by Linda O. McMurry. Oxford University Press, 1982.

George Washington Carver Photograph Signed "G.W. Carver". 6.5"x 4.25", August 20, 1934. Pictured is George Washington Carver with Masanoske Mitani and T.E. Munger. Photo was probably taken to commemorate a multi-national scientific event and was originally grouped with an archive of letters from George Washington Carver to Sophie Liston (see previous lot, 35052) and was likely a gift from Carver to Liston, making this an important association image. In 1934, Carver was busy looking for therapy techniques for children with polio. His hypothesis was that peanut oil massages would have incredible healing capabilities for the afflicted children. The success he initially found in his study was doomed when it was discovered that the massages themselves were helpful to the polio inflicted children, and not the peanut oil. Such signed photos of George Washington Carver are rare, so this item is a very unique piece of history. Some wear and tear around the edges with minor foxing, otherwise photo is in very good condition.

Collection of Slave Lists Circa 1848-1861. The lot consists of four manuscript pages and two small notebooks listing an inventory of slaves including their given names, ages and dates of birth when known and on occasion dates of death. Extrapolating information common throughout the lists it is possible to determine the owner's name (or perhaps overseer) was Robert W. Bradley, place unknown, although the place of death for many of the slaves listed is Mississippi. On the verso of a slave list for 1856 is list of holdings which include property in Virginia and Texas. The lists include three for 1848, 1856, 1858, and 1861. As one might expect, child mortality for the period was not particularly good and obviously the children born to slaves fared far worse. Many entries have notations such as "died at the age of a week or two", "died a few days after its birth", etc. All documents are legible and in very good condition. This lot is deserving of additional research.

Slave Receipt. One page, 7" x 3.75", n.p., June 9, 1755. Signed by the purchasers "Samuel Stoddon" and "Marey Stoddon", as well as several other witnesses, this receipt gave ". . . authority to Sale & dispose of this Negro Servant boy. . . Cornelius" to the Stoddons, though it does not mention a price. It has been excised from a larger document which certainly must have included the price. Docketed on verso; age-toned with some stains and some taped repairs. Near good condition.

William Clark Autograph Receipt Signed. "Wm Clark ", one page, 7.75" x 6.5", front and verso, 28 April 1814, St. Louis. In full, "Provision Return for eighty-eight men of Capt. Yeiser's company now in the service of the United States for one day commencing the 28 April & ending same day. No men 88 No days 1 rations p. day ½ No rations 132 The Contractor will issue one hundred & thirty two complete rations agreeable to the above return St Louis 28th April 1814 ", cosigned by " F. Yeiser". On verso is penned, "No 21st " and "28th Apl". The document is a receipt for Captain Yeiser to provide men and supplies for one day to William Clark. William Clark, along with Meriwether Lewis, is best known as one of the principal American explorers in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the first American overland expedition to the Pacific Coast and back, leaving from Pittsburg on August 31, 1803, and returning to St. Louis on September 23, 1806. Following this, Clark was appointed brigadier general of the militia and superintendent of Indian Affairs in the Louisiana territory in 1809, governor of the Missouri Territory in 1813, and during the War of 1812 he led military campaigns and established the first post in what is now Wisconsin. This signed receipt for provisions, dated 1814, is from the period of his service in the War of 1812, when he was leading and outfitting military campaigns. Evenly toned with a few stray stains on verso, very heavily inked resulting in a few smears, else fine condition.

William "Buffalo Bill" Cody Autograph Letter Signed "Wm Cody". One page, 8" x 10", North Platte, Nebraska, March 20, 1900. Written to the young Mormon leader Abraham O. Woodruff of Salt Lake City. Taking a hard line with Woodruff about land rights, Cody pens, "In reply to your favor asking me to give your people rights on north side of river. . . You surely can't ask me to give all my rights to your people for nothing." Cody--hunter, soldier, and showman--spent some of his youth in Utah as an army scout during the Utah War, a confrontation between Mormon settlers and the United States. Woodruff (1872-1904) helped establish settlements throughout the state. He died an untimely death, four years after this letter was written, of smallpox at the age of thirty-one.

This letter is age-toned and weak at the creases (with some separation). Yellowed mounting tape is still attached to the front borders, but this interesting letter, which shows the business side of one of the most colorful figures of the Old West, is boldly written in black ink. Good.

William F. Cody Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 5.75" x 8.75", on The Hoffman House letterhead, New York, NY, February 2, 1895. Addressed to "Dear Ferrell," Buffalo Bill extends an invitation to a performance. In part: " I have a Theatrical Co. that will play at Miner's Theatre Wednesday Feb 7th. I will be there. Wish you and your family could come that evening, see the play, and we could have a chat. Would like to see you. I enclose a card. Very truly yours, W.F. Cody." At this time in his life, Cody was probably the most famous and recognizable man in the world, due to his wildly successful and popular Wild West Show tours through Europe. Penciled notation at bottom of page by C.M. Ferrell, who notes that he and his wife used Cody's card, presumably to obtain entry to the theater and access to Cody. Moderate age toning, soiling, and dampstaining. Folds reinforced. Small area of paper loss at left edge. Boldly penned and in very good condition.

Apache Chiefs Geronimo, Christian Naiche and Asa Daklugie Signatures on a Single Sheet, 3.25" x 5.25" lined paper, n.p., n.d. (circa early 1900s). G. A. Purington signs beneath Geronimo as a "witness to [his] signature". Purington, a first lieutenant with the 8th cavalry, was the officer in charge of Apache prisoners. Daklugie, chosen by Geronimo as his successor, adds "Later elected Chief/ Fort Sill/ Oklahoma" beneath his signature. The sheet is affixed to a 7.5" x 5" leather album belonging to Clara Scofield, daughter of John C. Scofield, who served under sixteen secretaries of war during his tenure at the War Department, which would have given Clara access to many dignitaries over a long period of time.

Apache Chief Naiche was the son of Cochise. In the 1880s, Naiche and Geronimo fought together. He was a prisoner from 1886 through 1913 in several places, including Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He converted to Christianity and changed his name to Christian. Asa Daklugie is noted for having translated Geronimo's narrated biography into English in 1905 for S. M. Barrett, who published the biography as Geronimo, His Own Story.

The album also includes many signatures by notables from the years 1901 through 1930. Signers include: Prince Albert, Booker T. Washington (he signs on an album page as well as second signature on a War Department card), John Pershing (1929), Orville Wright (Feb. 27, 1929), William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt (signature as president adding the date "Jan. 23d 1906"), Elihu Root, William Taft (May 9, 1902), Charles Lindbergh (Nov. 14, 1927), and other diplomats, politicians, military leaders, and feminists. Also included in the album are sketches by American artist Howard C. Christy (Jan. 22, 1929), known for his artwork depicting young women known as "Christy girls" (a sketch in pen of the profile of a young woman), and political cartoonist Homer Davenport (Dec. 19, 1911, a sketch of a horse).

The album, with an impression of foliage on the front cover, is missing the spine. The leather on the front cover has almost completely separated from the board, while the leather on the back cover has fully separated leaving the exposed board. All pages are bound and have wonderfully preserved the signatures.

John Ross, Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Autograph Document Signed. One page penned on blue, lined paper, 7.75" x 6", "Executive Department," February 3, 1857, authorizing payment to a teacher for services during the school session just completed. In part: "Lewis Ross Esq., National Treasurer, Will Pay to the order of Sarah Hicks the order of One Hundred & Sixty six Dolls & Sixty six cents out of the Genl. School fund for services as Teacher for the Session just closed. . . . 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 figure throughout these times for the Cherokee. He spoke little of the Cherokee language and was, for many, more similar to the 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, clear signature with swirling paraph. Document is in very fine condition and imminently suited for framing and prominent display.

Joel H. Prescott Autograph Audit Document for Indian War Supplies Signed. Four pages, 8" x 9.5", ribbon-bound, Wayne County, New York, 1864. During the Yakima Indian Wars of 1855-1856, the Oregon Mounted Volunteers requisitioned supplies of meat and forage. The supplies were lost, however on their way to the Oregon Territory. These audit documents substantiate that supplies were still needed by the Volunteers. In part: "Joel H. Prescott. . . doth depose and Say, that the Schedules hereto attached and marked Schedules, Nos 1, 2, & 3 are true and faithful copies of the originals, and that Said Originals were about five years ago mailed by this deponent to Hon. Theodore M. Pomeroy M. C. at Washington, D. C., and that he has not Seen the Said original papers Since Said mailing, Subscribed & Sworn before me this 14th day of December 1864, Joel H. Prescott (attested by a Justice of the Peace in & for Said Count), Hon. Mr. Pomeroy says it was in spring or summer of 1862. . . ."

The three attached documents are labeled "Schedule No 1", "Schedule No 2", and "Schedule No 3", and are embossed with the Congressional Seal and read in part: "Schedule No 1, Oregon Mounted Volunteers, Jacksonville, O.T., May 25, 1856, Commissary Department, To William Thompson. . . , March 10, 1856: 100, One Hundred pounds pork 25 cents per pound $25.00, 10 Gallons Vinegar 5.50/100 Cents per Gallon $55.00, Eighty Dollars $80.00. . . ."

"Schedule No 2, Territory of Oregon, Fort Elliff, November 19th, 1855, Quarter Masters Department, To William Thompson. . . For (1124) Eleven hundred and twenty four pound of Crushed Wheat. . . ."

"Schedule No 3, Territory of Oregon, Jacksonville. O.T. March 31st, 1856, Quarter Masters Department, For the following Forage sold to James R. Peters for the use of the Oregon Mounted Volunteers. . . ."

Prescott was major, colonel, and paymaster of the 71st Regiment, New York Militia, in Newark. He was named the first fire chief of the New York Central Hook and Ladder and was postmaster for eight years. Light soiling, but excellent legibility. Fine.

Two Native American Autograph Letters Signed, From 1845 and 1847. These two letters were written by Wilson McAlister. The first (8" x 8") is dated July 4, 1845, and is written to his brother and sister and reads in part: "Here is a spreading, and there stands a thrifty elm - now a walnut and locust, a cherry tree and box elder. The attraction as you pass on, is arrested - and you pause and look on, an enquiry - what are these - why - little cedars from one to ten feet high with a rich healthy appearance - And before you are through, with these pretty little natives - you raise your head - and ask - What is that? Is it rain? No! Is it wind? No. Well, what is it? Why - it is the river driving furiously against that bluff of rock down there. . . . Last Sunday I tried to preach my first Choctaw sermon. . . . We have prayer meetings and a week in theses meetings we have Choctaw prayers coming up to the same throne with the English - prayer." This letter is very fragile at the folds; many folds have separated, but ink is very bold.

The second letter (7.5" x 9.5") is dated July 19, 1847, and discusses Wilson's return home to find his wife and children ill. He also wrote of members of the Choctaw Nation school who were sick. In part: "Two of our students are very sick - probably one of them will die - There is considerable sickness in the country. . . ." McAlister continues to write about the people he encountered. "When I arrived here - I found an old Choctaw Soker with a pure blooded native - a beautiful little boy, whom he had brought (to supply the place of some absent boy) by the name of Paul Lewis. . . he told me through an interpreter, that he left his child with me as a father and had no fears at all about my treating of him well. I told him if I were the father, he must allow me the privilege of naming the child." Toned with folds and seal remnants. Fine.

The Choctaw people originally lived in the area that became the states of Mississippi and Alabama and gradually ceded their territories to the U. S. government. The last cession was made in 1830, following the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek. The most extensive record of Choctaw people and lands in the east was generated as a result of this treaty. The Indian agent William Armstrong took a roll of the Choctaw who were entitled to land under the treaty. This roll, commonly called the Armstrong Roll, has been published in several forms, the most readily available being that which was published in American State Papers: Volume 7, part II, Index to Public Lands. American State Papers contain a very good surname index to this volume. The American State Papers series can be found in many public libraries and can serve as an important first step in locating an ancestor if you can identify the name of a male progenitor during the removal period (1830-46).

Wyoming Valley Land Swindle Document. Two pages, 7.75" x 12", n.p., c. 1760-1762. This fascinating and important transcribed manuscript records the words of a delegation from the Six Nations protesting to an unknown party(most likely the Connecticut-based Susquehannah Company who wanted to settle the valley) the prospect of white settlement in the Wyoming Valley of Pennsylvania. In part: "Brothers we are Sent hither & has pleased god that we are got safe to the place to See[.] we are Sent by our the Chiefs of all the Six Nations A Belt given - Now our Brothers we are Come from the whole Chiefs and they understand that you are not all that Sound within & we give this to clear your Eyes that you may See us. & Open your Ears that you may hear & cleanse your Hearts that you may entertain Cordially what we shall speak to you. . . . Brothers we have no writings of it but we have a Tradition that this is an Island or Continent, which god the maker of all Things has given to the Six Nations and made them a Strong NA people. . . . Brother we have heard very Grievous News this Winter from that you were about to Come with Three hundred Families to Settle on our Lands. . . . what little we have left we intend to keep for ourselves." This important document illustrates the complexity and misunderstanding in frontier diplomacy between the newly-arrived Europeans and the native Americans. Has a clear fold separation which has been repaired. Also moderately toned with dampstains. Near very good.

1849 Gold Rush Letter. Four pages, 7.5" x 12.5", Monroe, Michigan, January 29, 1849, from a twenty-eight year-old Michigan man to his grandfather. The letter concerns a brother-in-law going to California with gold fever, President Zachary Taylor, the Wilmot Proviso, and explorer John C. Fremont. In part: "Mr. Adams has gone to California. He started two weeks ago. Yesterday for Washington on his way he goes out as agent of a company that he got up in this place... before he started he got a letter from Genl Cass to President Polk which I saw and should think was a very strong letter. . . . I see by your letter you take our defeat of last fall by Old Zach [Zachary Taylor] rather cooly. I am glad you do but it is hard for me to but we shall have to stand it for four years and I think we can as well as the Whigs can and better than some they don't all like it. . . hope all of the free Soilers will get full satisfaction get what they deserve, but there is no use in crying for spilt milk. I presume that this letter will put you in mind of President Polks message or Tom Bentons defence of Fremont. . . ." Some stains on this interesting letter; fine.

Whaling Journal. Remarkable 8.5" x 12.75", 96 page whaling journal of the vessel St. George on its 1839-1843 voyage to the South Pacific and Japan from New Bedford, Massachusetts, with Captain Fisher as the master. The journal contains ten whale drawings, six whale stampings, and a small sketch of the ship Franklin. More than one writer made entries. The following colorful excerpts are transcribed as written: "Lowered three boats for Blackfish struck two took them along side and took them in at 3 P.M. at 2 P.M. spoke Ship Franklin of Nantucket Capt. Riddle 26 ½ month out. . . at 1 PM saw A large whale lowered 4 boats the Capt struck hi[m] whe killed him and took him Along side and begun to cut. At 6 PM made him fast for the night. At 5 AM commenced cutting. . . Boiling out the whale at 6 PM finished boiling. . . July the 22 Commences With their she bloes At 6 AM loard the boats and Caught one whale wich made us 50b[arre]lls whe spoke the whalter schot." In some instances, entries skip months; where this happens, charts are used to summarize. For example, one page lists twenty-four ships with their masters under the heading, "A List of Ships at Lahaina Mowee [Maui] from Oct 20 to Nov 6th 1842". Maui was an important stop for whaling ships.

The log is dampstained with some fraying at the edges, quite befitting of a sea log. Parts of some pages have been cut away and a few pages contain imprints of the remains of insect wings. There are unrelated jottings, including poems, near the end of the log. The fragileness and flaws of this log are minor when compared to the outstanding content and drawings. In original boards and binding, the journal is attractively kept in an 8.5" x 12.75" presentation folder with inside flaps and housed in an elegant quarter-leather slipcase with raised bands; the spine contains gilt-embossed "Log of/ the Whaleship/ St. George/ 1839-1843". Ready to be displayed in near good condition.

Colonial American Ledger Book of Hezekiah Hudson from Hingham, Massachusetts, with entries dating from 1764 through 1779. 168 pages, 8" x 12", containing hundreds of entries with customer names, signatures, and balances due. Contains an interesting array of customers, including relatives of Abraham Lincoln, prominent local citizens, and local military figures of the area. Hudson was a blacksmith and gunsmith in the small Massachusetts town.

The ledger book cover is very worn; the pages are frayed and stained, a few have worked loose from the binding, but most of the text is legible. On the cover is written several times "Nantasket" (the area in Massachusetts that Hingham is located). This is an historically important piece that gives insight into everyday living during one of the most important periods in American history. Near fair. Also offered are two pages (9" x 14.25") with ledger entries from April 1763 to May 1770. Some stains; chipping and tears along right border. Fine.

[Louisiana Purchase] - "An Act to provide for designating, surveying, and granting the Military Bounty Lands." Two page printed circular, 8" x 10", n.p., May 6, 1812. This document was given by Henry Clay as speaker of the house and was delivered by the War Department. In part: "Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States be, and he is hereby, authorized to cause to be surveyed a quantity of the Public Lands of the United States, fit for cultivation, not otherwise appropriated, and to which the Indian title is extinguished, not exceeding in the whole six millions of acres; two millions to be surveyed in the territory of Michigan, two millions in the Illinois territory, north of the Illinois river; and two millions in the territory of Louisiana, between the river St. Francis and the river Arkansas; the said lands to be divided into townships and sub-divided into sections and quarter sections. . . ."

The Louisiana Purchase, which extended from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains and from the Gulf of Mexico to British North America, doubled the size of the United States. Even though the U. S. flag was raised at New Orleans on December 20, 1803, the final boundaries were not settled for many years. This important document is toned with some foxing and staining. Restoration added paper to small chips and separations at margins. Fine.

1811 Patriotic Poem Broadside, "New-Year's Gift/ Addressed to the Patrons of the New Hampshire Patriot". One page, 13" x 20". This broadside contains a lengthy patriotic poem describing events of the new republic with references to Elbridge Gerry, Shay's rebellion, James Madison, the Constitution, the Revolution, Timothy Pickering, and more. It begins, "Our Eagle shall soar till time is no more, And ne'er lose the plumes that adorn his broad wings; But range wide creation every nation Shall burst from the shackles of tyrants and kings. . . To see Captain Gerry, successful and merry, in ship Constitution, whose bottom is tight, in line with the Union, and holling communion, With Commodore Madison, whose compass is right." It concludes, "Our wise Constitution and late Revolution, We always will cherish, and 'scorn to be slaves'; our land-men and sea-men will try to live Freemen, As long as old Ocean shall swell with its waves." There are a few minor stains and edges are uneven. One small hole in far right column. Near very good.

Large Lot of 100 Cabinet Cards and CDVs including signed images of Civil War General Irvin McDowell, "The American Traveler" Daniel Pratt, and abolitionist Henry Ward Beecher. There are 55 cabinet cards of members and faculty members of the Harvard University Class of 1888, some are portraits and others images of student theatrics and sports. There are 13 unsigned cabinet cards of entertainers, including Lilly Langtry. There are several images of Civil War generals and admirals, as well as Robert Browning, Longfellow, and other literary figures. A fantastic lot. Most very good or better.

Jefferson Davis Signed Appointment as President of the Confederate States of America, countersigned by Judah P. Benjamin as secretary of state. One page, 11.75" x 10.25", City of Richmond, February 4, 1865; document appoints William H. Mann "Postmaster at Gordonsville, Orange Co., Virginia." Evidence of dampstaining and paper loss at bottom margin, with bold signatures. Very good.

Abner Doubleday Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.5" x 9.5", 5th Avenue Hotel, New York, February 6, 1871. Doubleday was a career U.S. army officer who fired the first defensive shot of the Civil War at Fort Sumter. In this letter, he is concerned about whether or not Henry Dawson, the editor of Historical Magazine, has received his letters about Fort Sumter. The content of those letters was most likely intended for Dawson's publication. The letter offered here reads in part: "Did you receive two letters from me in relation to Fort Sumter, written about six weeks ago? . . .I shall remain here for a few days should you find time to call I should be pleased to see you. If I have an opportunity I will go on to Morrisania but at present my time is very much occupied as I am preparing to go to Texas."

Dawson, who published the Historical Magazine in Morrisania, New York, from 1866 to 1876, did publish a story about Fort Sumter in the January 1872 issue. Doubleday, also known as the disputed inventor of baseball, cites this article in his 1876 book, Reminiscences of Fort Sumter.

Inventor John Ericsson Autograph Letter Signed. One and a half page, 8.5" x 11", n.p., April 22, 1857. Ericsson, a Swedish engineer and inventor, designed the USS Monitor ironclad for the Union during the Civil War. In this interesting letter full of mechanical engineering descriptions, Ericsson writes about a "pumping engine": "The application for a pumping engine from Virginia pleases me much. It is our legitimate field; one on which we will always triumph. Tell Mr. Stimpson that you will send an engine and warrant it for 3 months, but that you will take it away from the mine after one weeks successful pumping, unless paid for". He also writes about a sewing machine contraption: ". . .take the sewing machine to Mr. Stewards store and obtain permission to rig up the pulley used at 164, up under the roof, and then send the weight to the ground. . . .". Signed, "J. Ericsson" with light age-toning; near very fine.

Also offered is a 2.5" x 4" card containing Ericsson's engraved likeness with the printed caption, "Capt. J. Ericsson./ Inventor & Constructor of the / 'Monitor.'" Mounting residue and penciled-writing on verso; some foxing; near fine.

John S. "Rip" Ford Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.5" x 10.5", San Antonio, July 15, 1896. Ford writes one year before his death to Captain John J. Dix, Jr., a former Texas Ranger under his command during the Civil War. Together they had protected Texan borders against invasion by the Union Army. Over the years, their long working relationship developed into a close personal friendship through which their political opinions could be expressed.

After jokingly scolding Dix for failing to write ("When you absquatulated [sic] from San Antonio it was supposed you would be back in this blessed town promptly, or if not, you would have the decency to write a respectfully worded letter. . . ."), Ford dives into politics, including commentary on the upcoming presidential race between Democrat William Jennings Bryan and Republican William McKinley. At the Democratic National Convention, held less than a week before this letter was written, Bryan had given his famous "Cross of Gold" speech in which he advocated the silver standard and lambasted those who supported the gold standard. This speech must certainly have caught the attention of Ford, who was a supporter of Bryan. Ford feared, though, that the Populist Party (the "Third Party") would nominate someone else and splinter their vote. In part: "The democratic nominations aroused us for a while. It is possible the 'sound Money' section of the British may make nomination, if they do it will take votes from Bryan, and prevent those lovers of gold from voting for McKinley. If the Third Party vote generally for Bryan I believe we can beat them. Provided we work hard and all vote for the right man. The Third Party may turn crazy and nominated candidates. That destructive course would simply divide the silver vote, and beat us, I fear. That would be a fool hardy game."

Turning from politics to economics, Ford writes of the pain that the nation still felt from the Panic of 1893: "Times are harder in San Antonio than when you left. Money is about impossible to get. The drouth [sic] gave a back seat to everything relating to cash. Money is harder to obtain. Credit is dead. . . . Almost every working man is idle. If these things increase how can common people procure the means of livelihood? How long before the want of bread and meat will cause convulsions, and the use of force to obtain them?" Since the situation was so dire, Ford let Dix know whom he blamed: "The advocates of a gold currency have abandoned the constitution of the United, and are clamoring for gold alone. . . . They have forgotten Washington's Farewell address, have allied themselves with the British, and are now moving heaven and earth to reduce the people of the United States to a state below that of England." This insightful letter on the political and economical environment of 1896 is docketed on verso, presumably by Dix. Lightly age toned with a faint verso dampstain at upper left. Small separation at one fold. Fine condition.

Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson Third Person Signature on a cover addressed in his hand, likely war-dated. The cover is addressed to his wife, "Mrs T.J. Jackson / Cottage Home / Lincoln County / North Carolina". Jackson adds: "Please to mail direct." This is likely a war-dated cover, as the address is in North Carolina which is where his second wife, Mary Anna Morrison, hailed from. Jackson had bought a home in Lexington with his wife in 1859 and lived there until he was called to serve in the Confederate Army. His wife likely returned to live with her family upon her pregnancy; she gave birth to a daughter shortly before Jackson's death in 1862. Originally measuring 5.5" x 3.75", the stamp and postal cancellation has been clipped. With soiling commensurate with use, and bold ink; the cover remains very good and is an excellent opportunity to obtain a scarce Confederate signature.

Robert E. Lee and William Henry Fitzhugh "Rooney" Lee Autograph Letter Signed to George Washington Custis Lee. Two pages, two sided, including integral address leaf, 8" x 10", on blue lined paper, Baltimore, Maryland, April 18, 1852. Unusual co-authored letter from Robert E. Lee and his younger son William "Rooney" Lee to Robert's oldest son, George Washington Custis Lee. After the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), Robert E. Lee spent several years employed as an engineer at Fort Carroll in Baltimore Harbor, during which time he lived on his great Arlington estate near Washington with his wife and six children, while his eldest, G.W. Custis Lee, attended West Point. Offered here is a warm and newsy letter to Custis from his father and brother. Rooney begins the letter with a great deal of news about family and friends, noting that: "Uncle Smith [Robert E. Lee's older brother, an officer in the Navy] expects to go on to Boston Monday to take command of the Steamship Princeton and will be there two or three weeks..." He goes on to tease his brother about their attractive Cousin Ella [daughter of Robert E. Lee's brother Charles Carter Lee], saying: "Cousin Ella... is looking very sweet and pretty. I wish you were here now. I think that you would enjoy yourself knowing what an admirer you are of beauty and what taste for sweet things." Rooney signs off as "Your affectionate brother, William Lee."

Here, father Robert E. Lee takes pen in hand and adds to the letter, before sending it off. In part: "I will endeavor to add a few lines, My dear Mr. Boo, to certify that I am well & thinking of you... Your grandfather [George Washington Parke Custis, the adopted son of President George Washington] is constructing a wharf out from his shore for the Steamer G.W.P. Custis to land, which is to fly between Washington & his Spring carrying visitors. He is much engrossed with it... Give much love to everybody. Beware of the demerits. Very Aff. Your father, R.E. Lee." Five months later, Robert E. Lee would become the superintendent of West Point and was there to oversee his son's military training and 1854 graduation as first in his class. A heartwarming and delightful family letter. Weakened and lightly damaged at folds, the letter has been beautifully silked and is in fine condition. Accompanied by a clipped signature of George Washington Custis Lee as "Lt. & Adjt. Corps of Cadets." One page, 5" x 5.25", being a portion of a partly printed document, "Camp Jefferson Davis, West Point," August 11, 1853. Very fine.

Robert E. Lee and Mary Custis Lee Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, two-sided with blank final leaf, 8" x 10", on blue lined paper, "West Point, 24 March 1853." Being a warm and loving letter from his parents to William Henry Fitzhugh "Rooney" Lee. At the time of this writing, Robert E. Lee was serving as superintendent of West Point, and Rooney was attending private school in New York. Mary Custis Lee begins the letter with news from their home at West Point and continues by writing about the lovely weather, their garden, their chickens, and the activities of the cadets on the grounds. She mentions making some collars for him like those worn by the cadets and relates news from family and friends. Finally, she admonishes him to not get sick again and says she is glad to hear that he is "making up for lost time. All time is so important at your age & especially... while your heart is young & vigorous to devote your energies to that Heavenly Master whose service will repay you for all... Your mother, MC Lee."

Rooney's father then adds his own loving words to the letter. In part: "I am much cheered my dear Son by the report of your recovery & return to your studies. I fear your walks to Fort Hamilton heat you & thus glowing with perspiration you cool yourself suddenly... But now that you are well... make up for lost time in your Studies & amusements. July will be here before you know it & before you have learned all you wish." He also shares news of Rooney's brother Custis, who was attending West Point at the time: "Custis is well. He occasionally gets hold of a horse that takes a foot or two of Skin off his derriere, but it grows again... Your fond father, RE Lee." Letter has a few tiny chips at edges; one small area of separation at fold. A delightful letter from loving parents to their distant son, which reveals the close bond between all members of the Lee family. In fine condition and extremely desirable!

Robert E. Lee Autograph Document Signed Receipt signed, "R E Lee", one page, 8" x 5.25", Washington, June 6, 1836. Receipt of payment penned in full: "Received of John Lloyd, Sen. one hundred and eighty dollars. In full payment of interest of money in his hands up to the 8th of March 1836." An early example of Lee's holograph, receipt has usual folds and some wear, but signature is clear and bold. Overall item is in fine condition.

Robert E. Lee Signature. "R. E. Lee". Signature excised from a larger document, 1.75" x .75", n.p., n.d., in ink.

[Robert E. Lee] Mary Custis Lee Collection. This collection of three pieces, two written by the wife of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, includes the following: 1. autograph manuscript signed "M. C. Lee". One page, 5.5" x 7.5", n.p., n.d. This is a page of notes on relationships between the Custis and Washington families and a listing of references -with pages numbers-from "General Washington's Day Book". On lined-paper that is mildly toned; fine; 2. Benson J. Lossing autograph letter signed. Three pages, 4.5" x 7.5", Poughkeepsie, New York, March 22, 1869. This letter, written by the historian Lossing to William Flint, is about the publishing activities of Mrs. Lee. Mrs. Lee, the well-educated daughter of George Washington's step-grandson, edited and published Recollections and Private Memoirs of Washington. Toned with folds; fine; 3. Mary Custis Lee incomplete autograph letter, three pages, 4.5" x 7", n.p., September 22, 1872, concerning family matters. Age-toned; fine.

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.

Gen. William T. Sherman Autograph Letter Signed. Four pages on "Headquarters Army of the United States" letterhead, 5" x 8", Washington, D.C., July 11, 1870, to Mrs. Julia N. Fish: "I take pleasure in informing you that the President [U. S. Grant] has at last resolved to promote Capt. Turnbull. . . ." In this letter signed "W. T. Sherman, General", Sherman recounts the strained relationship between the recently promoted Turnbull and the Artillery School at Fort Monroe, Virginia: "If this school cannot enforce study and attention it cannot long survive." Fort Monroe, which housed Confederate President Jefferson Davis in the late 1860s, still operates. Very fine.

General Daniel E. Sickles Archive. Interesting lot of nine items from General Daniel Sickles' papers, which includes four unsigned and undated draft letters (one page each. 5.25" x 8.25") regarding personal matters, primarily requests to help his son acquire a job with the Department of State. Each of these draft letters is written on Sickles' New York Board of Aldermen letterhead. The lot also contains an exceptional seven-page handwritten manuscript (8" x 11") written the year before his death on the verso of the New York Monuments Commission letterhead and titled "Washington's Winter Campaign in New Jersey in 1776-7 - Plain Evidence of Providential Help." The manuscript, initialed at the end, is written in a barely legible hand and describes the hardships of Washington's armies during the New Jersey campaign. Also included in this lot are three letters (various sizes) and one postcard sent to Sickles by Princess Vilma Paralaghy, noted portrait artist and daughter of Hungarian Baroness Zollmann von Zollerndorf, discussing her portrait of the General. Two of these letters are typed and one is handwritten; Sickles has added his signature to one of the typed letters. All items in this archive are in very good to fine condition. Prospective buyers are advised to view the collection carefully prior to bidding.

Daniel E. Sickles Autograph Manuscript with Signed and Annotated Imprint. The autograph manuscript is four written pages, 5.5" x 8.5", April 1911, n.p. It is entitled "Notes for Address before the Legislature of New York to be delivered in the Capital at Albany on the Evening of April 12, 1911 the fiftieth anniversary of the firing on Fort Sumner the beginning of The War of the Rebellion". Sickles lists twenty-one points to cover in his address, including: "Echoes Over All the World (Election Day)", "Lincoln - his piety & faith hand of God - McClellan - Grant - Stanton", and "Lincoln and his Gettysburg Prayer". Fine. Also included is a signed and annotated printed imprint, Leaves From My Diary, reprinted from the Journal of the Military Service Institution of the United States, 30pp, Octavo, original paper wrappers, n.d., n.p.. Signed, "Compliments of the Author Sept. 15th '85 ".

Sickles was an extremely colorful and controversial politician, Union general in the Civil War, and diplomat. A New York politician prior to the Civil War, he was involved in a number of public scandals, most notably the killing of his wife's lover, the son of Francis Scott Key. With his wife watching, Sickles shot Key in Lafayette Park across from the White House. His attorney, Edwin Stanton, won an acquittal with the first use of temporary insanity as a legal defense in U.S. history. He became one of the most prominent political generals of the Civil War. At the Battle of Gettysburg, he insubordinately moved his III Corps to a position in which it was virtually destroyed. His combat career ended at Gettysburg when his leg was struck by cannon fire. When his leg was amputated, he donated it to a medical school where he would pay visits to the severed limb.

After the war, Sickles commanded several military districts during Reconstruction and served as U.S. Minister to Spain. He was rumored to have had an affair with the deposed Queen Isabella II of Spain. While serving with the embassy in London, Sickles left his pregnant wife at home and took a prostitute to a court ball, presenting her to Queen Victoria.

Sickles lobbied for the Congressional Medal of Honor, which he finally received, thirty-four years after the Battle of Gettysburg. As a member of congress, he sponsored legislation to form the Gettysburg National Military Park, buy up private lands, and erect monuments. Of the principal senior generals who fought at Gettysburg, virtually all have been memorialized with statues on the battlefield. Sickles is a conspicuous exception. There was, in fact, a memorial commissioned to include a bust of Sickles, the monument to the New York Excelsior Brigade. It was rumored that the money appropriated for the bust was stolen by Sickles himself. He died in 1914 at the age of 94.

Collection of 34 Civil War Autographs. A rich and varied collection focused mainly on Union generals. Official documents, autographs, clipped signatures, letters and checks are presented here in a three-ring binder with short biographies of each subject. The material ranges in date from the antebellum years into the 20th century. Several of the personalities included are: Hannibal Day, Joseph Keifer, Adam Badeau, Randolph Marcy, Willam Buel Franklin, Joseph R. Hawley, John White Geary, Edward D. Townsend, S.V. Vliet, Albert Ordway and Robert C. Schenck. As with any large and disparate grouping condition varies widely among the contents. Overall the items are lightly aged and very good.

George Washington Letter Signed as President. Four integral pages, written on first page only, 8" x 10", "Mount Vernon," April 4, 1791, to Edward Carrington in care of Edmund Randolph, Governor of Virginia.

In full: "Sir, I shall be at Richmond on the 11th instant where I desire to have the pleasure of meeting you, on that day, to take measures for arranging the inspectorates of the deficit of Virginia, of which you have been appointed supervisor. To ensure certainty to the transmission of this letter, it is enclosed to Governor [Beverley] Randolph, who is requested to forward it by express, if no direct conveyance offers immediately. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, G. Washington."

One of Washington's early presidential decisions was to visit every part of the United States during the course of his administration. As early as May 1789, he expressed the desire to see the new nation "in order to become better acquainted with their principal characters and internal circumstances, as well as to be more accessible to numbers of well-informed persons, who might give him useful information and advice on political subjects." He added that the purpose of his trip was "to acquire knowledge of the face of the country, the growth and agriculture thereof." Toward this purpose, President Washington notified Edward Carrington of Richmond Virginia, whom Washington appointed as the first U.S. Marshal for that state in 1789, that he would soon be in town and hoped to meet with him to review the state's books. Sent in the care of Randolph, the letter is accompanied by the original transmittal slip engrossed in another hand but bearing a third person signature by Washington, "President / U S".

The southern counterpart to his tour of New England in 1789, Washington completed his expedition of the southern states during the spring and summer of 1791, traveling almost 2,000 miles through Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia. While he traveled, the heads of the executive departments regularly reported to him from Philadelphia regarding various important issues, including preparations for a major military expedition against hostile Indians at the northwestern frontier, a boundary dispute with the British on Lake Champlain, the negotiation of American loans in Amsterdam, and other affairs of state.

Of his southern tour, Washington would later write: "In a tour which I made last spring through the Southern states I confirmed by observation the accounts which we had all along received of the happy effects of the general government upon our agriculture, commerce, and industry... Thus it appears that the United States are making great progress toward national happiness, and if it is not attained here in as high a degree as human nature will admit of its going, I think we may then conclude that political happiness is unattainable." Following Washington's return to the capital in early July, he was deeply engrossed in planning the new federal district, settling a dispute between Pennsylvania and Virginia over an extradition case, filling a seat on the Supreme Court, as well as naming a postmaster general, a national auditor, and comptroller.

This letter bears witness to the important journey made by the first president of the country to gain a first-hand assessment of the state of the union. Letter is lightly age toned throughout and bears President Washington's bold, oversized signature. In very fine condition. A magnificent addition to any presidential collection!

George Washington Autograph Letter Signed "Go Washington", 4pp., 8" x 9", Mount Vernon, July, 29, 1784. Washington writes to his brother John Augustine Washington responding to a request to help place Augustine's son Corbin in an apprenticeship. Washington writes: "Herewith you will receive letters from your sons, who left this for Berkeley yesterday, as also a letter from Mr. Tilghman to me - the contents of which I wish had been of a different complexion... I have detained Jerry (much against his inclination) a day longer than was intended to try if through the near of [?] Washington's enquiries he could be placed to any advantage in Alexandria - The result of these enquiries are that there are many traders in that place there is none who, properly speaking , come under the denomination of a capitol one. Col. Hove is supposed to be the largest dealer. He has four young men with him which he says are sufficient for his business - that one of them, but of which he has no intimation may leave him and in that case if Corbin inclines to a mercantile life & if you chuse [sic] to place him at Alexandria under his care - he would take & instruct him to the utmost of his power. At the same time he spoke highly of Mr. Fitzsimmons at Philadelphia..." Washington goes into great detail listing other potential opportunities for his nephew Corbin to learn a profession. Auction records evidence a letter from Washington to former aide Tench Tilghman dated July 14, 1789, asking him to take his nephew Corbin under his care at his counting house, a request Tilghman was not able to comply with.

He then turns to the subject of land speculation: "I shall be very happy if I can direct Bushrod's enquiries properly to the objects you have recommended or afford you any assistance or advice by which you may obtain landed property in the new Country.--- but the golden opportunity I conceive is past - and I own it has been a matter of astonishment to me that all of you should have been so inattentive to it, when a question of two to yourselves must have brought the advantages of such a measure fully into view- viz- where does my most valuable property lye? - Berkely - What did originally it cost about - years ago? - nothing, or that which as near to it as possible - the office fees & trifles to individuals. - the same with the Western lands. - Which are much now much advanced in price - difficulties in getting good titles, unless the purchase of particular charters ..." Washington had received a letter from Augustine just four days earlier inquiring about land: "I have desired Bushrod to make the fullest inquiries as to the Soil, produce, Climate &c. &c. of the different parts of the western Country together with there advantages and disadvantages respecting the future prospects of trade, & also the likelyest way to obtain lands upon a certainty as to title-in these inquiries I shall be greatly oblige to you to furnish him with your observations..." (The Papers of George Washington at Mount Vernon)

An excellent letter with great content regarding Washington's familial and financial concerns after the resignation of his military commission. The letter has been expertly restored with paper added and several lines of holograph reconstructed; however, Washington's signature remains unaffected. Additionally, he has written out "Washington" a total of five times throughout the text including his signature.

George Washington Soldier's Discharge Signed as "General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America." One page, two sided, approximately 8.5" x 11", "Head-quarters," June 9, 1783. The Battle of the Combahee River, the last official skirmish between British and American forces in the Revolutionary War, was fought on April 27, 1782, near Charleston, South Carolina. In March 1783, an incident known as the Newburgh Conspiracy erupted. A group of Army officers threatened to confront Congress over the issue of outstanding back pay, and General Washington used his influence to quell their anger and disband them to allow Congress to deal with the matter fully at a later time.

This document is believed to have later been issued to one of those protesting officers, discharging him from the army. It reads, in full: "By His Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq; General and Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States of America. These are to CERTIFY that the Bearer hereof, John Murphy Matross, in the 2 or. New York Artillery Regiment, having [here, the printed word 'faithfully' has been scratched out] served the United States from 21 March 1777 till the present period, and being inlisted [sic] for the War only, is hereby Discharged from the American Army. GIVEN at Head-Quarters the Ninth day June 1783. [Signature] George Washington By His Excellency's Command, [signature] I Trimbull Inv. Sy., RECORDED in the Books of the Regiment, [signature] James Bradford Adjutant."

On verso, the discharge continues: "Head-Quarters, June Ninth 1783. THE within CERTIFICATE shall not avail the Bearer as a Discharge, until the Ratification of the definitive Treaty of Peace; previous to which Time, and until Proclamation thereof shall be made, He is to be considered as being on Furlough. [Signed in print] GEORGE WASHINGTON."

On September 3, 1783, the Treaty of Peace, more commonly referred to as the Treaty of Paris, was signed, officially ending the Revolutionary War between Great Britain and the United States and establishing official borders for the new nation. On December 4, 1783, Washington formally bade his officers farewell and on December 23, 1783, he resigned his commission as commander in chief. The Continental Congress ratified the Treaty of Paris on January 14, 1784, thereby officially releasing John Murphy Matross from military service.

Document is somewhat tattered, with fold separations and small areas of paper loss at intersecting folds. Unfortunately, one fold separation impacts Washington's large and bold signature. The separations and areas of paper loss have been inexpertly repaired on verso. This delicate document has been sealed between plastic sheets, providing additional protection. Good condition. An extremely rare item relating to several important Revolutionary War dates and events!

George Washington Partial Three-Language Ship's Papers Signed "G. Washington" as the first president and countersigned by Edmund Randolph, "Edm. Randolph", as secretary of state. One page partly printed, 13" x 10", March 9, 1795, no place is given, but Philadelphia was used as the United States' temporary capital in the 1790s. Impressive ship's papers stating that "leave and permission, are hereby given to William McIntere master or commander of the Sloop called the Delia. . . in the port of Savannah, bound for the West Indies, and laden with, Tobacco, Rice and Shingles. . . ." The text is in three languages separated as columns; from left to right: French, English, and Dutch.

This document was signed by Washington two years before the end of his second and final term as president. His signature is beautifully signed, large, and in the center of the document. The signature of Randolph sits below. Document bears a large embossed paper Great Seal of the United States in the lower left. The lower part part of the document, which would command the ship's safe passage and would also be in three languages, has been discretely cut away under the countersignature of John Habersham, the collector of customs at the Savannah port. Still, the document would make a beautiful display of Washington's signature. The document has been matted to an overall size of 16.25" x 13". With mended separations on the verso along the folds, gently toned, very good.

George Washington 1778 Address Leaf Free Franked "Go: Washington", one page, 10.75" x 9.5", address portion, 7.5" x 3.5". On laid paper. Addressed "To/Colo. Bland/1st Regt. Dragoons/Petersburgh/Virginia" by Washington's aide-de-camp Lt. Col. Tench Tilghman who had also handwritten the text of the letter signed by Washington enclosed with this franked address leaf. In June 1776, Theodorick Bland became a captain in Virginia's cavalry. He eventually rose to become colonel of the 1st Continental Light Dragoons. Docketed, probably by Bland, "Genl Washingtons/letter/White Plains July 23d/recd Augt 7th." The letter is published in The Writings of George Washington edited by John C. Fitzpatrick: "Head Quarters, White Plains, July 22, 1778. The franked address leaf has been silked for strengthening and preservation.

[George Washington] Scarce Personal Bookplate. One page, 2.5" x 4", hinged at top to a mat with an overall size of 4.5" x 5.75". The motto Exitus acta probat (the outcome justifies the deed) is printed across the ribbon at the base of the shell-like shield, which is ornamented with sprays and rose branches. Washington's name is engraved on the bracket at the bottom. In the past, many forgeries and re-strikes have fooled collectors looking for original Washington bookplates; however, two things show this bookplate to be an original: (1) "chain-lines" in the paper, which are obvious when held up to the light; (2) the small line near the bottom-right of the shield, which is present on the authentic plate, but not in the more widely available re-strike used in the late nineteenth century.

There is evidence of adhesive on verso, most likely from being attached to one of Washington's many books. Some wrinkling to the bottom of the plate, though no separations or tears. Toned and in very good to near fine condition. An authentic Washington bookplate has not been available at auction in decades, which makes this one an opportunity not to be missed!

John Adams Document Signed and countersigned by "J. Marshall/ Acting as Secretary of State". One and one-half pages, 10" x 16", City of Washington, March 3, 1801. With this document, Adams appointed "George Gilpin, Esquire. . . with the advice and consent of the Senate. . . a Justice of the Peace for the County of Alexandria, in the District of Columbia." John Adams (1735-1826) served as the second president of the United States from 1797 through March 4, 1801. This document was signed one day before his last day in office. John Marshall served as secretary of state from 1800 through 1801. Contains a white presidential seal in the lower left. Docketed on page two, with another signature of Marshall; page four has some browning along folds. Contains strip of mounting paper affixed to the last page. Some foxing, toning, and folds, but the text and Adams signature are very bold. Fine.

John Adams and Timothy Pickering Land Grant Signed. One vellum page, 12.5" x 14.75", Philadelphia, February 22, 1799. This document signed by the second president grants "William Taliaferro, a Lieutenant Colonel for three years. . . Three hundred and seventy five 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 Taliaferro is benefiting. This document is also signed by Timothy Pickering as Adams' secretary of state. Pickering later served as a Massachusetts senator and representative. Docketing on verso with remnants of the seal in lower left. A small piece (.25" x .5") has been cut away from the lower left corner and some wrinkling has occurred in the top left. Foxing, stains, and folds exist, but the rare "John Adams" signature is large and the "Timothy Pickering" signature is bold. Fine.

John Adams Shipping Document Signed as president and countersigned "John Marshall" as secretary of state. One page partly-printed, 20" x 15.5", New York City, August 19, 1800. The document, a Four Language Ships' Papers, grants permission and leave to "Jared Goodrich of New York, master or commander of the Ship called the Mary bound for Batavia and laden with Specie & Stores". This document is printed in four languages: English, Dutch, French, and Spanish. Ship's papers were required of all ships leaving American ports. This document has intact the white wafer presidential seal affixed on the left. Contains tape repairs along most folds and some repaired paper losses in the center and at the bottom, though the "John Adams" signature is intact and prominent. Small marginal tears and chips along all sides; otherwise, this document bearing the signature of the second president is in fine condition.

Thomas Jefferson Autograph Letter Signed as President. One page, 6.5" x 5", Washington, D.C., March 15, 1808. President Jefferson pens a seemingly mundane letter, inquiring about a missing shipment of boxes that was due to have arrived long ago, but the names and dates in the letter offer their own interesting stories and suggest intriguing possibilities.

This personal letter, penned on a plain scrap of paper, reads as follows: "You were so kind as to forward me a bill of lading issued by the younger Capt. Hand for 7 boxes & a jar dated Feb. 5. So long a time having elapsed without hearing of him I begin to apprehend some inattention on his part, and [illegible] rather as I am told he has been here since that date. Will you be so kind as to have some enquiry made and to inform me what has become of the boxes. I salute you with great esteem and respect. Th: Jefferson."

The letter is addressed to "Capt. Shee." Although we cannot be certain, it is probable that Jefferson is writing to Colonel Shee, formerly of the 3rd Pennsylvania Battalion of the Continental Army, whose service was honorable but apparently unremarkable.

"The younger Capt. Hand" refers to Obadiah Hand, son of a Staten Island NY ship owner/operator, who served honorably in the Revolutionary War. Following his service, he returned to the shipping business, but only for a few years. In 1813, he was called upon again to serve his country in battle. As luck would have it, Hand had moved his family from Fort Mimms, Alabama, to St. Stephens, Alabama, shortly before the Creek Indian attack and massacre at the fort (August 30, 1813). In response, Hand immediately assembled a group of determined and sturdy men from St. Stephens and supervised the rapid building of a citizen's stockade named Fort Republic, to which he was later elected Captain. Unfortunately, no direct link between Colonel Shee and Captain Hand could be found, but it is interesting to note that Obadiah Hand's sister married into the Vanderbilt family, and that Hand's son, Samuel Patten Hand, was mentioned in commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt's will with a gift of $5000 in stock in the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway Company, a major part of the New York Central Railroad's Water Level Route from Buffalo, New York to Chicago.

Although little of import was occurring in Jefferson's administration at the time this letter was written, we do know that he was anticipating the birth of the last of his five reported illegitimate children, mothered by Jefferson's slave Sally Hemings. Eston Hemings Jefferson was born on May 21, 1808, and as recent DNA testing has revealed, Eston's descendants are indeed descendants of the male Jefferson line, but the tests cannot show conclusively whether they are descended from Thomas Jefferson himself. Although we cannot confirm what was contained in the boxes and jar so anxiously anticipated by Jefferson, it is possible that they were gifts and necessaries for the mother and newborn. We can say with authority that two months prior to writing this letter, President Jefferson's law prohibiting the importation of African slaves became effective.

All speculation aside, this remains a wonderful personal letter well suited to any presidential collection. Lightly age toned with a faint damp stain affecting the left portion of the letter. Upper left corner is trimmed away; a small section of the upper right corner is torn away. Very good to fine condition.

[Thomas Jefferson] Peter Jefferson Document Signed. "Pet Jefferson", one page, 7.5" x 12.25", October 10, 1737. Also signed by Henry Wood and Peter Jefferson's father-in-law Isham Randolph. In part: "Know all men by these that Wee [sic] Peter Jefferson Isham Randolph & Henry Wood are holdon [sic] and firmly bound unto John Fleming lent on behalf of the whole court for the county of Goochland in the sum of thirty two thousand nine hundred and fifty six pounds of Tobacco to the Payment whereof well and truly to be made unto the aid John Fleming his executors administrators and assignees Wee bind us and Each of us our and each of our heirs executors. Joyntly [sic] and severally firmly by these presents Sealed with Our Seals and Dated the tenth___ day of October____ One Thousand Seven Hundred and Thirty Seven..."

Peter Jefferson, father of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Jefferson, was a cartographer and surveyor who lived and worked in Virginia for most of his life. This particular piece is part of a 50,000 acre land deal in which Jefferson was involved in 1737. Through the deal Peter Jefferson became only the third or fourth person to settle in that area. Minor separations and wear along the center fold, with bold ink and clear handwriting. Blind embossed paper seals remain intact alongside the signatures of Jefferson, Randolph, and Wood. A scarce signature; in fine condition.

[Thomas Jefferson] Partly Printed Invitation Issued as President. Two pages including integral address leaf, 8" x 5", n.p., [Washington, D.C.], February 2, 1803. With this simple partly printed instrument, President Thomas Jefferson invited countless individuals to dine with him at the White House. This example reads, in full: "Th: Jefferson requests the favour of The Honble Genl. Smith to dine with him on Saturday next, the 5th Inst. at half after three, or at whatever later hour the house may rise. The favour of an answer is asked." The invitation is accomplished in the hand of an unidentified secretary and is not signed by Jefferson.

Although the White House was completed during John Adams' tenure as president, Thomas Jefferson held the first Inaugural open house in 1805. Many of those who attended the swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol simply followed him home to celebrate the day. In addition, Jefferson welcomed visitors to annual receptions on New Year's Day and on the Fourth of July, and opened the house for public tours; it has remained open, except during wartime, ever since, and is the only private residence of a head of state that is open to the public, free of charge. Invitation shows light overall age toning and the faint shadow of a wax seal at lower corners; remnants of the wax seal and a seal tear are extant on the integral address leaf portion of the folded page. An excellent association piece!

[James Madison] James Monroe Document Signed as secretary of state, "Jas. Monroe". Three pages, 8" x 13.5"; n.p., circa 1815. Pages one and two are a printed copy of "AN ACT concerning Letters of Marque, Prizes and Prize Goods", which, among many other things, allowed the president to revoke letters of marque , gave instructions on the distribution of prize money, and outlined punishment for privateer violations. The act was approved on June 26, 1812. At the bottom of this document are the printed names of Henry Clay (Speaker of the House), William H. Crawford (President of the Senate), and James Madison, who served as president from 1809 - 1817.

Page three is a partly printed document entitled, "INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PRIVATE ARMED VESSELS OF THE UNITED STATES." "No. 206" is hand-written at the top of the page and is followed by the following: "To Captain Shubael G. Bronson, commander of the private armed Schooner called the Betsy." This document charges Bronson as the captain of his ship with doing four things: 1. To keep the attached copy (pages one and two of this document) of "An Act concerning letters of marquee, prizes, and prize goods" constantly in view; 2. to "pay the strictest regard to the rights of neutral powers. . . ."; 3. towards enemy vessels and their crews, "to proceed in exercising the rights of war, with all the justice and humanity which characterize the nation of which you are members"; 4. to deliver the master of the ship and all documents to U.S. authorities. Handwritten in ink at the bottom of the page is "By command of the President of the United States of America/ Jas. Monroe, Secretary of State." Monroe served as secretary of state from 1814-1817, during Madison's second term. Docketing on verso. Age-toned with usual folds. Near fine.

James Madison Signed Ship's Passport for the "Brigantine Edward of Newbury port". Partly printed on vellum with steel engravings at top, one page, 10" x 16", January 25, 1811. Countersigned by Robert Smith as secretary of state. Document, with traditional scalloped top and uneven margins, has been gently affixed to a heavy mat at three spots along 'scallop'. With an especially boldly penned signature, a fine example and ideal for display.

James Monroe Autographed Letter Signed One page, 8.25" x 10.5", Oak Hill, April 28, 1830. Written to Mr. Lewis. James Monroe tells of his daughter and her husband. He continues on to write to Mr. Lewis and his wife, "I wish you both to come and dine with us, and either today or tomorrow, as may be most convenient." Mr. Lewis' response to the invitation can be found at the bottom of the page. An excellent example of Monroe's holograph from near the end of his life. Letter contains some spotted foxing and the usual letter folds. Very good to fine condition.

James Monroe Document Signed as the fifth president. One page, 12.5" x 9.75", City of Washington, December 13, 1817. This document is a presidential notice of a land grant of 160 acres in the Illinois Territory to Harvey Sperry, a veteran of the War of 1812 (a former "private in Cornning's Light Dragoons"). In 1812, Congress passed an act that granted officers and soldiers' bounty land in Illinois, Michigan, and Arkansas as payment to volunteer veterans in the War of 1812. Private Sperry benefited from this Congressional act. Contains a blind embossed paper seal in the bottom left. Foxing and browning throughout, but text is bold. Near very good.

James Monroe Document Signed as the fifth president. One page, 13" x 9.75", City of Washington, October 6, 1817. This document is a presidential notice of a land grant of 160 acres in the Illinois Territory to Elias Guard, a veteran of the War of 1812 (a former "private in Warners Company of the Thirty Seventh Regiment of Infantry"). In 1812, Congress passed an act that granted officers and soldiers bounty land in Illinois, Michigan, and Arkansas as payment to volunteer veterans in the War of 1812. Private Guard benefited from this Congressional act. The document has been affixed to a sturdy backing and nicely matted to an overall size of 17.5" x 14.5". Contains a blind embossed paper seal in the bottom left. Foxing and browning throughout, but text is very bold. Very good.

James Monroe Signed Land Grant. One page partly printed, 13.25" x 10". "An act providing for the sale of the Lands of the United Sates, in the Territory northwest of the Ohio, and above the mouth of the Kentucky River." The fifth president of the United States, James Monroe is associated with the Monroe Doctrine. The doctrine declared that Europe should not intervene in American affairs because she was an independent nation, and also held to the ideal of Manifest Destiny, which was the belief that it was divine providence for the United States to have ownership over land from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. Document is signed 1823, which was the same year the Great Plains region was declared by surveyors to be "The Great American Desert." Ohio had become a state 20 years earlier and was rapidly growing. Deed has some folding damage and handwritten ink is somewhat faded, but the paper is well preserved and is in good condition.

John Quincy Adams Autograph Letter Signed in the Third Person, two pages, front and verso, 6.25" x 4", February 7, 1797, in French. The letter, addressed to the National Assembly of the Batavian Republic (successor of the Republic of the United Netherlands), is written over the names of President George Washington and Secretary of State Timothy Pickering. John Quincy Adams writes in the third person, presenting himself as resident minister of the United States of America to the "great and good friends" of Batave. The letter was written on the eve of John Adams's electoral certification as the nation's second president. John Quincy Adams's father would appoint his minister to Prussia later in 1797 at the suggestion of George Washington. An early example of Adams' holograph. Some weakness along the one horizontal fold, else near fine.

John Quincy Adams Signed Land Grant Partially printed DS "J. Q. Adams", one page, 14" x 9.25", November 20, 1826, granting "...One hundred & sixty acres; of the Lands directed to be sold at Shawneetown by the Acts of Congress." Countersigned by Commissioner of the General Land Office, George Graham. An excellent display item; light dampstain at bottom, and some folding, otherwise in good condition.

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.

Andrew Jackson Autograph Letter Signed as President "Andrew Jackson". One page, 5" x 8", [Washington], October 24, 1833, to [Lewis Case] Secretary of War, toned with a few small splits in the fold creases and mounting remnants on the verso, otherwise bright, legible and in very good condition.

The letter reads in full: "Dr. Sir: I have reflected on the subject you submitted to me yesterday as it relates to Dr. Thomas, and the result of my reflections are, that from the confidence reposed in Dr. Thomas here, it would produce a good effect to have him stationed in this city for a while at least, if it can be done in justice to others - & it would have a good effect in doing away with the prevailing idea of the favoritism of the Surgeon-Genl, which now exists. Yrs. Respectfully, Andrew Jackson".

Andrew Jackson Third Person Autograph Letter Signed "The President of the U. States," one page, 5" x 6.75". [Washington, D.C.], March 8, 1834. In full, "The President of the U. States with his respects to the Register of the Treasury with the request that he furnish him with the vouchers of Mr Elgar late commissioner of the Public buildings showing the application of the $131,630, appropriated for the Pennsylvania avenue for the year 1833." By 1820, flooding from Tiber Creek which crossed Pennsylvania Avenue near 2nd Street had washed most of the avenue's gravel pavement away. On May 25, 1832, President Jackson signed into law an act which appropriated $62,000 "for improving Pennsylvania Avenue," authorizing the Commissioner of Public Buildings to contract "for improving the avenue, in the city of Washington, leading from the Capitol to the Executive Offices, by paving the centre way thereof, forty-five feet in width, with cobble or pebble stones, or with pounded stone. . . as the President of the United States may direct." On February 19, 1833, Jackson approved and signed "an act for the further improvement of Pennsylvania Avenue" which appropriated another $69,630 to alter the original plan "by causing that portion of the avenue lying between the road directed to be macadamized and the side pavements to be graduated and covered with stone. . . in place of gravel." The total appropriated by the two acts signed by President Jackson was $131,630. On December 19, 1833, Vice President Van Buren communicated to the Senate a report of Commissioner of Public Buildings Joseph Elgar which included the expenditures of 1833 for improving Pennsylvania Avenue. The next day, the House Journal published Elgar's report showing he had spent $102,579.35 of the $131,630 appropriated. On December 30, 1833, Elgar transmitted to the House the superintendent's report of the work done on Pennsylvania Avenue; it was referred to the Committee for the District of Columbia. Elgar had been appointed Commissioner of Public Buildings by President James Monroe on May 13, 1822. Shortly after the superintendent's report, Jackson, evidently not pleased with his work, removed Elgar and on January 15, 1834, nominated William Noland to succeed him. On March 25, 1834, 17 days after Jackson wrote this letter to Register of the Treasury Thomas L. Smith specifically requesting vouchers showing how Elgar spent the money appropriated for improving Pennsylvania Avenue, a bill came out of the House Committee for the District of Columbia "to complete the improvements on Pennsylvania Avenue." It appropriated an additional $9,290 "to pay outstanding claims for work done on Pennsylvania Avenue. . . to finish foot pavements, entrances of tunnels or sewers and side drains. . . to repair the north end of Tiber bridge. . . to remove the dust and mud from the surface of Pennsylvania avenue. . . to keep Pennsylvania avenue in repair." President Jackson undoubtedly noticed that Elgar had not used $29,050.65 appropriated for improving Pennsylvania Avenue, yet there were still bills to pay. Mounting remnants at upper edge on verso and tape stains at upper blank edges. Darkly penned by President Jackson on pale green stationery, blind embossed in the upper left with a profile bust resembling George Washington. Fine condition.

Andrew Jackson Signed Land Grant. One page, 14" x 9". Partially printed document signed. Document gives property rights to "the west half of the north west quarter of section eighteen in township four of range four west containing seventy five acres and seventy six hundredths of an acre." Specific property referred is in the area of Mississippi and Alabama. Four folds, but seal is well preserved and Jackson's signature is prominently displayed. Good condition.

Martin Van Buren Document Signed "M. Van Buren" as president and countersigned by Secretary of State "John Forsyth". One page, 16" x 13", Washington, D. C., February 27, 1841. This official U. S. government document notifies "Isaac Kell, Senior" that he is being appointed a "Justice of the Peace, in the county of Alexandria, in the District of Columbia". The presidential seal is near the left edge. Van Buren's term as the eighth president ended only five days after signing his bold signature to this document. Fine.

William H. Harrison Autograph Letter Signed "W. H. Harrison" to Secretary of the Navy Smith Thompson. One page, 8.25" x 12.75", North Bend, Ohio, January 1, 1823. In this letter, Harrison asks the secretary under President James Monroe for the appointment of "another young Ohioian" to be midshipman in the U.S. navy. In full: "Sir/ I have again to solicit the appointment of midshipman in our navy for another young Ohioian. Mr. Henry Emlong a young gentleman who has resided some years in Cincinnati will make a personal application to you having taken his transportation for Washington Via New Orleans for the purpose. He is about nineteen years of age has had a good English Education & has been four years employed in a large Mercantile Establishment in Cincinnati. In this situation he has given satisfaction to his Employer & by his general good conduct obtained the friendship of many of the most respectable citizens of that City. His being an orphan [?] I am persuaded gives him strong claims to your patronage." Harrison ran for governor of Ohio in 1820, but was defeated. He was elected to the U.S. senate in 1824, after this letter was written. He served until 1828. He was later elected president and served from March 4, 1841, till April 4, 1841, (thirty days) the shortest term of any president, likely a victim of the common cold. Docketed on verso. Slightly age-toned with taped repairs on verso and some tape residue at the top of recto.

William Henry Harrison Receipt Signed "Wm H. Harrison/ A. d. C. [aide-de-camp]". One page, 6.25" x 4.5", n.p., 1794. Harrison joined the military when he was eighteen. By 1794, he was involved in the Northwest Indian War as an aide-de-camp for General "Mad Anthony" Wayne. He later served as the ninth president of the U.S. from March 4, 1841, until his death thirty days later on April 4, 1841, the shortest term of any president. He was likely a victim of the common cold. This receipt reads in part: "Provision return for one guide for 6 Days commensing the 1st and ending the 6th of March 1794 inclusive-one and an half Ration per day." The receipt is toned and is missing the lower left corner, but Harrison's rare signature as aide-de-camp is clear and bold. The receipt, along with an engraving (4" x 5.5") of Harrison and engraved plaque (4.25" x 1.25"), is attractively matted and framed to an overall size of 22" x 15.75". Near fine.

William Henry Harrison Check Signed. One page, 6" x 2.5", Cincinnati, June 5, 1813, authorizing payment of $3 drawn on the Miami Exporting Company, and signed "William Henry Harrison". The Miami Exporting Company was the first Ohio bank chartered by the state legislature in 1803. In 1813, Harrison was a U.S. military commander in Tecumseh's War, winning major victories in Indiana and Ohio. He served as the ninth president of the U.S. from March 4, 1841, until his death thirty days later on April 4, 1841, the shortest term of any president. He was likely a victim of the common cold. This check, along with an engraving (3.5" x 5") of Harrison and a memorial ribbon (3" x 5.5") with his likeness and final words, is matted and framed to an overall size of 11.5" x 12". The check is age-toned and fine.

John Tyler Document Signed as president. Partly printed on page one of four integral pages, 8" x 8", Washington, December 30, 1844, directing "the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United Stated to the remission of the fine, and penalties incurred by John B. Colby, master of the Barque 'Pomona' upon the conditions mentioned." A barque was a sailing vessel whose advantages were that it was easy to handle and needed only a small crew. The secretary of state at the time was the fiery Southern politician, John C. Calhoun. John Tyler became the tenth president--the first via succession--upon the untimely death of President William Henry Harrison, the shortest serving president. This document and an oval engraving of President Tyler have been matted to an overall size of 11.25" x 15. Slightly age-toned with a very bold signature; near very fine.

John Tyler Document Signed as president. One page, 8" x 10", Washington, December 21, 1843, directing "the secretary of state to affix the Seal of the United Stated to a letter to the Emperor of Brazil." (The secretary of state was John C. Spencer and the emperor of Brazil was Pedro II.) Upon the untimely death of President William Henry Harrison, the shortest serving president, John Tyler (1773-1841) became the tenth president--the first via succession. Slightly age-toned and fine with a bold signature.

James K. Polk Document Signed as president. One page, 7" x 8.5", Washington, August 8, 1845, directing "the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United Stated to the remission of the penalties in the case of the Bark Maas [sic], John Van Waren, master upon the payment of costs." The secretary of state under Polk, the eleventh president, was James Buchanan. Age-toned and fine.

Zachary Taylor Naval Appointment Signed as president, "Z. Taylor" and countersigned "Wm. Ballard Preston" as secretary of the navy. One vellum page partially printed, 15.25" x 18", Washington, D.C., March 16, 1849. With this document, Taylor, "with the advice and consent of the Senate", appointed John C. Strong "Captain of the Navy". With engraved maritime and martial vignettes and U. S. Navy seal; an outstanding historical display. Folds and minor staining; fine.

Zachary Taylor Document Signed as president. Also signed by John M. Clayton as secretary of state. One page, two sided, 8" x 12.25", Washington, D.C., June 28, 1849. Three months into his presidency, Taylor received this request from U.S. Secretary of State John M. Clayton concerning "the disbursement of the public moneys." In part: "I have the honor to request that you will... authorize such advances to be made to Alexander Hamilton Derrick, Agent of this Department, as may be necessary to the prompt fulfillment of the public engagements...and that you will authorize funds to be placed at the said Alexander Hamilton Derrick's dispositions to meet the expenses attendant upon the Board of Commissioners of Claims. . . ."

At this precise time in his short term as president, Taylor was deeply concerned with the slavery question in the western territories. Both California and New Mexico were poised for admission into the Union, and although he owned slaves, Taylor took a moderate stance on the territorial expansion of slavery. This greatly angered his fellow Southerners, but he stood firm, telling them that, if necessary to enforce the rule of law, he would personally lead the Army against a rebellion. Henry Clay then proposed the complex Compromise of 1850, a series of bills aimed at resolving the territorial and slavery controversies arising from the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), but Taylor died as it was being debated (the Clay version failed but another version was passed under the new president, Millard Fillmore). Although it cannot be verified, it is quite possible that the funds requested in this document were intended to be used by the State Department's Home Bureau in connection with the ultimate admission of California and New Mexico as states. Document shows creamy age toning, with a large and very bold signature: "Z. Taylor." In very fine condition. A highly desirable document from the brief, 16-month term of Zachary Taylor - perfect for framing and prominent display!

Lieutenant Colonel Zachary Taylor Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.75" x 9.5", "Sulphur Fork of Red River, 28th July 1822." Taylor received his first commission as an officer in 1808 and was immediately assigned to command the garrison at Fort Pickering, located in modern-day Memphis. From that moment until his election as President, Taylor was in the military, stationed at a succession of frontier outposts. Here, Taylor writes to Major Charles J. Nourse (acting Adjutant General) while serving as commander of the 7th Infantry Regiment in Tennessee. In full: "I have appointed Mr. B. Bullitt Sutler to the company of the 7th Regt U. States Infantry, stationed at this place, as Mr. B. has been at considerable expense & trouble in getting his supplies. I should be glad if the appointment could be confirmed." Signed " Z. Taylor Lt Col, 7th R.U.S. Infy." A sutler is a civilian who sells provisions to an army in the field, in camp, or in quarters, and Taylor obviously needed the services of Mr. Bullitt in order to keep his troops fully supplied. Letter is very boldly penned and bears light age toning overall. Small areas of fold separation at left edge. In fine condition. Accompanied by a handsome steel engraving of Taylor in military uniform; minor soiling at edges, some faint foxing. An excellent early piece from our 12th President, suitable for any U.S. military or presidential collection.

Zachary Taylor Document Signed "Z. Taylor, Maj/ Army". One page, 7" x 6", Fort Howard (Maryland), April 6, 1818. This is a handwritten "Requisition for Stationary wanted for the use of the Commanding Officer." "Old Rough and Ready", as Taylor was called, had a long forty year career with the U. S. Army before becoming the twelfth president. He gained recognition during the War of 1812 as a talented commander, receiving a promotion to major in 1812, six years before this requisition was issued. Age-toned with some chipping on top and bottom borders; also, a tape repair on verso along crease. The rare signature of Taylor is boldly written and fine.

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.

Franklin Pierce Signed Appointment DS, one page. 16" x 11.25", Washington D.C., June 14, 1853; appointing "B.B. French... Commissioner of Public Buildings." With usual folds and blind embossed seal, document is in excellent condition and ideal for display boasting a bold signature.

James Buchanan Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.75" x 10", Lancaster, August 22, 1844. Addressed to a political committee, Buchanan pens, "Gentleman, I have been honored by the receipt of your kind invitation to attend a... meeting of the Democracy of Adams County... and regret that previous engagements deprive me of the accepting it." James Buchanan was the fifteenth president of the United States of America. Elected during a difficult time, his presidency was tarnished because of his failure to effectively deal with very serious problems that arose during his time in office. His administration oversaw significant moments in history such as the Dredd Scott Case, the Utah War, and the creation of the forty ninth parallel. Buchanan struggled throughout his presidential term with accusations of corruption, incompetence, and treason. The turbulent time preceding Abraham Lincoln's presidency saw the formation of a union of southern states unhappy with the way the country was being run. Even with open talks of Southern secession, Buchanan failed to act. He believed that as illegal as southern secession was;any military movement towards stopping secession would also be illegal. Handwriting on the page looks fresh with one minor smudge that obviously occurred during the writing of the document. Minor folding, but overall document is in 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.

Abraham Lincoln Manuscript Executive Order Signed as President. One page, on blue-lined paper, 8" x 10", Washington, D.C., April 27, 1864. This brief appointment reads in full: "George Harrington, is hereby appointed to discharge the duties of the Secretary of the Treasury, during the absence of Salmon P. Chase, the Secretary." Boldly signed "Abraham Lincoln." Docketed on verso: "Recorded in the Dept. of State 27th April, 1864."

On several occasions during his tenure as Secretary of the Treasury, Salmon Chase was away from office, and George Harrington was repeatedly called upon to serve as the ad interim secretary. It is likely that Chase's regular absences were due to strained relations between himself and the president, as Chase had been quite critical of Lincoln's administration, and in early 1864 it was rumored that certain influential persons were promoting Chase as a more viable presidential candidate for the upcoming election than Lincoln, the incumbent. April brought retaliation from Lincoln in the form of a negative speech about Chase in Congress. Chase did not formally resign until June 30, 1864, and Lincoln accepted his resignation, citing "... mutual embarrassment in our official relation which it seems can not be overcome..."

Upon Chase's resignation, Lincoln again temporarily filled the opening with George Harrington, who had been serving admirably as assistant secretary of the treasury. Eventually, Lincoln was able to convince a reluctant William P. Fessenden, U.S. Senator from Maine, to take the position. Fessenden was nominated and confirmed, and entered upon the duties of the office on the 5th of July. George Harrington went on to become Minister to Switzerland and was Thomas Edison's partner in the American Telegraph Works.

The document is in exceptional condition - clean, sharp, and very fine - with a large and very bold signature of Lincoln as president. Perfect for framing and prominent display!

Abraham Lincoln Autograph Letter Signed as President Two Days Before Civil War Begins. One page, 5" x 7.5", "Executive Mansion," Washington, D.C., April 10, 1861. Docketed on verso. As tensions mounted in Charleston Harbor and Union and Confederate forces prepared for battle at Fort Sumter, newly elected President Lincoln was required to concern himself with many matters of state, including granting military commissions and political appointments. Here, President Lincoln writes to U.S. Attorney General Edward Bates regarding two such appointments.

In full: "Dear Sir, Hon. John F. Potter, now present, informs me that the entire Wisconsin delegation in Congress, except Senator Howe, have agreed upon John B.D. Coggswell [sic], for District Attorney, and D. C. Jackson for Marshal, in that state. Therefore, please send me commissions accordingly. Yours truly, A. Lincoln."

While attempting to put his new political house in order, President Lincoln was intensely focused on events unfolding in Charleston Harbor. Six days prior to writing this letter, Lincoln learned that supplies at Fort Sumter were low, and ordered merchant vessels, escorted by the U.S. Navy, to being additional food, supplies, and ammunition to those who had been under siege at the fort for many months. In response to this planned relief action, on April 9th the Confederate government voted to attack Fort Sumter, in hopes of forcing a surrender before relief supplies could be delivered. Meanwhile, President Lincoln attended to the less pressing issues on his desk, as evidenced by this letter. Two days later, the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter began, bringing four years of hardship and bloodshed known as the American Civil War.

This handsome letter is in fine condition, and has been mounted to a larger paper border with overall dimensions of 6" x 9" Accompanied by a matted steel engraving of President Lincoln that measures 8" x 10". An excellent addition to any presidential or Civil War collection!

Abraham Lincoln Document Signed as the sixteenth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles. One vellum page partially printed, 15.5" x 19.25", Washington, D.C., March 6, 1862. This document, "with the advice and consent of the Senate", is an official notice of the appointment of Charles W. Hassler "Assistant Paymaster in the Navy from the 6th of February 1862". Welles, nicknamed "Neptune" by Lincoln, was the secretary of state from 1861 through 1869. His successful expansion of the navy helped the North win the Civil War. This document is engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with green U. S. Navy seal at lower margin. The seal has been creased by a vertical fold. There is a small amount of separation at the center horizontal fold. Remnants of mounting tape along the margin extend around the document, but does not affect the text. Age-toned with fine Lincoln and Welles signatures and ready for display. Fine.

Abraham Lincoln Partly Printed Document Signed as President, one page, 9.5" x 7.75", Washington, July 27, 1864. Document directs the Secretary of State to affix the seal of the United States to a "Warrant for the pardon of Thomas S. Cassidy". With a full signature, "Abraham Lincoln", the warrant has been hinged to another sheet. In very good condition with folds and a few minor tears.

Abraham Lincoln Signed Pardon "A. Lincoln", 2.75" x 1", April 11, 1865, n.p. (Lincoln was in Washington, D. C. at the time). Text in the hand of John Hay: "Let these men take the/ oath of Dec. 8, 1863./ April 11, 1865/ ". Though the Civil War still had eighteen months left, Lincoln issued the "Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction" on December 8, 1863. His intent was to issue a full pardon, with a few exceptions, to those who took the oath of loyalty, which read in part: "I, --, do solemnly swear, in presence of Almighty God, that I will henceforth faithfully support, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the union of the States thereunder. . . .and that I will, in like manner, abide by and faithfully support all proclamations of the President made during the existing rebellion having reference to slaves, so long and so far as not modified or declared void by decision of the Supreme Court. So help me God."
After General Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9, 1865, Lincoln worked hard to consider all clemency appeals. He began by writing the endorsements himself, but in order to get more done, he had John Hay write the text while he added his signature. This slip was signed by Lincoln four days before his assassination on April 15. The "oln" in "Lincoln" has been slightly smeared. Contains a small amount of mounting tape on verso. Fine.

Abraham Lincoln Autograph Endorsement Signed "A Lincoln". 5.5" x 3", Georgetown, October 23, 1861. The envelope was originally addressed from "Mayor's Office/ Geo. Town D.C./ [to] The President". The letter from the mayor of Georgetown to President Lincoln has been lost, but in the top left of this envelope, the president wrote a note explaining that he was delegating the issue to Secretary of War Simon Cameron: "Respectfully submitted to the Sec. of War, asking a fair consideration of the case - The writer of the letter is Mayor of Georgetown."

The mayor of Georgetown in 1861 was Henry Addison. Though we can't be sure what Lincoln wants Cameron to consider, it could be about a case involving a dispute over the 1859 Georgetown mayoral election in which Addison challenged his close loss to Richard R. Crawford. The suit went before the Supreme Court and also involved a dispute over the salary, which could have been the reason that Mayor Addison was still concerned about the issue. Georgetown was an independent municipal government and was officially known as Georgetown, D.C., with its own mayor until it lost its corporate charter in 1871. This envelope is stained and well-worn, but the text is easily read. Remnants of the seal are still obvious on the verso. Fine.

Andrew Johnson Photograph Signed. This beautiful 5.5" x 7.5" Mathew Brady sepia-toned portrait, c. 1865-1869, n.p. (possibly in Brady's studio), has been professionally oval-matted and framed in a stunning 13" x 15" mahogany frame. Johnson, the seventeenth president, was a Tennessee congressman and senator who supported the Union during the Civil War. Considered a traitor by the South, Lincoln chose him as his second vice president. He became president after Lincoln's assassination and later became the first of only two presidents to be impeached.

Mathew Brady created the original wet plate glass negative of this photo possibly during Johnson's presidency, though prints were not published until later in the 1870s. During the 1860s and 1870s, the process of taking and developing photographs was difficult and time-consuming. After that process, the photos were printed on paper and mounted. This frame's paper backing is punctured. Near very fine.

Andrew Johnson Document Signed as the seventeenth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Interior Orville H. Browning, "O. H. Browning". One vellum page partially printed, 20" x 15 ", Washington, D.C., March 21, 1867. This document is an official notice of the appointment of "William R. Smith of Iowa" as "Receiver of public moneys for the district of lands subject to sale at Sioux City, Iowa". The embossed seal of the U. S. Department of the Interior lies in the lower left. This document contains no folds and has been taped at top on verso to a 21" x 18" mat. A collectable signature of one of only two U.S. presidents to be impeached. Near very fine.

Andrew Johnson and William Seward Signed Pardon. Three pages, 10.75" x 16.5", July 5, 1865. Mostly printed document granting L.Q. Washington "a full pardon and amnesty for all offences by him committed, arising from participation, direct or implied, in the said rebellion.," Washington is granted these terms under the condition he never owns another slave or participates in any form of slave trade. Andrew Johnson, seventeenth president of the United States, became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. He led the initial process of reconstruction in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Johnson's secretary of state, William Seward, was best known for his acquisition of the Alaskan territory from Russia. Document does have wear and tearing along the folds making it somewhat delicate; however, the text is still as clear and easy to read as the day the page was printed and signed. Overall, piece is in fair condition.

Andrew Johnson Framed Signed Pardon. One page, Framed 12" x 12.5", Washington, D.C., June 26, 1865. Grants conditional pardon to a J.L. Clayton. Document mostly printed, says in full: "I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to a warrant for the conditional pardon of J. L. Clayton, dated this day, and signed by me and for so doing this shall be his warrant." Andrew Johnson, seventeenth president of the United States, became President after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. He led the initial process of reconstruction in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Piece is beautifully framed and perfect for display. Near very fine condition.

Ulysses S. Grant Cabinet Card Signed "U.S. Grant", 4.25" x 6.5", Washington, D.C., 1879. Taken at Matthew Brady's studio. Printed on verso, "Brady's/ National Portrait Gallery/ 625 Pennsylvania Avenue". Also on verso is unidentified and mostly unreadable handwriting, though the date "1879" is legible. Grant, the eighteenth president, served from 1869 through 1877. Some foxing and minor soiling to image, light bend at top left corner, otherwise fine condition.

Ulysses S. Grant Autograph Letter Signed. "U. S. Grant". Four integral pages written on pages one and three, 4.75" x 8", New York City, October 8, 1883. The letter, addressed to Theodore Lyman, asks that he send a request to the Peabody Educational Fund Trustees, on Grant's behalf, for a copy of a recent resolution. Fine.

Theodore Lyman was a natural scientist, military staff officer during the American Civil War, and United States Representative from Massachusetts. He was a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and of the National Academy of Sciences, and an overseer of Harvard University. Lyman, along with Grant, was a trustee of the Peabody Education Fund. The fund was founded to promote the "intellectual, moral, and industrial education in the most destitute portion of the Southern States" by strengthening southern schools damaged in the Civil War. In the letter, Grant writes, "I am sorry to trouble you with this, but I will do as much for you some time if it comes in my way." Grant died little more than a year and a half later.

Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed "U. S. Grant" as president and countersigned by "Geo. M. Robeson" as secretary of the navy. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 19.75", Washington, D.C., May 23, 1871. This document appoints Augustus H. Gilman "Pay Inspector in the Navy" and is engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. Navy seal. Folds and creases; fine.

Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed "U. S. Grant" as the eighteenth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Treasury George S. Boutwell, "Geo. S. Boutwell". One page partially printed, 21" x 16 ", Washington, D.C., April 5, 1869. This document is an official notice of the appointment of Jonathon Richmond as "Collector of Internal Revenue, Seventh District of Illinois". The embossed seal of the Treasury Department lies in the lower left. Contains folds and a few stray marks along the bottom margin; fine.

Ulysses S. Grant Document Signed "U. S. Grant" as president and countersigned by "J. C. Bancroft Davis, Acting Secretary of State". One partially-printed page, 17" x 10.5", City of Washington, March 5, 1874, appoints "W. N. Berkley. . .Deputy Postmaster at Alexandria, in the State of Virginia". Davis was the assistant secretary of state in 1874 and Hamilton Fish was the secretary of state. On the date of this document, Davis was the acting secretary. Contains a well-preserved white presidential seal affixed to bottom left. Contains folds with one small separation in vertical fold. On verso is affixed remnant of paper used for mounting. Toned with nice signatures; fine.

[President Ulysses S. Grant] Julia D. Grant Autograph Letter Signed. One and a half pages, 5" x 8", Executive Mansion (the White House, Washington, D.C.), October 25, 1871. Here, the wife of the Union general and U.S. president send greetings on her personal monogrammed paper to "Mrs. Childs". Contains taped repairs at some folds; very good.

Rutherford B. Hayes Signed Cabinet Card photograph of the couple posed side-by-side, 4" x 6.25" (sight). In Hayes' hand at bottom: "Rutherford B. & Lucy W Hayes 1852". With a Grob, Fremont, Ohio, photographic stamp. The couple was recently married, and the formal portrait was likely one of their first as man and wife. Lucy sits demurely on his left side, his arm carefully placed behind her. The cabinet card is matted beneath a reproduction of a portrait of Lucy Hayes and framed to an overall size of 7" x 16.25". Together with a small spoon engraved "PH", obtained by our consignor at the same time as the photograph. The spoon is said to have belonged to Lucy Hayes, although we are not able to present any provenance to corroborate.

Rutherford B. Hayes Document Signed "RB Hayes" as the nineteenth president and countersigned by Secretary of Navy Richard W. Thompson. One vellum page partially printed, 15.75" x 19.75 ", Washington, D.C., February 8, 1878. This document is an official notice of the appointment of George M. Stoney as "Ensign in the Navy". Contains engraved maritime and martial vignettes and blue U. S. Navy seal near the lower margin. This document contains folds; it has been taped at top on verso to a 17.75" x 21.75" mat. Fine.

Rutherford B. Hayes Document Signed "RB Hayes" as president and countersigned by "Alx. Ramsey" as secretary of war. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 20", Washington, D.C., December 28, 1880. This document appoints James S. Rogers to "Second Lieutenant in the Twentieth Regiment of Infantry" and is engraved with impressive martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. War Office seal. Docketed in top left corner with red ink; toned with folds; fine.

James A. Garfield Letter Signed "J. A. Garfield". One page, 5" x 8", Weston, Ohio, June 26, 1880, written to James McLean of Massachusetts, thanking him for his letter of congratulations. In part: "The congratulations of my old classmates are specially acceptable to me and I ask that you accept my thanks for your hearty one." Earlier that June, Garfield had accepted the Republican nomination in Chicago. In November, Garfield was elected by a narrow popular vote (2,000 votes), but by a broad electoral vote (214 out of 369) to defeat the Democratic nominee, Winfield Scott Hancock. This note of thanks was written one year before his election as the twentieth president. Fine.

Charles J. Guiteau Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.75" x 10.5", Chicago, April 18, 1877, on Law Office stationery, to "DeWitt Davis". Guiteau, writing as an attorney on behalf of the Mutual Life Insurance Company, is trying to get Mr. John D. Bristol to pay $50 on a loan and $9.50 in interest. The letter has a ragged left edge, as if torn from a book. Minor foxing and overall toning, else fine.

Charles Julius Guiteau was an American lawyer who assassinated U.S. President James A. Garfield on July 2, 1881. Guiteau obtained a law license in Chicago, based on an extremely casual bar exam. He was not successful as an attorney. He only argued one case in court, the bulk of his business being in bill collecting in which his annoying persistence was a useful characteristic. Most of his cases, however, resulted in enraged clients and judicial criticism. After shooting and mortally wounding President Garfield, Guiteau mounted the first high profile "insanity defense" in his murder trial. The defense, like Guiteau's legal career, was not successful and he was executed by hanging.

Chester A. Arthur Document Signed as the twenty-first president and countersigned by Secretary of the Interior Henry M. Teller, "HM Teller". One vellum page partially printed, 19" x 15 ", Washington, D.C., September 17, 1883. This document is an official notice of the reappointment of "Louis A. Barnes, of Gainesville, Florida" as "Register of the land office at Gainesville, Florida/ Re-appointment". The embossed seal of the Interior Department lies in the lower left. Contains no folds, but the right side is markedly more browned than the left; some foxing. Has been taped on verso to a mat. Very good.

Grover Cleveland Document Signed as president and countersigned by "Daniel Lamont " as secretary of war. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 19.5", Washington, D.C., May 9, 1894. This document appoints Frank West to the rank of "First Lieutenant. . . for gallant service in actions against Indians on the Washita River, Texas, September 9, 10 and 11, 1874" and is engraved with impressive martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. War Office seal. Docketed in top left corner with red ink; toned with folds; fine.

Grover Cleveland Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, 5" x 6.5", Princeton, November 3, 1907, thanking J. Edward Simmons of New York "for coming to the relief of my friend [E. C. Benedict], at a time when added to sure affliction in his domestic life." Cleveland, who served as the twenty-fourth president from 1893-1897, died seven months after writing this letter. Contains a horizontal fold which is beginning to separate. Document has been affixed to a cardboard backing of the same size. Fine.

William McKinley Document Signed as president and countersigned by "John D. Long" as secretary of the navy. One vellum page partially printed, 15.5" x 19.25", Washington, D.C., March 11, 1901. This document, "with the advice and consent of the Senate" advanced Carl W. Jungen "five numbers in rank on the list of Lieutenants in the Navy for Eminent and Conspicuous Conduct in Battle." In the lower left is hand-written, "To take rank next after Lieutenant John Hood." This document, engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. Navy seal, would be a beautiful display. Age-toned; exhibits no folds and has a very bold "William McKinley" signature; fine.

William McKinley Document Signed Confirming Legislation written by the Chickasaw Nation. Signed "William H. McKinley", two pages, 8" x 13" Washington, D.C., November 29, 1900. First page is an act written by the national legislating body setting the salary of the coal and asphalt trustee. The second page confirms the United States government's acceptance of the Chickasaw legislation and is signed by William McKinley. Until 1832, The Chickasaw Nation lived in the area known as the lower Mississippi valley. Even in its earliest days the people had a strong governmental system. When the opportunity arose, the Chickasaw bought land and moved all their people to a reservation in Oklahoma where they have since maintained a strong tradition of government. Piece is in good condition, and document has some wear including folding on page one and very small holes along the top of both pages. McKinley's signature and the great seal of the Chickasaw nation are maintained excellently on page two.

William McKinley Document Signed as the twenty-fifth president and countersigned by Secretary of War Russell A. Alger. One vellum page partially printed, 21" x 16 ", Washington, D.C., October 22, 1898. This document is an official notice of the appointment of Garrison McCaskey as "Second Lieutenant of Infantry". Before becoming secretary of war, Alger, a veteran of the Civil War, served as the governor of Michigan. He was not a popular member of the McKinley administration and was asked in 1899 by McKinley to resign. The blue seal of the U. S. War Office lies in the lower left. This document contains no folds and has been taped at top on verso to a 24" x 19.5" mat. Fine.

[William McKinley] Call Book of Dr. Presley M. Rixey, Personal Physician to President McKinley 8vo. Walsh's Physicians' Combined Call Book and Tablet Weekly Form. This unique item contains a daily call list of Dr. Presley M. Rixey, President and First Lady McKinley's personal physician from September 1899 to September of 1900. The first several pages of the book contain general reference information for physicians such as dosage amounts, poison antidotes, infant care information, even the average pulse rate for people of all ages. Each page in the book is gridded so the doctor can list out patients seen each day and write notes regarding visits. The back is gridded for cash received and bookkeeping. Dr. Rixey saw White House staff such as the Secretary of the Navy, but each week without fail Mrs. McKinley was the first listed and was seen almost every day. President McKinley always follows listed as "The President."

The steadfast medical devotion shown to Mrs. McKinley is not surprising. After the death of both her children, Mrs. McKinley's health rapidly began to fail as a form of epilepsy started causing unpredictable seizures. Her health fluctuated uncertainly for most of her life. Whether her illness was the cause of some physical ailment or, as some have speculated, psychological duress of the stress of public life and the loss of her children will never be known. However, Mrs. McKinley did her best to fill the role of a politician's wife. When she was able she attended functions, even if it was sitting in a rocking chair as her husband gave speeches from their front porch. After President McKinley was assassinated, Ida lived another six years before following.

Contained in the book are five of Rixey's calling cards, one of them affixed to the inside of the front cover. Book is presented in beautiful custom made cloth slip cover, while the book itself has heavy wear with some chipping on cover. Otherwise in very good condition.

Theodore Roosevelt Handwritten Seating Chart written on White House stationary, one page, 5" x 8", [Washington, D.C.], undated, but likely circa 1902. The chart, written entirely in Roosevelt's hand, places Roosevelt at one head of the table, and Speaker of the House David Henderson at the other head. The other attendees (seated clockwise and listed by last name only) included: Shelby Cullom, Redfield Proctor, Albert Beveridge, Nathan Scott, Charles Grosvenor, James Perkins, William Allison, Mark Hanna, John Kean, John Dalzell, John Kean, Stephen Elkins, Joseph Cannon, Leonard Wood, and Orville Platt. Roosevelt was to be seated between Hanna and Allison, who had been numbered "4" and "2" respectively in pencil. Although the topic of the meeting is unknown, it is plausible that Cuba was likely a topic. Wood, the only attendee not a member of either the House or Senate, had recently returned from a post as Military Governor of Cuba. With some annotations in pencil, a single fold, and light soiling; a near fine example of Roosevelt's holograph as president.

Theodore Roosevelt Document Signed as the twenty-sixth president and countersigned by Secretary of the Treasury Leslie M. Shaw, "L. M. Shaw". One vellum page partially printed, 16.5" x 14", Washington, D.C., February 16 1904. This document is an official notice of the appointment of Dr. Charles P. Wertenbaker as "a Surgeon in the Public Health and Marine Hospital Service of the United States". With presidential vignette at the top and Treasury Department seal at bottom left. This document has no folds and has been taped at top on verso to a 19" x 16" mat. A very collectable signature; fine.

Theodore Roosevelt Document Signed as president and countersigned by "Robert Shaw Oliver" as "Acting" secretary of war. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 20", matted to an overall size of 20" x 25", Washington, D.C., January 10, 1908. This document appoints Spanish-American War veteran Waldo E. Ayer as "Major of Infantry" and is engraved with impressive martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. War Office seal. Exhibits no folds; toned. Fine and ready to display.

Theodore Roosevelt Signed Harvard Textbook, A Course of Elementary Instruction in Practical Biology, by T. H. Huxley. London: Macmillan and Co., [1879]. New edition. 8vo. Signed "Theodore Roosevelt 1879" at the top of the title page. Roosevelt used this textbook in 1879, one year before graduating magna cum laude from Harvard in 1880. A voracious reader most of his life, he was especially interested in biology and was an accomplished naturalist. Thomas H. Huxley, the author and grandfather of novelist Aldous Huxley, was an English biologist and is known for being a strong advocate of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Bears the bookplate of Rowland Godfrey Freeman, author of Elements of Pediatrics for Medical Students, 1917. The book, which is in the original cloth, is heavily worn; the front board has almost completely detached from the spine and the backstrip has completely detached along the front and partially detached along the back. Some basic restoration would greatly benefit appearance and value. The signed title page, with the bold and collectable Roosevelt signature, is fine. Ex. Charles Hamilton.

William Howard Taft Document Signed as president, "Wm H. Taft" and countersigned by "HL Stimson" as secretary of war. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 20", matted to an overall size of 20" x 25", Washington, D.C., May 3, 1913. This document appoints Spanish-American War veteran Waldo E. Ayer as "Lieutenant-Colonel of Infantry" and is engraved with impressive martial vignettes and affixed with dark blue U. S. War Office seal. Exhibits no folds; toned. Fine and ready to display.

Also offered here is a Major General Henry P. McCain typed letter signed appointing the above mentioned Waldo E. Ayer as "Major of Infantry". One page, 8" x 10", matted to an overall size of 12.25" x 15", Washington, October 18, 1907, on War Department letterhead. Major Ayer died three years later in 1916. Maj. Gen. McCain was a distant uncle to U. S. senator and presidential hopeful John McCain.

William H. Taft Autograph Letter Signed "Wm H. Taft". Two pages, 5" x 8", December 18, 1898, to Dr. Fred K. Percy, on "United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit" letterhead. Taft was the only president to also serve as a chief justice. He began his public legal career in 1890 when he was appointed to the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, which he held until 1900. In this letter, Taft thanks Dr. Percy for his "very warm invitation to attend the Boston Yale Dinner", but his "court will be holding its regular session and it would be out of the question" for him to attend. Taft's alma mater was Yale University. Toned; fine.

Woodrow Wilson Signed Pardon of George Vaux Bacon. Four integral pages, partly printed, 10.5" x 16", framed to an overall size of 25.5" x 20.5". District of Columbia, July 17, 1920.This document pardons Bacon, who was "indicted . . . for beginning and setting on foot a military enterprise to be carried on from and within the United States against Great Britain and Ireland."

During World War I, Bacon was in England under the guise of an American journalist. Acting under orders from the German Secret Service, he planned to gather English air defense information. He was captured, however, in 1916 by Scotland Yard agents, convicted, and sentenced to death. After cooperating with the U.S. government by handing over information about the German spy ring operating from the U.S. and England, his sentence was reduced to one year and one day, which he served in the penitentiary at Atlanta, Georgia. Folds and some minor black marks on the blank page four. Bright red Department of Justice seal on page two near Wilson's signature. This document is opened and placed in a handsome glass clear frame with 1" border and is ready for display. Fine.

Also offered are two G. W. Bacon documents: 1. one page, partly-printed, 8" x 10.75", Washington, July 31, 1920, from the Department of Justice notifying Bacon of his 1920 pardon. Gracefully matted and framed to an overall size of 14.5" x 17.5". Fine. 2. One and one-half pages, 8.5" x 11", Whitehall, March 1, 1917, granting Bacon a commutation "by His Majesty the King to one of penal servitude for life." Fine.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Signed Edition of The Democratic Book 1936, (Philadelphia: C. Brill, 1936). Limited/Numbered. First Edition/Leather-bound. Folio (11" x 14"), 384 pages. Bound in brown leather with gilt title. Signed by Franklin Roosevelt beneath a color image of the White House on the limitation leaf. This is number 1527 of an unstated 2500 copies.

A fine copy with gentle wear to corners and spine and immaculate interior cloth-lined boards. Cover embossed as follows: BETHLEHEM STEEL COMPANY LIBRARY.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Drawings of Floor Plans. Two fascinating architectural floor-plans drawn by Roosevelt in 1928. The first, one page, 8.5" x 11", in pencil, is likely a plan for a cottage bought by his mother, Sara, who was a dominant influence in Roosevelt's early life. His father, James, had died in 1900. Two file holes; age-toned with horizontal crease in the middle of the page; near fine. The second, one page, 11.5" x 9.75", in pencil but with many annotations in ink, is thought to be the draft floor-plan of Franklin's future Warm's Spring, Georgia, home, "Little White House", where he died in 1945. The plan is greatly detailed with room dimensions, window and door locations in pencil and the position of base plugs, wall brackets, and lighting details in black ink. Toned with four file holes at the top and slight marginal fraying on the left. Near fine. An excellent addition to any Roosevelt collection.

[Harry S. Truman] "Dewey Defeats Truman", Chicago Daily Tribune, November 3, 1948. 17" x 24", matted and framed to an overall size of 25" x 31.5". An original first edition with the famously incorrect banner headline on the front page declaring Thomas E. Dewey the winner of the 1948 presidential race against Harry S. Truman. Truman was expected to lose, but instead won a stunning victory with a majority of the electoral vote. Only one hundred copies of the paper were published before the Tribune issued the second edition. This beautifully framed copy contains one horizontal center fold that includes some separation along the fold. The two far left columns have a small amount of tape repairs; age-toned. Strong and clear type with the famously bold headline; fine.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed Photograph and Letter Signed as President to Howard McC. Snyder, his personal physician. Black and white photo, 9" x 7" (sight), of Eisenhower seated in a bow tie and robe with five of his physicians standing behind him (Snyder is at the far left). A letter of provenance that accompanies the photo states, "The picture was taken at Fitszimmons General Hospital in Denver, CO after the heart attack in September, 1955". Eisenhower signs, "To Howard --- D.E." on the mat. Matted to an overall size of 16.25" x 15"; with light soiling and in overall near fine condition.

Also, a TLS "DE" on White House letterhead, 6.75" x 9", Denver, Colorado, October 18, 1955 to Snyder. Still recovering from his heart attack, Eisenhower lightheartedly writes: "Because certain unnamed doctor friends are limiting my activities these days, this note is necessarily brief. But I do want you to know that my gratitude is unbounded for the wonderful gift of jonquils that you are having planted on the grounds at Gettysburg..." Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope addressed to Snyder at "The Summer White House / Denver, Colorado".

Maj. General Howard McC. Snyder served as Eisenhower's personal physician in the Army. He would assume the same role in the White House upon Ike's entering office. Eisenhower was the first president to have a heart attack while in office, and it was Snyder who rendered initial treatment. Snyder would also be by his side the following year as the President underwent an ileitis operation.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Handwritten Letter and Note Signed as President to his longtime personal physician and friend Howard McC. Snyder. ALS "D.E." on his personalized imprinted White House letterhead, 7" x 10.25", [Washington, D.C.], Feb. 7, [1955]. In full: "Dear Howard -- As soon as you are well, please bring this back to me so that I may have a suitable inscription placed on it. Happy Birthday, D.E." With a postscript: "P.S. Just give it to Mrs. W." With light toning and accompanied by the original transmittal envelope.

At top write in pencil is noted: "zodiac clock", likely referring to the received gift. Accompanied by a handwritten gift card from Eisenhower: "For Howard 7 February 1955. To wish a happy birthday. MDE & D.E." Written on a small card, 4.25" x 2.25", with gilded edges and presidential crest. With original transmittal envelope marked "zodiac clock" in pencil.

Eisenhower handwritten letters are very scarce, particularly as president. A great opportunity to collect two Eisenhower holographs, and with great association to Eisenhower's inner circle. Snyder served as Ike's personal physician both in the military as well as the White House and kept careful records of Ike's health. The majority of Snyder's papers are housed at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Library in Abilene, Kansas.

General Dwight D. Eisenhower Autograph Note Draft Signed as President of Columbia University. Two pages, one-sided, 6" x 3.75", on Waldorf-Astoria notepaper, n.p. [New York City], n.d. [1948]. This encouraging note was sent to General Maxwell Davenport Taylor, who served as superintendent of West Point from 1945 to 1949. During General Taylor's tenure as superintendent, the Army won the Army-Navy football game every year except 1948, which ended in a tie. Here, Eisenhower asks Taylor to forward his words of encouragement to the Army football coaches and team, following the disappointing game.

"No Army man could watch the game today without a feeling of great pride that he belonged to the same service that produced the gallantry, teamwork, and skill that the Army team so constantly displayed today. While I wanted to win as badly as you did, winning or losing is a very minor matter compared to the qualities that have always been characteristic of West Point teams. I am more than proud of you. Eisenhower." Two years later, Eisenhower would leave his post at Columbia to serve as the commander of NATO forces in Europe. Note contains several scratched out/corrected words and is very boldly penned in fountain pen ink. Light age toning; chips at corners. Leaves have been affixed to an 8" x 10" piece of cardboard. Very good.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Group of Twelve Letters Signed as President, all written to Maj. Gen. and Mrs. Howard McC. Snyder, his personal physician. Letters are dated between December 23, 1953 and October 15, 1959, and all are on White House stationery. Most are thank you letters for gifts receive, but several reveal the personal relationship and loyalty that existed between the two men. Content in part: "[Dec. 30, 1954]... No such formal letter can express to you my feeling of gratitude for all you have done for the Eisenhower family throughout these many years of our association. I can only say 'thank you' -- and I hope we will be together many, many more years... [Jan. 12, 1954]... come to an informal stag dinner... I suggest that we meet at the White House... have a reasonably early dinner, and devote the evening to a general chat...[Oct. 18, 1954]... My expensive horticultural tastes have apparently been widely advertised. Though I am consequently more than slightly embarrassed, I assure you that nothing could have pleased me more on my birthday than to hear of the English boxwood tree you and the members of the White House Staff have had planted on the Gettysburg farm...[March 14, 1957, to Alice Snyder]... My conscience hurts me as I try to write you a note of birthday felicitations, knowing that I have in all probability spoiled the day for you by taking Howard along on the cruiser..."

The transmittal envelope accompanying the letter dated September 23, 1955, Denver, bears the pencil notation: "Day of his return from Fraser. Throm[b]osis next day --" Snyder was Eisenhower's personal physician in the military and would continue to attend to Ike's health during both presidential terms. Ike had suffered a heart attack during that month. Being the first president to suffer a heart attack while in office, Snyder kept copious records on his health. The majority of Snyder's papers are now housed at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Library in Abilene, Kansas. All letters are signed "D.E." and and include the original transmittal envelope. Grouping also includes a White House card with the typed greeting "Happy Birthday" signed "D.E.", a small card bearing the gilded presidential crest also signed with his initials; and a copy of the White House Staff Book 1953-1961, published by CARE. Fine condition.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Archive of Letters Signed to his personal physician and longtime friend Howard McC. Snyder. Sixteen Typed Letters Signed written spanning the years 1946 to 1966 (but none as president), on various letterheads. Most letters are brief sending thanks and greetings for birthdays and anniversaries; most notably a TLS addressed to the Snyders and five other couples inviting them to help plan for the celebration of Ike and Mamie's 33rd wedding anniversary. Grouping also includes three telegraphs and a 1962 Christmas card with printed greeting and signature. Letters are signed "Ike", "D.E.", and "Ike E." and the majority are accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. All are in near fine to fine condition. Should be reviewed for content.

Mamie Dowd Eisenhower Archive of Letters and Cards to Maj. General and Mrs. Howard McC. Snyder. More than 30 items spanning the years 1954 through 1969, including seven typed letters, 6 handwritten letters and notes, a typed note with White House pass, ten handsigned notes on greeting cards for various occasions, six holiday cards with printed signatures, and one telegraph. Content reveals a close and personal relationship detailing gifts exchanged and holidays shared. Most items are accompanied by the original transmittal envelope and all are in near fine to fine condition.

John F. Kennedy Early Autograph Letter Signed "Faithfully Yours,/Jack Kennedy," 2.5 conjoined pages, 5" x 6.5", front and verso. [Choate, Wallingford, Connecticut], November 22, 1934. To "Mr. St. John" (Choate Headmaster George C. St. John or Assistant Headmaster Clarence W. St. John). In full, "My new boy, Eugene Arrendell, is one of the nicest boys, in my and others opinion, in Choate. He played a very fine game of foot-ball this year, and has remained as unconceited as he was when he first came. His studies have been quite low, but every marking period there has been an improvement in each subject. As an example of this, one of his subjects came up from a 56 to a B-. He works very hard, and gets along with his room ate [sic] as well as he does with everyone that he comes in contact with. His attitude towards Choate, when he just came, was one of bewilderment, but now it is one of ardent loyalty. He is a credit to Choate, Mr. St. John." Plastic tape stains on one page touch the top of two words, else in fine condition.

At Choate, traditionally each senior was assigned a freshman "new boy" to help adjust to the school. The normal expectation is that the senior will provide guidance during the first semester, which usually ends a short time after the first few weeks of orientation. That Kennedy took it upon himself to follow the progress of his charge as evidenced by this letter, is far beyond the expectations placed by the school. It was of such note that the school administration mailed Kennedy's letter to young Eugene's family as part of his first year's progress report. This lot was obtained directly from Mr. Arrendell, Kennedy's then "new boy". The earliest ALS of John F. Kennedy ever to appear at a major public auction!

John F. Kennedy 1935 Choate Yearbook. The Brief/ 1935, 292 pages, plus advertisements, 6.75" x 9.5". Choate Rosemary Hall, Wallingford, Connecticut. On page 76, JFK's class picture appears along with his nicknames ("Jack" and "Ken"), his physical attributes (age: 17; height: 5 ft. 11 in.; weight: 155 lbs.) and the organizations he had participated in since enrolling in September of 1931. Another picture of Kennedy appears on page 117, where he is listed as the Business Manager of the Brief. Page 107 records that Kennedy was voted "Most Likely to Succeed".

Choate was a private university preparatory boarding school for boys grades 9-12. Kennedy graduated from Choate in June 1935 and went on to graduate from Harvard. The spine is missing and both covers are separated. The front and back free endpapers have partially separated from the spine, but all other pages are still bound. This copy belonged to "Cad Arrendell", a senior from Ponca City, Oklahoma, who signed the back paste-down endpaper. His is the only signature in the yearbook. Near very good.

John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Photograph Signed, with a secretarial Kennedy signature. "To Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Campbell with best wishes, John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy", b/w, 9.5" x 7.5", n.p., n.d. In the photo, the president and Mrs. Kennedy are greeting well-wishers in a crowd. The photo has been affixed to a slightly stained 14" x 11" white mounting board; the signatures are on the mounting board just below the centered photo. All but the president's secretarial signature (in black ink) is written by Mrs. Kennedy in blue ink. Fine and ready to display.

John F. Kennedy Menu Signed as presidential candidate. Four pages, 5.5" x 8.5", Prairie Village, Kansas, October 22, 1960, signed on front in black ink. In full: "To Dr. Myers --/ many thanks --/ and best wishes --/ John Kennedy". In January of 1960, Senator Kennedy declared his intent to run for the presidency. After six demanding months trying to clinch the Democratic nomination, he was formally selected as the party's candidate at the Democratic National Convention on July 13. The next four months of running against the Republican candidate, Richard Nixon, were even more arduous (the results were some of the closest in American history). Major campaign issues included a sluggish economy, the Cold War, Cuba, and JFK's Roman Catholicism. On September 26, the first televised presidential debate took place. JFK was considered the winner, mostly because he made a better appearance on TV than Nixon, who appeared haggard, in part because he chose to wear no makeup.

Kennedy's campaign stop in Prairie Village occurred less than one month after the debate, and by this time, he was still riding a wave of momentum. According to the dinner's menu, which bears a photo of the Massachusetts senator on the front, the occasion of the dinner was to honor Kansas Democratic Congressman Newell A. George. Senator Kennedy, the "Democratic Candidate for President of the United States", was the featured speaker following a dinner of roast turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and more. Dr. William Myers, the recipient of Kennedy's autograph, led the invocation. The menu has a vertical fold and is fine. Additionally included are sixteen b/w photos (near 4" x 3", with twelve negatives) taken by Decatour Clark Millard of Hahn & Millard Photography (Kansas City, Missouri). The photos are of Kennedy at the dinner shaking hands, speaking, and signing autographs; all very fine. Also offered is a well-worn ticket (4" x 2.5", "Admit One/ Kennedy for President Rally") to another event later in the day at 8:00 p.m., at the Municipal Auditorium; very good condition.

John F. Kennedy Collection of 36 Film Shorts on 16 mm Film. Absorbing and rare short film clips, with titles describing content on each film, of JFK as president on official business, relaxing, and in church ("JFK at Church", "JFK Goes Golfing", "JFK at Arlington", "Kennedy in Texas"). Also interesting shorts of Jackie and the Kennedy family ("Jackie Rides Pony Cart", "Robert Kennedy's Son Christened", "Kennedy at Family Reunion"). For full listing of titles go to our website, www.ha.com/692.1111 http://www.ha.com/692.1111 . The film shorts vary in lengths from near 1:30 to a bit longer. Single-perf, though there appears to be no soundtrack on the films.

Kennedy was the first president born in the twentieth century. Both he and his wife, Jacqueline, had a popularity more similar to that of movie stars and pop performers. Much of their popularity was due to their youthfulness, which was best depicted through the power of images and video. Kennedy freely used these for his benefit, making him one of the earliest presidents to use images and video to help define himself and his presidency. He took part in the first televised presidential debate in 1960 with Richard Nixon; the debate drew over 66 million viewers out of a U.S. population of 179 million. JFK was considered the winner, mostly because he made a better appearance on TV than Nixon, who appeared haggard. While that debate and other Kennedy footage can be viewed easily on websites like YouTube, these more intimate shorts are rare and collectable. This lot should be reviewed prior to bidding. All films appear to be in fine condition.

Gerald R. Ford Signed Souvenir Speech, "Remarks on Taking the Oath of Office". Two pages, 8.5" x 11", this historically significant speech was given in Washington, D.C. on August 9, 1974, the day that President Richard Nixon resigned and Vice-President Ford assumed the presidency. This speech was part of Ford's attempt to heal a wounded nation, ending "our long national nightmare", as Ford referred to the Watergate scandal in this speech.

Ford became vice-president in 1973 on the resignation of Vice-President Spiro Agnew. He was the first to enter that office under the newly passed Twenty-fifth Amendment, winning Senate confirmation by a 92-3 vote. When President Richard Nixon resigned on August 9, 1974, Ford assumed the presidency, making him the only individual to become president without having won a national election. Ford addressed this issue in this speech: "I assume the Presidency under extraordinary circumstances never before experienced by Americans. This is an hour of history that troubles our minds and hurts our hearts. . . . I am acutely aware that you have not elected me as your President by your ballots, and so I ask you to confirm me as your President with your prayers." This momentous speech, which also called America for "your prayers for Richard Nixon and for his family", was given at the White House at 12:05 p.m., exactly thirty minutes after the White House announced the resignation of Nixon. This typed transcript is signed at the bottom of the second page in blue ink. Both pages have been taped on versos to a double-faced 18" x 13" mat. Very fine.

Ronald Reagan Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7" x 10", Pacific Palisades (Los Angeles, California), March 25 (no year), on Reagan's personal letterhead. From 1953 through 1962, Reagan was the host of the television series General Electric Theater. Each episode was an adaptation of a play, novel, or short story. The show made Reagan wealthy and, because of its high ratings, famous. This letter is written to an author, "Miss White", who had submitted a play for the General Electric Theater. It reads in full: "I hope you'll forgive me for hanging on to your play so long but I'm helpless to give an answer yet. All our story purchases for this year had been made & right now we are hanging in the air waiting to see if there will be a G. E. Theater next year. For this reason I'm holding your play on my desk & haven't sent it through our story editor. I'll give you an answer as soon as we know anything - if this is alright. If not please let me know & I'll return your wonderfully amusing play. Best regards, Ronald Reagan." Two small stapler holes in upper left corner; folds; otherwise, very fine.

Lee Harvey Oswald Archive. An extensive archive of 39 letters (many with the original envelope), totaling 69 pp., written to his mother and brother dated from September 1959 to October 1962. An evocative grouping that collectively provides great insight into Oswald's life and activities in the years prior to his assassination of John F. Kennedy. In fact, 19 of the letters (18 to his mother and one to his brother) were seized as evidence by the Warren Commission. Unfortunately, the letters investigated by the Commission were laminated and many bear the original numbered tags used by the Commission as identification.

In the earliest letter, one page, 6.25" x 9.75", dated Sept 4, [1959], Oswald wrote to his mother regarding his upcoming discharge from the Marines: "Well, I will get discharged Sept 11, and should be home on Monday the 14th, you will probably start receiving my mail as I gave them your home address to forwarding mail too. Keep it for me please. I will still have to be in the In-active reserves for awhile but that only means they will send me a post card every few years. Ha-Ha. Received the birth certificate. . . . Love xx Lee." (All misspellings and ungrammatical language have been retained.) Oswald had enlisted in the Marines in 1956, but had sought an early discharge claiming falsely family hardship; he claimed he had to care for his injured mother. In another letter (n.d., one page, 5" x 8") about his upcoming discharge to his brother Robert, which was likely written during this time: "Well, I just got back off a short maneuver. The C Rations are still lousy, in case you've forgotten. How is the baby and How is Vada? Well, pretty soon I'll be getting out of the corp and I know what I want to be and how I'm going to be it, which I guess is the most important thing in life. . . ."

Upon final discharge from the Marines, Oswald immediately began to plan his migration to the Soviet Union. He had learned rudimentary Russian. Unable to apply for a visa in the United States to the Soviet Union, he submitted applications to European universities (including Schweitzer University, see lot 12231). After spending three days with his mother, Oswald departed for New Orleans, where he boarded a ship for France on September 20. In a letter postmarked Sep. 19, 1959, New Orleans, Oswald informed his mother: "Well, I have booked passage on a ship to Europe. I would of had to sooner or later and I think Its best I go now. Just remember above all else that my values are very different from Roberts or your's. It is difficult to tell you how I feel. I did not tell you about my plans because you could hardly be expected to understand. . . . Lee" The letter has been laminated together with the envelope, and appears clean and highly legible. The letter is addressed in Oswald's hand to "Mrs. M. Oswald / 3124 WEST 5th ST. / FORT WORTH, / TEXAS".

Upon arrival in France, Oswald immediately set upon getting to the Soviet Union. He first made his way to England, and then to Finland where he applied for a visa at the Soviet embassy. Oswald received his Soviet visa on October 14, and promptly departed Finland the next day, arriving in Moscow on October 16. Oswald made immediate his intentions to renounce his American citizenship. The Soviets must have been suspicious of his zeal, because on October 21, Oswald's application for Soviet citizenship was denied. Oswald did not bear the rejection well, and made a half-hearted attempt to take his own life. Soviet authorities cautiously kept him under psychiatric observation at a hospital following this event.

All but one of the remaining letters in the archive were written during his years in the Soviet Union. These particular letters are most interesting because they show his progression from complete enthrallment to Communism and the Soviet Union to disillusionment and paranoia. In an antagonistic two page letter (5.5" x 8", not laminated) to Robert, dated Nov. 8, 1959, he wrote of his passion for the Soviet Union and his hate for the United States: "Well, What shall we talk about? The weather perhaps? Certainly you do not wish me to speak of my decision to remain in the Soviet Union and apply for citizenship here, since I'm afraid you would not be able to comprehend my reasons. You really don't know anything about me. Do you know for instance that I have waited to do this for well over a yea r, do you know that I [in parentheses he has written a small phrase in Russian] speak a fair amount of Russian which I have been studying for many months.

I have been told that I will not have to leave the Soviet Union if I do not care to. this then is my decision. I will not leave this country, the Soviet Union, under any conditions, I will never return to the United States which is a country I hate.

Someday, perhaps soon, and then again perhaps in a few years, I will become a citizen of the Soviet Union. but it is a very legal process, in any event, I will not have to leave the Soviet Union and I will never leave.

I received your telegram and I was glad to hear from you, only one word bothered me, the word 'mistake'. I assume you mean that I have made a 'mistake' it is not for you to tell me this, you cannot understand my reasons for this very serious action.

I will not speak to anyone from the United States over the telephone since it might be taped by the americans. . . ."

Two weeks later, he wrote again to Robert (8pp., 5.5" x 8") on November 26, 1959, elaborating on his negative feelings about the U.S. government. Quoted in small part below:

"I shall begin by anserwing [sic] your question on why I and my fellow workers and communist's would like to see the present capitalist government of the U.S. overthrown. Do you remember the time you told me about the efforts of your milk company to form a union? Try to see why workers must from unions against their employers in the U.S.. It is because the government supports an economic system based upon credit which give rise to never ending cycle of depression , inflation, unlimited speculation (which is the phase America is in now) and war. In this system art, culture, and the spirit of man are subjected to commercial enterprising, religion and education are used as a tool to suppress what would otherwise be a population questioning their government's unfair economic system and plans for war. Science is neglected unless it can be directly used in making war or producing more profit for the owners of business's. These are some of the reasons. look around you, and look at yourself. See the Segregation, see the unemployed and what automation is, remember how you were laided [sic] off at convair? I remember well the days we stood off-shore at Indonesia waiting to surpress [sic] yet another population, when they were having a revolution there in Mar. 1958. I can still see Japan and the Phillipines [sic] and their puppet governments. More important I can see the american in uniforms men who were there because they were drafted or because they were adventursom [sic] or unemployed in civilian life. I will ask you a question Robert. What do you support the American government for? What is the Ideal you put forward? Do not say 'freedom' because freedom is a word used by all people through all of time. Ask me and I will tell you I fight for communism. This word brings to your mind slaves or injustice, this is because of american propaganda, look this word up in the dictionary or better still, read the book which I first read when I was 15, 'CAPiTAl', which contains economic theorys [sic] and most important the 'communist manifesto'. . . . When I talked to a reporter I gave most of my reason's, however the story I found out later was badly slanted and left out my real reason, the reporter was only interested in a colorful story. . . my Marx'ist [sic] learning brought me here to the Soviet Union. I have always considered this country to be my own. . . . These people are a good, warm alive people These people would never think of war, they wish to see all peoples live in peace but at the same time they wish to see the economically enslaved people of the west free. . .
I want you to understand what I say now, I do not say lightly, or unknowingly, since I have been in the military as you know, I know what war is like.
1. In the event of war I would kill any american who put on a uniform in defence of the american government - any American -.
2. That in my own mind I have no attachment's of any kind in the U.S.
3. That I want to, and I shall, live a normal happy and peaceful life here in the Soviet Union for the rest of my life.
4. That my mother and you are (in spite of what the newspaper said) not objects of affection, but only examples of workers in the U.S.
. . . If you would give the contents of this letter (except for that which is for your benefit) to some reporter, it will clarify my situation. . . . Lee"

Oswald's feelings about the Soviet Union took a marked turn, and eventually all content was about wanting to return to America. He met and married Marina and through his letters, he shared his affection for his new bride and their struggles to leave the Soviet regime. He wrote: "[July 14, n.y. but likely 1961, to Robert]. . . . On the 8th of July I and my wife went into the american Embassy, I cannot write you what went on there, because the Russians, read all letters going in and out. But anyway I have the American Passport, and we are doing everything we can to get out. . . . The Russians can be crule and very crude at times. They gave a cross-examination to my wife on the first day we came back from Moscow, they knew everything because they spy, and read the mails. . . . [Dec. 13, 1961, to his mother, laminated and labeled 'Commission No. 187']. . . . I think we'll get together if we finally get back to the states, and maybe we'll be able to settal in Texas. I hope everything is allright with you, why do you change addresses's so often?. . .[Jan. 2, n.y. but likely 1962, to his mother, laminated and labeled 'Commission No. 189']. . . . Well, I have pretty good news we shall receive our visa's about the middle of February, which means we may arrive in the U.S. about the 1st of March. . . . I would like you to. . . get in touch with Red Cross in Vernon, ask them to contact a organization called 'International rescue committee', or any organization which aid's persons from abroad get resettled. There are many such organizations. We need $800.00 for two ticket from Moscow to New York and from N.Y. to Texas. . . ." Content is too extensive to cite, but a full inventory of the letters written by Oswald is posted on our website at www.ha.com/692*1111111 http://www.ha.com/692*1111111 .

Oswald's last letter is a brief note in pencil to Robert, written upon his return to America: "[Nov. 17, n.y.]. . . Dear Robert, In answer to your kind invitation for Thanksgiving we'd love to come and will be in Ft. Worth Thanksgiving morning we shall come by bus and I'll give you a ring on the phone from the bus station. . . ."

Also included in this lot is a compelling correspondence between Oswald's mother, Marguerite, and John Lattimer. Dr. Lattimer had purchased a few of Oswald's letters from Charles Hamilton, and decided to approach Marguerite directly to ensure obtaining all available material in a more cost efficient manner. There are over twenty letters from Mrs. Oswald to Dr. Lattimer, most discussing details of the sale of her son's items, including prices. They date from March 12, 1969, to February 6, 1973. Marguerite was a tough bargainer, and yielded little in negotiations. From various letters: "[June 5, 1969]. . . . Three letters I wish to sell under the same arrangement as before are ---- Comm. No. 186 193 - 196. These are offered toghter [sic] only as a quick sale to you as a private buyer. . . . Please understand that by selling direct I do benefit by immediate cash, but lose out on the publicity of which I also fell [sic feel] is important. . . . [Undated]. . . My price remains the same as quoted to you. There are not many more left, so willhold [sic] onto these if I cannot get my present asking price. Will you please return the copies to me/. . . . Enclosed booklet is salable by me in lots of not less than twenty. I will pay postage. Autographed $15.00 --- with three line comment # 50.00. [a copy of this pamphlet is included] Now those booklets show the other side of the picture, most people saw Kennedy funeral via T.V. and also Wm. Manchester book. You see I believe both sides of the coin should be known. . . . Maybe you could interest a historian to see that my knowledge is put into a book so the public will know what I know." Lee's infamy put Marguerite in a much desired spotlight. This is best exemplified by the odd signature she adopted as seen on a greeting card to an unnamed recipient: "Marguerite Oswald / mother of / Lee Harvey Oswald". She added in a postscript: "Am writing a short book but I do have a deadline to finish. . . ."

Dr. Lattimer, a meticulous researcher, kept all corollary materials associated with the Kennedy assassination, some of which are included in this lot. There is a set of copies of Oswald's letters to brother Robert, all bearing handwritten annotations by Robert explaining the circumstances of the letter.

Also with this lot:
Two vinyl records. 1. LP Record. "Lee Harvey Oswald Speaks!, Recorded Live. The Real Lee Harvey Oswald Revealed in His Own Words, the Man Nobody Knows." In plain-white paper sleeve in original shrink-wrapped album cover. Fine. 2. "The President's Assassin Speaks. Dynamic documentary by Dr. Billy James Hargis. Featuring an actual debate between Communist Lee Harvey Oswald and Cuban freedom fighter Carlos Bringuier as it was broadcast three months before the assassination." Three months before the assassination on August 21, 1963, Oswald had a debate with Carlos Bringuier, a Cuban-born resident of New Orleans, about Fidel Castro on station WDSU out of New Orleans. No paper sleeve, but in original shrink-wrapped album cover, which has one small piece of tape near opening. Fine.
The Investigation of the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Volumes I, (volume II is missing), III, IV, V (two copies), VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, and the Report of the Select Committee on Assassinations U.S. House of Representatives, 1978 and 1979. The United States House Select Committee on Assassinations was established in 1976 to investigate the assassinations of JFK and Martin Luther King, Jr. After investigating through 1978, the Committee issued its final report which concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald fired three shots at the president, but that there was "a high probability that two gunmen fired at President John F. Kennedy" and that the president "was probably assassinated as a result of a conspiracy." The committee was unable to identify the other possible gunman or the extent of the conspiracy.
Western Union Telegram (laminated) to Marguerite: "YOURS ELEVENTH ADDRESS INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE IS 251 PARK AVENUE SOUTH, NEW YORK CITY, PHONE OR 4-4200 = ALLYN C DONALDSON DIRECTOR SPECIAL CONSULAR SERVICES DEPT OF STATE. . . ."
Small black and white photo of Lee Harvey Oswald, 3.25" x 4", in an envelope labeled "LEE AT 15 1/2 IN HIS CIVIL AIR PATROL UNIFORM (FROM HIS MOTHER) TO DR. LATTIMER". Trimmed, with a few surface creases.
Official Photostat copy of the search warrant and list of "articles picked up at the Suspect's house" on 11/22/63. Warrant, 2pp., 8.5" x 14"; list, 2pp. 8.5" x 11"
"HANDS OFF CUBA" handbill, n.p., n.d., 6" x 9". One of the handbills Oswald was distributing in New Orleans. Oswald reportedly ordered 1000 handbills, which he distributed in attempts to establish a New Orleans branch of the New York organization Fair Play for Cuba Committee. The distribution of these handbills would result in a public disturbance and Oswald's eventual arrest by New Orleans Police on August 9, 1963.
Marina Oswald signed TIME magazine cover, 8" x 11", cover dated Feb. 14, 1964, featuring Marina's picture on the cover and a story titled "The Warren Commission Probing Kennedy's Death".
"Aftermath of an Execution. The burial and final rites of Lee Harvey Oswald as told by his mother", by Marguerite Oswald. 32pp. 8.5" x 11", Challenge Press: Dallas TX. 1965. A few foxing spots on cover otherwise very good. Filled
with many photos of the family in attendance of Oswald's sparsely attended funeral and copies of the funeral service and arrangement as held at the Miller Funeral Home in Ft. Worth.

Because of the extensive nature of this archive it is strongly recommended that bidders examine the grouping to review both for condition and content. Please visit our website at www.HA.com/692*35178 to view additional images of individual letters and items. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Marine Corps Rifle Score Book. Eighty pages, 6" x 3.25", issued on December 3, 1956. Contains various notes and scores written by Oswald, including his firing positions ("sitting kneeling", "sitting", "prone"). Oswald enlisted in the Marine Corps in October 1956, a week after his seventeenth birthday. He received extensive training and instruction in aiming and sighting firearms. In December, he was tested using the standard issued Caliber .30, M1 and scored 212, two points above the minimum qualification for sharpshooter. In the Warren Commission Report, Maj. Sgt. James A. Zahm said of Oswald's marksmanship abilities: "I would say in the Marine Corps he is a good shot, slightly above average and as compared to the average male. . . he is an excellent shot." Contains stains on both front and rear covers. Front cover has two yellowed tape remnants. Rear cover has three areas in different corners that have a small amount of surface paper loss. Inside rear cover has yellowed tape remnants. Pages inside the book that have been filled-out or written on by Oswald exhibit stains.

This lot also includes an interesting correspondence between Oswald's mother, Marguerite of Fort Worth, Texas, and John Lattimer. Four letters were written from Mrs. Oswald (three TLSs and one ALS) and dated March 15, 1969; April 10; April 10; and April 17, 1969. In these letters, Mrs. Oswald tells of her interest in selling her son's items: "Yes; I am very much in favor of selling everything in my possession. Please make an offer on the rifle score book." Concerning the Marine Corps rifle score book: "My late son's Marine score book is in the same condition as when he left it with me. How sad that one must part with personal belongins [sic] in order to exist." Concerning her son's innocence: "Someday soon it will be proven that a conspiracy did exist and that my son was indeed the 'Patsy'"-a reference to Oswald's comment to reporters, "I didn't shoot anyone. . . . They're taking me in because I lived in the Soviet Union. I'm just a 'patsy'!"

One ALS included here was written by John Lattimer to Mrs. Oswald on March 18, 1969. In part: "I would be happy to purchase the score book and any other items of your late son's, which you might be willing to sell me. I am a historian, interested in factual material." Lattimer conducted extensive research and performed ballistic tests. His results supported the controversial Warren Commission and validated that Oswald was the likely sniper who shot the president. His book, Kennedy and Lincoln: Medical and Ballistic Comparisons of Their Assassination (Harcourt, 1980) details his findings and conclusions. For Lattimer, Oswald's Marine Corps rifle score book played an important role by showing that Oswald was capable of firing the deadly shots. All letters are very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald College Application Archive. In the summer of 1959, following a three-year tour of duty in the Marines, Oswald's military obligation required him to spend three more years on active duty in the United States, but Oswald had other plans. He wanted to go to the Soviet Union but did not have a passport, nor military authorization to leave the country, but he knew that he could get a student travel visa if he could get accepted at a foreign university. Because he'd left school after the 9th grade and never received a high school diploma, he lied on several foreign college applications, and was accepted by the Albert Schweitzer College in Churwalden, Switzerland, for the Spring 1960 school session. With visa in hand, Oswald bypassed the Albert Schweitzer College and headed for the USSR with the intention of defecting and obtaining Soviet citizenship. The archive contains:
1. Lee Harvey Oswald Partly Printed Document Completed and Signed. One page, 8.25" x 4.75", headed "Application Form," "Santa Anna [sic], California," March 19, 1959. Being a supplement to his Albert Schweitzer College application, this document bears Oswald's handwritten responses to the usual requests for basic information; name, age, occupation, address, etc. Oswald lies about his occupation, indicating that he is a "student," as well as his ability to speak Russian: "Equal in Fluency to 1 year of schooling." An added remark reads: "Please inform me of the amount of the deposit (If required) So I can forward it and confirm my reservation, and show my sincerity of purpose. Thank you. Lee H. Oswald." Document shows a small area of paper loss at upper left corner, pin holes, punch marks, and inexpert repairs with cello tape - none of which affect Oswald's ink signature. In good condition.
2. Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 5" x 8", "Santa Anna [sic], Calif.," June 19, 1959. Following his acceptance to attend the Albert Schweitzer College in Switzerland, Oswald sent this brief handwritten letter to the school: "Dear Sirs, Enclosed please find the registration fee of twenty five dollars which I understand is to be placed toward my normal college fees and expenses. I am very glad to have been excepted [sic] for the third term of your college next year and am looking forward to a fine stay. Any new information on the school or even the students who will attend next year would be appreciated. Thank you, Lee H. Oswald." Registration fee is not extant. Oswald includes his mailing address at the Marine Corps Air Station/El Toro Air Base at lower left: "L.H. Oswald, MCAF, MACS - 9, Santa Anna [sic], Calif." Letter bears staple holes and punch holes; numerous light folds. Very good condition.
3. Typed Letter Signed to Oswald from Albert Schweitzer College President. One page, 8.25" x 11.75", Churwalden, Switzerland, March 22, 1960. Following his acceptance to the Albert Schweitzer College, Oswald received this letter from Professor Hans Casparis, President of the college, notifying him about changes to the dates and times of the commencement of the spring 1960 school term. In part: "The first lecture will be held on Tuesday afternoon, 16.00 o'clock, April 19th, instead of taking place on the 21st... We hope that you will still be able to fit this change of dates into your travel plans... Looking forward to your coming, we are, Sincerely yours..." Letter bears several chips and small areas of paper loss along edges and at folds; numerous creases at upper and lower edges. Very good condition. The letter is accompanied by the original transmittal envelope, and is addressed to Oswald at the El Toro Air Base in California. However, by this time, Oswald had lied to obtain an early "hardship discharge" and left the base to return to Texas; the envelope bears several different handwritten forwarding addresses and is lightly soiled. In very good condition.

An incredible archive that documents the very beginning of Lee Harvey Oswald's odyssey to the Soviet Union. Extremely rare and highly desirable. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Early USSR Archive. Oswald arrived in Moscow on October 16, 1959, on a five-day visa. After days of meetings with Soviet officials, Oswald was crushed to learn that his request for citizenship had been denied, and he slashed his left wrist in an attempt to end his life. The Soviets decided to keep him long enough for his wound to heal, and placed him in the insanity ward of a local hospital. He was discharged on October 28, 1959, and took temporary housing at the Metropole Hotel while continuing to badger American and Soviet officials for dissolution of his American citizenship and approval for Soviet citizenship. Because his defection occurred around the time of the Camp David peace talks between Eisenhower and Khrushchev, Oswald's citizenship request was repeatedly delayed and his status was treated gingerly by Soviet authorities. By December 1959, Oswald was still living at the Metropole Hotel in Moscow, but he was nearly penniless and had to write to his mother for money. She complied by sending him a check for $20, which was impossible to cash in the USSR. This lot includes six items related to this request for money; the first three items have been laminated together in a sheet of flexible plastic by the Warren Commission, which bears a sticker identifying it as "Commission Exhibit No. 202."
1. Marguerite Oswald Check Signed. One page, 6" x 2.75", completed in Marguerite's hand in the amount of $20 and drawn against the First National Bank of Fort Worth, December 18, 1959. Laminated. Fine condition.
2. Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Note Signed. Torn scrap of paper measuring approximately 6.5" x 2.75", n.p. [Moscow], n.d. [December 26, 1959]. Oswald returned the $20 check to his mother along with this brief penciled note: "I can't use the check, of courese [sic]. Put the $20 bill in an envelope and send it to me. I'm also short of cash and need the rest. Love Lee." Laminated. Fine.
4. Lee Harvey Oswald Autograph Transmittal Envelope. Airmail envelope, 6.5" x 3.75", Moscow, December 26, 1959. Envelope is accomplished in pencil by Lee Oswald and is addressed to his mother Marguerite, in Fort Worth, TX. Bears several Russian inked postal marks. Laminated. In fine condition.
5. Marguerite Oswald Autograph Transmittal Envelope. Plain envelope, 6.5" x 3.75", Fort Worth, TX, January 1960. Although it cannot be verified, we believe Marguerite used this envelope to send cash to her son in Moscow. The date stamp is faint, but appears to read either January 26 or 28, 1960. Several Russian inked postal marks. Fine condition.
6. Marguerite Oswald Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 5" x 8", 1605 8th Ave., [Fort Worth, Texas], January 22 [1960]. In part: "After receiving your note about not being able to case the check I sent you, I sent $20.00 cash (a bill) on the 5th of Jan. I sure hope that you have received it. . . ." Fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Christmas Card Inscribed and Signed. Oblong folded and embossed color Christmas card, 5.5" x 4", n.p. [Minsk], n.d. [early December 1961]. After 15 months in the Soviet Union, Oswald had grown disaffected with life in Russia, and his wish to become a citizen of the USSR had soured. By February 1961, he began communicating with the American Embassy, hoping to enlist their help in returning to the United States, but this would be a long and involved process, and he was told to go back to his life and his job and wait for news. On March 17, 1961, Oswald attended a trade union dance in Minsk, where he met a beautiful 19-year-old pharmacology student named Marina Prusakova. He courted her aggressively and a month later they were wed. By the first of December, Lee's frustration over the Soviets' failure to award him an exit visa led him to send a letter to the American Embassy asking them to lie for him and claim he was being held against his will by Soviet authorities. Of course the American authorities refused.

A few days after writing to the American Embassy, Lee and Marina sent this Christmas card to Lee's mother, Marguerite, in Fort Worth, TX. The front of the card bears an embossed color image of pine boughs and pinecones surrounding a clock that strikes 12 o'clock, and a holiday greeting in Cyrillic. The blank interior bears the following inscription by Oswald: "Merry Christmas, Dear Mother, from us both. Lee." It is also signed by Marina Oswald, in Cyrillic. The card has been laminated in flexible plastic and bears a sticker on the back identifying it as an exhibit from the Warren Commission: "Commission No. 186." In fine condition.

Less than a week later, December 11, 1961, Oswald was fired by the Belorussian Radio and Television Factory in Minsk, citing careless and unsatisfactory work and a negative attitude/demeanor as reasons for letting him go. Almost miraculously, two weeks later on Christmas Day, the Oswalds were granted passports and exit visas, and within a few short months they were on their way to Texas. The Christmas card is accompanied by the Original Transmittal Envelope, accomplished in Lee's hand and bears what appears to be a return address written in Russian in another hand, probably Marina's. Several ink Soviet postal marks on recto; U.S. postal mark on verso dated December 12, 1961. Laminated in flexible plastic by the Warren Commission. Envelope is in very good condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Courts-Martial Documents. Lee Harvey Oswald's military career was marred by two courts-martial, both of which occurred in 1958 while Oswald was based in Japan.
This exceptional lot contains official documents from both of these proceedings, one of which bears his signature.

April 11, 1958 Court-Martial: Partly Printed Document. Two two-sided pages, 8" x 12.5", Atsugi Japan, April 11, 1958. Being the "Charge Sheet" which contains Oswald's typed information as the accused, as well as names of witnesses, information provided by commanding officers, Oswald's punishment, and other remarks. On October 27, 1957, Oswald accidentally shot himself in the left elbow with his personal .22 derringer. Possession of such a firearm was in direct violation of "a lawful general order... by having in his possession a privately-owned weapon that was not registered." Following a three-week stay at the Yokosuka Naval Hospital and various unrelated delays, Oswald's court-martial commenced on April 11, 1958, at which time Commanding Officer and Convening Authority Lt. Col. N.D. Glenn made his judgment. Oswald was demoted from private first class to private and ordered "To be confined at hard labor for 20 days, to forfeit $25.00 per month for two months and to be reduced to the grade of private... Approved and ordered executed, but the confinement at hard labor for twenty days is suspended for six months, at which time, unless the suspension is sooner vacated, the sentence to confinement at hard labor for twenty days will be remitted without further action."

Attached to this printed form is an 8" x 10.5" carbon onion skin of a typed statement issued by Lt. Col. Glenn on May 10, 1958, explaining the delay of Oswald's hearing. Also included is an unattached 8" x 10.5" carbon onion skin of a typed statement by Oswald's supervisor, Captain Francis J. Gajewski, who notes that Oswald "has done very good work for me. I would desire to have him work for me at any time... While I have known him he has given me the impression that he minds his business and does his job well. If I were to rate him for conduct and proficiency at this time I would award him 3.9 for proficiency and a 4.0 for conduct." These three items are in generally good condition, bearing several creases and folds, staple marks, punch holes, and small tears.

June 24, 1958 Court-Martial: Partly Printed Document Signed. Two two-sided pages, 8" x 12.5", Atsugi Japan, June 24, 1958. This "Charge Sheet" contains Oswald's typed information as the accused, the names of witnesses, information provided by commanding officers, Oswald's punishment, and other remarks. Just two months after his first court-martial, Oswald was brought before a second military court on charges that he insulted and assaulted a superior officer.

For several weeks prior, Oswald had been complaining about the duties that had been assigned to him by Rodriguez, claiming that he was being picked on and harassed. He tried to get himself transferred to another crew, but was unsuccessful. On June 20, 1958, Oswald saw Technical Sergeant Miguel Rodriguez Jr. and Staff Sgt. James Milam in the Bluebird Café in Yamato, Japan, at which time Oswald apparently decided to take matters into his own hands. Oswald's drink was either spilled or poured on Rodriguez and the MPs were called. The first charge against Oswald states that Oswald "did... wrongfully use provoking words, to wit: 'You're yellow because you won't go outside and fight me.'" The second charge states that Oswald "assault[ed] Technical Sergeant Miguel Rodriguez Jr.,... by pouring a drink on him, and saying 'Let's go outside,' or words to that effect."


Once again, Convening Authority Lt. Col. N.D. Glenn heard the case and made his judgment against Oswald, stating that he was "To be confined at hard labor for Twenty-eight days and to forfeit $55.00 per month for One (1) month." Glenn also notes that the punishment has been "Approved and ordered executed. NAS Atsugi Brig is designated as the place of confinement." Oswald has signed the document on the final page in blue fountain pen ink.

Accompanying this document is a "Summary of Evidence in the Case of Private Lee H. Oswald," being a carbon copy on green onion skin. Four pages, 8" x 10.5", Atsugi, Japan, June 27, 1958. This typed carbon relates official statements of Rodriguez, Milam, 1st Lt. Charles R. Rhodes (Rodriguez's superior officer) and Oswald, as they pertain to the incident at the Bluebird Café. Oswald defends himself by saying: "I walked over to talk to Sgt. Rodriguez and my drink fell out of my hand and hit him on the knee. He jumped up and shoved me away and then sat back down. I went back to try and talk to him about why he was assigning me to all those extra duties, man to man like, when the MP's came in, and took me to the MP Station. I didn't drop the glass the drink was in, it just sort of hit the edge of the table and poured out. I asked Sgt. Rodriguez to step outside to fight after he had shoved me. I don't recall calling him yellow. I didn't make any statements to the MPs because I was sort of drunk." All items from this court-martial are in generally good condition, bearing several creases and folds, staple marks, punch holes, and small tears. Prospective buyers are advised to view all items prior to bidding.

An outstanding collection of items from Lee Harvey Oswald's less-than-stellar military career. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Signed Yearbook. The Yellow Jacket/1957, 151 pages, 8" x 11". Arlington Heights High School, Fort Worth, Texas. The yearbook belonged to sophomore Kleber Denny and is signed by Oswald in the middle of the verso of the front free endpaper, "Good Luck,/ To a good friend of mine/ I hope we will meet/ again./ Lee Oswald". The only picture of Oswald is at the top of page 104 and shows a laughing Oswald with female student. The caption reads, "'Bing! You're hypnotized,' says Janet Bolin to Lee Oswald in the old bio lab."

Before the age of eighteen, Oswald had lived in twenty-two different locations. He was a troubled student and was charged with truancy and ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation in the seventh grade. Oswald enrolled in Arlington Heights High School in September 1956. Later that month, he dropped out. In October, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and by the end of the month had reported for duty in San Diego; he never finished high school. Overall, the book is in fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald Marine Corps Certificate of Acceptance. One page, 11" x 8.5", Dallas, Texas, October 24, 1956. The certificate notifies Oswald's mother, "Mrs. Marguerite Oswald", that "Lee Harvey OSWALD has successfully passed" the required examinations to be accepted into the U.S. Marine Corps. Includes a stamped signature of Captain R. K. Jones. Has yellowed tape remnants in all corners except bottom left.

Also offered (and affixed to the back of the certificate) is Oswald's high school general educational development tests (GED) scores issued by the U.S. Armed Forces. Oswald dropped-out of the ninth grade and never received his high school diploma. He joined the Marines at the age of seventeen. Both items are toned; fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Lee Harvey Oswald's Elementary and Junior High School Promotion Certificates, Inscribed and Signed by his Mother, Marguerite Oswald. Lee's early home life was anything but stable; by the time he was 18, he'd lived in 22 different homes and attended 12 different schools in three states. At the age of 12, he graduated from Ridglea West Elementary School in Fort Worth, a school he had attended for three years - longer than any other school in his life. This two-item lot consists of:
1. Lee Harvey Oswald's "Certificate of Promotion ... to Junior High School." One page, 10" x 8", [Fort Worth] Texas, May 30, 1952. This partly printed document with decorative border reads in full: "This is to Certify That Lee Oswald having satisfactorily performed the work prescribed for Elementary School is Promoted to Junior High School. Given at Ridglea West School, May 30, 1952." The document bears the printed signatures of school district officials, as well as the ink signatures of Lee's teacher and the school principal. Inscribed and signed on verso by Lee's mother, Marguerite Oswald, in ink: "This is Lee's original certificate of promotion. Ridglea West School in Ft. Worth, Tex. Marguerite C. Oswald, mother of Lee Harvey Oswald." Document shows faint wear at fold, but is generally very fine.
2. Lee Harvey Oswald's "New Orleans Public Schools Certificate of Promotion to High School," also inscribed and signed by Marguerite Oswald. One page, 8.25" x 7", New Orleans, June 10, 1955. Following his graduation from elementary school in Texas, Marguerite relocated her family to New York. During this time, Lee's personality and demeanor changed dramatically. Where he had previously been quiet and reserved, in New York Lee grew angry and anti-social, chronically truant and failing most of his classes. He grew increasingly interested in Marxism, and was professionally "diagnosed as personality pattern disturbance with schizoid features and passive-aggressive tendencies." Rather than getting him the help he desperately needed, Marguerite took her son and left New York for New Orleans. There, Oswald attended junior high school - his tenth school - at Beauregard School, from which he received this decoratively edged partly printed document "For having satisfactorily completed the 9th Grade... this 10 day of June 1955." It bears the red ink signature of the school principal at lower left; teacher's signature is not extant. On the verso, Lee's mother Marguerite has penned: "After leaving New York, Lee and I returned to N.O. La. This is his certificate of promotion. Marguerite C. Oswald, mother of Lee Harvey Oswald." Document bears a faint stain at upper printed border and two pinholes, else fine.

An extraordinary pair of documents bracketing the first major turning point in Oswald's complicated and troubled life. Highly desirable and collectible. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Blood-stained Leather from Assassination Limousine. Visible blood stains are on these two pieces of leather taken from the backseat of the limousine in which President Kennedy was riding when he was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. Texas Governor John Connally was sitting in the front seat and was wounded. One piece of leather, which comes from the border of the rear seat, is dark blue and irregularly shaped, 6" at its longest and 3" at its widest. The other piece, which comes from the center of the rear seat, is light blue and roughly 2.5" x 3". The visible spots on the leather are dried blood from the president.

The presidential limousine was an open-top modified 1961 Lincoln Continental that was codenamed SS-100-X by the Secret Service. The car had been in use since March 1961. Following the assassination, F. Vaughn Ferguson, the Technical Service Representative at the White House responsible for the presidential automobiles, was told by the Secret Service to clean the limousine and get it ready in case the new president, Lyndon Johnson, wanted to use it to attend the funeral. When Ferguson arrived at the garage where the car had been taken following the assassination, he found parts of it dismantled and the leather seats ripped-out, the result of an FBI search for bullet fragments. "Blood was everywhere," Ferguson remembered. He worked throughout the weekend to get the car ready for the funeral, but President Johnson didn't use it. Ferguson kept some of the ripped-out leather as mementos.

After the funeral, the limousine was completely refurbished by the Ford Motor Company according to Secret Service specifications. Steel plating, bullet proof tires, three inch glass, a bulletproof permanent roof, and other security features were added to the car resulting in a total addition of 2.5 tons to the weight of the car. The car continued to serve Johnson until it was replaced in 1967. Originally navy blue, it was repainted black when it was sent to the Henry Ford Museum in the 1970s, where it remains today. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

This lot has generated considerable interest, including questions as to its complete provenance. We have further researched this item and confirmed the following:

All of the privately held upholstery sections from the Kennedy assassination limo seem to have come through well-known presidential artifacts collector Raleigh De Geer Amyx. Dr. Lattimer had an active trading relationship with Amyx in the early 1980s, when he acquired the example presently on offer. In 1983, Raleigh Amyx obtained Letters of Authentication from F. Vaughn Ferguson, the Ford Motor Company's White House liaison who was present during the refurbishing of the vehicle, and who preserved part of the bloodstained upholstery. Whether or not a Ferguson letter ever accompanied the Lattimer example is unknown. However, no such letter has turned up in his files.

At least three upholstery sections with the Amyx provenance have come to market. A New York firm sold one during the disposition of the famed Robert White Kennedy collection in 2005, where it fetched $24,000. Another was sold several years earlier by a west coast firm, bringing a reported $20,000 plus buyer's premium. A third example was sold by Slater's Provenance in 2004, shortly before that firm's acquisition by Heritage. Click here to view the original catalog listing, including images, and a copy of the Ferguson letter that accompanied that example. Comparisons with these three published, documented examples, along with confirmation of the Amyx provenance, clearly confirm the authenticity of Dr. Lattimer's upholstery sections.

[John F. Kennedy] Extremely Rare Broadside, Program, and Ticket to the Texas Welcome Dinner for President John F. Kennedy. Offered here are three items related to the Texas Welcome Dinner; a folio broadside (8.5" x 14") on heavy cardboard outlining the program of events for the dinner, a 16-page program (8.5" x 11") for the event, and a gold-colored entrance ticket (No. D 3352) (4" x 2.5") issued by the State Democratic Executive Committee. A sobering and highly collectible group of important items relating to the assassination of a much loved President. All items are in fine condition.

On Friday, November 22, 1963, a Texas Welcome Dinner was planned for 7:30 p.m. at the Municipal Auditorium in Austin, where the President, the Vice President, and the Governor of Texas would be honored. This dinner never took place, as both President Kennedy and Governor John Connally were shot by sniper fire during an afternoon parade through downtown Dallas. A half an hour after the 12:30 p.m. shooting, President Kennedy was pronounced dead; Governor Connally eventually recovered from gunshot wounds in his chest, wrist, and thigh. The following year, the Warren Commission report on the assassination concluded that the bullets came from a gun that Lee Harvey Oswald fired from a window on the sixth floor of the book depository warehouse, as the President's motorcade passed through Dallas' Daley Plaza. Two days later, Oswald would be shot dead by Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy Book Signed. Profiles in Courage, by John Kennedy. New York: Harper & Brothers, [1955]. First edition, 8vo, signed on the title page by JFK, "Warm regards/ John Kennedy", and about 2" below, RFK has signed "Robert Kennedy". JFK was a senator when he authored the book, which profiled the bravery and integrity of eight U. S. senators. One year later, after becoming a best seller, it won the Pulitzer Prize. Allegations soon surfaced that much of the book was written by one of Kennedy's speechwriters. The binding is well-worn with the owner's signature and his rubber-stamp impressions on the front free endpaper. This rare example of the two Kennedy brothers' signatures together is very desirable and in fine condition. Ex. Charles Hamilton. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Archive. This exceptional lot contains items from JFK's senatorial term, from his time as the Democratic nominee for president, and from his presidency. Six items are included, each with assorted pieces of provenance. Prospective buyers are advised to view items carefully prior to bidding.
1. Autograph Senatorial Notes - Four pages, one sided, 5.25" x 8" on United States Senate Memorandum note paper, n.p. [Washington, D.C.], n.d. [June 1954]. Kennedy jotted these penciled notes at his desk in the Senate Office Building during Senatorial discussions of the proposed expansion of authority of the Export-Import Bank and associated trade agreements, in the summer of 1954. They read, in full: "[Page 1] Common Market agreement of 75 countries of Central America - should be encouraged in all of South America. Marketing quotas - permits, information. [Page 2] Excessive defense on raw material; prices to fluctuate widely - exch. Phobia - Brazil - [illegible]. We are the victims of our past dictation - universality - non-intervention. When was resolution passed? Organization of American States. [Page 3] 32 million goes to technical assistance. Council on Inter-American Affairs. Did Latin America agree to asylum for all. [Page 4] export-import bank. International Bank of Investment and Development. 20% investment public; 80% private. Get details of U.S. grants military. What is situation on credit - past, present & future." Staple holes at upper left, else very fine.
3. Autograph Notations on Memo to DNC Delegation Chairmen - One page, 8.5" x 11", penned on verso of a typed memo to Democratic National Convention delegation chairmen, Chicago, August 10, 1956. In full: "Congressman Fogarty - me - Boland. Congressman Forand. Congressman Fogarty." Light wear; fine condition.
4. Christmas Card Fragments - Four trimmed pieces from a printed Christmas card ranging in size from 3" x .75" to 3.25" x 4.75", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], n.d. [December 1958 or 1959]. Trimmed pieces include: (1) the printed greeting; "Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with happiness. Senator and Mrs. John F. Kennedy", and a second facsimile signature "Best, Jack". (2) A printed image of the Senator and Mrs. Kennedy with a young Caroline. (3) The embossed and gilded Great Seal of the United States. (4) Colorful border trim of poinsettias and holly. Pieces are crudely cut and do not fit together to form a complete card. All pieces bear tape stains along edges; a few staple holes. Fair condition.
5. Autograph Notes as Presidential Nominee - One page, 5" x 6", n.p., n.d. [between July and November 1960]. Democratic presidential nominee Jack Kennedy penned these notes during his campaign tour of the country. The top half of the page reads: "William D. McClellan, Chairman Board of County Comm., Penn Sheraton Hotel, Banquet Chairman." At the lower half: "Ted: 1 ½ min. You will explain my infected throat? And that my brother Ted will speak for me." Ink notations on verso in an unknown hand. One rough edge, generally fine condition.
6. Two Autopen Signed Photographs as President - Two 8" x 10" black and white images of Kennedy as President. One is a head and shoulders shot, with an autopen inscription "With best wishes John Kennedy." The other is a candid photo of Mr. And Mrs. Kennedy with autopen signatures. Both images bear ink stamp of verso: "Official Photograph, The White House." Both images are in fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Collection of John F. Kennedy Doodles and Speech Edits, and Jacqueline Mourning Thank You Card. Lot contains seven JFK items from throughout his political career, consisting of:
1. Autograph Notations on Typed Carbon of 1952 Speech as US Representative - Two pages, 8.5" x 11", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], n.d. [1952]. Carbon flimsy of a typed speech titled "Kennedy Rights for Peace," containing a few handwritten edits on the first page. Some creases along edges and corners; staple holes. In very good condition.
2. Autograph Notations and Doodles on Typed Carbon of 1955 Speech as U.S. Senator - One page, 8.5" x 11", n.p. [Boston], n.d. [October 29, 1955]. Being page two of the speech Senator Kennedy delivered before the Annual Alumni Association Banquet of Boston College Business Administration. Kennedy has lined out several portions of the speech in ink; unusual doodles appear at the upper left corner of the page, as well as the word "fiscal." Light age toning; faint crease. In fine condition.
3. Autograph Notations on Typed Carbon of 1956 Speech as U.S. Senator - Three pages, 8.5" x 11", Amherst, Massachusetts, May 4, 1956. Carbon copy on flimsy bears the typed speech given by Senator Kennedy at Amherst College, being pages 1, 6, and 11 of that speech. Each page contains ink edits and notations in Kennedy's hand. Moderate creasing of first page; generally fine overall condition.
4. Autograph Notations on Typed 1956 Speech as Senator - Three pages, 8.5" x 14", n.p., n.d. Being pages 3, 4, and 5 of an unidentified speech containing numerous edits and handwritten notations throughout. Although the exact date of this speech is unknown, several passages from this speech are also contained in Kennedy's June 2, 1956 address delivered at the Fourth Annual Rockhurst Day Banquet at Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Missouri. Light age toning; a few chips, creases and staple holes. Generally fine.
5. Autograph Doodles and Notations on 1962 Federal Reserve Memo as President - One page, 8.5" x 11", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], n.d. [1962]. Being "A Simplified Explanation of Expansion in the Money Supply through Federal Reserve Operations." Presumably, while a presentation on this subject was being presented, President Kennedy doodled and made a few penciled notes on the back of the outline memo. Light age toning, else fine.
6. Autograph Doodles and Notations as President - One page, 8" x 10", lined yellow note paper, n.p., n.d. [1962]. Using a dull pencil, President Kennedy doodled a series of interlocking boxes, and wrote the occasional word and number on this trimmed piece of lined paper, presumably while being briefed on an unknown matter. Staple holes at upper left, else fine.
7. Printed Mourning Thank You Card from Mrs. Kennedy - One page, 5.25" x 3.5", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], n.d. [late 1964 - early 1965]. Following the assassination of her husband, Mrs. Kennedy sent these black-bordered thank you cards to friends, family and constituents. The card is unsigned and accompanied by the original transmittal envelope bearing Mrs. Kennedy's printed free frank at upper right. No postal markings. Addressed to Richard Bruno of Islip Terrace, NY. Mounting traces on verso of card and envelope; generally fine condition.

Most items are accompanied by provenance documentation. Prospective buyers are advised to view all items in this lot carefully prior to bidding. A wonderful and affordable collection of Kennedy items! From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Greeting Card Signed "best always/ Jack-" in blue ink. Three pages, 5" x 5", n.p., n.d., with first page printed introduction, "May the luck o' the Irish be with ye". Hallmark greeting card, copyright 1945. Included is the envelope addressed to "Claire" with the same pen as Kennedy's signature. Below the addressee, written in pencil, is "Sullivan". Fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Typed Letter Signed as Congressman. One page, 8" x 10.5", on Kennedy's "Congress of the United States, House of Representatives" letterhead, Washington, D.C., August 28, 1947. Seven months after winning the vacant seat of US Representative James M. Curley in Congress, John Kennedy wrote this personal letter to Langdon Marvin, who was a Harvard pal, close friend, and former law partner of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. In full: "Dear Langdon: As I am leaving Sunday, I don't think it would be possible for me to do much on Forrestal. I haven't seen him for seven or eight months and have pretty well lost contact with him. I think you would do better if you would contact him through Brown or someone else like that who had already gone over your idea. You have certainly had a hard time and taken a bit of a screwing. Best, Jack."

It is unclear what message Marvin wanted JFK to convey to Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal, but Kennedy clearly felt he was unable to rectify whatever had befallen Marvin in his later years. Letter is boldly signed in fountain pen ink and bears two punch holes along the upper edge. Light creases. Very good condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Signed Outline of Foot in pencil. One page (front and back), 6.5" x 12.5", Hyannisport, Massachusetts, n.d. One side of this toned page contains an outline of JFK's left foot and the other side contains an outline of his right foot. Within the outline of the left foot, Kennedy has written, "Senator John F. Kennedy/ Hyannisport/ Cape Cod; Massachusetts". Also written in pencil inside the outlined foot are a series of fractions: "7 1/8, 14 ½, 10 5/8, 10 3/8, 10 ¾". Within the outline of the right foot are written another series of fractions. The Kennedy family bought a home in Hyannisport in 1929. JFK spent many summers there as he grew up. His shoe size was 10C. Contains three filing holes; fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] PT-109 Archive. John Kennedy volunteered for the U.S. Army in the spring of 1941, but was rejected. Later that September, he was accepted by the U.S. Navy. After the attack on Pearl Harbor in December, he attended the Naval Reserve Officers Training School and Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Training Center. He was eventually assigned to the Pacific theater where he became a lieutenant in command of a PT (patrol torpedo) boat, PT-109. While participating in a nighttime patrol near the Solomon Islands on August 2, 1943, his PT boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer. Two PT-109 crewmembers were lost immediately and two more were severely injured. The survivors, including Lt. Kennedy, made land where they survived for six days on coconuts and were spectacularly rescued. Kennedy received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroic, life-saving actions. This lot contains details of the story. The wreckage of PT-109 was found in May 2002.

The following are offered in the wonderful lot:
1. JFK photo of PT-109 signed, "John F. Kennedy". Shows a prominent "109" on the bridge. On the bottom of the photo is an explanation of the photo. On verso is a handstamp of the National Archives Credit Line. Included is a one page typed history of the ship, a 1962 typed letter signed from W. D. Collins, the Head of the U. S. Navy Community Relations Branch stating, "No photograph of PT-109 is available." Also, a clipped newspaper photo with caption of JFK and Benjamin Kevu, the Solomon Islander who helped Kennedy to safety. Very fine.
2. P. H. McMahon typed manuscript signed and dated March 27, 1967, stating how Kennedy had "saved all our lives"." McMahon was severely burned when PT-109 was sunk. Kennedy pulled McMahon about four miles through the water to safety. Toned; fine.
3. Seven typed statements about the events surrounding the sinking of PT-109 signed by crewmembers Charles A. "Bucky" Harris, Ed Drewitch, Gerard E. Zinser, John Maguire (two statements), George "Barney" Ross, and Maurice L. Kowal. Most contain additional handwritten notes. Very fine.
4. Two first day issued envelopes with stamps commemorating JFK. One is postmarked May 29, 1964, with the signature in pen of "John Maguire", PT-109 crewmember; the other is postmarked August 7, 1970. Very fine.
5. First day issue "First Man on the Moon" commemorative stamp, postmarked Sept. 9, 1969, and July 20, 1969. The collectable page on which the stamp is affixed is signed by Ed Drewitch, PT-109 crewmember. Very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Notated Typed Letter, Cards, and Invitation One Page, 6.75" x 9". Typed letter with corrections made in JFK's hand. Accompanied by:
1. Two cards with printed facsimile JFK signatures;
2. White House Christmas card with facsimile signature.

JFK was President from 1961 until November 22, 1963, when Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed the president in Dallas, Texas. These pieces represent an important presidential administration and are recommended for any Kennedy or presidential collector. All pieces are in very fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jacqueline Kennedy Autograph Letter Signed as Senator's Wife. One page, 6.25" x 7", on her personal stationary, Washington, DC, n.d. [datestamped February 9, 1960.] One month after declaring his intention to run for the President of the United States, Senator John F. Kennedy's wife Jacqueline ordered six pair of socks for him from an unidentified men's clothier. In full: "Dear Sirs, Would you please send me 6 pairs of your blue cotton ribbed socks, long, with the elastic top. They are for my husband who wears size 10C shoe. Please send them to the above address & bill them to him - John F Kennedy, Senate Office Bldg, Washington DC. Thank you - Sincerely Jacqueline Kennedy." Senator Kennedy officially declared his intent to run for president on January 2, 1960; we can only assume Mrs. Kennedy ordered these socks for her husband to wear during his exhausting campaign for the Oval Office. Despite his youth, John F. Kennedy captured the Democratic nomination in 1960 and went on to win one of the closest elections in U.S. history. Although undated, the letter bears a "Received" stamp of "Feb 9 1960," as well as several notations in red ink accomplished by the clothier. Originally purchased from Charles Hamilton Auction #37, November 6, 1969. Accompanied by previous auction catalog descriptions and assorted provenance/documentation. In fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jacqueline Kennedy Autograph Note to Chauffeur. One page, 8" x 6", n.p., n.d. This schedule, written entirely in Jacqueline Kennedy's hand on yellow-lined paper, is for chauffeur "Mugsy" and lists two appointments: one at "9:30 or 10 -- Take Mrs. Kennedy to 44th St. She will give you address"; the other appointment, at 1:00, instructs Mugsy to call Mrs. Kennedy and then bring her to "La Cote Basque Restaurant". The cigar-smoking John "Mugsy" O'Leary was the Kennedy's chauffeur for years. A former Boston policeman, he was well-liked by JFK. La Côte Basque, a favorite restaurant of Mrs. Kennedy, closed in 2004 and was described by the New York Times as a "45-year-old former high-society temple of French cuisine." The note has folds and light staining; fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jacqueline Kennedy Typed Letter Signed. One page, 6" x 9", Washington, November 15, 1961, on White House letterhead. This unusual letter was written to William Lipscomb of the Riggs National Bank on Pennsylvania Avenue concerning a request by Mrs. Kennedy. In part: "This is to request that, effective immediately, an account be opened with The Riggs National Bank under the name of 'Mary B. Gallagher - Special'. This account will actually consist of funds belonging to me and my husband, with Mary Gallagher serving as agent. . . ."

Mary Barelli Gallagher was Mrs. Kennedy's personal secretary during the White House years. In 1969, she published her best-selling memoir, My Life with Jacqueline Kennedy. For most of its 170-year history, Riggs National Bank was one of the largest banks in Washington, D.C., serving many notable individuals, including twenty-two presidents. In 2005, Riggs merged with PNC Bank and retired its name. Very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John F. Kennedy Inaugural Collection Collected from the official Inauguration of JFK, these items bring to life the snowy day of January 20, 1961, when Kennedy was sworn into office. Included are the following: 1. an official invitation to the event; 2. a ticket to the inauguration; 3. a copy of the official inaugural program. Beautiful pieces are all in very fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, and Gerald Ford Congressional Typed Letters Signed. Group of four TLSs by three noted congressmen who went on to become president, consisting of:
1. John F. Kennedy - TLS, one page, 7.25" x 10.5", on his printed Hotel Bellevue letterhead, Boston, December 3, 1946, regarding his recent election. Two punch holes at top.
2. Lyndon B. Johnson - TLS, one page, 6" x 7", on his Office of the Democratic Leader letterhead, Washington, D.C., January 5, 1956, declining an invitation to a DNC dinner.
3. Gerald R. Ford - TLS, one page, 8" x 10.5", on his Office of the Minority Leader letterhead, Washington, D.C., September 27, 1967. Addressed to a constituent, discussing federal spending.
4. Gerald R. Ford - TLS, one page, 8" x 10.5", on his Office of the Minority Leader letterhead, Washington, D.C., May 15, 1972, concerning the circulation of nominating petitions to enter his name into the Michigan primary election. Items range in condition from very good to fine. Prospective buyers are advised to review multiple-item lots prior to bidding. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Collection. Fifteen items of Kennedy related memorabilia including the following: a Columbia University announcement that Kennedy had won the Pulitzer Prize; an invitation to the Kennedy's wedding; an invitation to "An Evening with Carl Sandburg"; a card sent by Jacqueline Kennedy expressing thanks for sympathy; plus other invitations and official passes.

Other items include a Jewish community tribute to JFK; a program for "An Evening with Marian Anderson"; an official parking pass to the governor's reception in 1961; a pass to the 1962 White House Press Dinner; four items related to a luncheon with the president invitation; and an invitation to view the White House Christmas decorations in 1962. All are fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Inaugural Commemorative License Plate. 12" x 6", "District of Columbia/ 8768/ Inauguration 1961", with image of an American flag overlaying the Capital dome on the left. The first special license plates to commemorate a presidential inauguration were issued for Franklin Roosevelt's first term in 1933. It is estimated that 10,000 pairs of this 1961 inauguration plate were made, which were the first to be completely flat and have a reflectorized background. A heavy coating of clear lacquer was used on the 1961 plates making them appear pale yellow; the lacquer is very obvious on the back of this plate. This plate was produced at the Lorton Correctional Complex and is in very fine condition.

Also included in this lot is a JFK commemorative matchbook (no matches). On one side is the seal of the presidency and on the other side is printed "John F. Kennedy". Also, seven U.S. Army photographs (10" x 8") of various shots of the Nuremberg Trials. Descriptions and dates are stamped on the versos. All are very fine. Also, a 4" x 3.25" Lee Radziwill autograph note signed, "To Ray/ With thanks/ Lee Radziwill". Radziwill was the younger sister of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Assassination Grouping. This engaging collection includes over fifty items associated with the assassination of JFK, including newspaper clippings; photos of the Kennedys; letters from judges and senators; numerous signed cards by witnesses, Secret Service agents, and others; memorial FDCs; signed envelopes; and much more. An excellent collection starter in fine to very fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Signatures included in lot:
Jacqueline Kennedy (2 ANS)
Clinton Hill (2)
William R. Greer (2)
Roy H. Kellerman
John C. Brewer (2)
James E. Jarman, Jr. (3)
James B. Swindal (3)
Dorothy Kilgallen (4)
Clayton Fowler (2)
Sarah T. Hughes (2)
Melvin Belli
Joy Dale (2)
John Connally

Lot also includes a Jacqueline Kennedy printed signature, a Robert Kennedy signature that is likely autopen, and a John F. Kennedy signature that cannot be authenticated.

[John F. Kennedy] Fabric Swatch from Upholstery used on JFK's Rocker. 8.5" x 2", with card that reads, "This is a piece of the antique honey white upholstery used on President Kennedy's Rocker in 1961" and is signed "Norma Arata/ White House Upholsterer". Fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] "Wanted for Treason" Handbill. One page, 9" x 12", n.p., n.d. The handbill displays a reproduction of a front and profile photo of the president followed by seven provocative charges against him, including "1. Betraying the Constitution". Affixed to a cardboard backing. Fine.
From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Archive of Letters. Four emotional and intimate letters that show contradictory views of the man who murdered JFK's assassin in 1963 on live television. All are written after Ruby shot Oswald and while he was in the Dallas County jail, and from 1964 through 1966. The only letter in the lot not written by Ruby is an autograph letter signed to Jack Ruby from "Doris", a woman Ruby wanted to marry. Four pages, 6" x 7.75", Dallas, Texas, November 22, 1965, to Ruby in the Dallas County jail. Doris tells Ruby in part: "I don't suppose you know that Curtis and I are divorced now. Our situation was really hopeless as I am sure you and a lot of other people will realize. . . I have a nice apartment and for the first time in years I am really happy. . . . Just keep your spirits up, Jack, and I am sure things will work out better than you ever thought. . . you were always good and thoughtful to me." Includes envelope. Very fine.
2. Jack Ruby Autograph Letter Signed "Jack" to Doris. Four pages, in pencil, [Dallas County jail], January 8, 1966. In part: "You have been the only person that I have constantly thought of outside of my immediate family. . . . I surely realize now what a wonderful and blissful life we had both been cheated out of. Had I only known how much you really cared for me, perhaps I too would have been more serious in our future for us. However at [the] time, I thought that you and Curtis would have worked something out, and then I wouldn't have felt any guilt of breaking up a home, especially with a child. Had you only been divorced at the time, I know in my heart I would have wanted you for my wife. . . if you would have wanted me. . . I have never stopped thinking of you. I know that I am responsible for a dreadful tragedy that has happened in the world, because I was a fool to let myself be carried away that fatal Sunday morning. Perhaps our beloved Presidents death had effected me more than anyone else." Very fine.
3. Jack Ruby Autograph Letter (unsigned). Twenty-nine pages, in pencil, 6" x 4", Dallas County jail, n.d. This letter, which is numbered in Roman numerals in the top left of each leaf, is missing leaf "XIII". Still, it is an interesting mixture of personal advice and political ramblings, the point of which is that President Lyndon Johnson has allied with Nazi elements to destroy all Jews, including Ruby. "Johnson has an appointment with French Premier DeGaulle, and will [find] some way to betray him. . . . I may be burned alive, because I'll be the last Jew alive of the States and they are planning a big party for me." About Kennedy's assassination: "Do you honestly think. . . that I would walk right into the police station and commit the act as I have and knowing all the while that I am a party to most heinous crime in the history of the world. . . . I won't be around to defend myself. This is so tragic from the way this thing has turned out." About business, Ruby wrote that he owned two of the most popular night clubs in Dallas and owed excise taxes. Then, writing about his family: "My precious family all done away with because of my stupidity. . . . My tragic mistake was, that owning a nite club has made it possible for me to become familiar with pistols." Interestingly, key words are missing in some sentences, the result of a mind that worked faster than the pencil. Some pages are mildly soiled or smudged. Fine.
4. Jack Ruby Autograph Letter Signed "Your friend, Jack Ruby". One page, in pencil, 6" x 4", Dallas County jail, January 7, 1964, to Grace Jeffery of Honolulu, Hawaii. Ruby thanks "Mrs. Jeffery" for her "beautiful Christmas card, and may God Bless you and yours for thinking of me at this time." With airmail envelope addressed by Ruby. Fine.

Also included is a facsimile of seven typed pages analyzing Jack Ruby's handwriting and drawings. The analyses are done by Ken Nobel (October 21, 1967), Fred Brown (n.d.), and Rose Wolfson (n.d.). From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Lot of Ten Checks Signed. Ten partly printed checks and drafts, all near 8.25" x 3", dated 1957 through 1961, and drawn on three Dallas banks (Mercantile National Bank, Hillcrest State Bank, and Bank of Services and Trusts). All are signed "Jack Ruby", who was the killer of JFK's assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald. Payees include Stanley Kaufman, the Sam R. Bloom Advertising Agency, the Running Creek Kennels, and "Fritz" Fritzmeir. All have cancellation stamps (some are touching the signatures); one has tear and loss to top right, remaining checks are in excellent condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Archive. Nightclub owner/operator Jack Ruby was convicted on March 14, 1964, for the murder of President Kennedy's presumed assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald. Two days after Oswald was arrested for Kennedy's assassination, Ruby shot and killed Oswald in the halls of the Dallas police headquarters. Offered here are numerous personal items from Jack Ruby's estate, including:

Air Travel Insurance Document Signed. One-page insurance policy "limited to aircraft accidents," for a round-trip flight from Dallas to Chicago. Issued to and signed "S.D.Ruby." Dated May 21, 1955. Fine.
Auto Insurance Card. Issued in 1956 with Ruby's typed name and policy information. Fine.
Auto Insurance Policy Documents. Envelope containing Ruby's insurance documents, a TLS from the agent, and a billing invoice issued January 1956. Very good to fine condition.
Pocket Address Book. Imitation leather 3" x 4" address book with alphabetical tabs containing many entries, as well as a small notepad filled with notes and a doctor's prescription for the drug Ambar dated May 15, 1956. Very good condition.
Western Union Telegram. Sent to Ruby on November 24, 1963, by W. Harris and A. Tangherlini. In full: "Congratulations. We hope he doesn't die, just suffers." Very good.
Western Union Telegram. Sent to Ruby by John Keith. In full: "At least you have the courage of your conviction. Count me in and call on me any time." Very good condition.
Autograph Letter from Ruby's Sisters with Original Envelope. One-page letter dated November 29, 1963, telling Ruby that "you haven't been out of our thoughts for one minute. We are all hoping and praying that you will soon be a free man." Signed "Your sisters." Fine.
Autograph Letter from Ruby's Sisters with Original Envelope. One-page letter written on December 6, 1963, which begins: "You are always in our thoughts and we talk to each other all day wondering how you are," and goes on to discuss the health of one of their siblings. Signed "Your sisters." Fine.
Carbon of Legal Agreement. One page carbon onion skin dated January 21, 1964. Being an agreement between Ruby, his attorneys, and the State of Texas, noting that "Jack Ruby is to undergo certain scientific tests, to-wit [sic]: electro-encephalograph; blood serology; skull X-ray; and spinal tap." Signed by two of Ruby's attorneys, presiding Judge Joe Brown, the Dallas DA and DA's assistant. Large closed tear at one fold; small area of paper loss at upper edge. Good condition.
Carbon of Court Document. One page carbon onion skin, dated January 29, 1964. Headed "The State of Texas vs. Jack Ruby" and filed in Criminal District Court No. 3, Dallas County. Documents the state's intention of having Jack Ruby undergo a series of medical tests. Signed by presiding Judge Joe B. Brown, two of Ruby's attorneys, the DA and the DA's assistant. In fine condition.
Medical File. Manila folder containing Jack Ruby's electroencephalograph, three photocopied letters from physicians, and a copy of the legal agreement noted above. Dates range from January 18, 1964, to March 9, 1964. The examining physician, Dr. Robert Schwab, reports that "From the clinical history, I would not make a diagnosis of psychomotor epilepsy. From my knowledge and experience, the shooting by Ruby of Oswald is not that of the behavior of the post-seizure automatism." Very good to fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[Jack Ruby] Suit. One of Ruby's original gray two-piece suits comes with handwritten note of provenance by his brother, Earl. The note, dated October 27, 1993, is shakily penned in a black marker, "This suit belonged to my brother Jack Ruby. Earl Ruby, Jack Ruby's estate executor." The suit was made by Eagle Clothes and sold by Ring & Brewer of Dallas. "J. Ruby" has been written once on a label inside the jacket and twice on an inside trouser pocket. The suit is still in fine condition with one small patch on the trouser's left hip. From the John K. Lattimer Collection

Jack Ruby Collection of Drawings Signed. Eight geometric drawings (six in pencil, one in black ink, one in watercolors), all 7" x 4". All are signed and dated September or October 1965. Six are inscribed: one to Jerry Walker, one to W.R. Pennington, and four to Thomas E. "Tub" Miller. W. R. Pennington was Ruby's personal body guard at the Dallas County Jail for three months. He spent up to eight hours a day with Ruby, playing cards, dominoes, or just talking. Thomas E. "Tub" Miller, a twenty-seven year old book keeper jailed for fraud, was a prisoner in the Dallas County Jail for eight months. During his time in jail, he became a close friend to Ruby. Some drawings are slightly soiled; all are fine. Included in this lot is an "Authentification of Jack Ruby Letters" signed by "Thomas E. Miller". Also included is an interesting letter from Pennington to John Lattimer describing Ruby and a certification by Charles Hamilton. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I 1492 Document Signed "Yo el Rey" (the King) and "Yo la Reyna" (the Queen), one page, 8" x 11", manuscript document dated January 14, 1492. Ferdinand and Isabella, known as the Catholic kings, ruled Castile and Aragon jointly. Their marriage in 1469 unified Christian Spain which laid the foundation for Spain's future greatness. They had five children, including Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII of England, and Joanna the Mad, who was the mother of Charles V, king of Spain and Holy Roman Emperor. Isabella and her husband are famous for introducing the Inquisition in 1478, the reconquest of Granada and for their expulsion of the Jews in 1492. That same year they sponsored Christopher Columbus's voyage, which led to the creation of the overseas Spanish colonial empire, bringing great wealth and power to Spain. This rare document, also from that same year, has been exquisitely matted and framed with their images to a size of 30.5" x 26".

Otto von Bismarck Autograph Letter Signed. "v. Bismarck". Four integral pages written on page one, June 7, 1886, Berlin, in German. The letter is addressed to, "Most Serene Highness, Prince" [translated]. The prince is, in all likelihood, Crown Prince Frederick Wilhelm of Germany. Bismarck writes the prince promising to get in touch with Baron Brumberg (?) in order to lay an unspecified matter before "His Majesty" (Kaiser Wilhelm I).

Napoleon Bonaparte Signed Document, "Napoleon", one page, 8" x 12", partially printed, Dresden, June 21, 1813, in French. Napoleon, as Emperor of France, King of Italy, Protector of the Rhine Confederation, and Mediator of the Swiss Confederation, names three officers as knights of the Imperial Order of the Iron Crown. The Emperor instructs the chancellor of the order to enroll the new knights. The order was limited to 20 grand cross knights, 30 knight commanders, and 50 ordinary knights. With Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo, in 1815, the Imperial French Order ceased to exist. The document and signature are clean and clear. Very fine.

Winston S. Churchill Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8" x 10", January 8, 1930, Westerham, Kent, United Kingdom, on Chartwell stationery. Churchill is writing to Ray Long, editor-in-chief of all Hearst magazines, about the serialization of one of the future prime minister's articles. One 4" tear near the salutation, pencil notations, and general soiling, else, very good. Nice bold Churchill signature.

[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.

[Queen Elizabeth I] Autograph Document, one page (docketing on verso), 20.5" x 14.25", vellum, June 9, in Old English. The document has its original Elizabethan wax seal. Much of the detail remains on both sides of the seal. Hole in the upper right of the document, one small repair, and two minor holes at the bottom fold, else, near very fine.

Toussaint Louverture Manuscript Letter Signed "Toussaint Louverture" as General in Chief of the Army of Santo Domingo, one page, 7.25" x 8.5". With integral address leaf. Saint-Domingue, "29 floréal year 9 of the one and indivisible French Republic " (April 18, 1801). In French. "Liberty" and "Equality" printed in the top corners. To Headquarters at Cape Français. In full, "Your letter of yesterday's date has reached me. You will forward to me the documents relative to the turning over to Commander Dempuré, so that they may reach him more promptly." On laid paper. Mounting remnants, pictorial stampings, and remnant of red sealing wax on the integral leaf. Fine condition.

Santo Domingo was a colony of France. Nevertheless, on February 4, 1801, Toussaint Louverture called for a Central Assembly to write a Constitution for his country. The date he chose was significant. France ended slavery in its colonies on February 4, 1794. In March 1801, there were elections throughout the colony to elect representatives. It is possible that the documents requested refer to the writing of the Constitution of Santo Domingo which was being written at the time of this letter and completed in May. On July 2, 1801, Toussaint Louverture signed the Constitution at Cape Français and, on July 16th, sent it to Emperor Napoleon for his "approval and the sanction of my government." Napoleon never personally answered any of his letters; replies would come from his Minister of the Marine. This irritated the Dominican leader who fancied himself "Bonaparte of the Antilles." On October 23, 1801, Napoleon entrusted the command of an expedition to, as he wrote his Foreign Minister Talleyrand, "annihilate the black government at St. Domingo," destroy the power of Toussaint Louverture, and re-establish slavery in the Island of Santo Domingo.

Jean Baptiste Charles Henri Hector, Comte d'Estaing Autograph Letter Signed "Estaing" as Lieutenant-general in the French navy, one page, 6.25" x 8", "Au Morne du Cap 29 May 1764", to Comte de Thorant thanking him for his good wishes and giving instructions of command. In large part: "My illness is worthwhile as it brings with it these proofs of friendship... One sergeant and 15 men should make up the detachment intended for Brigantine la Guepe, commanded by Mr. Chambon, or rather by me... Please will you give them their sailing orders; it is my intention to turn young men who are not afraid of the sea into sailors..." Two tiny tears at bottom margin, with just a bit of paper loss, mounting remnants to verso; otherwise warmly toned and in near fine condition.

A lifelong French naval officer, d'Estaing came to the assistance of the American colonies against the British in 1777 as a vice admiral leading 12 ships and 14 frigates. He would return to France in 1780, only to fall in disfavor with the French court. Although a supporter of the ideas proposed by the French Revolution, d'Estaing would be sent to the guillotine in 1794 after testifying on behalf of Marie Antoinette.

Commodore Matthew C. Perry Sentiment Signed "M. C. Perry", 7.5" x 3", New York, October 4, 1836. Written and signed while Perry was Second Officer of the New York Navy Yard. Perry pens in full "May god in his infinite goodness preserve forever, the union of these united states-". Perry (1794-1858) was a proponent of modernizing the U. S. Navy, especially by utilizing the steam engine. He helped bring about the opening of Japan to the West by signing the Kanagawa Treaty. Toned and fine.

George Armstrong Custer Card Signed "G A Custer/Maj Genl," 3.5" x 1.75". Light ink spreading at some letters. The date "May 23d" has been penned contemporarily in the lower right corner in another hand. The Civil War "Boy General" who was commissioned Brigadier General of Volunteers at age 23, became field commander of the 7th Cavalry after the war, leading his troops in a number of engagements during the Indian Wars. Major General Custer, together with all of the men under his immediate command, was killed at the Battle of Little Bighorn on June 25, 1876; he was 36-years-old. On May 23, 1865, Custer had led his cavalry division up Washington's Pennsylvania Avenue in the Grand Review of an estimated 100,000 Civil War veterans. The New York Times reported on May 24th that "Now and then, as some gallant officer made a conspicuous part in the procession, the applause became vociferous, and wreaths of laurel and showers of flowers were lavished upon him." An observer noted 25-year-old Custer's "long yellow hair whipping in the wind not once, but twice." It was one of the greatest moments of his life. That same day, Custer posed for Mathew Brady in his 352 Pennsylvania Avenue studio for the famous "arms folded" three-quarter length profile photograph and, probably, signed this card for an admirer. Fine condition.

[George Armstrong Custer] Two Elizabeth Custer Autograph Letters Signed.
(1) One page, 4.5" x 7", 22 East 78th Street, December 26, 1891, to "My Dear Miss Morell." In part: "I hope that I shall find time to go and see you when I am in Boston in February but if not perhaps I can ask you to come to me. I am going for work and I must deny myself visiting I fear. With all the good wishes of the year I am/ yours sincerely/ Elizabeth B. Custer."
(2) One page, 5" x 6.25", n.p., n.d., to Mrs. Umnia [?] in full: "It will be such a pleasure to dine with you Thursday/ Most Sincerely/ Elizabeth B. Custer."

After the death of her husband, George Custer, Elizabeth Bacon Custer spent much of her time rehabilitating his legacy by portraying him as an American hero. She worked hard in this endeavor, making speeches, writing articles, and authoring three books. The first letter offered here is evidence of her dedication to her husband's memory, a dedication that successfully convinced most that Gen. Custer was a hero, at least until twentieth historians began looking more critically at his life. A great beginning or addition to a Custer collection; each of these letters has a mid-page horizontal fold; very fine.

[George Armstrong Custer Court-martial] Letter Signed "Chauncey McKeever". Four integral pages written on page one and docketed on page four, 7.75" x 10", Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, August 10, 1867, on Headquarters Department of Missouri stationery. The letter, addressed to Brevet Major General B. H. Grierson, reads, "The Major General Commanding directs me to transmit to you the enclosed charges, which you will please cause your Adjutant to deliver in person to Bvt. Major General G. A. Custer, 7th Cavalry." Sold with two contemporary engravings of Custer. Some uneven toning to the letter, else, near fine.

The letter was sent on orders of Major General Winfield Hancock who charged Custer with being absent without leave from his command. Custer did pay an unauthorized visit to his wife, but the root cause of Hancock's displeasure was the harsh punitive measures employed by Custer against deserters. Custer was convicted of going AWOL and suspended for duty for one year. He returned to duty in 1868, before his term of suspension had expired, at the request of General Philip Sheridan, who wanted Custer for his planned winter campaign against the Cheyenne.

General Marcus A. Reno Autograph Letter Signed. One page, two-sided, 5" x 8", New York, December 24, 1885. Beleaguered by questions about his complicity in the Little Big Horn massacre and following a second court martial concerning his repeated public drunkenness and behavior unbecoming an officer, Marcus Reno was convicted and dismissed from military service in 1880. He moved to Washington, D.C., where he was hired by the Bureau of Pensions as an examiner but soon found himself in financial straits. Hoping to reverse this trouble, Reno offered to write his memoirs for various publications. The New York Weekly Press rejected his offer. He then submitted an article about General John Mosby and a portion of his diary concerning the Battle of the Little Big Horn to I.R. Pennypacker, editor of the Philadelphia Weekly Press. The letter offered here is a follow up to his submission, and reads in part: "Your favor of 23rd inst. rec'd. I mailed to your address on Monday the Completion of the manuscript of the account of the Custer massacre... such pages of my diary as in my opinion would prove interesting. You say nothing about my article on Mosby. I am now completing a history of the Cavalry Corps." Reno goes on to mention that his job with the Pension office prevents him from writing full time, and inquires about the possible publication of his submission and its value should it be published. This one-page letter appears to have originally been written on a two-page (folded with integral blank) sheet, with the integral blank missing. The letter has been affixed to a heavy backing sheet and is in fine condition.

Three Autograph Items Signed by British Nurse and Humanitarian Edith Cavell. Mainly 5" x 8".Offered here are three items: Autograph Document Signed, being a bill for nurse's services, dated May 19, 1911; Autograph Letter Signed, being a letter of recommendation for another nurse, dated October 10, 1913; and an Autograph Letter Signed, being a letter written in French complaining that she has not been paid for her services, dated October 2, 1914. Once considered to be one of the rarest of all autographs (see Thomas Madigan's World Shadows of the Great), Cavell's letters remain quite rare and desirable. All three items are in fine condition.

When World War I broke out, Cavell became the first director of a new nursing school in Brussels, Belgium - L'École d'Infirmière Dimplonier. Strong religious beliefs prompted Cavell to give aid and assistance all who needed it, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or nationality, and she is known to have helped hundreds of Allied soldiers escape from occupied Belgium to neutral Netherlands, in violation of military law. Cavell was arrested by the Germans on August 3, 1915, and charged with harboring Allied soldiers. She was jailed for 10 weeks, court-martialled, and executed by firing squad on October 12, 1915. Following this, Cavell became a martyr and entered British history as a heroine.

World War I Stereo Cards. Near 400 amazing World War I stereo card images (each 7" x 3.5"). Images Near 400 amazing World War I stereo card images (each 7" x 3.5"). Includes images of American, French, and German troops; also the Serbian cavalry, Russian army, Algerian forces, Moroccan cavalry, and Highlanders in kilt and plaid. Images of bursting shells, destroyed French cities and cathedrals (including the Cathedral at Reims), warships, airplanes, dogs used in battle, trench life, views of no-man's land, human bodies, basic training, the peace process, and much more. Most cards are contained in three faux-book stereo card boxes, each resembling two leather-bound books with "STEREOGRAPHIC LIBRARY/ WORLD WAR/ VOL. I [VOL. II, III, IV, V, VI]/ KEYSTONE VIEW. CO." engraved on the two spines. One spine has become detached, another is loose, but both could easily be repaired. This outstanding collection could fit nicely and attractively on any bookshelf. The remainder of the cards are loose. Fine.

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 Two Typed Letters Both Signed. "G. S. Patton Jr." One page each, 8" x 10.5".
1. A cover letter for the other, was written at Washington, D.C., dated October 7, 1942, and signed by Patton as major general commanding the Headquarters Task Force. In that letter he writes, "It is my considered opinion that the Army will be the loser if the services of a man [former Brigade Sergeant Major Kenneth O. Harter] of so much distinguished battle service is not utilized. If he is commissioned, I request that he be assigned to the Forces under my command."
2. Written on January 11, 1919, in France, commends Sergeant Harter for his service with the 304th Brigade (1st Brigade) Tank Corps. Patton, as commander of the brigade and holding the rank of colonel, writes, "I consider Sergeant Harter a man of exceptional education and of very high personal and moral attainment..." Both are near fine.

During World War I, George Patton served as commander of the new tank corps and saw combat action in France. He took part in the Battle of Saint-Mihiel, September 1918, and was wounded by machine gun fire as he sought assistance for tanks that were mired in the mud. The bullet passed through his upper thigh. He was proud of the wound. At times Patton would drop his pants to show his wound and joke that he was a "half-assed general."

George S. Patton Document Signed. "G. S. Patton Jr.". One page partially printed, 10.5" x 8", Bourg, France, October 24, 1918. The document is a promotion certificate for Kenneth O. Harter to the rank of Sergeant First Class of the 1st Brigade, United States Tank Corps. Patton respected Sergeant Harter, calling him "a man of exceptional education and of very high personal and moral attainment." Patton recommended that Harter be offered a commission in 1942 and requested that he be assigned to Patton's command.

George S. Patton Typed Letter Signed. "G. S. Patton Jr." One page, 7.25" X 10.5", Fort Myer, Virginia, May 3, 1939, on Officer of the Commanding Officer stationery to the superintendent of Beverly Hospital. Patton writes asking that the Massachusetts hospital send a carton of hay-fever serum to him in Virginia. Two original horizontal folds, else, fine. Patton was a leading U.S. Army general in World War II with commands in North Africa, Sicily, France, and Germany. In 1939, when this letter was written, Patton commanded Fort Myer in Virginia where he lobbied politicians and army brass to build armored cavalry units.

[World War II] Generals Patton and Montgomery Signed Holiday Cards. 1. General George S. Patton's 1945 holiday card, four integral pages, 3.5" x 6", signed "To gen./ Seibert/ from/ G S Patton Jr." The printed card reads, "Merry Christmas & Happy New Year/ Bad Nauheim/ Germany 1945." On the inside is a drawing of a serene village scene. "General Seibert" may be Brigadier-General Edwin Sibert, the Chief of Intelligence of U.S. European Theater of Operations. Mildly age-toned; very fine.
2. British Field Marshall Bernard L. Montgomery's 1944 holiday card, four integral pages, 4" x 5", signed "B. L. Montgomery/ Field - Marshall" in lower margin. The card is printed on the first page with "All best wishes for A MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy New Year". The center spread shows the advance of English forces from England to Germany. Troops under Montgomery's command played a major role in expelling the Axis forces from North Africa. Age-toned with some small stains; fine.

Douglas MacArthur Photo Signed, "Best Wishes/ Douglas Mac Arthur" in blue ink. B/w, 10.75" x 13.75", n.p., n.d. The photo is of a full body-shot of the stately general in uniform waving with his right hand. Minor chipping on the edges with a one inch tear along the top right edge. Also, a .75" scratch near the tear. Printed in the bottom left corner is "Weldon S. Burnham/ Hollywood." The verso has yellowed tape remnants. Fine.

[World War II] Gen. Jimmy Doolittle Collection, including signed photographs, signed cards, patches, and more. Doolittle led the first aerial raid--the Doolittle Raid--on Japan following the Pearl Harbor attack. For this, he received the Medal of Honor from President Roosevelt and was soon promoted to general in the U.S. Army Air Forces. He also became the subject of the 1944 movie Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo. The following items are offered in this collection:
1. Doolittle signed black and white photograph (8" x 10") of Doolittle in uniform inscribe "To John F. Meek/ With every good wish/ J. H. Doolittle." Stamped in lower right corner with "Courtesy Mutual of Omaha" and on verso with "Photo by Jim Sloan." Very fine.
2. Three items belonging to Doolittle, including a leather piece (5" x 2") with "JIM" engraved on it; a leather arrowhead-shaped badge (3" x 3.75") with "ONE-SHOT/ ANTELOPE HUNT/ PAST SHOOTER/ GEN. JAMES/ DOOLITTLE/ LANDER, WYOMING" engraved on it; and a name pin (2.5" x .5") with "GENERAL DOOLITTLE."
3. Three Doolittle signed cards (each 5" x 3"), inscribed individually to Johni, Robbie, and Gladys; each signed "J. H. Doolittle". Very fine.
4. Gen. Matthew Ridgway Signed black and white photograph (7.5" x 9.5") of Gen. Ridgway in uniform, "To [British] field Marshall [Bernard] Montgomery/ with admiration and respect/ Matt Ridgway/ 15 Sept. 1946." Stamped in lower left, "Signal Corps U.S. Army." Very fine.
5. Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker signed copy of a World War I map of Verdun showing Allied positions and inscribed, "To B. T. Crowe/ Capt Eddie Rickenbacker 1969." Rickenbacker was an American fighter ace in World War I.

This lot relating to a great American aviation hero offers excellent pieces of military history.

[World War II] "Act of Military Surrender" Typescript Signed by Six Allied Commanders: Anthony C. McAuliffe, Carl Spaatz, Henry Hank Hewitt, Troy H. Middleton, J. Lawton Collins, Matthew Ridgway, and one unreadable signature. One page, 8.5" x 11". When the German High Command signed the original act on May 7, 1945, at Rheims, France, they surrendered unconditionally to "the Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force and simultaneously to the Supreme High Command of the Red Army".

General McAuliffe commanded the 101st Airborne during the battle of the Bulge and is best remembered for replying "Nuts!" to a German surrender ultimatum. Gen. Spaatz was the first Chief of Staff of the USAF. Admiral Hewitt was Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Atlantic Fleet. Lt. Gen. Middleton was a corps commander who distinguished himself during the Battle of the Bulge. Gen. Collins served in both the Pacific and European theaters of operations during World War II. Maj. Gen. Ridgway was wounded when he led the XVII Airborne Corps into Germany in 1945. Toned with six small holes in top left; bold signatures; fine.

Eight Nuclear and World War II First Day Covers and Documents Signed Includes:
(1) "Nuclear Test Ban Treaty" signed by Linus Pauling, postmarked October 7, 1963;
(2) "Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons" signed by James H Van Allen, postmarked February 14, 1972;
(3) "Petition to the United Nations Urging that an International Agreement to stop the Testing of Nuclear Bombs be Made Now" signed by Harold C. Urey, postmarked November 20, 1970;
(4) The "Mainau Declaration of Nobel Laureates" signed by Harold C. Urey, postmarked February 14, 1972;
(5) Typed excerpt from Physics and Beyond, Encounters and Conversations signed by Werner Heisenberg, postmarked February 14, 1972;
(6) Typed excerpt from Men and Atoms signed by William L. Laurence;
(7) First day cover "Commemorating the Cessation of Nuclear Testing United Nations signed by Werner Heisenberg, postmarked October 23, 1964;
(8) SHEAF urgent message regarding the Battle of the Bulge signed by A. C. McAuliffe, postmarked October 14, 1969. Most fine or better.

Alexander Graham Bell Typed Letter Signed. 8.5" x 11", Washington, D.C., March 20, 1916. Letter is addressed to "My dear Mrs Wm H Loveland". One of the pioneers of the creation of the telephone, Bell is one of the most well known icons of modern science. His fascination with speech and sound encouraged him to study and eventually become a teacher of elocution (diction and the control of voice) and music. Interestingly, Bell is also credited with building the first metal detector. When President Garfield was assassinated in 1881, Bell quickly put together a crude metal detector to help the Garfield's doctors find the bullet. Due to the metal bed frame the president was laying on, the machine malfunctioned and was initially declared a failure. Letter is typed on Bell's personal stationery and signed in Bell's hand. Minor creasing but text is clear with no signs of age or fading. Overall, piece is in very fine condition.

Alexander Graham Bell Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8" x 10.5", Beinn Bhreagh, October 17, 1906, to Mrs. M. H. McKenzie. In full: "I am in receipt of your communication of the 2nd instant, requesting my autograph, which I attach to this note below." The letterhead reads, "BEINN BHREAGH,/ NEAR BADDECK,/ NOVA SCOTIA." Beinn Bhreagh was the name of the Bell estate in Victoria County, Nova Scotia and translates from Scottish Gaelic as "beautiful mountain." Bell, born in Scotland, bought the estate and is credited with naming it. He eventually made it his year-round home. Two holes and a 1.5" tear along the bottom of the page are far away from the text; very bold signature. Fine.

Marie Curie Typed Statement Signed, one page, 8.5" x 11", on Marie Curie Radium Fund letterhead, [New York City], n.d. This typed carbon copy of a press release to the N.Y. Evening Telegram, reads in full: "I have for years wished to visit America, but my laboratory work and my children have made this impossible until now. I am happy to bring my daughters to see your great country with me. They share my gratitude to the American women for their interest in science and in my work. Will you please for me thank the American people." Signed in ink "M. Curie." Most likely written in 1921, following Curie's triumphant tour of the United States, during which she raised funds to continue her research on radium. At that time, Curie also received a gram of radium from the Executive Committee of Women of the Marie Curie Radium Fund. Lightly age toned and bearing several light folds, and accompanied by a printed portrait of Curie removed from a magazine.

Thomas Edison Signed Photograph. 7" x 9", n.p., October 1, 1924. Edison signs, "To Thomas E. Atwell/ Thos. A. Edison/ Oct. 1 1924." Small amount of mounting residue on verso. Fine.

Thomas Edison Archive of Handwritten Letters and Notes to Jaffrey Buchanan. Approximately 150 Autograph Letters and Notes Signed, including more than 60 signed "Edison", circa 1920s, all regarding the running of his manufacturing operations of the Ediphone (voice recorder, or phonograph) in New Jersey. According to a typed manuscript, written by Jaffrey and included with the archive, Jaffrey began working at the Edison Chemical Factory in 1910. Within a few days he was introduced to Edison and made a good impression. Edison remained involved in all details of the day-to-day operations of the factory, relying on men like Buchanan to execute his instructions and keep him informed of all necessary details. Edison kept long hours, and often preferred to work through the night; and these letters and notes were the preferred method of communication. Notes and instructions were hurriedly scripted beneath typed or written reports or on small sheets of paper, 5" x 8". The notes were sometimes as brief a single line, and as long as two pages, sometimes including mathematical notations and engineering sketches.

According to Buchanan's typescript, Edison was a firm adherent to the empirical method in his work. All employees in positions of responsibility were required to carry a notebook in which to write down all observations (one such of Buchanan's notebooks is also included). Buchanan would have kept all of Edison's notes and letters as a way of documenting any changes or implementations in production at the factory. Edison was a keen observer, and was always looking for methods to improve production quality and reduce costs.

A Typed Letter Signed, one page, 8.5" x 11", September 14, 1921 from Buchanan and a colleague who signs "Paullin", requesting a change in the location of the "Varnish Making Department" and providing detailed reasoning for the request, responds briefly: "Paullin Buchanan / I can't see why we can't make varnish where we do it now if room is enclosed, Double door used & air blown into room so all leaks are outward. Why Not. E"

Another handwritten note from Edison on the same topic: "Is there any place you have in mind that would be better cleaner & less hazzardous [sic] for making varnish. Edison."

In a 2 page letter, 5" x 8", circa 1923: "Buchanan We are losing big money on wet wood flour & we have recently bought 240 tons of union flour which ends our connection with the Mfrs [manufacturers] of wet flour. Having found another mfr who makes dry flour = Go over to our store room & see if we cant rig up a ventilating blower in stock house, this will reduce the moisture down in time so flour will go below 10% in 3 or 4 weeks if blower is kept on in daylight Every day - see me about it - E."

ALS, 2pp, 5" x 8", circa 1925: "Buchanan / Lately we are producing some very loud fox trots. We do it by tracking the Masters very deep - The bridge walls come to a knife edge [an illustration of what he is referring to made by Edison of the ridges in a phonograph record] Now pieces of record in removing from mould break off at x and if the working mould is not cleaned and these pieces removed will in some cases give a sound on every record thereafter printed. The breaking off of these knife edges is done when record is taken off working mould E."

Buchanan's typescript reveals that Edison insisted on approving all music that was recorded. If he did not like it, it was not recorded; as a result there were few jazz recordings made at the factory until the overwhelming demand forced Edison's hand. Buchanan's typescript provides an important framework in which to read this archive. Archive is too extensive to quote from, but careful examination would yield a narrative of progress at the New Jersey factory.

Also included in this archive is a printed copy of Buchanan's patent for an "Elevator for Liquids", Patent No. 922,749, dated May 25, 1909 and a printed illustration of his invention. Archive should be carefully reviewed for content and condition. Overall, good to near fine, with a very few instances of chipping at margins (mentioned only for sake of accuracy).

Thomas Edison Autograph Letter Signed. 5.5" x 8.25" mounted and framed to an overall size of 13" x 16.25", Menlo Park, N. J., August 24, 1880. Written on lined paper with "T. A. Edison" letterhead, this letter relates the busy life of the young inventor to "My Dear Husbands". In full: "You must not blame me for not answering your letters, as you well know that I have not a moment to spare. You may however expect a detailed letter from me regarding my ore milling process and the light in a short time. I am gratified at your great success with the Telephone. Eldred writes tomorrow regarding Co. affairs./ Yours Truly/ Thomas A. Edison". During his lifetime, Edison received 53 mining and ore milling patents, two before this letter was written. He was granted a U. S. patent for his electric light in January 1880, only seven months earlier. In this letter, he sounds excited about writing a future letter about both the ore milling process and his electric light. Ink has faded some, but text is still readable. Near fine.

Thomas Edison Typed Letter Signed "Thos. A. Edison". One page with Edison's letterhead, "From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison, Orange, N. J.", 8.5" x 11", December 30, 1914, to Mr. H. H. Smith of Orange, New Jersey. On December 14, 1914, fire destroyed Edison's laboratory in Orange. In this letter, he thanks Smith who donated his time and resources to fight that dramatic fire. In full: "Mr. Bachman informs me that you worked hard during the night of the fire, and that you have not put in any charge for this work, but have kindly donated to me your services on that occasion. I wish to say that I sincerely appreciate your kindness and thank you for this expression of good will and loyalty./ A Happy New Year to you./ Yours very truly, Thos. A. Edison." Edison had generated many of his over 1,000 patents from this laboratory. This letter, lightly toned with minor folds (horizontal fold contains .5" tear); otherwise, very fine condition.

Also offered here is a "Thomas A Edison" signature on 3.25" x 2" card. Residue of mounting on back; lightly age-toned.

Albert Einstein Historically Important Autograph Letter Signed "A. Einstein" in German, one page, 8.75" x 11.25", [Berlin, November 25, 1929].
Written on the verso of, and replying to, Robert Weltsch, Autograph Letter Signed "Weltsch" in German, [Berlin], November 21, 1929.

Robert Weltsch (1891-1982), born in Prague, was a journalist and prominent Zionist who edited the Jüdische Rundschau ("Jewish Review"), a newspaper published twice a week in Berlin, from 1919-1938. From 1925 to 1933, Weltsch was active in the Zionist organization Brit Shalom which advocated a bi-national solution in Palestine, with Jews and Arabs living together.

On November 21, 1929, Weltsch wrote to Einstein, in full, "Dear Professor, Bergmann is sending me today a copy of a letter addressed to you that is intended for publication. I am totally against any such publication. I am convinced that doing this would only be detrimental - internally as well as externally - to the cause we are representing. Proceeding in this manner, we could not expect to gain any support for the idea of communication. You know my point of view regarding the necessity of communication. However, I think Bergmann's idea of public propagation would stir embitterment and fail to accomplish the aim. It seems to me now (after publication of your interview in 'Oeuvre') there is a need for a period of silence on our part. If I can be of further assistance in this matter, I am at your disposal at any time. Yours truly."

Czech-born Hugo Bergmann (1883-1975) emigrated to Palestine in 1920 and founded, with philosopher Martin Buber, a movement promoting a "bi-national" area where Jews and Arabs could live under equal conditions. He was the first director of the Jewish National and University Library in Jerusalem from 1925-1935. Bergmann was a professor at the Hebrew University and a leader of Brit Shalom.

From Jerusalem, Hugo Bergmann had written a letter to Einstein advocating a policy of conciliation between Arabs and Jews in Palestine. Einstein had suggested the letter be published, with a few technical changes. Bergmann made these changes and sent Weltsch (and Einstein) a copy. On November 23, 1929, before Einstein had received Weltsch's November 21st letter, Einstein sent Weltsch Bergmann's manuscript, recommending its publication.

When Einstein received Weltsch's November 21st letter, he penned this undated [November 25] reply on the verso of Weltsch's letter. In German with full English translation: "Dear Mr. Weltsch, You are quite correct. It is my fault in as much as I had asked Mr. Bergmann for his opinion regarding phraseology of the publication. That was not a good idea in the first place and secondly, in view of what already had been said, it would have been too much. I am explaining that to Mr. Bergmann in the letter enclosed (I know Bergmann personally and cannot write to him in English, or he might think I have gone crazy! Best regards." In a lengthy handwritten postscript, Einstein adds "P.S. I would prefer the article for the Arabic newspaper to be translated here, even at the risk of getting a translation in less than perfect English. The other option seems to be too uncontrollable and also unsecured. It could be that Bergmann's command of English is inadequate and he would have to consult other individuals, possibly resulting in much advance ado and debating, which must be avoided at any cost."

In August 1929, three months before these letters were written, Arabs attacked Jewish settlements near Jerusalem. Disturbances soon spread throughout Palestine. After six days, British troops quelled the riots. More than 300 Jews were wounded; 135 were killed. To appease the Arabs, Britain prohibited Jews from living in Gaza and Hebron, two of the major areas of rioting. On November 20, 1929, just a day before Weltsch wrote this letter to Einstein, a statement was issued by Hugo Bergmann to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency and published in newspapers around the world. In part, from The New York Times, November 21, 1929: "Dr. Bergmann...urges the Zionists to organize a round table conference immediately for discussion with Arab leaders concerning their future relations and future government in Palestine. 'The inhabitants of this country have a right to a Legislative Assembly in which they can express their views and help the conduct of the government. This will not hurt the Jews.'" He stated that "all Arab parties are united against Jewry...it is only natural that the Arabs should fear talk of a Jewish State and a Jewish majority." The Palestinian Arab newspaper "Falastin" endorsed Bergmann's views, commenting, "Had the Zionists attempted to work out a plan similar to this and in the same spirit, Palestine would have been a different country from what it is today."

On November 25, 1929, Einstein wrote to Chaim Weizmann, future first President of Israel, in part, "If we do not succeed in finding the path of honest cooperation and coming to terms with the Arabs, we will not have learned anything from our two thousand year old ordeal and will deserve the fate which will beset us."

In the postscript to his letter here offered, Einstein writes that he "would prefer the article for the Arabic newspaper to be translated here." The article to Azmi El-Nashashibi, editor of the Palestinian Arab newspaper Falastin, expressed Einstein's views advocating reconciliation with the Arab population of Palestine. It was published on January 28, 1930. In full, "One who, like myself, has cherished for many years the conviction that the humanity of the future must be built up on an intimate community of the nations, and that aggressive nationalism must be conquered, can see a future for Palestine only on the basis of peaceful cooperation between the two peoples who are at home in the country. For this reason I should have expected that the great Arab people will show a truer appreciation of the need which the Jews feel to rebuild their national home in the ancient seat of Judaism; I should have expected that by common effort ways and means would be found to render possible an extensive Jewish settlement in the country. I am convinced that the devotion of the Jewish people to Palestine will benefit all the inhabitants of the country, not only materially, but also culturally and nationally. I believe that the Arab renaissance in the vast expanse of territory now occupied by the Arabs stands only to gain from Jewish sympathy. I should welcome the creation of an opportunity for absolutely free and frank discussion of these possibilities, for I believe that the two great Semitic peoples, each of which has in its way contributed something of lasting value to the civilization of the West, may have a great future in common, and that instead of facing each other with barren enmity and mutual distrust, they should support each other's national and cultural endeavors, and should seek the possibility of sympathetic co-operation. I think that those who are not actively engaged in politics should above all contribute to the creation of this atmosphere of confidence. I deplore the tragic events of last August not only because they revealed human nature in its lowest aspects, but also because they have estranged the two peoples and have made it temporarily more difficult for them to approach one another. But come together they must, in spite of all."

Einstein letters relating to the problems between the Arabs and Jews living in Palestine in the decade following the Balfour Declaration rarely appear on the market and are extremely desirable. There are two file holes in the blank left margin of the Einstein side and tears at the blank right edge. Minute separation at the lower edge of the mid-vertical fold touches one letter penned by Einstein who squeezed the last line of his postscript onto the page. Overall, in very good condition.

Henry Ford Signed Document. One page, 13" x 17", South Sudbury, Massachusetts, June 14, 1934. This ornate partly-printed certificate was issued to Barbara Morton for completing "the course of study prescribed for the Southwest School". In the 1920s and 1930s, Henry Ford, the automobile magnate, bought near 2,000 acres in Sudbury in order to restore and expand older parts of the town. Part of his restoration efforts included the Southwest School, which he rebuilt in 1930 on the charred ruins of an old school that had first opened in 1849. The Ford's Southwest School accommodated grades five through eight and required all students to take dancing lessons. The document has lightly age-toned. The bottom right corner has been lightly stained, otherwise, fine.

Sigmund Freud Autograph Document Signed. "freud". One page, 5.25" x 3.5", Vienna, November 30, 1933, 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 22 hours of Freud's services at a rate of 100 Austrian schillings per hour. Very light mounting residue on the verso, else, fine.

Sigmund Freud Autograph Document Signed. "freud". One page, 5.25" x 3.5", Vienna, June 30, 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. Very light mounting residue on the verso, else, near fine.

Hans Geiger Typed Letter Signed "H. Geiger". One page postal card, 6" x 4", December 24, 1929, Tübingen, Germany, in German. Geiger writes to the K. Selmayr firm in Munich ordering a ". . . basic series of glass grillwork with spheres. . . ." Geiger, a German physicist, is best known as the co-inventor of the Geiger counter, and for the Geiger-Marsden experiment that discovered the atomic nucleus. Near fine.

Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist Robert Koch Signature, 5.25" x 7.5". Pencil signature on verso of a printed program for "Hofconcert," a classical concert featuring music by Schubert, Haydn, Chopin, etc., Dresden, March 22, 1893. Inscription reads in full: "R. Koch. Dresden, d. 22th Marz, 1893." Signature is large and bold. In very fine condition.

Brilliant physician and bacteriologist Robert Koch was the first person to isolate the anthrax bacillus, and in 1882 he discovered the Mycobacterium tuberculosis as the cause of the disease. He went on to lead an expedition in 1883 to India and Egypt and discovered the cause of cholera- Vibrio cholerae. Koch was the first to grow bacteria in colonies in 1890, and using this important tool, he dedicated his entire life researching and eliminating tuberculosis, plague, sleeping sickness, malaria, and other bacteriological threats to man and beast. In 1905 Koch was awarded the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine.

Joseph Lister Lot of Four Autograph Letters Signed and One Clipped Signature. Mainly 3.75" x 5.75". Known as the "Father of Modern Surgery," Joseph Lister promoted the idea of sterile surgery while working at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Facilities for washing hands or the patient's wounds did not exist at the time, and it was considered unnecessary for the surgeon to wash his hands before he saw a patient. Lister successfully introduced carbolic acid (phenol) to sterilize surgical instruments and to clean wounds, and in so doing improved the health and well being of the world's citizens. Offered in this archive are four brief personal letters, each written on black-bordered mourning stationery with Lister's address imprinted at the top. Letters are dated from 1905 to 1907; one is undated and another is accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. Also included is a clipped signature (4.5" x 2.25") from another black-bordered letter, also undated. Lister retired from practice after his wife, who had long helped him in research, died in 1893 in Italy, during one of the few holidays they allowed themselves. After the loss of his wife, studying and writing lost their appeal and he sank into a deep melancholy, as evidenced by his general disappearance from social life and his continued use of mourning paper for his letters. All items are in fine to very fine condition.

Samuel Morse Unsigned Autograph Draft. One page, two sided, on pale-blue lined paper 8" x 10", n.p., n.d. [circa 1843]. Samuel Finley Breese Morse was an American portrait painter, the creator of a single-wire telegraph system, and co-inventor, with Alfred Vail, of the Morse Code. In 1832, Morse began working on a prototype electric telegraph. His intention was to use the proceeds from his invention to fund his artistic career. Morse worked with both Joseph Henry and Alfred Vail, a skilled mechanic, to construct a working telegraph system that they first demonstrated in 1838. Morse worked with Maine Congressman F.O.J. Smith to lobby Congress for to appropriate $30,000 for an experimental thirty-eight-mile long-distance telegraph line to run between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

Offered here is a draft of a letter to an unidentified government official, detailing unexpected delays in the unveiling of his invention which would transform and revolutionize communications in the 19th century. It reads in full: "Note. By a contract made with the consent of the Department, with F.O.J. Smith in consequence of the failure of Terril [?] to supply pipe as contracted for by him, there was a saving made to the U.S. (as will be seen herewith transmitted the memorandum of F.O.J. Smith) of $588.06, being one half of the Amo. of profit to him from the manufacture of the pipe by a method devised by me, and he relinquished one half to me, which will be credited to the U.S. whenever the contract is completed. But in consequence of the pipe being in [part] defective, which although being all delivered by F.O.J. Smith, the final payments have not yet been made, and until the final settlement is made, the One half of the profits to him under said Supplemental Contract cannot be ascertained, and is not therefore credited in this account."

Initially, the cable was placed in underground lead pipes using a machine designed by Ezra Cornell, the founder of Cornell University. When Cornell's pipes failed, as evidenced by this memorandum, above-ground poles are used to carry the telegraph wires. On May 24, 1844, Morse would successfully send the first telegraph message, "What hath God wrought?" from the Supreme Court chamber in the Capitol in Washington, D.C., to the B & O Railroad Depot in Baltimore, Maryland, effectively changing communications on a global basis.

Originally drafted in pencil, Morse then re-wrote the note in fountain pen ink, making occasional corrections as he went. Although unsigned, this unique item is a singular historical artifact marking the development of modern communications technology. Document is very fine condition and suitable for framing and prominent display.

Robert Oppenheimer Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", Princeton, New Jersey, June 25, 1956. Written to a Mrs. Robinson of Douglass College.

William Osler Autograph Letter Signed "Wm. Osler", one page adhered to cardboard backing, 4.5" x 6.5". The address and date are unreadable. In full: "Dear F - S--, Your article in A-Sch. in the [?] has attracted a great deal of attention, as it deserved. There is a good Ed. note from The Lancet. I hope that very-much-better-than-you deserved wife is well & that there angel-chicks thrive. Love to them all. I will see you at the Congress. Yours ever, Wm. Osler." Sir William Osler (1849-1919) was a Canadian physician who has been called the Father of Modern Medicine. He helped establish the medical residency program and was an important figure in the early history of Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. The Lancet, founded in 1823, is one of the oldest peer-reviewed medical journals and is still in publication. This letter, written to a close friend of Osler's and with mention of the Lancet, is gently toned and fine.

Louis Pasteur Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages including integral blank, penned in French on recto only, 5.25" x 8", Paris, March 31, 1886. Noted French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur is best known for his remarkable breakthroughs in the causes and prevention of disease. His experiments supported the germ theory of disease and reduced mortality from puerperal fever (childbed). He also created the first vaccine for rabies. He is noted for inventing a method to stop milk and wine from causing sickness, a process which came to be called pasteurization. Pasteur is regarded as one of the three main founders of microbiology, together with Ferdinand Cohn and Robert Koch. Pasteur sends a brief note to Mr. W. Stern in Moscow commenting favorably on the addressee's modesty in asking only for a signature from the noted scientist. Although penned in a faint hand, the letter is in exceptional condition and is accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. Very fine.

Louis Pasteur Autograph Note Signed. Two pages (front and verso), 3.5" x 2", n.p., n.d., on Pasteur's personal card, in French, with autograph transmittal envelope (postmarked January 2, 1892). Pasteur writes to lawyer Edmond Rousse, "Imagine dear and eminent colleague, [that] the very nice card which brought me your wishes for health and happiness came to me last evening while I read A Winter in the Orient [with a preface by Rousse]. Pasteur continued, "The reading of this book delighted me and I hastened to finish it that it could be admired by my children and Madame Pasteur." Fine.

Louis Pasteur was a French chemist and microbiologist best known for his remarkable breakthroughs in the causes and prevention of disease. This note, written three and a half years before Pasteur's death, was to Edmong Rousse a prominent lawyer and member of the French Academy.

James Watt Autograph Letter Signed. Four integral pages with writing on first two, 8" x 9.25", "Birm" [Birmingham], January 2, 1794, to Mr. A. Weston of London. Watt addresses some business matters and financial interests, including a possible legal action against an attorney, Mr. Kevil: "[he] is our friend on principle, but if we were obliged to bring an action against him on this acct. we believe we could...."

Watt was a Scottish engineer and inventor who helped accelerate the pace of the Industrial Revolution by improving the steam engine. A poor businessman, he often worried about his financial affairs, as this letter demonstrates. Last page includes post markings, remnants of seal, and mounting remnants with two small tears and light staining. Text entirely legible; overall very good condition.

Collection of Science Related Items. This group of 10 items is filled with signed pieces by various scientists and other people connected with them.
(1) Charles Huggins typed letter signed.
(2) Charles Huggins signed card.
(3) Linus Pauling signed photograph.
(4) Hudson Maxim autograph letter signed.
(5) Sir William Jenner three autograph letters signed.
(6) Luther Burbank typed letter signed.
(7) Elsa Einstein autograph.
(8)Luther Burbank typed letter signed.
(9)Mademoiselle Curie typed letter signed.
(10) Frederick Joliet-Curie typed letter signed.

Samuel Clemens Autograph Letter Signed in the third person. One page, 4.5" x 7", Hartford, Connecticut, October 17, 1887. In full, "Mr. S.L. Clemens thanks the Berkshire Press Club for their kind invitation, & greatly regrets that his occupations & engagements are such as to debar its acceptance. Hartford, Oct. 17, 1887" Paper is lightly toned, with two mailing folds, script is clear and clean; fine condition.

Charles Dickens Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 5" x 7.25", n.p., April 12, 1862, to John Baldwin Buckstone (1802-1879) on letterhead that reads, "Office of All the Year Round,/ A WEEKLY JOURNAL CONDUCTED BY CHARLES DICKENS." In this letter, Dickens (1812-1870) declines an invitation to dine out with Buckstone, a well-known English comedian, playwright, and theater manager. In part: "I cannot possibly attend the dinner because I have a special engagement to dine elsewhere."

All the Year Round, founded and owned by Dickens, was a British weekly literary magazine published between 1859 and 1895. Many notable novels were serialized through the publication, including Dickens' own A Tale of Two Cities. This letter is slightly browned and moderately stained, but contains a very prominent and collectable signature of one of the English language's most beloved authors. Fine. Also includes a one page (5.5" x 7.5") engraving of a young Dickens above his reproduced signature.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Autograph Letter Signed and Book Signed. A remarkable letter signed "O. W. Holmes", two pages, 4.5" x 6", Boston, November 17, 1875, written to Doctor William Hunt who saved the life of Holmes' son after he was wounded in combat during the Civil War. In part: "My son, who with myself will always recall your kind attentions with gratitude, is now married and a lawyer . . . I think that they will tell you that he has proved himself worth the trouble you took to save him. The five bullet marks, left by three balls, remain as honorable trophies. . ." Holmes' son, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., eventually served on the Supreme Court. Toned and fine. This letter has been neatly tipped into a later edition of Holmes' The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table. Boston: Ticknor and Fields, [1860]. Holmes inscribed the front endpaper, "Dr. William Hunt/ With the grateful acknowledgment of/ Oliver Wendell Holmes." Has bookplate of Jerome and Carrie Hanauer on front paste-down endpaper. Some discoloration along spine and head, else fine.

Francis Scott Key Autograph Document Signed "F. S. Key for claimants". One page, 8" x 7.75", n.p., April 19, 1833. Key, most known today for penning the United States' national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner", was also a lawyer. In this document headed "Interrogatories on the part of the Claimants--", Key poses questions for the claimants concerning the use of slave labor instead of hired labor in Mobile, Alabama, in 1821. In full: "1. Was or was not hired labour very scarce and dear at Mobille and it's vicinity in the year 1821-before & afterwards? And was it not very difficult, from the climate and other causes, to procure hired labourers from distant places? 2. Was it or was it not greatly to the interest of the contractors of these works to purchase and apply slave labour to their construction, instead of hiring labourers? -and was not that plan successfully resorted to in those works? And how? And when? And to what extent? And with what effect? -" The document is hinged along the left margin to a large folder that also includes an attached engraving of Key. Toned with folds; fine.

Francis Scott Key Autograph Letter Signed. "F.S. Key". One page, 8.5" x 10.75". Washington. July 16, 1841. Written to D.W. Kilbourne Esq. in the Iowa Territory, continuing discussion on a business situation that Key is involved in with Kilbourne and a Mr. Reid. In regards to the business strategy, Key pens: "Our plan is to buy Stan's client out forthwith, for by opening the decree then claims of others may be presented."

Key, a Massachusetts resident, was an active lawyer and poet throughout his life. During the war of 1812 Francis Scott Key was being held on British ship watching it bombard the American town of Baltimore. As the smoke cleared, inspiration led him to write the famous words known today as the American National Anthem. Hinged to a slightly larger sheet with usual mail folds and bold ink.

Margaret Mitchell Typed Letter Signed on her personal imprinted stationery, one page, 7" x 11", Atlanta, Georgia, Feb. 7, 1938. She writes: "I wish sincerely that I could help you out of your predicament and give you a copy of the letter which I wrote to Mrs. Joel Chandler a year or so ago, but I cannot do this as I have no copy of it and, of course, cannot recall word for word what I wrote her. I remember that she wrote me lovely letters and I replied with pleasure and appreciation. Even if I had copies, I do not think we could 'put it over on her' as I have changed typewriters since writing to her. I am so very sorry I cannot help you in this matter. Sincerely, Margaret Mitchell Marsh". Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope; near fine, save the usual mail folds.

Margaret Mitchell Typed Letter Signed "Peggy", with great personal content, one page, 7.25" x 10.5", Atlanta, Dec. 16, 1941. She thanks the recipient for a recipe and shares news of her health. She writes: "...It sounds so good, and yet, I wonder if I would have the courage to put an oyster to a meat grinder... it seems a highly irreverent thing to do... I had flu and laryngitis and then the war came along and, suddenly, I found myself making speeches to school children to raise money for the Red Cross. I now feel like Mrs. Roosevelt and am so hoarse..." She adds a humorous postscript: "I should state that I am galloping about in an outdoor Red Cross uniform. The uniform isn't bad but the cap is terrible. Someone remarked that it was lucky my grandparents were dead because if they saw me running around in a little model that looks like one of Sherman's cavalrymen's forage caps they'd let fly with their muskets." In near fine condition and accompanied by the original transmittal envelope.

Samuel F. Smith Autograph Song "America (My Country 'Tis of Thee)" Signed, "S. F. Smith". 4.5"x 6.75", n.p., May 28, 1895. Neatly penned in the author's last year, this is the first verse of one of America's favorite patriotic songs (originally written in 1832). Light toning and folds; clear wording; fine.

John Steinbeck Autograph Letter Signed "John Steinbeck". One page, 8.5" x 11", plain paper, Los Gatos [California], n.d.[1938], to Paul Jordan-Smith. Steinbeck answers Jordan-Smith's request for a meeting, in part: "Of course I shall be very pleased to see you...," discusses his schedule "...During the week I see no one until after four- that's just routine. On saturday I do only half a days work and on sunday none at all...," and gives directions "...As for getting here- no one has found our place unaided and there are no road signs... go to los Gatos and get a taxi driver to lead you up here...." This home in Los Gatos is where Steinbeck wrote The Grapes of Wrath. Paul Jordan-Smith, a journalist, editor, and bibliophile, was an interesting character. In 1924, annoyed at the reception his wife's realistic still-lifes were receiving, he created, under the pseudonym Pavel Jerdanowitch, a badly painted, blurry picture of a Pacific island woman holding a bunch of bananas and titled it Exaltation, claiming it was symbolic of "breaking the chains of womanhood." He called his "new" artistic school Disumbrationism. The same critics who belittled his wife's work praised this spoof painting! In 1927, after several more works were exhibited, he confessed the hoax to the Los Angeles Times. This present letter is in fine condition, with light mailing folds and crinkling, and one tiny tear at the upper right edge, mentioned for accuracy.

Voltaire Autograph Letter Signed "Voltaire". Four integral pages written in Italian on two and one-half, 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, and an engraving of Voltaire are matted and framed to an overall size of 29" x 16.5". On the back of the frame, page one is viewable through a cut-out. Also, taped to the back is a typed English transcription. The letter is age-toned, in fine condition, and ready to be displayed.

Cornell Woolrich Checks Signed for payment for two short stories. Two checks, each 8.5" x 3.5". One is dated May 19, 1934, and is drawn on the National City Bank of New York for $105 from the Frank A. Munsey Company. It is made-out to Cornell Woolrich and contains the usual cancellation perforations. On the verso, the check is endorsed by Woolrich under the following typed statement: "By endorsement of this check, the payee acknowledges payment in full for the following: One story entitled 'Death Sits in a Dentist Chair,' which the payee sells to the drawer with North American serial rights thereto, with warranty of authorship and ownership, and with authority to copyright said rights." "Death Sits in the Dentist's Chair", published in Detective Fiction Weekly in August 1934, was Woolrich's first crime/suspense story.

The other check is dated March 10, 1938, and is also drawn on the National City Bank of New York for $575 from the Frank A. Munsey Company. The check is made-out to Cornell Woolrich and contains the usual cancellation perforations. On the verso, the check is endorsed by Woolrich under the following typed statement: "By endorsement of this check, the payee acknowledges payment in full for the following: One serial entitled 'The Mystery of Room 913,' which the payee sells to the drawer with North American serial rights thereto, with warranty of authorship and ownership, and with authority to copyright said rights." "The Mystery of Room 913" was first published in June 1938 in Detective fiction Weekly.

Cornell Woolrich, a novelist and short story writer, was a pioneer of noir fiction. Alfred Hitchcock's movie Rear Window was based on one of Woolrich's stories. He often published under the pseudonyms William Irish and George Hopley. Both checks are fine.

Franz List Signed Photograph. "F. List". Sepia carte de vistie, 2.5" x 4.25", by Fritz Luckhardt, Vienna. The signature is on the lower mount, partially in the photo. Very fine.

Franz Liszt Autograph Letter Signed "F. Liszt". Four integral pages written on page one, 5" x 8", February 12, 1883, Budapest, in French. Liszt is writing the addressee, a lady, with his good wishes and his hopes to once again visit his old haunts. Liszt is writing at the request of Princess Wittgenstein, his mistress. Slight foxing and fold wear, else, near fine.

Musical Conductor Arturo Toscanini Autograph Note Signed. One page, 11" x 8.5", Milan, Italy, 1953, written and signed in red ink. In this note, Toscanini sends his congratulations on "the centenary of the House of Steinway." Written on faded staff paper with two punch-holes on left margin. Near very fine.

Georgia O'Keeffe Collection containing items O'Keeffe left in Canyon, Texas, from her stay there, 1912-1918.
1. Autograph letter signed, one page, 8.5" x 11", Albuquerque, New Mexico, August 8, 1955, to Mrs. Shirley. In part: "When you were here you told me that I still have two barrels of some thing at your house. I can't imagine what is in them but suppose I had better not let them stay there forever. . . .Sincerely, Georgia O'Keeffe". With envelope addressed to "Mrs. Dudley Shirley, Canyon, Texas"; very fine.
2. Six books: 1. Talks on Drawing, Painting, Making, Decorating for Primary Teachers, signed on front free endpaper, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ April 11-1917"; 2. Custom Design and Home Planning, signed on a preliminary blank page, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ Sep. - 17/ Canyon - Texas"; 3. Fine and Industrial Arts in Elementary Schools, signed on front free endpaper, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ University - Virginia/ August 5th. 1913."; 4. Hand Work for Kindergartens and Primary Schools, signed on front free endpaper, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ 1108 Fillmore-"; 5. Industrial Arts Design, signed on front free endpaper, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ April 11 - 1917"; 6. The Use of the Plant in Decorative Design for High Schools, signed on front free endpaper, "Georgia O'Keeffe/ May - 1913/ Amarillo - Texas -". All are fine.
3. Period wooden trunk, 36" x 25" x 21"; nailed to the top is a 5" x 2.5" piece of yellow cardboard which carries the inscription "Miss georgia o'keeffe/ Knoxville/ Tenn--/ (Hold until called for)". Stained shipping label (5." X 3.5") affixed to left side dated August 22, 1916, and addressed to Knoxville, Tennessee, though it was never shipped. Wire and lead seal still affixed. "Georgia O'Keeffe" is handwritten as the consignor. The leather handles are missing; outside box has original hardware. The trunk shows wear, though it is still sturdy and full of character. This trunk may have been one of "the two barrels" mentioned in O'Keeffe's letter, though it is not a barrel-top. Good condition.

After moving to Canyon, a young O'Keeffe asked Douglas Shirley, a West Texas State physics professor, and his wife, Willina, if she could rent an upstairs bedroom in their new home. At first they said no because they did not have the money to furnish it or decorate it, but after O'Keeffe assured them that she did not require curtains or furniture, they agreed. She later fondly remembered the open-minded Shirleys as good landlords who respected her privacy.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir Autograph Letter Signed "Renoir" in French, two pages, 4.75" x 6.5", conjoined leaves. 13 rue Girardon [Paris], no date but with original 5" x 3.5" envelope addressed by him to "Paul Berard/Château de Wargemont/by Dieppe/Seine Infre," postmarked Paris, with a clear Dieppe postmark on verso, November 12, 1891. Banker Paul Berard was a patron and close friend of Renoir who had invited him to stay at his country estate in 1879. Among the Berard family portraits were some of Renoir's most celebrated studies of children, including all four children in "Les Enfants" (1881). In July 1890, Renoir had moved into number 13 rue Girardon, at the Chateau des Brouillards in Montmartre. In this letter, Renoir writes to Berard that he has received his letter and that he should write to him at "13, rue Girardon, 18th district." He writes that "it is easier for me to be in my studio than in the daylight" and tells him that "My portrait is going very well." In a postscript, Renoir writes about the man his street was named after: "Girardon sculptor born in Troyes 18th century, creator, I believe, of the Porte St. Denis." Sculptor François Girardon, born at Troyes in 1630, died in Paris in 1715. The 76-foot high Porte Saint-Denis was built by François Blondel in 1672 and decorated with sculptures by Girardon who was a favorite of King Louis XIV. His sculptures commemorated the King's military victories. The arch of the Porte Saint-Denis symbolically marked an entrance into 17th-century Paris at the site of an old tollgate. It served as the inspiration for the more famous Arc de Triomphe. Fine condition.

A Photograph Signed by More Than One Hundred Aviation and Space Pioneers. Major James Adams, operations supervisor at Floyd Bennett Field, New York City's first municipal airport, assembled this outstanding collection of autographs beginning in the early 1930s. The signatures are on a large photograph, 20" x 16", featuring three United States Naval biplanes flying in formation past the Empire State Building. The photo has signatures ranging from early aviators Orville Wright and Louis Bleriot, record setters Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart, astronauts, and virtually every other aviation luminary of the twentieth century, including:

Buzz Aldrin - lunar module pilot on Apollo 11, the first lunar landing and the second man to set foot on the Moon; Neil Armstrong - the first person to set foot on the Moon; Frank Borman - commander of Apollo 8, the first mission to fly around the Moon; Gene Cernan - co-pilot of Gemini 9A, lunar module pilot of Apollo 10, and commander of Apollo 17. In that final lunar landing mission, he became "the last man on the Moon"; Charles Conrad - the third man to walk on the Moon; Walt Cunningham - he was the lunar module pilot in the Apollo 7 mission; Donn Eisele - command module pilot for Apollo 7; Dick Gordon - one of only 24 men to have flown to the Moon; Jim Lovell - the commander of Apollo 13, which suffered an explosion enroute to the Moon but was brought back safely to Earth by the efforts of the crew and mission control; James McDivitt - command pilot for Gemini 4; Wally Schirra - one of the original astronauts chosen for the Project Mercury, America's first effort to put men in space and the only person to fly in all of America's first three space programs (Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo); Dave Scott - commander of the Apollo 15 mission, the seventh person to walk on the Moon, and the first person to drive on the Moon; Deke Slayton - one of the original "Mercury Seven" NASA astronauts; Thomas Stafford - commander of Apollo 10, which included the first flight of the lunar module during a Moon orbit and the first rendezvous while in the Moon environment; John Young - commanded the Apollo 16 mission and became the ninth man to walk on the Moon; Lee Ya Ching - China's "First Lady of Flight", helped organize China's first civilian flying school and served as the school's sole female instructor; Jacqueline Cochran - a pioneer American aviator, considered to be one of the most gifted racing pilots of her generation; Amelia Earhart - a noted American aviation pioneer, and author was the first aviatrix to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean and the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross; Viola Gentry - established a solo endurance flight record for women pilots; Laura Ingalls -earned a Harmon Trophy in 1934 for flying from Mexico to Chile, over the Andes Mountains to Rio de Janeiro, to Cuba and then to New York; Beryl Markham - a British-born Kenyan author, pilot, horse trainer, and adventurer; Frances Marsalis - with another female pilot, attempted, in 1932, to set an endurance record by staying airborne for nearly 10 days, with midair refueling; Amy Mollinson - a pioneering English aviatrix who, flying solo or with her husband, Jim Mollison, set numerous long-distance records during the 1930s. She flew in the Second World War as a part of the Air Transport Auxiliary where she died during a ferry flight; Ruth Nichols - aviation pioneer and the only woman yet to hold simultaneous world records for speed, altitude, and distance for a female pilot; Gerd Achgelis - founded, with Henrich Focke, the Focke-Achgelis German helicopter company which produced the Focke-Wulf Fw 61, the first fully controllable helicopter; W. H. Alexander - pilot for Aeromarine Plane & Motor Company in the 1920s; Louis Bleriot - the first man to fly across the English Channel; Russell Boardman - in 1931, with John Polando, set a long distance non-stop world record flying from New York to Istanbul, Turkey in 49 hrs and 20 minutes; Hugo Eckner - the head of the Luftschiffbau Zeppelin during the inter-war years, and the commander of the famous Graf Zeppelin on most of its record setting flights, including the first airship flight to the Arctic and the first airship flight around the world. He was, by far, the most successful airship commander in history; B. H. Griffin - aviation pioneer; Charles Lindbergh - pilot of the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in 1927; Jack O'Meara - early glider pilot; Augustus Post - pioneer balloonist and aviator; Alex Seversky - Russian naval aviator in World War I, who lost a leg in combat, but continued to fly, shooting down six German aircraft. He worked as a test pilot and became an assistant to air power advocate General Billy Mitchell, aiding him in his push to prove airpower's ability to sink battleships; Dean Smith - airmail pilot best known for a telegram he forwarded to Air Mail Service officials after a forced landing on May 15, 1923, "Dead sticked. Flying low. Only place to land on cow. Killed cow. Wrecked airplane. Scared me." Gene Vidal - one of the first Army Air Corps pilots and co-founder of three American airlines; Orville Wright - with his brother Wilbur, is generally credited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane and making the first controlled, powered and sustained heavier-than-air human flight on December, 13, 1903; Claire Chennault - a United States military aviator who commanded the "Flying Tigers" during World War II; Jimmy Doolittle - an American aviation pioneer who served as a general in the United States Army Air Forces during the World War II and was awarded the Medal of Honor as commander of the "Doolittle Raid"; Robert W. Douglass Jr.- commanded the Seventh Air Force in the Central Pacific, 1944-1945; Don Gentile -- served in the famed "Eagle Squadron" before transferring to the U. S. Air Corps in 1942. His final score was 21.8 air kills, with 6 ground kills; Harold H. "Hal" George - in 1917, commissioned a first lieutenant in the Signal Corps' Aviation Section and went on to command the 201st Aero Squadron in World War I; Barry Goldwater - a five-term United States Senator from Arizona, the Republican Party's nominee for president in the 1964 election and a major general in the U.S. Air Force Reserve; Harold Hartney - originally served in the Royal Flying Corps where he scored five confirmed victories. He was promoted to major and given command of the American 27th Aero Squadron where he scored two more victories by the end of World War I; Tex Hill - a member of the 1st American Volunteer Group, "the Flying Tigers", and a fighter pilot and flying ace in World War II, with later service in Korea; George C. Kenney -- a United States Army Air Forces general during World War II, he was commander of the Allied air forces in the Southwest Pacific Area 1942 until 1945; William E. Kepner -- famed pioneer balloonist who commanded the 8th Air Force's Second Bomber Division; Frank Lahm -- in October 1909 trained by Wilbur Wright to become one of the United States Army's first pilots; Dean Ivan Lamb -- an aviator, who, as a mercenary during the Mexican Revolution, encountered a pilot-mercenary for a rival faction. The resulting engagement was quite possibly the first dogfight in history, and consisted of the pilots firing pistols at each other; Curtis LeMay -- a general in the United States Air Force credited with designing and implementing an effective systematic strategic bombing campaign in the Pacific Theatre of World War II; Billy Mitchell -- an American general who is regarded as the father of the U.S. Air Force and regarded as one of the most famous and most controversial figures in American airpower history; George Pomeroy - a pilot in World War I & World War II who flew in the Air Mail Service and placed in the Bendix Race; Eddie Rickenbacker - an American fighter ace in World War I and Medal of Honor recipient, who, was also a race car driver and automotive designer, a government consultant in military matters and a pioneer in air transportation; Cesare Sabelli - a World War I Italian ace with twelve wartime decorations. His assistance in Fiorello LaGuardia's New York mayoral campaign led to Sabelli's status as "the Italian-American Charles Lindbergh"; Carl Spaatz - an American general in World War II and the first Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force; Paul Tibbetts - pilot of the Enola Gay when it dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima; General Ernst Udet - was the second-highest scoring German flying ace of World War I with 62 victories, second only to Manfred von Richthofen; Hoyt Vandenberg - a U.S. Air Force general, its second Chief of Staff, and commanding general of the Ninth Air Force, a tactical air force in England and in France during World War II; Theodore Van Kirk - navigator of the Enola Gay when it dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima; Oscar Westover - a major general and chief of the United States Army Air Corps; Ted Williams - nicknamed "The Kid", was an American left fielder in major league baseball, who served as a United States Marine Corps pilot during World War II and the Korean War; Chuck Yeager - test pilot and the first man to break the sound barrier; Richard Byrd - a pioneering American polar explorer, aviator, and a recipient of the Medal of Honor; Joseph "Jacko" Clark - earned his Navy pilot's wings graduating in Aviation Class No. 21 at Pensacola, Florida and became a strong advocate and accomplished specialist in naval air, ending as a rear admiral; Donald McMillan - an American explorer, sailor, researcher, and lecturer who made over thirty expeditions to the Arctic during which he pioneered the use of radios, airplanes, and electricity in the Arctic; Arthur Radford - a United States Navy admiral, Commander-in-Chief of the United States Pacific Command and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Al Williams - was instrumental in the development of dive-bombing tactics that helped win World War II. A navy flyer from the beginning, he was also a test pilot and made the first solo flight to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland; Bert Acosta - co-pilot of the America, the third aircraft to successfully travel nonstop across the Atlantic; Ben Adamowicz and Joe Adamowicz - an American businessmen of Polish descent and amateur flyers, who flew across Atlantic in 1934 to Poland on Bellanca Y300 City of Warsawe plane; Bernt Balchen - Norwegian-American polar and aviation pioneer who co-piloted the third aircraft to successfully travel nonstop across the Atlantic; J. Erroll Boyd - known as "The Lindbergh of Canada" he flew from Canada to London in 1930, the first person to cross the North Atlantic outside the summer season; Clarence Chamberlin - was the second man to solo pilot across the Atlantic Ocean, and he was the first to carry a passenger; Lee Gehlbach - racing pilot of the legendary Bee Gee aircraft; Paul Codos - a French aviator who broke numerous records of speed and distance in the 1930s; Doug "Wrong Way" Corrigan - an American aviator nicknamed "Wrong Way" when, in 1938, after a transcontinental flight from Long Beach, California, to New York, he flew from Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, New York, to Ireland, even though he was supposed to be returning to Long Beach; Lincoln Elsworth - spent $100,000 to fund Roald Amundsen's 1925 attempt to fly from Norway to the North Pole. Ellsworth was a pilot of one of two aircraft on this trip: the craft were forced down onto the ice short of their goal, and the explorers spent thirty days trapped on the surface; James C. Fitzmaurice - an aviator pioneer and a member of the crew of the airship Bremen, which made the first successful Trans-Atlantic aircraft flight from East to West; George Haldeman - a pilot and flight instructor who trained a number of would-be pilots, including young Ruth Elder. In the fall of 1927, Haldeman and Elder attempted a transatlantic flight five months after Charles Lindbergh had soloed across the Atlantic, but bad weather and a leaking oil line forced the two to ditch in the Atlantic 300 miles short of their goal; Stanley Hausner - a Polish-American aviator who once ditched in the Atlantic while trying to fly from New York to Warsaw in 1932. He was killed in an airplane crash in 1935; Frank Hawks - a lieutenant commander in World War I and a record holding aviator who took a 23-year-old Amelia Earhart on her first airplane ride at a state fair; Howard Hughes - an American aviator, industrialist, film producer/director, philanthropist, and one of the wealthiest people in the world; C. S. "Casey" Jones - a celebrated, daring, and slightly comic pilot from Garden City, Long Island; Grover Loening - an American aircraft manufacturer; Donald B. MacMillan - former college professor, longtime Arctic explorer who had also been with Peary in 1909, and a pilot who partnered with Admiral Byrd in the 1925 MacMillan Arctic Expedition; Ashley McKinley - an aerial photographer, who, with Admiral Byrd, made the first flight over the South Pole; Jimmie Mattern - a Hollywood stunt pilot flying in the films Hell's Angels, Lilac Time, and Wings, who attempted to beat the around the world flight record set by Wiley Post and Harold Gatty; Dick Merrill - an early aviation pioneer who was the highest paid air mail pilot, flew the first round-trip transatlantic flight in 1936, was Dwight D. Eisenhower's personal pilot during the 1952 presidential elections, set several speed records, and would go on to be Eastern Air Lines' most experienced pilot with over 36,000 hours until his retirement in 1961; Jim Mollinson - husband of Amy Mollinson, he was a famous Scottish pioneer aviator who set many records during the rapid development of aviation in the 1930s; Alfred de Monteverde and George de Monteverde attempted a transatlantic flight in 1935; Rex Noville - radio operator for Richard Byrd when their Fokker monoplane crash landing in the sea off the French Coast in a 1929 transatlantic flight; William P. Odom - in 1947, flew a Douglas A-26 Invader named the Reynolds Bombshell in a round the world flight; Clyde Pangborn - known as "Upside-Down Pangborn" was an American aviator who performed aerial stunts during the 1920s. Along with his co-pilot, Pangborn was the first person to fly non-stop across the Pacific Ocean; Francesco de Pinedo - a famous Italian aviator born into a noble family, who, in 1925, he flew a, biplane flying boat for 55,000-mile in six months, from Rome to Australia, to Tokyo, and back to Rome; George R. Pond - who, with his co-pilot, perished in 1935 trying to set an England-to-Australia flight record; Wiley Post - the first pilot to fly solo around the world, he was also known for his work in high altitude flying and the development one of the first pressure suits; Harry Richman - an singer, actor, dancer, comedian, pianist, songwriter, bandleader, and night club performer, was also an amateur aviator being the co-pilot in 1936, with famed flyer Henry Tindall "Dick" Merrill, of the first round-trip transatlantic flight in his own single-engine plane. Richman had filled much of the empty space of the aircraft with ping pong balls as a flotation aid in case they were forced down in the Atlantic, and after the successful flight he sold autographed ones until his death; Thor Solberg - after a successful flying career in the United States of America, in 1935, he flew from the United States to Norway in the footsteps of the Norwegian Viking explorer Leif Eriksson; A. W. Stevens - in 1932, he flew five miles above earth's surface at Fryeburg, Maine, to photograph eclipse of the sun; Russell Thaw - participated in two of the cross-country Bendix trophy races, he came in third in the 1935 race from Los Angeles to Cleveland, and, in World War I, became one of the most noted American pilots, obtaining five air victories; Roscoe Turner - an aviator who was a three-time winner of the Thompson Trophy; J. R. Wedell - an early pilot and racer; Hubert Wilkins - an Australian polar explorer, pilot, soldier, geographer and photographer. Only a year after Charles Lindbergh's flight across the Atlantic, Wilkins and his pilot Carl Ben Eielson made a trans-Arctic crossing from Point Barrow, Alaska, to Spitsbergen; Roger Q. Williams - in July 1929 Williams, with Lewis Yancey, broke the over-water flying record by making a non-stop flight from Old Orchard Beach, Maine to Santander, Spain. The 3,400 mile flight took 31 hours and 30 minutes. After minor repairs in Spain, the Bellanca monoplane continued on to Rome; Lon Yancey - an American aviator and air navigator who toured America, Central America, and the Caribbean in a Pitcairn autogyro; Clayton Knight - an ex-pilot created the aviation comic strip 'Ace Drummond'; Fiorello La Guardia - Mayor of New York; "Zack" Moseley - created the famous comic-strip character, daredevil stunt pilot Smilin' Jack Martin, who took on the air war in China during the darkest days of World War II; Prince Phillip - the husband and consort of Queen Elizabeth II and a Marshal of the Royal Air Force; Maxwell Taylor - an American soldier and diplomat; Lowell Thomas - an American writer, broadcaster, and traveler; and others.

Neil Armstrong Program Signed. Six pages, 8.5" x 11", May 13, 1971. Armstrong signed page four of this program for the Robert J. Collier Trophy for 1970, presented by the National Aviation Club and the National Aeronautic Association and held at the Statler Hilton Hotel, Washington, D.C. Mildly worn; near very fine. Also included is a first day issue envelope with stamp commemorating the Apollo 11 mission to the moon. Very fine.

Orville Wright Signed Photograph, 7" x 4.75" mounted to an overall size of 9.75" x 7.5". Although this significant photo capturing the historic first "aeroplane" flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17, 1903 is not scarce in the smaller postcard version, this slightly larger format is quite scarce. Orville signs, "First aeroplane flight, December 17, 1903/ Orville Wright" adding a second date, "May 19, 1939". This photographic print is in very fine condition and ideal for display.

Orville Wright Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", Dayton, July 20, 1915, on Wright Company stationery to Frederick Eppelsheimer. Wright tells Eppelsheimer, a former reporter on the New York Herald, "When I have to talk to newspaper men, I always prefer to talk to the ones I have known and can trust." Wright continues, "I am glad to say that in all of my acquaintance with you, you have never betrayed this trust." Folds and overall light toning, else, fine. Sold with transmittal envelope.

Orville Wright and his brother Wilbur are generally credited with inventing and building the world's first successful airplane and making the first controlled, powered and sustained heavier-than-air human flight on 17 December 1903. In the years that followed, the brothers developed their flying machine into the first practical fixed-wing aircraft. Although not the first to build and fly experimental aircraft, the Wright brothers were the first to invent aircraft controls that made fixed wing flight possible.

Charles A. Lindbergh, Jr. Archive to Dr. L. Laszlo Schwartz regarding Lindbergh's grandfather. Eight letters, including six typed and two handwritten, all composed between November 13, 1960, and June 8, 1966. In the 1960s, the great aviator Charles Lindbergh became interested in developing a biography, and eventually a museum, about his maternal grandfather, Dr. Charles Land, who was a dentist and inventor. With those goals in mind, he corresponded with Dr. L. Laszlo Schwartz, a noted oral surgeon, and asked him to begin putting together a biography. One Typed Letter Signed "Charles", (two pages, 8" x 10", Scotts Cove, November 13, 1960, in fine condition) communicates much information about the two projects, as well Lindbergh's disappointment: "This evening after talking to you on the phone, I decided to think back over the entire project for a biography about my grandfather. . . . As you know, my first contact with the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery came through Dana Atchley. I had asked his advice about where it would be best to place the denture my grandfather made and exhibited at the Chicago Exhibition in 1893. Dr. Atchley arranged the meeting that resulted in my contacts with you, Dean Hickey, and Dr. Proskauer. Following this and other meetings, I became interested in two projects in the field of dentistry. The first was the museum, named after my grandfather. The second was the history of dentistry you were then considering writing. . . . In regard to the history of dentistry, I was, of course, delighted when you came to the conclusion that it might be written in most effective form through a biography about my grandfather. . . .Naturally, I expected that a Land biography would eventually be produced, as you did also. The discouraging attitude of the publishers that have been approached in regard to a Land biography is, I think, as disappointing to me as to you. . . . I had hoped to create two memorials to my grandfather, and at the same time to make a contribution to dental progress and prestige. To date, neither has turned out very well. . . . I think we are up against a situation of reality in regard to the biography. Book publishers apparently don't want it. Your suggestion of a magazine article seems to me the best course to follow at the moment."

The other letters in the archive include:
2. Typed Letter Signed. Two pages, 8" x 10", Scotts Cove, November 13, 1960. Signed "Charles In fine condition.
3. Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", on blue flimsy, "Switzerland, Feb. 18, 1962." Written in pencil and signed "Charles." Very fine.
4. Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", "Scotts Cove, Darien, Conn. April 28, 1962." Signed "Charles." Accompanied by Original Transmittal Envelope. Both items in fine condition.
5. Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", "Scotts Cove, Darien, Conn. April 24, 1964." Signed "Charles." Letter is in fine condition. Accompanied by Original Transmittal Envelope in very good condition.
6. Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", on blue air mail paper, "Switzerland, July 23, 1964." Signed "Charles." Letter is in fine condition. Accompanied by Original Transmittal Envelope in very good condition.
7. Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages, one sided, 8.5" x 11", on blue air mail paper, "Kenya, Dec. 25, 1965." Written in fountain pen ink and signed "Charles (A. Lindbergh)." Paper clip stain at tip edge and a few creases; generally fine. Add some indication of content.
8. Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", on blue air mail paper, "Greenough, Montana, May 24, 1966." Signed "Charles," in fountain pen ink. Letter is in fine condition.
9. Typed Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", "Scotts Cove, Darien, Conn. June 8, 1966." Signed "Charles," in ink. Letter is in very fine condition.
Archive also includes a carbon copy of Dr. Schwartz's May 27, 1966 letter to Lindbergh. A wonderful archive celebrating the Lindbergh family tree!

As the letters reveal, Dr. Land's biography was not picked up for publication and a dentistry museum was not in the cards, but through the diligent efforts of Lindbergh and Schwartz, Dr. Land was commemorated in a medical/dental exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution in the mid-1960s.

Charles A. Lindbergh Signed Sepia Photograph, 6" x 8", n.p., adding the date "Feb. 3, 1934" in his hand. Also signed by his wife Anne Morrow Lindbergh, "For Uncle Mac". The couple is posed side by side in an outdoor setting. Fine condition with light age toning and wide, untrimmed margins. From the Dr. John K. Lattimer Collection.

Charles Lindbergh Document Signed in pencil, "Charles A. Lindbergh" as "Employee at Air Mail Field." One page, 8" x 6.5", St. Louis Missouri, July 24, 1926. This Post Office receipt was signed by Lindbergh one year before his famous transatlantic flight. Lindbergh was hired in 1925 to establish and then serve as the chief pilot for the new 278 mile Contract Airmail Route #2 which provided service between St. Louis and Chicago. This wonderful historical document was signed by Lindbergh before transporting sacks of airmail from Springfield, Illinois, to St. Louis, Missouri. The receipt indicates the number of bags, weight, postage, and weather conditions in Springfield ("Fair"). According to the receipt, Lindbergh's plane left the Springfield airfield at 8:15 a.m. This document, which contains a Springfield postmark, is in fine condition.

Also offered are two b/w photographs. (1) 6.5" x 5.25", shows Lindbergh loading airmail sacks into an early vintage plane which he was flying for the Post office. The caption reads, "FIRST SACK LINDBERGH AND GREEN LOADING CARGO." (2) 6.5" X 4.5", shows Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis in flight. Both photos are in very fine condition.

Charles Lindbergh Signed Book, Lindbergh of Minnesota: A Political Biography, by Bruce L. Larson. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc., [1973]. First edition, 8vo, signed by Lindbergh and Larson on the title page. Some chipping on dust-jacket; fine. Also offered is The Last Hero: Charles A. Lindbergh, by Walter S. Ross. New York: Harper & Row, Publishers, [1976]. Revised edition, 8vo, unsigned. Dust-jacket shows only slight wear; fine.

Charles Lindbergh's The Spirit of St. Louis Signed on the title page, "To Rita Berman/ With best wishes,/ Charles A. Lindbergh". New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, [1953]. Blue cloth, first edition, 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.

Lindbergh Kidnapping Collection of Original Documents and Photographs. This is an extraordinary collection relating to the "Crime of the Century", as the 1935 Bruno Richard Hauptmann trial was known. Hauptmann, known by many as "The Most Hated Man in the World", was accused of kidnapping Charles and Ann Morrow Lindbergh's twenty month old son, Charles, Jr., in 1932 and then murdering him after receiving a ransom of $50,000. Hauptmann was convicted and executed in the New Jersey electric chair in 1936. Doubts about Hauptmann's guilt were raised by many, including New Jersey Governor Harold G. Hoffman.

Offered here are the following:
1. One check (9" x 3") written to Anni Hauptmann, the wife of Bruno, for $40 from Kate Frederiksen dated June 4, 1936, endorsed "Richard Hauptmann". With usual cancellation perforations. The check is almost completely separated along the vertical fold; else very good.
2. Six original Associated Press photographs. Five relate to Hauptmann's trial (all 7" x 9", b/w) and one of Charles Lindbergh, Jr., (7"' x 5", b/w). All have Associated Press captions (except two) and "Associated Press" stamps on verso. All fine.
4. Two typed letters signed and two press statements from Gov. Hoffman concerning the thirty day reprieve he gave Hauptmann and the doubts he had of Hauptmann's guilt ("I cannot convince myself that the kidnapping and murder for which Bruno Richard Hauptmann was executed were the work of a single unaided person.") All toned with usual folds; fine.
4. A copy of Hauptmann's letter with transcript written to Gov. Hoffman four days before Hauptmann's execution thanking the governor for his attempts to save his life. Four integral pages. Contains a small tear at top and a 3.5" tear on last page. Fine.
5. This lot also includes negatives, slides, and reproductions of most items offered here. An excellent collection builder!

Lloyd "Red" Barker Autograph Letter Signed. One page, two sided, on lined Leavenworth State Prison letterhead, Kansas, 8.5" x 11", January 3, 1931. Excellent content in this letter written to the notorious Ma Barker, from her second son Lloyd, who was serving twenty-five years in Leavenworth for a 1921 mail robbery. Lloyd's remaining brothers (Herman committed suicide in 1927 following a robbery), Arthur ("Doc") and Freddie were also imprisoned at the time this letter was written, but both would very shortly be released, along with a prison buddy, Alvin Karpis, to embark on a series of daring bank robberies, kidnappings, and murders that made the Barkers a household word.

Letter reads, in part: "I am in hopes of eating next Christmas dinner with you and if everything turns out alright [sic] I will... A friend of mine is going to stake me enough money for me to go into a café at Oklahoma City and another friend has a nice building he will rent me or go into business with me. He may come to see you he sure is a nice fellow..." This is almost certainly a reference to Alvin Karpis, who did indeed visit Ma after his release from prison. Although Ma Barker is generally considered the head of the crime gang eventually formed by her family members and their friends, Alvin Karpis was the real criminal mastermind behind the gang. Once Doc, Freddie, and Alvin joined up after release from prison, they immediately put together the Karpis-Barker gang and began a four-year crime spree that captivated the nation's attention. Letter is written in pencil and signed "As ever, Lloyd 17243 [his prisoner number]." It bears the usual folds, one tiny chip along the upper edge, and two one-inch sections of fold separation at center fold. Light discolorations on verso appear to be bleed through of censor stamp ink from the envelope. Generally fine condition, and an outstanding addition to any criminal collection!

John L. Sullivan Autograph Letter Signed. Four pages with text on first and last pages, 5.25" x 6.5", penned on Hotel Grenoble letterhead, New York, May 31, 1910. Sullivan is considered the greatest and last bare-knuckle champion, although he only fought three bare knuckle bouts in his entire career (Ryan 1882, Mitchell 1888, and Kilrain 1889). However, Sullivan also fought with gloves under the Marquess of Queensberry rules as early as 1880, and is considered the first heavyweight champion of gloved boxing, from February 7, 1882 to 1892. Here, the great boxer writes to John Wilson, inviting Wilson to see him while he is in town. In part: "Your letter reached me at the hotel where I am stopping. Myself and wife will be delighted to see you old pal, at any time before two in the day.... Don't tell anyone where I am." Written following Sullivan's official retirement (although he later appeared in several exhibitions, including a final two-rounder against Jim McCormick in 1905), when he followed various careers including actor, speaker, celebrity baseball umpire, sports reporter, and bar owner. Boldly penned and in very fine condition.

James J. Corbett Autographed Letter Signed "Jas j Corbett" on his wife's personal stationery. One page, 6" x 7.5", April 18, 1926. Very fine.

Jim Thorpe's History of the Olympics Signed, "To/ Richard Hasslen/ From/ Jim Thorpe/ July 20th, 1932" on verso of the final Forward page. Authored by Thorpe in collaboration with Thomas F. Collison. Los Angeles: Wetzel Publishing Co., Inc., [1932]. First edition, blue cloth, 8vo. Thorpe, one of the greatest American athletes of the early twentieth century, won Olympic gold medals in the 1912 decathlon and pentathlon; however, the medals were taken away when it was revealed that he was paid for playing two seasons of minor league baseball. In 1983, thirty years after his death, his gold medals were restored.

Below the inscription is a small newspaper clipping announcing the death of Thorpe in 1953. The article has been taped to the page, resulting in yellowing around the tape. A bit of wear all around the frame with some stains; back hinge starting. Contains a bookseller's small label on back pastedown. Fine.

Thomas Chittenden Document Signed. One page partly-printed, 13.25" x 8", October 13, 1794. Chittenden, the first governor of Vermont, installs newly elected Justices of the Peace. The piece is fragile at folds and has six small holes on the left side, but very clear print with choice signature; very good.

Ralph Farnham Signatures and Photograph. One signature is penned on 5.5" x 2" card; the other on 4.5" x 7" piece of paper with oval photo of the elderly Farnham in the center. Both card and paper are glued onto a larger (7.25" x 11") piece of paper which has a small ripped section missing from lower left. Very good.

Patrick Henry Virginia Land Grant Signed "P. Henry". One page, 14.25" x 17.75", Richmond, Virginia, December 2, 1785. The document is very fragile and contains separations at many folds that have been repaired with older paper. Paper has curled along some separations; tears and chipping along edges with some paper loss. Estimated for condition.

[Revolutionary War] Two Importation Documents Signed by Benjamin Lincoln and Thomas Melvill. Both documents are one page, 10" x 5.5", District of Massachusetts, Port of Boston and Charleston. Light toning; fine.

Thomas McKean Signed Land Patent as Governor of Pennsylvania. Partly printed DS "Tho M:Kean", 21" x 11.5", Pennsylvania, April 25, 1792.

British Major Gen. Robert Ross Autograph Letter Signed "Lt. Col. Ross". Two pages, 8" x 10", Canterbury, May 11, n.y., requesting that orders be sent to a group of Irish soldiers on their way to Portsmouth.

Philip Schuyler Revolutionary War-dated Autograph Letter Signed "Ph. Schuyler". One page, 6.5" x 8", n.p., October 1, 1782, asking to borrow a flat boat. Some foxing and residue of mounting on verso; in fine condition.

Arthur St. Clair Autograph Receipt Signed. 8.25" x 2.5", n.p., June 2, 1806, acknowledging receipt of various payments in May 1806. Contains a few chips on bottom; some stains and browning, but very readable ink. Very good.

Friedrich von Steuben Signature removed from a letter, 3.5" x 1.5". Steuben arrived in America in 1777 and proved an invaluable aid to the Revolutionary cause. He was a trusted advisor to General George Washington and provided desperately needed training to the Continental Army. Very clean, mounted to a card with a collector's identifying notes beneath.

[Revolutionary War] Two James Thacher Signatures. Offered here are two signatures of the American Revolutionary War surgeon plus an unsigned tax document from the same period. All three items in very good condition, except for clipped signature "James Thacher" which is a bit faded, though very legible.

Richard Varick Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8.5" x 12.25", No. 108 Broadway, December 18, 1809. To "My dear Fish", Varick recommends Dr. Abraham Brower, "a very reputable citizen", as a physician. Some chipping and .5" tear along center fold; very good.

Revolutionary War Patriot William A. Washington Autograph Letter Signed. Four integral pages with letter on page one, 8" x 7.5", n.p., May 15, 1789, written to Robert Carter. Remnants of seal on fourth page with rip where seal was originally broken, though no text lost. Very good.

Oliver Wolcott Autograph Document Signed "Oliver Wolcott Sheriff". One page, 7.5" x 5.5", Lichfield County, December 10, 1755. Incomplete document, signed boldly on the verso. Some chipping and tearing along edges and folds, otherwise good condition.

[Continental Congress] Peter W. Yates Document Signed. One page, 7.75" x 5.5", Albany Inferior Court of Common Pleas, November 18, 1773. Official court document concerning bail, signed by "Peter W. Yates, Attorney for Def[endant]." Cancellation cut in center; lightly age-toned; fine.

Revolutionary War Pay Document. One page partly-printed, 8" x 6.5", Philadelphia, May 10, 1785, for pay to "John Brown late fifer of the eleventh regiment". Docketing on verso; stained at bottom and chipped at lower right. Light folds; fine.

Revolutionary War Newspaper, the Pennsylvania Packet or the General Advertiser, May 3, 1781. Four pages, 10.5" x 16.5". Published in Philadelphia, the Packet became the first daily paper in 1784. Chipped around the edges; some foxing. Age-tone; good condition.

Revolutionary War Newspaper, the Pennsylvania Packet or the General Advertiser, July 22, 1780. Four pages, 10.5" x 16". Published in Philadelphia and printed by David C. Claypoole, the Packet became the first daily paper in 1784. Somewhat weak at the center fold; age-tone; fine condition.

Revolutionary War Newspaper, the Salem Gazette, February 28, 1782. Four pages, 9.5" x 14.5". "Printed and published by Samuel Hall, near the Court-House." On page three is a letter from Earl Cornwallis to Henry Clinton. Age-tone; good condition.

Revolutionary War Newspaper, the Connecticut Gazette; and Universal Intelligencer, May 3, 1776. Four pages, 10" x 15". Includes information from the Continental Congress in Philadelphia (pages one, two, and three) and an advertisement (page four) for "Common Sense; addressed to the inhabitants of America" (published anonymously by Thomas Paine in January 1776). Age-toned with irregular edges; a small amount of separation at the fold. Good condition.

Revolutionary War Newspaper, the Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser, October 22, 1782. Four pages, 10" x 16.5". Includes war information. The Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser was the third newspaper established in Maryland, and the first published in Baltimore. It was established by William Goddard and published from 1773 through 1797. Age-toned with irregular edges; good condition.

Apollo Anglicanus: The English Apollo, by Richard Saunder. Printed by A. Wilde: London. 1729. 12mo. Benjamin Franklin would later model his "Poor Richard's Almanac" on this periodical, and adopt the pseudonym "Richard Sanders". Good condition.

Senator Albion Parris Autograph Letter Signed to Gen. Henry Dearborn. One page, 7.75" x 9.75", Washington City, January 7, 1817. Parris requests information for the pension of a private in the army. Contains some minor separations, though no text lost; boldly penned and in very good condition.

Import Certificate for Rum. One page, 10.25" x 4.5", "District of Philadelphia, Port of Philadelphia", April 24, 1806. "One pipe of Brandy, of the fourth proof, marked and numbered as per margin, containing one hundred & eight gallons." Contains seal in upper left; slight top and bottom marginal fraying; near fine.

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.

Blanche K. Bruce Autograph 5.25" x 3". Signature from Blanche K. Bruce, the first African American to serve a full term in the United States Senate. He represented the state of Mississippi from 1875-1881. Fine condition.

Contemporary Copy of William Lloyd Garrison Letter with Secretarial Signature to Senator Charles Sumner. Three pages, 5" x 8", Boston, May 3, 1866. Contains great argument by Garrison for justice. Half inch separation along vertical crease; bold writing; fine.

Francis Scott Key Autograph Letter Signed "FS Key". One page, 12.5" x 8", Washington, February 10, 1828, from the author of the "Star-Spangled Banner" to Dr. Franklin Bache of Philadelphia.

Robert Todd Lincoln Autograph Letter Signed on War Department letterhead, two pages, 5" x 8", Washington, January 23, 1883, mentions "the War of the Rebellion". Also offered is a Pullman Company ticket signed "Robert Lincoln" as the president of the company. Both items have lightly age-toned; near very fine.

R. B. Taney Autograph Document Signed. ADS "R. B. Taney" as attorney for the petitioner, one page, 8" x 12.5", Frederick County, Maryland, August 7, 1807. The petition requests that Henry Powell be discharged from apprenticeship to George Kiler. Light to moderate toning front and verso, three horizontal folds with separation thereat, some ink show-through from docket on verso. Bold ink and in very good condition.

William "Boss" Tweed Autograph Letter Signed "Wm Tweed". One page, 5" x 8", November 24, 1873. Tweed wrote this desperate letter shortly before his conviction asking John D. Townsend to "do all in your power as my counsel to get proper stays. . . ." Slight browning; very good condition.

Early Ocean Passage Letter, circa 1750-1800. Three-page letter describing a horrendous ocean passage, no names or dates, but referencing Philadelphia. Rare first-hand account of an early Atlantic Ocean passage, probably penned in the mid-1700s. In part: "Dr. Sir, I have the extreme satisfaction of announcing my arrival in my native land after a boisterous passage of 42 days... on the 9th April the squalls were so heavy that nearly all our hopes of reaching land were extinct... so strong did it blow that it threw the ship on her beam ends, carried away the fore yard, sprung the fore and main top masts & jib boom, & blew the sails into 10,000 pieces." Letter is significantly damaged with extensive ink burn, resulting in several areas of paper loss and fold separation. Poor condition.

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.

Collection of Signed Letters and Photos of Notable Americans. This appealing lot contains photos signed by Thomas J. Watson, Jr., (IBM's second president), Thomas Lamont (wealthy banker), and Cyrus Vance (secretary of state under President Jimmy Carter). Also contains a typed letter signed by Robert H. Jackson (attorney general and associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court); a typed letter signed by Ed Koch (mayor of New York); an autograph letter signed by Harlan Stone (former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court); and a signed Christmas card and typed letter by Averell Harriman (governor of New York). The Harlan letter contains mounting residue that has bled through the document, but all others are fine.

Very Early Motor Vehicle License, one page partially printed, 10.5" x 8", New Jersey, March 23, 1903, to "John Pilkington, Sr.", and signed "S. D. Dickerson" as secretary of state. This license, issued as "number 35", was for a "Heavy Steam Surrey. Maker's are, Mobile Co. of America." Certainly one of the first licenses issued and in fine condition. Some tears at the folds, but with nice blue seal in lower left corner. Also included are two 2" x 2" slides and one 4.5" x 4" negative of the license.

Charles Francis Adams Autograph Letter Signed "C.F. Adams", 3 pages conjoined, 5" x 8", Boston, February 8, 1873, to [William Maxwell] Evarts declining a speaking engagement and commenting on the award results of the Alabama arbitration of the previous year. Only lightly toned and with the usual mail folds, in near fine condition.

Confederate Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard Autograph Letter Signed "G. T. Beauregard". One page, 5" x 8", New Orleans, October 29, 1868. Written on "New Orleans, Jackson, and Great Northern Railroad Company" letterhead to Achille Vogue of London concerning the acceptance of an unknown request. Very good condition.

Benjamin Butler Document Signed and Autographed Letter Signed. The document is one page, 7.75" x 9.75", Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 1854, with docketing on verso. The letter is three pages, 5" x 8", written by Butler to his brother Daniel. Both are toned and fine.

Jefferson Davis Check Signed. 7.75" x 3", the German National Bank of Memphis, November 20, 1871, for $100. Davis was a U.S. senator from Mississippi, a secretary of war, and the only president of the Confederate States of America. Two holes on the far right and some tape staining at the bottom, but the signature is untouched. Endorsements on verso. Fine.

Harper's Weekly Bound Volumes, 1863, full of Civil War content. One bound volume (11.5" x 15.75") of the weekly beginning with January 3, 1863 (Vol. II, No. 314), through June 27, 1863 (Vol. VII, No. 339). The spine is missing and the boards are well-worn; however, the volumes themselves are well-preserved. Near fine.

[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.
In this letter "Fighting Joe" Hooker responds to a fellow general's invitation to attend an upcoming veteran's encampment. He writes in part: "I am booked for Philadelphia on the 14th last when the Azetecs [sic] hold their Anniversary meeting. Hence it will be impossible for me to visit your encampment." Both generals had seen much action during the Civil War. Hooker had long since retired from military service by this time and Franklin's post-war career involved a foray into politics and acting as general manager of Colt Firearms in Hartford, Connecticut. With the usual fold creases, else a bright, sharp letter in fine condition. From the collection of Henry E. Luhrs.

[Joseph Hooker] Secretarially Written and Signed Letter. "J. Hooker", nine pp., 5" x 8", Garden City, New York, December 20, 1877,
to General H. S. Huidekoper, n.p., likely Pennsylvania. With excellent content; this letter has minimal soiling and is in overall near fine condition. Ex. Henry E. Luhrs Collection.

Strand of Robert E. Lee's Hair. Safely kept under a .5" x .5" piece of clear plastic mounted on 11" x 8.5" paper. Comes with a facsimile of provenance from Charles Hamilton and a signed certificate of provenance from John Reznikoff, President of University Archives. Fine.

George Meade Autograph Letter Signed on "Headquarters, Military Division of the Atlantic, Philadelphia" letterhead. One page, 5" x 8", October 30, 1872, polite letter supplying Meade's requested autograph. Fine.

Winfield Scott Autograph Letter Signed. One page with integral address sheet, 5" x 8", April 21, 1842, n.p. In the letter, addressed to Reverend Joseph S. Gallagher (General Agent for the Union Theological Seminary), Scott writes, "With this, you will receive the letter of appointment for your son...". General age toning, else, fine. Also included is a tiny bust photo of Scott in uniform in a gilt foil frame, a printed general order issued by Scott (1842), and three unused Civil War patriotic covers depicting or quoting Scott.

Winfield Scott Letter Signed. One page, 5" x 8", Washington, January 9, 1861, to the "Hon. G. W. Hughes/ on the District of Columbia Committee", concerning the reorganization of the District of Columbia's militia. Folds, minor stains. Fine.

[Civil War date] William H. Seward Passport Signed. One page, 11.5" x 18", City of Washington, November 23, 1861. Issued to "John C. Brown accompanied by his wife & child." Usual folds; lightly age-toned; fine.

Union Gen. Philip Sheridan Check Signed "P. H. Sheridan". One page, 7.25" x 2.5", Union National Bank of Chicago, November 18, 1871, to "Major Bell" for $128.00. Endorsed and stamped on verso. Includes two cent George Washington stamp affixed awkwardly to top left corner; very fine.

Union Gen. Philip Sheridan Check Signed "P. H. Sheridan". One page, 7.25" x 2.5", Union National Bank of Chicago, July 21, 1873, to Matthew Mason for $114.50. Stamped "PAID". Endorsed and stamped on verso; very fine.

Gen. William T. Sherman Letter Signed "W. T. Sherman". One page, 8" x 10", Army Building New York, February 17, 1888, written to F. N. Barrett, Editor of the American Grocer, correcting Barrett's "impressions" on the Civil War Battle of Franklin. Light age-toning; fine.

Union General William T. Sherman Signature. Cut signature "W.T. Sherman/General", 4" x 1.5", n.d., n.p., possibly signed by the Union general after 1869 when Sherman was appointed Commanding General of the United States Army.

Presidential Autographs. Various clipped signatures and letters signed by presidents, senators, cabinet officers and others; all mounted to a scrapbook, 6.25" x 9.25". Signers include: Woodrow Wilson, William Taft, Warren G. Harding, Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and more. Please note all items have been trimmed and glued, greatly detracting from appearance. All items have been affixed in a scrapbook with evidence of toning. Condition is fair to just good.

American Presidents. Group lot of 5 presidential items. Includes:
(1)Ronald Reagan reception invitation.
(2) Ronald Reagan Typed Letter Signed.
(3) Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) typed letter signed with photograph.
(4) Herbert Hoover Doodles.
(5) Richard Nixon signed photo.

John Quincy Adams Land Grant Signed "J. Q. Adams" One vellum partially printed page, 16" x 9.5", Washington, January 6, 1826, granting "Robert Hazard of Rensellear [sic] County, New York. . . in the District of Detroit and Territory of Michigan" eighty acres. This document has been taped to an 18.5" x 12.25" mat. Toned with folds; one small hole in a fold. Fine.

Chester Arthur Signature, "Chester A. Arthur/ Feby 17, 1882". 6.25" x 3.75", n.p., attached to a slightly larger backing. This is a very bold and large signature of the twenty-first president while serving in office. Toned and fine.

James Buchanan Autograph Letter Signed One page, 6.25" x 8", Wheatland, November 26, 1866. Addressed to Master Harrison Wright. Buchanan writes of his regret in being unable to help Master Wright with his request for an autograph from former Vice President William R. King. Fine condition.

[James Buchanan] Three Issues of The Daily Union From His Library File Papers were purchased for James Buchanan and have his name written at the top right of each. Issues contain mourning borders for President James K. Polk, June 21, 1849; President Zachary Taylor, July 10, 1850; and Vice President Rufus King, April 22, 1853. All have toning and some chipping at edges, just good condition.

Grover Cleveland Document Signed as the twenty-fourth president and countersigned by "Acting" Secretary of State Alvey A. Adee. One page partially printed, 20" x 16", Washington, D.C., September 19, 1893. This document is an official notice of the appointment of "John M. Wiley of New York" as "Consul of the United States of America at Bordeaux, France". Fine.

Calvin Coolidge Typed Letter Signed. One page, 7" x 9", Washington, D. C., May 29, 1924, thanking Earl S. Kinsley of Vermont for his letter and "interesting clippings." The letter and a 5" x 8" photograph of Coolidge have been taped to a 16.75" x 13" hunter green mat. Toned with center horizontal crease; fine.

Calvin Coolidge Document Signed as Acting Governor of Massachusetts. One page, 11.5" x 18", Boston, March 13, 1918, appointing Carl E. Richardson Associate Medical Examiner. Elegantly matted to an overall size of 16.5" x 23", in near fine condition.

Calvin Coolidge Typed Letter Signed as president. One page, 7"x 9", Swampscott, Massachusetts, September 8, 1925, on White House stationary thanking "Mr. Blackinton". Also included is a photograph (5" x 6.75") of the dignified president. Both are matted and tastefully framed to an overall size of 19.75" x 15". Very fine.

Calvin Coolidge Typed Letter Signed. One page, 7" x 9", Washington, December 15, 1927, on White House stationery. Coolidge writes this thank-you letter to Postmaster General Harry S. New. Toned with two file-holes at the top. The document is taped to a mat making the overall size 9.5" x 11.5". Fine.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Typed Document Signed as the thirty-fourth president. One page, 8" x 10", the White House, October 1, 1958, with heading, "Presidential Citation in Appreciation of Service of Leonard Carmichael as a Member of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics". Beautifully displayed in a brown leather folder; the front cover is stamped in gilt with the seal of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. Very fine.

Dwight Eisenhower's The White House Years: Waging Peace, 1956-1961 Signed "Dwight Eisenhower" on front fly-leaf. Garden City, New York: Doubleday & Company, Inc., [1965]. Special signed edition limited to 1,434 copies; this is number 559. The endpapers are illustrated with world maps of the Eisenhower presidency. In original slip-case as issued. This is the second volume of Eisenhower's two-volume account of his presidential years. The first volume, Mandate for Change, covered 1953 through 1956 and was published in 1963. This collectable piece of presidential history is in fine condition.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Inscribed and Signed Photograph, an 8" x 10" black & white photograph of Ike dressed in uniform standing alongside Mamie on the steps of Columbia University library. Signed, "For Ricardo -- with best wishes Dwight Eisenhower". Very good condition, with a few minor surface crease at margins and light soiling.

Together with three additional color photos as follows: an 8" x 10" photo of Ike with his personal physician Howard Snyder; an 8" x 10" photo of the Eisenhower and Snyder families at Christmas dinner at the White House, 1960; and a second photo of the dinner table at the same occasion. White House photos have some surface damage.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Signed Menu on the occasion of the "Press Inspection of The Newly Equipped New York-Chicago Streamliner 'The General' June 26, 1949". Menu measures 9" x 7.25" closed, boldly signed "Dwight D. Eisenhower" on the front. Accompanied by a news clipping relating the story of the inaugural run of the train which had been named "The General" in his honor. Also, a TLS "Ike", one page, 7", 10.25" on his personal letterhead, Gettysburg, Oct. 20, 1967; to Alice Snyder sending thanks for birthday wishes received. All in near fine condition.

General Dwight D. Eisenhower Inscribed Signed Photograph. B/w, 6" x 8" n.p., n.d. (though "1946" is written in blue ink on the verso). Inscribed at the bottom of the photo: "To Major Robert C. Hussey/ with best wishes/ Dwight D. Eisenhower". The bottom left corner is creased; fine.

President Dwight Eisenhower Typed Letter Signed "D. E." on White House stationary marked "PERSONAL". One page, 6.75" x 9", July 7, 1959. To Robert Montgomery concerning comments Eisenhower had made about a controversial American art exhibit in Moscow. Very fine.

[Dwight Eisenhower] Patch from Dwight Eisenhower's Uniform with Photographs and Letter from Mamie Eisenhower. Items included are 1. Mamie Eisenhower ALS with cover. Good condition, 2. SHAEF patch. Extra fine 3. Dwight Eisenhower two photos. Fine.

General Dwight Eisenhower Group. (1) World War II hand-sewn silver bouillon star (.75" x .75") still attached to a piece of Gen. Eisenhower's tan uniform (1.75" x 1.5") with a handwritten note by White House seamstress Lillian Rogers Parks. (2) Reproduced copy of Wallace Strobel's account of the classic photo of Eisenhower speaking with paratroopers before D-Day, plus envelope with the photo on the cover. All very fine.

Gerald Ford Warren Commission Statement Signed "Gerald R. Ford 10/2/00" in blue ink. One page, 6.5" x 8.5", n.p., with embossed "Gerald R. Ford" and seal as the letterhead. The statement concerns the unanimous decision of the 1964 Warren Commission. Very fine.

Gerald Ford Signed Bookplates. Two bookplates, each 3" x 4.5" and signed "Gerald R. Ford" in the center. At the top is the presidential seal and the printed "GERALD R. FORD/ 38th President of the/ United States of America". Printer's adhesive is still on verso and most likely was never mounted to a book. Very fine.

Herbert Hoover and Gerald Ford Signed Books. Two copies of The Challenge to Liberty (8vo, a 1934 first edition and a 1935 third printing), both with Hoover's signature on the front free endpaper. Some chipping on dust-jacket; some foxing; fine. Also offered is A Time to Heal: The Autobiography of Gerald R. Ford (8vo, 1979), with Ford's signature on his own bookplate. Very fine.

James A. Garfield Signed Card Signature "J.A.Garfield. Ohio", on a card, 5.25" x 3", mounted to a slightly larger sheet of paper. Item is in fine condition.

Presidential Assassin Charles Guiteau Collection. Offered here are three items: 1. "Charles Guiteau" signature on 3" x 1.5" card; 2. Guiteau Trial book, 1882, 123 pages; 3. cabinet card (4.25" x 6.5") featuring participants in the Guiteau trial. The cabinet card has residue of mounting on verso; cover and page one of book have become unbound.

Charles Guiteau Signed Card. 3.5" x 2". Small card signed by Charles Guiteau, assassin of President James A. Garfield. Some foxing, but in fine condition.

Ulysses S. Grant Signature and Carte de Visite. Large signature "U.S. Grant", 5" x 1.25", mounted to a larger card. Fine. Accompanied by a carte de visite of Grant, identified "USG" on the verso. Some foxing and minor soiling to image, otherwise good condition.

Benjamin Harrison Signed Engraving, "Benj Harrison". One page, 4.75" x 3.50", n.p., n.d. Harrison (1833-1901), the twenty-third president, signed this card below an engraving of the North Portico of the White House. Toned and very fine.

William Henry Harrison and Daniel Webster Signatures. (1) "W. H. Harrison", 2.75" x .5", n.p., n.d. Harrison, the 9th U. S. president, has the distinction of serving the briefest term: thirty days. (2) "Danl Webster", 3" x 1", n.p., n.d. Both signatures have been excised from larger documents. Fine.

Rutherford B. Hayes Signature "R. B. Hayes". 5" x 3", n.p., n.d. This signature of the nineteenth president is in the center of this toned page. Fine.

Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed "Herbert Hoover", two pages, 7.25" x 10.5", personal letterhead, April 6, 1943, to William D. Mitchell. In fine condition, with two folds and a paper-clip mark in the upper left corner.

Herbert Hoover Typed Letter Signed as President on White House letterhead, 8" x 8.5" (sight), date stamped "20 AUG 1931", sending congratulations to Lt. Commander P.S. Theiss commander of the U.S.S. Borie. Mounted to a photographic print collage of various log entries related to the Borie and a photo of the destroyer to an overall size of 17.5" x 20".

Herbert Hoover Typed Manuscript Signed. One page, 8.5" x 11", June 26, 1962. This signed statement by the former president comments on the 1962 ruling by the Supreme Court on school prayer and endorses the submission of an amendment to the Constitution "which establishes the right to religious devotion in all government agencies". Very fine condition; perfect for framing.

Herbert Hoover Book Signed in shaky hand, "good Luck/ good Wishes/ Herbert Hoover" on half-title page of Hoover's Fishing For Fun-And To Wash Your Soul. New York: Random House, [1963]. First printing. Dampstaining on the rear board and back dust jacket, otherwise fine.

Andrew Jackson Signature "Andrew Jackson/ 1825". 4" x 1", n.p., 1825. The signature has been carefully excised from a larger document. Jackson served as a senator from Tennessee from 1823 until he resigned in October 1825 after losing the 1824 presidential election to John Quincy Adams. That election was denounced by Jackson as a "corrupt bargain". Jackson was later elected as the seventh president. Age-toned and stained; fine.

William McKinley Document Signed. Two pages, 10" x 16", Washington, D. C., August 19, 1901. Also signed by Attorney General Philander C. Knox. This document pardons Frederick L. Coburn, who was "convicted in the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia of embezzlement of post-office funds while in charge of a sub-station in the City of Washington". Coburn served his full prison term of one year and one day in the Ohio Penitentiary, located downtown Columbus, Ohio. McKinley pardoned Coburn after Coburn had served his term "in order to restore his civil rights". Folds; Department of Justice seal on page two near McKinley's signature. Very fine.

William McKinley Stereo Cards. Thirty-three fantastic images relating to our twenty-fifth president around 1900. Many images are of the funeral of the president after being assassinated by Leon Frank Czolgosz in September of 1901. All are 7" x 3.5" and in fine condition.

Collection of Richard Nixon Signatures and Envelopes. One page (10" x 13.25") "National Port Week, 1974" proclamation signed "Richard Nixon". One page (6.75" x 9") typed letter signed "RN" as President to Dr. Joseph Kaplan concerning suggestions Dr. Kaplan had made. Autograph note (5" x 7") signed "Dick Nixon"; in full: "Best to the/Y[oung] R[epublican]s of N.[ew] J.[ersey]/from/Dick Nixon." Four envelopes from around Nixon's first term as president. All in very fine condition.

Franklin Pierce Letter Signed to Secretary of War Joel Roberts Poinsett. One page, 7.75" x 10", Washington, December 5, 1837. Pierce, the fourteenth president, requests the appointment of Dr. William Mason of Bucksport, Maine, "Surgeon in the U. S. Army." Toned with usual folds; some chipping along the right border; fine.

Ronald Reagan Assassination Attempt Collection. Contains the following items related to the assassination attempt of President Reagan by John Hinkley, Jr., in 1981: 1. Printed card with official presidential embossed seal and envelope from Reagan about his recovery; 2. cards and letters from a special agent and a police officer involved in protecting the president during the attempt; 3. copies of letters from Hinkley shortly after the assassination attempt.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as governor of New York. One page, 8" x 10.5", Albany, November 13, 1930, on "State of New York Executive Chamber" letterhead, to Maunsell S. Crosby, who sat on the Committee on Admissions of the Century Association. In this letter, Gov. Roosevelt thanks Crosby for his "nice telegram." Toned; fine.

Eleanor Roosevelt Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 8vo, on Hotel Statler letterhead, Detroit, n.d. Mrs. Roosevelt sends a letter of condolence to her cousin "Nancy dear." In part: "I just heard from your mother the bad news & I am so sorry dear. . . May your birthday be a happy day in spite of their sorrow." Boldly penned; signed "Cousin Eleanor." Crease at upper left corner, else very fine.

Theodore Roosevelt Document Signed as president and countersigned by "Robert Shaw Oliver" as "Acting" secretary of war. One page partially printed, 21" x 16", matted to an overall size of 26" x 20", Washington, D.C., October 2, 1907. This document appoints Spanish-American War veteran Waldo E. Ayer as "Major of Infantry" and is affixed with dark blue U. S. War Office seal on bottom left. Exhibits no folds; toned. Fine and ready to display.

Theodore Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed "T. Roosevelt". One page, 7" x 10", Oyster Bay, Long Island, N.Y., May 15, 1916, to H.S. Ashenhurst of Chicago thanking him for "a particularly nice letter." Folds and overall light toning; fine.

Theodore Roosevelt Signature on 4" x 2.75" card with "White House,/ Washington" letterhead, n.d. The "T" in "Theodore" has been smeared just a bit; otherwise, a fine signature of the twenty-sixth president.

William Howard Taft Document Signed as president, "Wm H. Taft", and countersigned by Secretary of the Navy George von L. Meyer. One vellum page partially printed, 16" x 19.5", Washington, D.C., April 5, 1912. This document appoints Abraham V. Lane as "Rear Admiral in the Navy". This document is engraved with maritime and martial vignettes and affixed with a dark blue U. S. Navy seal, which is missing the lower part. Folds and creases; fine.

William H. Taft Document Signed as the twenty-seventh president and countersigned by Postmaster General Frank H. Hitchcock. One vellum page partially printed, 21" x 16 ", Washington, D.C., June 13, 1910. This document is an official notice of the appointment of Thomas G. Herbert as "Postmaster at Richmond in the County of Sagadahoc, State of Maine". The seal of the Post Office Department lies in the lower left. This document contains no folds, but the far right side is markedly more browned than the left. Some foxing and has been taped on verso to a 22" x 18" mat. Near fine.

William H. Taft Signature and Sentiment "Wm H Taft", 8.5" x 11", [Alexandria, Va.], Feb. 21, 1913. Very fine condition.

Zachary Taylor Signature, "Z. Taylor". Dark black ink signature, 2.25" x 1.25", n.d., cut from a larger vellum document, mounted on brown paper, possibly written during Taylor's ill-fated sixteen month term as the twelfth president. Sold with reproduction of a photograph of Taylor in military uniform.

Harry Truman Typed Letter Signed as president. One page, 6.75" x 9", Washington, D. C., July 22, 1947, on White House stationary thanking Vermont Congressman Charles Plumley. Also included is a stately photograph (5" x 7") of the thirty-third president. Both are matted and handsomely framed to an overall size of 18.5" x 15". Very fine.

John Tyler Document Signed. One page, 9" x 4", City of Washington, July 18, 1842. The document has been excised from a larger document. Contains a large seal and is also signed by Daniel Webster, secretary of state. The document is attached to backing that has a picture, possibly from a magazine, attached. Some browning, yet very good.

John Tyler Free Franking Signature "J. Tyler" as the tenth president on a cover addressed in another hand. Dated March 5, 4.75" x 2.5", addressed to Alexander Gardines of New York City. Red seal on verso. Some staining and foxing; very good.

Woodrow Wilson Typed Letter Signed. One page, 7" x 9", Washington, September 29, 1917, to Senator George E. Chamberlain concerning the senator's suggestion to delay "the nominations for the Interstate Commerce Commission". Usual folds with a top quality signature of the twenty-eighth president; fine.

Jacqueline Kennedy Typed Letter Signed "Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis". One page, 5" x 7.5", May 13, 1986, with letterhead from Mrs. Kennedy's luxury apartment at 1040 Fifth Avenue, New York City, to Dr. John Lattimer concerning the death of Mrs. Kennedy's half-sister, Janet Auchincloss Rutherfurd. On blue paper; very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jacqueline Kennedy Signed Book. Copy of Gordon Langley Hall and Ann Pinchot's book "Jacqueline Kennedy: A Biography." 8vo. Inscribed "For Jane Abbate... Jacqueline Kennedy". Original dust jacket. Very minor wear along edges and on the front of the dust jacket, otherwise fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Bible Inscribed to Ray Pennington, September 1965, on verso of presentation page in part: "May you always remember me as you have always known me. . . Sincerely, Jack Ruby". Interestingly, on the presentation page, Ruby has inserted his name so that the legend reads, "Presented to/ Jack Ruby/ By/ the will of God/ Date/ April 15, 1964". A unique display piece in fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Sixteen Documents Signed. Fourteen contracts and agreements between performing artists and Jack Ruby; each is signed by Ruby and about one full page, Dallas, Texas, 1956-1962, concerning performances at the Sovereign Club or the Carousel Club. Also, a Western Union telegram and autograph note (Feb. 15, 1964), both signed by Ruby. Unusual display pieces, all in fine to very fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

JFK Assassination Group. Contains four items: 1. A signed statement by the mother of Lee Harvey Oswald, Marguerite Oswald, New York City, January 24, 1967, exclaiming her son's innocence in the assassination; 2. Jack Ruby IRS document signed, September 20, 1957, offering a compromise to taxes owed by Ruby; 3. A citizen's postcard written at the moment of Kennedy's assassination; 4. Original stationary from the Texas School Book Depository. All are near very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

Jack Ruby Checks Signed "Jack L. Ruby". Four Silver Spur nightclub signed checks, each 8.25" x 3", all dated 1951, Mercantile National Bank, Dallas, Texas. Written to four different payees, all with endorsements and cancellations on versos. All are fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[Kennedy Assassination] Jack Ruby Signed Documents. Two signatures of Ruby, who killed Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. Firstly, a partly printed signed check, May 5, 1956, to "Perry E. Gross, M. D." Secondly, a contract, January 15, 1955, for "The Cell Block 7 (a Dixieland Band)" to perform at Ruby's Vegas Club, Dallas, Texas. Both are fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy Assassination] Original Wood from the Texas School Book Depository. This rare wood piece (1.25" x .75") came from the floor of the room where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed President Kennedy. It is affixed to a professionally presented collector's card containing a color photograph of the Depository. This collectable piece is number thirty-six of a limited 500. Ready for display. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy Assassination] Original Glass from a Texas School Book Depository Window. Four pieces total: one piece (.75" x 1") affixed to blue collector's card (5.5" x 8.5"); the three broken pieces fit together to form one 3" x 2.5" piece. This lot comes with provenance stating that "this piece is number 12 of a total of 500 pieces. [Signed] Paul Hartunian/ Steve Koschal." From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

White House Flatware. Consists of knife, fork and spoon with the presidential seal on one side and "The White House" on the other. Community plate for non-formal affairs. Fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Piece of Funeral Drape. A .5" x .25" fragment of the black cambric fabric that draped the East Room of the White House during John F. Kennedy's funeral. The fragment is mounted on a 4" x 4" professionally printed collectable card. Also included is a 1" x 1" authentic piece of red fabric from the White House Red Room mounted on a professionally printed collectable card. Both fragments are very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Commemorative Car Flag, Matches, and Lapel Pin. 17" x 11.5" well-made presidential car flag displaying a multicolored presidential seal. Also, four JFK commemorative matchbooks with the seal of the presidency on one side and on the other side is printed "John F. Kennedy" on top of an embossed White House. Also, lapel pin bearing the presidential seal. All near very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Piece of Funeral Drape. A 3" x 3" piece of the black cambric fabric that draped the East Room of the White House during John F. Kennedy's funeral. Also, a bronze Kennedy Library medal. Very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Commemorative Cigarette Lighter, Playing Cards, and Matches. Silver cigarette lighter has "J.F.K. 1961" engraved on one side and the presidential seal on the other. Two decks (unopened) of playing cards with the presidential seal above "Presidential Yacht" on the back. Four JFK commemorative matchbooks with the seal of the presidency on one side and on the other side is printed "John F. Kennedy" on top of an embossed White House. All are very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Commemorative Matches, Soap, and Golf Tees. Three JFK commemorative matchbooks, one bar of the Honey Fitz presidential yacht soap, and two "President John F. Kennedy" wooden golf tees. All are in very fine shape. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] White House Collection. This important collection contains two inauguration invitations, two White House concert invitations, White House envelopes, an invitation to the Kennedy's wedding, and other ephemera. All items are in very fine condition. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] Memorial Service Invitation. The original official black-bordered New York City public invitation (6" x 4", with envelop) to President Kennedy's memorial services "12 Noon Today-Monday-in Front of City Hall." Also included are two memorial cards (3.5" x 5") containing a prayer and JFK memorial photo. Also, an invitation (4.5" x 6") to the wedding of Jacqueline Lee Bouvier and Kennedy. All items are fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

[John F. Kennedy] PT-109 Collection. This interesting grouping of twelve items relating to the PT boat commanded by Lt. Kennedy during World War II includes the following: nine memorial first day covers signed by members of the crew and related individuals; Gerald Zinser signature; two-page typewritten account of "Events Leading to the Rescue of Captain Kennedy. . ." signed by Evoni Kumana and Biuku Gasa; and Gasa ALS, April 5, 1972. All are fine to very fine. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

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 JFK. 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. From the John K. Lattimer Collection.

United States Naval Academy Diploma. One partly-printed vellum page, 16.25" x 23", Annapolis, Maryland, June 10, 1879, for "Cadet-Midshipman Charles William Jungen" signed by the superintendent and the heads of ten departments. Folds and some stains. Remnant of a seal is on lower left; with heavy buckling to top left corner, otherwise very good.

U. S Army Hospital Muster Rolls from Fort Warren and Fort Sewall Marblehead. Four single paged rolls, each near 16" x 11", all 1819. Contains a few individual names, rank, pay, and more. Some foxing; all are lightly age-toned and fine.

John Rodgers Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 7.25" x 8.5", June 9, 1830. Rodgers, Naval Commander in the war against the Barbary Pirates and in the War of 1812, writes this letter acknowledging his receipt of $3,000. Minor chipping; fine.

Special Orders Archive Covering the Period of the Spanish American War.
Approximately 300 printed Special Orders dated from August 15, 1898 to July 13, 1899, 5" x 7.75", issued from the Adjutant General's Office. Orders cover leaves of absence, promotions, appointments, and pay allowances; in effect all day-to-day activities of the army. All are signed in type by Adjutant General H.C. Corbin. All in near fine condition.

World War I Lt. Gen. John A. Lejeune Inscribed Signed Photograph. 7.5" x 8.75". n.p., 1920s. The inscription reads: "For my good friend John L. Horgan from John A Lejeune major General & Cm'd't U.S. Marine Corps." Lejeune, known as the "Marine's Marine", served with distinction during WWI; he served as Major General Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1920 until 1929.

[Bernard Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein] Framed Sketch Signed "Montgomery of Alamein/ Field - Marshal". Beautifully matted and framed to an overall size of 16" x 19". Includes attached typed letter on the back. Fine. Also included is Normandy to the Baltic, by Montgomery. 8vo, with dust jacket; fine.

George S. Patton Signature "G. S. Patton Jr.". Signature excised from a letter, 8" x 3.25", n.p., n.d., in blue ink. Sold with an 8" x 10" black and white photograph of Patton in uniform. Both fine.

[World War II] Group of Three Signed Books. 1. MacArthur: His Rendezvous With History, by Major General Courtney Whitney. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, [1956]. Signed "Douglas MacArthur" on front free endpaper. Slight wear, else fine. 2. Rickenbacker, by Edward V. Rickenbacker. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., [1967]. Signed "Eddie Rickenbacker 1968" on front free endpaper. Slight wear; fine. 3. Ridgway's Paratroopers: The American Airborne in World War II, by Clay Blair. Inscribed on half-title page in part: " To John K. Lattimer with whom it was my privilege to share service in the greatest of military operations. . . M. Ridgway, 21 April 86". Dust jacket has moderate wear; fine. Also includes signed photo in fine condition.

Collection of Six Military Items. From the Spanish-American War, a Charles Gridley signed receipt; from World War II, an Andrew Higgins TLS, a L. H. M. Sanderson SP, a J. H. Doolittle TLS, and an M. B. Ridgway TLS. Also included is a Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection brochure containing examples of U.S. president signatures.

World War II First Day Cover and Photograph Signed. 1. First Day Cover "Potsdam Conference" signed Paul W. Tibbets and the designer of the cover, Captain Frank L Teixeira, August 1, 1945, and,
2. photograph of the Enola Gay signed by Paul Tibbets, pilot and Dutch Van Kirk, navigator. Both fine.

[World War II] Generals James Doolittle and Matthew Ridgway Grouping. Doolittle photograph (8" x 10", b/w) signed, "To Orville Burger: With every good wish. J. H. Doolittle" and pamphlet (8" x 10") signed "To Marglon Bonet: With every good wish. J. H. Doolittle." Also offered is the typescript "Text of Eighth Army General Order, Assuming Command 26 December 1950" (8.5" x 11") signed, "M. B. Ridgway". Near very fine.

Enola Gay Crew Photograph Signed, "Thomas W. Ferebee, Bombardier, 11/12/90", "Paul W. Tibbets, Pilot, 11-30-90", "Theodore J. Van Kirk, Navigator, 11-23-90". B/w photo of Enola Gay, 10" x 8". Very fine.

First Atomic Bomb Mission Collection. Contains two documents signed by USAF Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets: a typed transcription of a 1995 interview with Paul Tibbets conducted by USA Today (one page, 8.5" x 11") and a photocopy of the order to drop the atomic bomb. Also offered is a photograph (10" x 8", b/w) of the Enola Gay signed by the bombardier on the mission, Major Thomas Ferebee. All are in very fine condition.

Enola Gay Signed Photographs. One photo (10"x 8", b/w) contains four shots of the Enola Gay, crew, etc., and is signed "Paul W. Tibbets", the pilot; very fine. The other (a large 14" x 11", b/w) is a shot of the ruins of Hiroshima, signed by Enola Gay crew members Thomas W. Ferebee and Robert Lewis; fine.

Atomic Bomb--Collection of Nine Items. An unusual grouping of letters, photos, manuscripts, and more related to the two American atomic bomb missions flown during the final days of World War II. All are very good or better.

Military Commanders of Great Britain, 11 Signatures. One sheet, 8.5" x 11". Containing the signatures of Field Marshals Montgomery of Alamein, Alexander of Tunis, Baron Wilson, and Sir Claude Auchinleck. The sheet also contains the signatures of Admirals of the Fleet Louis Montbatten; Baron Fraser of North Cape; and Baron Tovey; as well as Marshals of the Royal Air Force Sir Arthur "Bomber" Harris, Viscount Portal of Hungerford, and Baron Tedder of Glenguin. The only signer not of marshal rank is General, the Baron Ismay. Folds, else, fine and impressive.

World War II Collection. An interesting grouping of three World War II items. 1. An autographed letter (5.5" x 7.25") signed "Montgomery of Alamein" extending a lunch invitation to "My dear Hardman". Bernard Montgomery was a British Army officer who played a major role in the expelling Axis forces from North Africa. 2. An outgoing staff message (11" x 8.25") from Dwight D. Eisenhower encouraging victory signed "Montgomery of Alamein". 3. A three cent Iwo Jima postage stamp on 5.5" x 3.75" card signed by three of the flag-raising soldiers. All items in very fine condition.

World War II Group including the Guinea Gold newspaper; signed documents by Lt. Gen. Matthew Ridgway and Gen. Maxwell Taylor; a document with signatures of four Allied commanders (Doolittle, Wedemeyer, Arthur, and Fraser); and a combat Infantryman Badge. The newspaper is well-toned, but all else is very fine.

[Dwight Eisenhower] Two Typed Documents with Signatures of World War II Generals. A White House press release (8.5" x 14") "ANNOUNCING THE DEATH OF DWIGHT DAVID EISENHOWER" and one page (8.5" x 11") of signatures of four Commanders of the Military Forces of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Both very fine.

James Watson and Francis Crick Signed Books. Two copies of James D. Watson's The Double Helix: one (8vo, 1968) signed by the author, James D. Watson, "Jim Watson" on preliminary leaf, fine; the other (8vo, 1998) signed by Francis Crick on title page, extra fine.

Collection of Scientists' Signatures: Alexander Fleming, Robert Oppenheimer, and Enrico Fermi, each on a different corner margin block of 15 stamps mounted on paper of same size (5.25" x 4.5"). Very fine.

Sir Alexander Fleming et al. Autographed Menu. Six pages, 8.25" x 10.5", Le Grand Hotel of Paris, November 23, 1946. This menu for a dinner given in honor of the fiftieth anniversary of the death of Louis Pasteur is signed by Fleming and several other scientists, including Howard W. Florey and Ernst B. Chain. Very fine condition.

Cyrus W. Field Autograph Letter Signed to Future U.S. Attorney General Judge Edwards Pierrepont. One page, 5" x 8", Gramercy Park, New York, March 30, 1872. In this letter, Field, who led the company that laid the first telegraph cable across the Atlantic Ocean in 1858, accepts a dinner invitation from Judge Edwards Pierrepont, the future U.S. Attorney General. Written in very bold ink; fine condition.

Henry Ford McGuffey's New First Eclectic Reader Signed "6/1/27 Henry Ford" on the front free endpaper. Wm. H. McGuffey. New York: American Book Company, [1885]. A special edition reprinted by Henry Ford, 1925. Bound in original pictorial boards. 8vo. On the same page leaf, "Mrs. Susie Barr" is written. A bit of bumping and wear at the corners; fine.

Hudson Maxim Two Typed Letters Signed. 1. One page, 8" x 10.5", Brooklyn, N.Y., February 11, 1907, to "Mr. Maxwell" concerning an invitation to "our little annual reception."
2. One page, 8.5" x 11", Landing, New Jersey, September 1, 1910, to "Mr. Schultze" concerning Maxim's recently published book, The Science of Poetry and Philosophy of Language. Very fine.

Alexandre Gustave Eiffel Autograph Letter Signed "G. Eiffel". Four integral pages written on pages one and four, 5.5" x 8.25", Petites Dalles, August 13, 1881, in French, on "G. Eiffel & Cie." stationery. The letter discusses family matters with a friend. Near fine.

Louis Pasteur Autograph Endorsement Signed "L. P." on a Ferdinand de Lesseps autograph letter signed. One page, 5.25" x 8", Vatan, Indre, France, n.d., in French. Slight tears, two small holes and evidence of mounting on the verso, else, near fine. Also sold with an Albert Calmette autograph letter signed. Two page, front and verso, 4.25" x 7", Paris, April 3, 1908, on Pasteur Institute stationery, in French. Fine.

Samuel F. B. Morse Card Signed, "With kind wishes/ Sam. F. B. Morse./ Po'keepsie July 2, 1870." The card is 5" x 3" and matted below an engraving (8" x 9") of Morse. Matted to an overall size of 10" x 15". The card has three small stains; all very fine.

Edward Teller Signed Copy of The Legacy of Hiroshima, with Signed Photo. 8vo. First Edition. Signed by Edward Teller, Thomas W. Ferebee (Enola Gay Bombardier) and Paul Tibbets (Enola Gay Pilot). With dust jacket and in fine condition. Accompanied by a 3.5" x 5" photo of Teller signed in the bottom margin.

Group of Items Signed by Scientists of The Manhattan Project. World War Two brought with it a need for better and more efficient technology. When the United States government heard that Hitler's Third Reich was developing a nuclear weapon, they began The Manhattan project. Bringing in some of the greatest scientific minds, the project was responsible for several important scientific breakthroughs. Collected is a group of items signed by or received from some of the brilliant scientists involved in America's nuclear research projects.
1. Lewis Strauss typed letter signed and letter from secretary on Lewis' stationery. 2. Lewis Alvarez signed photo. 3. Lewis Alvarez signed top secret message photocopy. 4. Lewis Alvarez signed Japanese ten dollar note. 5. Edward Teller pair of signed photos. 6. Glenn Seaborg signed photo. 7. Clyde Wiegand typed letter signed. 8. Harold C. Urey two copies of essay "The Moon and Its Origin." 9. Harold C. Urey typed letter signed. 10. Harold C. Urey signed copy of "Manhattan Project" by Stephane Groueff. 11. Leo Szilard pair of typed letters signed.

Medical Articles from Early Nineteenth Century Newspapers. Original copy of the National Intelligencer of Washington, D.C., January 30, 1847, containing a back page article (four total pages, complete) about the "inhalation of the vapor of Sulphuric Ether, for producing insensibility to pain in surgical operations. . . ." Minor foxing; fine. Also, an original copy of the Columbian Centinel & Massachusetts Federalist, Boston, July 16, 1803, containing front page letter by Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse concerning smallpox vaccinations. Four pages, complete, except for clipping cut from back page. Toned; minor foxing; very good.

Matthew Arnold Autograph Letter Signed. One page, 4.5" x 7" mounted and framed to an overall size of 8.5" x 10.5", Cobham, Surrey, February 9, 1888. Arnold grants permission to print two of his poems, "Morality" and "Monica's Last Prayer." Bold ink and light age-toning; fine condition.

Samuel Clemens Signature, "Very truly yours/ S. L. Clemens/ Mark Twain", on 5" x 3" personalized note card with Clemens' engraved monogram at the top left. Has some mounting residue on back. Some toning; fine.

Charles Dickens' Strands of Hair. These strands of dark hair belonging to the Victorian-era British novelist are kept on a blue mat, 2" x 1.5". From the Collection of John K. Lattimer.

Horace Greeley Lock of Hair. Offered here are several strands of hair belonging to Horace Greeley kept in an envelope that reads, "Lock of Horace Greeley's Hair./ Presented to Miss Mary Norton,/ Hightstown, N.J., Feb. 23, 1869./ Presented by her/ to E. G. Mason, -April 11, 1895."

From the Collection of John K. Lattimer.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Cabinet Card Signed, "Oliver Wendell Holmes/ to Helen Hopekirk Wilson. Boston, Nov. 20, 1885." 4.25" x 6.5". Contains a Notman Photographic Co. stamp and features Holmes, physician and well-known author, standing in a relaxed position. Bottom left corner has been bent; verso has a "return to library" stamp and mounting residue. Very good.

Poets Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. and Henry W. Longfellow Autographed Letters Signed. Offered here are two autograph letters signed: 1. three pages, 4.5" x 7", Beverly Farms, Mass., June 17, 1889, signed by Holmes. Heavily stained with marginal tear; otherwise, very good; 2. three pages, 4.5" x 7", Cambridge, January 2, 1878, signed by Longfellow. Toning and folds, fine.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Autograph Document Signed O. W. H." on telegraph stationary, one page, 8" x 5.5", Boston, April 1, 1883. Contains verses handwritten by Holmes from his poem "A Noontide Lyric". On the back is a political cartoon, possible done by Holmes. Toned; fine.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Signed Copy of The Iron Gate and Other Poems, 8vo, first edition, Boston: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, [1880], inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper, "Austin Dobson/ with the kind regards of/ Oliver Wendell Holmes." Original brown cloth. Minor foxing throughout; fine.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Autograph Letter Signed and Book Inscribed, both to Dr. Harold Ernst. The book, Holmes' The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table, is in fine condition despite moderate bumping to corners. The letter, one page, 4.5" x 7", Beacon Street, Boston, Massachusetts, February 28, 1891, has two file holes on the last page; gently toned; fine.

George Bernard Shaw Autograph Note Signed. Post card, 3.5" x 4.5", 29 Fitzroy Square, London, January 3, 1898. Tape repairs on postmarked side of card and some foxing; very good.

George Bernard Shaw. The Adventures of the Black Girl In Search of Her God. 8vo, first edition, Edinburgh, 1932, 75 pages, inscribed by author December 5, 1932. Loose binding with wear on edges of cover. Foxing throughout. Good condition.

Harriet Beecher Stowe Autograph Quotation Signed "H. B. Stowe". One page, 5" x 8", n.p., n.d. The quotation, "The earth is the Lord's & the fullness thereof", is in the center of the page and taken from Psalms 24:1. Stowe, a staunch abolitionist and the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin, was from a family of preachers and theologians. Fine.

William M. Thackeray Autograph Letter Signed "W M Thackeray". One page, 4" x 6.5" matted and framed to an overall size of 15" x 13", n.p., December 31, 1856. Four lines about "my lecture last night." Fine condition.

Leon Trotsky Typed Letter Signed, "fraternally yours/ L. Trotsky", one page, 6.5" x 8.25", Hotel Lux, February 6, 1926, to Jack Carney concerning James Larkin. The typed portion of this letter (roughly eight lines long) has faded making it difficult to read, but Trotsky's signature remains very bold; minor tape repair at fold.

John Greenleaf Whittier Autograph Letter Signed "John G. Whittier". One page, 5" x 8", Danvers, Massachusetts, January 26, 1882, to "Dear Friend" concerning an unnamed book Whittier had read. Toned, with evidence of mounting on verso; fine.

Authors Signature Collection. Three signatures: William M. Thackeray, autograph letter signed, one page, Brighton, 4.5" x 6.75", n.d., affixed to cardboard; Oliver Wendell Holmes, autograph letter signed, one page, 4.5" x 7", Boston, Oct. 26, 1890; James Whitcomb Riley signed Christmas greeting, 2,5" x 2", 1901, n.p., affixed to cardboard. All are age-toned; fine.

George III Signed Military Appointment, partially printed DS "George R." on vellum, 16.25" x 12", Court at St. James, March 20, 1770. With blind embossed seal and three revenue stamps attached beneath his signature. In very good condition with light soiling at edges, and usual folds.

George Augustus Eliott Document Signed, "G. A. Elliott". Written on two of four integral pages, 7.5" x 12", Gibraltar, May 31, 1786. Elliot is passing on information and requesting information from unknown recipients ("Gentlemen"). Toned with some stains around the top and bottom margin. Some separation along folds, else fine.

[Charles Edward Stuart] Lock of Hair. Lightly stitched into a folded piece of paper is a small lock of reddish hair. The folded paper is mounted on card stock with a handwritten note that reads "The King's Hairs Prince Charles Edward". There is also a larger attached note addressed to "the Misses Tornkinson" from "Flora Macdonald". The note has an indistinct date May 20th 1[?]50 and the handwritten "Jacobite Toast":
God bless the King! God bless the Faith's Defender!
God bless! - no harm- in blessing the Pretender.
But who Pretender is, or who is King?
God bless us all! That's quite another thing!

Fine condition.

Edward VIII Book Signed "Edward" as the Duke of Windsor. The signature is on a royal bookplate affixed to a preliminary blank page at the front of A King's Story: The Memoirs of the Duke of Windsor, authored by the Duke. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, [1951]. The dust jacket has some chipping at the head and some separation and inside tape repairs at the joints, otherwise very fine.

Wallis Simpson and Queen Elizabeth II Grouping. Includes a typed letter (6.25" x 9.75", matted to an overall size of 11" x 14") signed "Wallis" written to Lady Mendl, November 18, 1940. Also includes a 1954 Christmas card (8" x 7") signed "Elizabeth R" and "Philip/ 1954". Both pieces are in very fine condition.

Elizabeth II Signed Grant of Dignity. "Elizabeth R", 13" x 16". Signed by Elizabeth the Second, this document is the "Grant of Dignity of a Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George to Oscar Charles Morland, Esq." Queen Elizabeth's signature is boldly written across the top corner just above the official seal of The Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George. Page contains some folding, but is otherwise in fine condition.

Elizabeth II Signed Pardon. One and half page partly printed, 8.25" x 13", Court at St. James's, August 7, 1958. A royal warrant signed "Elizabeth R" pardoning Frederick Skelton, convicted of theft, from paying a fine of five pounds. Fine embossed seal in top left corner; two file holes in left margin; fine condition.

Joachim Napoleon Murat Signed Document, "Joachim Napoleon", one page, 10.75" x 16", partially printed on vellum, Naples, January 10, 1809, in Italian. The document has the embossed seal of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies at the bottom, an engraving of the royal seal at the top center, and a stamped seal at the top left. Joachim Napoleon, as King of the Two Sicilies, Prince and Grand Admiral of France, names Adamo Santelli as Prosecutor of the Royal Tribunal of Appeals in Lanciano. Wear at the folds and light foxing, else, near very fine.

Frederick the Great [King Frederick II of Prussia] Document Signed "Frederic". Four integral pages written on page one, 7.5" x 9", Potsdam, February 10, 1770, in French. The document, addressed to Colonel d'Anieres, grants permission for an officer to remain in the service of Poland. Fine.

[Charles IV] Document Stamped Signature. One page, front and verso, partially printed, 8" x 12", August 28, 1804, in Spanish. Signed by the Captain General of Cuba, the document is a commission for the commander of the Fourth Company of the Second Battalion of the Regiment of Infantry of Cuba. Numerous annotations on the verso. Minor ink burn on the Captain General's signature. Irregular left edge, else, fine.

Nikita Khrushchev Signed Tobacco Pouch. "N. Khrushchev 18 VI 1964". Cardboard tobacco pouch, 3.75" x 7.5", Copenhagen, Denmark, June 18, 1964. Signed in ink on an A. M. Hirschsprung & Sonner tobacco pouch commemorating Premier Khrushchev's state visit to the Danish capital. The pouch has tobacco remnants from cigars and cigarettes. Fine.

Prince de Monaco and Princess de Monaco Signed Christmas Card and Color Photo Archive. Four integral pages, 6.5" x 9.5", 1974, signed below attached photograph of the royal family, "Rainier" and "Grace". Three other photos, one of the royal family, are included. All are very fine.

Prince and Princess de Monaco Signed Photos and Covers. Two photos (7.5" x 9.5" and 7" x 9.5") of the royal family signed "Rainier, Prince de Monaco" and two covers (both 6.5" x 3.5") signed "Grace de Monaco". All are in fine condition.

Ranier and Grace of Monaco Signed Postcard. 4" x 6" postcard of the royal couple with their three children, signed "Ranier, Prince de Monaco/ Grace de Monaco."

Collection of Autographed Items from World Leaders. This collection of 5 items contains signatures from extremely influential leaders of the twentieth century: (1) Neville Chamberlain fragment of typed letter signed, (2) Charles De Gaulle signed photo, (3) Wilhelm II autograph letter signed, (4) Madame Chiang Kai-Shek typed letter signed, (5) Benito Mussolini document signed.

Grouping of 39 European Cabinet Cards and CDVs. Handsome collection includes twenty-six cabinet cards (4" x 6.5") and thirteen cartes de visite (near 2.5" x 4"). All are in fine condition.

Collection of 15 Russian Cabinet Cards and CDVs. A wonderful collection of colorful Russian individuals captured on eight cabinet cards (seven, 4.25" x 6.5"; one, 4.25" x 8.5") and seven cartes de visite (2.4" x 4"). All are in fine condition; one has 1" x 1" corner missing.

Clara Adams Signed Cards Includes 1" x 3" piece of skin from the airship Graf Zeppelin affixed to card signed by Adams. Also includes two other cards signed by the female aviator. Very fine.

Richard E. Byrd Check Signed "RE Byrd". One page, 6.5" x 2.75", Liberty National Bank of New York, December 8, 1927, for $18,242 to Atlantic Aircraft Corporation in the year of the explorer's transatlantic flight from New York to France. Usual cancellation perforations and stamp; very fine. Also includes a copy of the "Agreement for Purchase of Wright Engines", February 25, 192?, between the Wright Company of New York and the Byrd Arctic Expedition.

Clarence D. Chamberlain Inscribed Signed Photograph with Autograph Letter Signed on Verso. 10" x 8", July 17, 1962. This historic photo depicts Chamberlain, who flew the second nonstop transatlantic flight, beside his plane with a group of bystanders shortly after he ran out of gas and was forced to land in a German field. Clear wording; very fine.

John Glenn Signed First Day Cover. "J. A. Glenn, Jr.". One page, 8.5" x 8". The cover, postmarked Kennedy Space Center, August 2, 1971, is signed in the lower right corner. A printed copy of a drawing of a smiling astronaut by F. Boswell, 1962. Near fine.

Twentieth Century Aviators and Explorers Signatures. 3" x 2" matted to an overall size of 7" x 6", n.p., n.d., excised from a larger document. Contains a unique grouping of the signatures of Richard E. Byrd, Lincoln Ellsworth, Roald Amundsen, and Charles A. Lindbergh. Lightly age-toned, but all clearly signed; fine.

Charles Lindbergh Signature on a blue Presbyterian Hospital of New York City in-house envelope, 9.5" x 4". Lindbergh spent his last days in NYC before requesting to fly to Hawaii where he died in 1974. Certainly one of his last signatures; fine. Attached is a small envelope with the signature of his son, Jon Morrow Lindbergh.

[Lindbergh Kidnapping] Bruno Hauptmann Check Signed. Dated January 15, 1936, 8" x 3", American National Bank and Trust Company of Chicago, for $1 written and signed by Mark D. Yellow, attorney, and endorsed in blue ink on verso by Hauptmann. Hauptmann was executed for the kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh's son three months after this check was written. Fine.

[Charles Lindbergh] Archive. Includes original sheet music to two songs, negatives of the covers of the sheet music, four reproductions from the negatives, and the Spirit of St. Louis cigar box label. All are in fine condition.

[Charles Lindbergh] Family Archive. This offering contains one letter from Ann Morrow Lindbergh, Charles' wife and several letters from her father (Lindbergh's father-in-law), Dwight Morrow. Also includes one letter from Joe Foss, WWII ace, about flying in the same squadron with Lindbergh. Also contains the Daily Oklahoman, Aug. 27, 1974, with a front page announcement of the death of Lindbergh and several smaller aviation decals. Near fine.

Eddie Rickenbacker United States Passport Signed. Nineteen pages, 3.75" x 6", issued May 9, 1969. With this passport, the American WWI fighter ace, race car driver, and automotive and aircraft designer traveled to Switzerland and the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam). Very fine.

Orville Wright Signed Check. One page, 8.5" x 3", Winters National Bank & Trust Co. of Dayton, Ohio, June 15, 1943, to "The Dayton Power & Light Co." for $22.56. Contains perforated "PAID". Processing stamp on verso. Very good.

Orville Wright Envelope Signed. 9.5" x 4", post marked Dayton, Ohio, January 11, 1937, addressed to Jerome Dobin (New York) from Wm. W. Denton (Ohio). This air mail envelope celebrating the "33rd Anniversary Wright Brothers First Flights Dec. 17, 1903" is signed "Orville Wright" on the far left side. Some wear; very good.

Count Ferdinand Von Zeppelin Autographed Note Signed with Small Aviation Grouping. One page, 7" x 4.5", Girsberg, October 28, 1906. Light soiling and uneven margins, good condition. Total of eight items.

Group of Items Relating to Early Aviation. The early days of aviation research made numerous men well known for their advancements in the field. This collection is a tribute to some of these great names.
(1) Anthony Fokker signed card, (2) Wendelin Trenkle signed cover, (3) Eric Warsitz signed cover, (4) Willy Messerschmitt signed advertisement for musical piece dedicated to Charles Lindbergh, (5) Howard Wright signed photograph.

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.

Robert E. Peary Autograph Letter Signed. Two pages on "Hotel Imperial" letterhead, 8.5" x 11", New York, January 30 [no year]. Marked "Personal" and written to "Mr. Baynes" concerning "Cook" and his magazine, the Platform. Page one has minor chipping; both pages have a .75" tear along the right side, otherwise fine.

Henry Morton Stanley Autograph Note Signed. One page, 4.5" x 6" adhered to cardboard backing, Whitehall, South Wales, October 6, 1897. Here the British explorer asks "Mr. Hanson" to type two copies of a now unknown manuscript. Fine.

Eubie Blake Signed Sheet Music to "I'm Just Wild About Harry", by Noble Sissle and Eubie Blake. Six pages, 9" x 12", August 4, 1977, signed "To Mr. Milsfena Largo, Eubie Blake, Aug. 4th, 1977" below song title. Very fine.

Marc Chagall Signed Reproduction. The twentieth century Jewish-Russian painter signed "Marc Chagall" in black crayon in bottom right corner reproduction (10.75" x 9") of Above Witebsk. The signature is quite large and measures 3.25" x 1". Very fine condition.

Douglas Fairbanks Photograph Collection. Fourteen pages (three blank), 6" x 9", circa 1919. Contains photos (and some signatures) of Douglas Fairbanks, John Fairbanks, Marjorie Daw, Albert Parker, Robert Fairbanks, and others with associations to the silent film industry. The photos are mounted in a booklet which has come unbound. Still, photos and signatures are in fine condition.

Charles Gounod Autograph Letter Signed "Ch. Gounod". Three pages, 4.5" x 7", Malesherbes, France, June 19, 1879, to "My dear Mrs. Field".

Vladimir Horowitz-Two Signed Photographs, both 8" x 10", b/w. One photo is of the young Russian-American pianist and signed "Vl Horowitz/ 1963/ New York"; some toning; fine. The other is of a much older pianist, signed "VL Horowitz"; extra fine. Both are publicity photos.

[Helen Morgan] Christmas Card. One page, 5.5" x 8", n.d. This single panel is imprinted in black, red, and silver, and depicts Morgan, the legendary American singer and actress of the 1920s and '30s, from the back sitting on a grand piano in front of a fireplace. Bold colors; very fine.

Jesse Owens Signed Photograph. "Jesse Owens 36 Olympics". 8" x 10". Considered the greatest track and field athlete of the early twentieth century, Owens left a shadow over competitive sports that cannot easily be disregarded. Competing in the politically and racially turbulent 1935 Olympic Games held in then Nazi controlled Germany, Owens smashed records and became the first American in Olympic history to win four gold medals in track and field. Photo gives life to a record breaking moment as Owens crossed a finish line. Signature is bold and clear. Photo is in extra fine condition.