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United States History |
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1. 1876 CENTENNIAL EXHBITION. | ||
| 1876 Centennial Exhibition Ticket. Beautiful engraved admission ticket for the great International Exhibition held in Philadelphia to celebrate the centennial of the United States in 1876. Individually serial numbered and in fine condition. A scarce and interesting souvenir of the centennial. SOLD | |||
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2. (AMERICAN REVOLUTION). |
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| (AMERICAN REVOLUTION). Original “Act to Obviate Doubts with Respect to the Authority of Councellors in New Jersey,” read in the New Jersey General Assembly in November 18, 1776. The Act was intended to assert the authority of New Jersey legal officials under the “present Government,” meaning the newly independent American Revolutionary regime of the United States, and to claim the same authority as such officials enjoyed under “the former Establishment” when New Jersey had been a colony of Great Britain. Very interesting and rare original document from the first months of New Jersey’s independence as one of the United States of America. SOLD | |||
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3. JOSEPH ANDERSON (1757-1837). |
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| Brevet Major in the Revolutionary War, he served with Sullivan against the Iroquois and at the Siege of Yorktown. US Senator from Tennessee, President Pro Tempore of the Senate upon the resignation of Aaron Burr. US Comptroller of the Treasury 1815-1836. Treasury Department official letter dated August 11, 1828, signed by Anderson. Also includes integral address leaf with his franking signature, making two signatures on the one document. $295.00 | |||
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4. CLEMENT BIDDLE (1740-1814). |
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| Patriot activist, Quaker, warm personal friend of George Washington. As an officer in the Continental Army, he served at the battles of Trenton, Princeton, Germantown, Brandywine, and Monmouth. Later appointed US Marshal of Pennsylvania by Washington. 3-page legal-size manuscript document concerning a dispute over payment of a bill. Signed "Clement Biddle," in his capacity as a notary public, and set with a beautiful impression of Biddle’s wax and paper notary public seal. $465.00 | |||
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5. NICHOLAS BIDDLE (1786-1844). |
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| Scholar, Financier, President of the Second Bank of the United States. Biddle and his bank were the target of Andrew Jackson’s "Bank War," a political struggle that Jackson won and that cost the bank its charter. Beautifully engraved order of the Bank of the United States for 50 pounds sterling, dated June 21, 1838, and made out to F.W. Porter. Signed by Biddle as bank president. $350.00 | |||
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6. HUGO BLACK (1886-1971). |
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| Associate Justice of the US Supreme Court 1937-1971. Typed note on Black’s Supreme Court stationery, dated January 25, 1945, sending thanks for an interesting letter. Signed “Hugo Black.” $135.00 | |||
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7. JAMES GILLESPIE BLAINE (1830-1893). |
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| US Congressman and Senator from Maine, a founder of the Republican Party, Secretary of State under James Garfield and Benjamin Harrison. Despite his fame as an orator, he was defeated by Grover Cleveland for the presidency in 1884. Signature on card, J. G. Blaine, MC.” $95.00 | |||
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8. WILLIAM BRADFORD (1755-1795). |
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| Jurist, officer with the Pennsylvania militia and the Continental Army during the Revolution, son-in-law of Continental Congress President Elias Boudinot. He was chosen by President Washington to be the second US Attorney General in 1794. Two-page letter written and signed by Bradford, dated 1794, concerning a mortgage from the Committee of the Corporation of the Widows Fund. Bradford appends an elegantly and subtly worded threat should settlement not be forthcoming. Signed “W. Bradford,” while serving as attorney general. Very scarce. $345.00 | |||
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9. DAVID G. BURNET (1789-1870). | ||
| Texas revolutionary, first President of the Republic of Texas, serving provisionally during the Texas Revolution. Very early letter written entirely in Burnet’s hand, dated April 25, 1809, concerning financial matters dealing with a family estate settlement. “the estate of our dearly beloved & regretted Brother is as mysterious to me as it possibly can be…” Signed with a flourish, “D. G. Burnet.” $775.00 | |||
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10. JOHN C. CALHOUN (1782-1850). |
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| US Congressman and Senator from South Carolina, US Secretary of War under President James Monroe 1817-1825, US Vice-President under Presidents John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson. One of the most important and influential American statesmen of the nineteenth-century. Manuscript letter dated September 17, 1823, concerning the bonding of an Indian Agent to the Chickesaw Nation. Signed "J. C. Calhoun" as Secretary of War. Signature slightly brushed before the ink was dry, but clear and legible nonetheless. $385.00 SOLD | |||
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11. (AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY - EARLY) WENTWORTH CHESWILL (1746-1817). | ||
| Scion of an African-American family, but passing as White, Cheswill is revered as the New Hampshire Paul Revere. A messenger for the Committee of Safety, he rode from Boston to New Hampshire with the news that the British were coming. New Hampshire sheriff’s writ to seize the person or property of Eliphalet Mighells, a debtor. Dated April 14, 1809, and signed “Wentworth Cheswill” as Justice of the Peace. The fascinating story of the hidden racial background of the Cheswills was highlighted in a PBS Frontline special, “The Blurred Racial Lines of Famous Families.” A rare and fascinating item from a remarkable individual. $325.00 SOLD | |||
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12. WILLIAM CLARK (1770-1838). | ||
| American explorer of “Lewis & Clark” Fame. Soldier, veteran of General Anthony Wayne’s Fallen Timbers Campaign, Governor of the Missouri Territory. He joined Meriwether Lewis on the greatest exploratory expedition of the early republic. Manuscript St. Louis land indenture transferring a property to Clark, dated November 5, 1811. Clark was instrumental in the early settlement and organization of Missouri. Signed “Wm. Clark.” Rare and interesting. $2000.00 SOLD | |||
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13. CLEMENT CLAIBORNE CLAY, Jr. (1816-1882). | ||
| US Senator from Alabama, later served in the Confederate Senate when his state seceded. Led an unsuccessful mission through Canada to contact Lincoln’s government and begin peace negotiations in 1864. Imprisoned (and later freed) at the end of the Civil War on suspicion of planning raids and assassinations across the Canadian-US border. Cut signature “C. C. Clay, Jr.” taken from a larger document. Also signed by South Carolina Confederate Congressman John McQueen (1804-1867), so these signatures likely came from a Confederate legislative document. $45.00 | |||
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14. CONTINENTAL CURRENCY. | ||
| Original two dollar note from the November 2, 1776 issue, just a few short months after Independence was declared. Archivally framed with a window on the reverse of the note, and with a copy of Archibald Willard's "Spirit of '76" painting, done in 1876 and originally titled "Yankee Doodle." A lovely item from the year of American Independence, ready to hang. $395.00 | |||
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15. CONFEDERATE CURRENCY | ||
| Original Confederate $100.00 bill printed by Keatinge & Ball of South Carolina. Beautifully engraved $100.00 Confederate States bill printed in red and black on very fine paper. Decorated with engraved images of John C. Calhoun, and a vignette of slaves hoeing cotton. Hand-numbered in red ink 65298, and hand-dated November 21, 1862. A fine and attractive CS item. $120.00 | |||
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16. RICHARD HENRY DANA (1815-1882). |
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| Lawyer, one of the first Republicans, US Attorney for Massachusetts (appointed by Abraham Lincoln), friend to Herman Melville. His memoir of sailor life aboard an American sailing ship, "Two Years Before the Mast," was instrumental in encouraging legal reforms to improve the working conditions of seamen. Manuscript letter on US Attorney stationery concerning a case of Post Office larceny in Lowell, Massachusetts. Dana requests the Middlesex District Attorney to delay sentencing for the guilty party, as his testimony is important in a government case. Signed "Rich. H. Dana, Jr." $195.00 SOLD | |||
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17. NATHAN DANE (1752-1835). |
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| Lawyer, Continental Congressman from Massachusetts. He helped draft the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 and himself added the article prohibiting slavery in the Northwest Territory. Manuscript tax receipt written and signed by Dane, bearing the late-Revolutionary War date of July 19, 1782, for the substantial sum of £202.14.8 paid on the Continental Tax. Signed “Nathan Dane” as commissioner. $145.00 SOLD | |||
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18. 1912 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION. |
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| Original guest pass for the 1912 convention that nominated Woodrow Wilson, with an engraved image of the Capitol dome and a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the party’s founder. An attractive item. $45.00 | |||
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19. (JOHN HERBERT DILLINGER, 1902-1934). | ||
| Notorious, and successful, bank robber. Deemed dangerous enough to be classified as “Public Enemy #1” by the Department of Justice Division of Investigation (renamed the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1935). Dillinger and his gang terrorized the Midwest in 1933, killing, robbing and more than once escaping from jail. He was eventually ambushed and killed by federal agents outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago on July 22, 1934. 8” by 8” cardstock wanted poster dated March 12, 1934, for the capture of Dillinger. The poster incorporates a menacing mug shot of Dillinger, as well as a full set fingerprints and the address of J. Edgar Hoover’s Division of Investigation. Not signed. $295.00 SOLD | |||
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20. JOHN HERBERT DILLINGER (1902-1934). | ||
| Notorious, and successful, bank robber. Deemed dangerous enough to be classified as “Public Enemy #1” by the Department of Justice Division of Investigation (renamed the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1935). Dillinger and his gang terrorized the Midwest in 1933, killing, robbing and more than once escaping from jail. He was eventually ambushed and killed by federal agents outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago on July 22, 1934. Extraordinary and unique Dillinger souvenir with excellent provenance. While briefly in the custody of the Tuscon Police in January of 1934, the police chief had one of his officers ask Dillinger to sign a one-dollar and two-dollar bill. The officer reported that Dillinger tore the one-dollar bill in half afterward, in his words, "to make sure you don't spend this one." After being transferred from Tuscon, Dillinger escaped and was later gunned down by the FBI. This item is the one-dollar half-bill bearing a strong, excellent Dillinger's signature. A terrific Dillinger autograph, and an absolutely unique autograph item from Public Enemy #1. $9500.00 | |||
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21. (ELLIS ISLAND - Colonel A C W Fanning). | ||
| Alexander C W Fanning (1788-1846), career soldier and one of the earliest graduates of West Point (1812). He was brevetted for gallant service in the War of 1812, and fought with Andrew Jackson in the First Seminole War in 1817-1818. He was later brevetted colonel for service during the Second Seminole War 1840-1841. Fanning has penned a long and detailed letter concerning the command structure of the ordnance stores and forts around New York, trying to educate a US Military Storekeeper who had erred in drawing up invoices for the wrong command chain. Fanning was commander of Fort Columbus, and as such responsible for the defense of Ellis Island and Governor's Island. | |||
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22. (FEDERALISTS) RICHARD HARRISON (1750-1841). | ||
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Federalist, US Consul to Cadiz, first Auditor of the US Treasury (appointed by George Washington). Letter written and signed by Harrison, dated June 3, 1803, to New York lawyer and jurist PETER van SCHAACK (1747-1832). Terrific political content concerning the famous libel case of HARRY CROSWELL (1778-1858), Federalist editor of the aptly-named New York Wasp, who had attacked President Thomas Jefferson in print. As a result, he was being sued for libel under New York law by Jefferson’s Democratic Republicans. In an interesting stroke of poetic irony, Croswell was helped in his defense by Arch-Federalist Alexander Hamilton, who is mentioned in this letter. When the Federalists where in power, Hamilton had supported the enactment of the Sedition Act, which essentially made criticism of the government illegal. Now that a Federalist editor was under a similar attack, he changed his tune and became an ardent defender of free speech. Jefferson himself had normally been a supporter of free speech, but selectively prosecuted his Federalist critics once in power. In the letter, Harrison suggests various strategies for Croswell to employ, including arguing that state courts did not have jurisdiction over a libel case involving the US President, as well as suggesting that the defense should provide evidence to support the claims for which he was being tried. This would put the judge and plaintiff in a catch-22 situation, in that to refuse to accept such evidence “will establish that the Truth of the charge is no protection to the printer; & how the staunch opponents of the Gag-Law can avow that doctrine, I must own that I am at a loss to discover.” The “Gag Law” was a popular term for the Sedition Act opposed so vigorously by Jefferson’s party. Fantastic and very rare political content from the innermost circle of the Federalist Party as they do battle with the ascendant Jeffersonion Republicans. Full transcript provided. $1595.00
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23. HAMILTON FISH (1808-1893). | ||
| Distinguished statesman, US Congressman and Governor of New York, US Secretary of State 1869-1877 under President U. S. Grant. Elegantly engraved US Passport dated April 10, 1873, and signed “Hamilton Fish” as Secretary of State. Especially interesting example as the paper incorporates the largest watermark we have ever encountered, 18” by 22,” filling the entire document! Watermark is in the form of an American eagle and the Department of State title. $165.00 SOLD | |||
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24. HAMILTON FISH (1808-1893). | ||
| American statesman, US Senator, 16th Governor of New York, 26th US Secretary of State, serving for most of President Grant’s administration. He was Grant’s longest-serving cabinet officer, and in a role that was considered at the time to be second in importance only to the president. Manuscript letter on State Department stationery, written entirely in Fish’s hand, date April 18, 1873. Fish is acknowledging a letter he had received from William H. Nunn of New York, containing admiration and praise for President Grant. Fish mentions having read the letter to Grant, and passes along the president’s appreciation of the kind words regarding “his character & his career.” Signed “Hamilton Fish.” $140.00 | |||
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25. NATHANIEL FOLSOM (1726-1790). | ||
| American Revolutionary, Continental Congressman for New Hampshire. Brigadier General of New Hampshire Militia at the beginning of the Revolution, he served at the Siege of Boston and planned the march on Ticonderoga.. Partially printed sheriff's warrant to take into custody one Richard Smith, of Folsom's home town of Exeter, in an affair over debt default. Dated January 2, 1787, and signed "Nath. Folsom" as Justice of the Peace. $250.00 | |||
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26. SAMUEL AUGUSTUS FOOT (1780-1846). | ||
| Governor of Connecticut, US Congressman. His “Foot Resolution” in Congress in 1829 sparked Daniel Webster to remark “Liberty and Union, one and inseparable, now and forever,” as the resolution was debated, igniting the famous Hayne-Webster Debate on the nature of the Federal Union. Three-page manuscript letter in Foot’s hand to an unknown correspondent from Connecticut. Fantastic and important content concerning ongoing issues of Federal land policy, a very hot topic as Western expansion and settlement was beginning to boom. He makes particular mention of the reverberations of the recently passed Missouri Compromise. “The Missouri Question seems now to engross public attention, & will probably soon engage the attention of Congress & I fear not only engross the attention, but consume too much of this short session.” A rare find, offering an insider’s glimpse into the political turmoil in the Congress as lines began to be drawn between slave and free states, along the road to civil war. $225.00 | |||
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27. FELIX FRANKFURTER (1882-1965). | ||
| Austrian-born Associate Justice of the US Supreme Court 1939-1962, Founder of the ACLU. Typed letter on Supreme Court stationery, dated December 7, 1960, concerning a memorial planned for a friend. Signed “Felix Frankfurter.” Professionally matted. $850.00 | |||
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28. J. PAUL GETTY (1892-1976). | ||
| Oil Billionaire, art collector. He built a huge oil empire that eventually controlled or owned over 100 companies and made him one of the richest men in the world. Original check from Getty’s personal account imprinted with his name and address, dated January 12, 1942. An interesting example of Getty’s charitable side, the check is made payable to the Los Angeles branch of the Salvation Army for $25.00. Fine, strong signature “J. Paul Getty.” $265.00 | |||
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29. JAMES HOBAN (1762-1831). | ||
| Architect, designed the White House, and supervised its rebuilding after its destruction by the British in 1814. Also designed the State and War offices, and the old State Capitol in Columbia, South Carolina. Land indenture document dated September 14, 1815, signed by Hoban as one of the principles. Also signed by Justice of the Peace WILLIAM THORNTON (1759-1828), the architect who designed the US Capitol! Scarce, unusual document bearing the signatures of the two most important federal architects of the early Republic. $850.00 | |||
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30. JAMES HOBAN (1762-1831). | ||
| Architect, designed the White House, and supervised its rebuilding after its destruction by the British in 1814. Also designed the State and War offices, and the old State Capitol in Columbia, South Carolina. Original manuscript Deed of Trust document concerning a debt, filed in April of 1825. Hoban has signed twice as witness! $450.00 | |||
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31. SAMUEL HOLTEN (1738-1816). | ||
| Patriot activist, statesman. Member of the Continental Congress for Massachusetts 1778-1783, he had helped frame the Articles of Confederation in 1777. Massachusetts Court of Probate document concerning the estate of a housewright. Dated May 10, 1804, and signed by Holton as Judge of Probate. $190.00 SOLD | |||
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32. JIMMY HOFFA (1913-1975). | ||
| American labor leader. From 1932-1971 he was an organizer for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. From 1958-1971 he served as president of the IBT, and helped grow the union into the largest labor organization in the US. He served 4 years of a 13-year sentence for bribery, jury tampering and fraud, leaving prison after having been pardoned by President Nixon in 1971. He disappeared in 1975, and is presumed dead, allegedly as a result of a mob hit arising from Hoffa’s attempt to regain control of the Union. Blue and white collector’s plate dated “1962” and featuring an image of the “Little Mermaid at Wintertime.” Produced by Royal Copenhagen of Denmark, in the original box. Attached to the back is a hand-written gift note from Hoffa: “Dear Louise, This little gift in grateful appreciation from the Dog Catchers Union!!! Local 64, Jimmy Hoffa.” A fascinating and cryptic note hinting at some inside joke or incident that the recipient understood. Absolutely unique. $650.00 | |||
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33. JOHN EDGAR HOOVER (1895-1972). | ||
| Long-time Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Typed letter on Hoover’s letterhead as FBI Director, dated March 24, 1972, sending thanks to a citizen who had read Hoover’s books on Communism. Signed “J. Edgar Hoover.” $125.00 | |||
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34. JOHN EDGAR HOOVER (1895-1972). | ||
| Long-time Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Typed letter on Hoover’s letterhead as FBI Director, dated April 30, 1959, giving Hoover’s views on the importance of "wholesome organized athletic activity" as a deterrent against "juvenile delinquency." Signed "J. Edgar Hoover." SOLD | |||
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35. SAM HOUSTON (1793-1863). | ||
| Lawyer, soldier, statesman. US Congressman and Governor of Tennessee. He led Texas to victory in her war for independence from Mexico, and became the first President of the Republic of Texas. After Texas attained statehood, he served as US Senator and Governor of Texas. Beautifully engraved Texas Treasury Note for $50.00, dated September 1, 1837. Signed on the front "Sam Houston" as President of the Republic of Texas. A great item from the earliest days of Texas independence. Rare both for the fine example of Houston's signature and for the brief span of time during which these notes were produced. Texas only existed as an independent country from 1836-1846. $1200.00 | |||
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36. CHARLES EVANS HUGHES (1862-1948). | ||
| Governor of New York, Chief Justice of the United States 1930-1941. Page from an autograph album bearing an especially bold signature, “Charles E. Hughes.” $65.00 | |||
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37. ROBERT H. JACKSON (1892-1954). |
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| Associate Justice of the US Supreme Court 1941-1954. He took leave of absence 1945-1946 to be US Chief Counsel at the Nuremburg War Crimes Trials. Typed letter on Supreme Court stationery, dated March 11, 1949, signed “Robert H. Jackson” $175.00 | |||
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38. FRANK JAMES (1844-1915). |
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One of the most famous and notorious American outlaws, partner-in-crime with his brother Jesse James. Both Jesse and Frank served as Confederate guerrillas during the Civil War, and continued their activities in the post-war period in the infamous and successful “James Gang,” until the death of Jesse in 1882. Autograph letter written horizontally over a penciled letter of his brother-in-law Sam Ralston, dated September 19, 1883 from Sonora, Mexico. Sentimental and charming letter to James’ wife, telling her that “I miss you very much and love you more then all the world.” He asks her not to forget him, and to “tell my little man he must not forget his papa.” Signed “your affect. Hubby, Ben.” Also includes the envelope address panel, to “Mrs. A. F. James, Independence, Mo.” In James’ hand. Apparently hand-delivered with a notation of “Kindness, Mr. Ki Holland.” A fantastic piece of Western lore from one of the notorious of American outlaws, in Mexico following the assassination of his brother. The content of Sam Ralston’s letter is equally fascinating, recounting an armed standoff with a town sheriff named Burns. “..Burns pulled out a pistol and said he was armed and not afraid of anyone I said so am I and stepped back and fired my pistol over their heads…they looked at me and walkd off…” He also mentions the “glad tidings of the acquittal,” which is almost certainly a reference to James’ trial, which closed a few weeks earlier, for murder and robbery in the case of the Rock Island Line train robbery in which a passenger and conductor were killed. In front of a sympathetic Missouri jury, who saw the James’ boys as local Robin Hoods, and with strong supporting testimony from General Joseph O. Shelby, who portrayed Frank as a Southern patriot for his war service, he was acquitted of all charges. He must have been very pleased indeed – the trial had resulted from him turning himself in after his brother was gunned down, figuring it was only a matter of time before he was killed in a similar fashion. Housed in a beautiful custom-made ¼ leather slipcase with marbled boards, incorporating a space for the letter, envelope, and a picture of Frank James. Rare and unique. $4500.00 |
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39. MARQUIS de LAFAYETTE (1757-1834). |
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| French soldier and statesman, important figure in both the French and American Revolutions. One page autograph letter, entirely in Lafayette's hand, to Colonel Hortoche, indicating he had presented Hartoche's pretition to his colleagues and that it had been warmly received. Dated February 20 (1823). Lafayette was a member of the Chamber of Deputies at the time. $1250.00 | |||
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40. MARQUIS de LAFAYETTE (1757-1834). |
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| French soldier and statesman, important figure in both the French and American Revolutions. Small document written and signed by Lafayette (in French). Museum-quality framed with fabric mats and a portrait of Lafayette. $800.00 SOLD | |||
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41. TOBIAS LEAR (1762-1816). | ||
| American diplomat, friend and secretary to George Washington, to whom Washington spoke his last words. Long-time US Consul to Algiers, he negotiated the 1805 Treaty ending the war with Tripoli. Manuscript War Department document dated August 7, 1815, concerning the pay of Lieutenant John Mullin of the 42nd Infantry Regiment. Signed “Tobias Lear” as accountant for the War Department. $225.00 | |||
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42. LIBERIA – NJ COLONIZATION SOCIETY. | ||
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Superb letter written by a New Jersey African-American man, being a 5-page (legal size) hand-written report to the president and Board of Managers of the New Jersey Colonization Society recounting his trip to Liberia. The Colonization Societies were anti-slavery groups dedicated to repatriating former slaves to Africa, after establishing an African republic (Liberia) modeled on the US. The letter is datelined February 5, 1866, from the Liberian capital city of Monrovia, named for President James Monroe, who was president when Liberia was founded. The author of the letter is H(enry) W. Johnson, a long-time abolitionist who had earlier been a critic of colonization. The prospects in post-Civil War America seem to have been disappointing to him. Spectacular, detailed content about the promise of the Liberian experiment. The report is full of elegantly written descriptions and details, including an account of the crossing, the beauty of the location, the pleasant climate, and enthusiasm for the project’s progress. “All that has transpired since I left America, and all I have witnessed since my arrival here, have only confirmed me in my belief, - that Africa is the best home for the oppressed Black men in America!” The author felt an exhilarating freedom in Liberia that he felt denied in America “for no other reason – than I wear the dark skin given me by my Creator!” He offers his opinion that American free Blacks were wrong to stay and “hug their chains” and “kiss the rod that smites them” rather than beginning anew in Liberia. Fantastic content from an African American eyewitness to the early days of the Liberian experiment in colonization. An absolutely unique and rare document. An interesting postscript explains that the author and his family have contracted “the fever” and thus apologizes for having to continue the report in more detail at a later time. $4900.00 |
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43. THOMAS MIFFLIN (1744-1800). | ||
| Major-General during the War of rge Revolution, Quartermaster-General of the Continental Army until 1778. An early and ardent supporter of the Revolution, he was Washington's first aide-de-camp. Governor of Pennsylvania 1790-1799. Large (too large to completely fit on our scanner bed) parchment Pennsylvania land document dated December 10, 1794, giving control of 1,100 acres in Northumberland County to William Bingham. Signed by Mifflin as Governor. $475.00 | |||
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44. STEPHEN MIX MITCHELL (1743-1835). | ||
| Jurist, Continental Congressman and US Senator from Connecticut. 1792 manuscript document written and signed by Mitchell authorizing payment to the town of Guilford for the support of "Philip Riley a transient person." An interesting early example of social welfare, with the state of Connecticut paying for the support of a homeless citizen. $280.00 | |||
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45. THOMAS PAINE (1737-1808). | ||
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American Revolutionary, pamphleteer, author and agitator. Author of Common Sense, The Rights of Man, and The Age of Reason. He was a driving force between both the American and French Revolutions. Splendid third-person note written entirely bay Paine in his own hand, with an autograph address panel. Signed “Mr. Paine of America” at the commencement, the note is a polite request for an “interview” with renowned Irish playwright RICHARD B. SHERIDAN (1751-1816), author School for Scandal among others. Sheridan served as member of Parliament for Stafford from 1780-1812. Sheridan was an influential Whig, and a friend of the American colonists at the time of the American Revolution. It was this sympathy that likely prompted Paine’s visit. The only date is “Monday,” but the note was probably written between 1787-1789 when Paine was living in England. Interesting and very rare. In a famous letter to General Nathaniel Greene, Paine once wrote “Thank God nobody can publish my letters after I am dead for I write none and in the present uncertainty of conveyance I feel determined to write none. Thus much by way of apology for not writing sooner.” Our experience matches Paine’s admission – his letters are very, very few and far between, and not many remain in private hands. $15,000.00 |
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46. (PEACE CORPS). | ||
| Great early Peace Corps letter, signed by Peace Corps Founder Sargent Shriver. Shriver is the father of Maria Shriver, and father-in-law to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Dated March 2, 1963, and addressed to Congressman Robert E. Jones, Jr., of Alabama. Interesting content, praising Alabama firms with providing materials for Peace Corps projects in Ethiopia to provide street signs. Shriver lists several Alabama firms and documents how they helped. Signed “Sargent Shriver.” A great (and scarce) Peace Corps item. $75.00 | |||
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47. EDMUND RANDOLPH (1753-1814). | ||
| Aide-de-camp to General George Washington during the Revolution, Member of the Continental Congress, Delegate to the Constitutional Convention. First US Attorney General, later Secretary of State. Two-page handwritten letter signed by Randolph concerning a Congressional “Act for the Relief of Certain inhabitants of St. Domingo,” dated February 27, 1794. $650.00 | |||
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48. HENRY RUTGERS (1745-1830). | ||
| Patriot activist, Soldier of the Revolution, Merchant. As a philanthropist, he helped revive Queen’s College, New Jersey, which was renamed in his honor 1825. Handwritten receipt for a load of stone, dated July 6, 1807, from New York. Signed as audited by “Henry Rutgers.” $190.00 | |||
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49. WILLIAM H. SEWARD (1801-1872). | ||
| Prominent early Republican, Secretary of State under Lincoln and Johnson, he was a far-sighted territorial expansionist. In 1867 he orchestrated the purchase from Russia of Alaska, an unpopular move known at the time as "Seward’s Folly." Free frank envelope signed in full in the right hand corner, "William H. Seward." $165.00 | |||
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50. PIERRE SOULE (1801-1870). | ||
| French-born Louisiana politician, serving as U.S. Senator, and Minister to Spain. He followed his state into the Confederacy during the Civil War, and worked to establish a colony of Confederate veterans in Sonora after the war. Served for a time as an honorary Brigadier General on Beauregard’s staff. Signature on paper, "Pierre Soule." Includes a fine Civil War period carte de visite of Soule by Charles D. Fredericks of New York. $75.00 SOLD | |||
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51. GEORGE SUTHERLAND (1862-1942). | ||
| English-born Associate Justice of the US Supreme Court 1922-1938, US Representative and Senator from Utah. Postal card signed “Geo. Sutherland, Dec. 10, 1934.” $70.00 | |||
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52. ROGER B. TANEY (1777-1864). | ||
| Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court, he is most famous for authoring the 1857 Dred Scott decision, which helped polarize the country ovr slavery and was a key milestone on the road to Civil War. Terrific 3-page legal document entirely in Taney’s hand, dated October 24, 1814, concerning a case of debt and trespass. Signed “Roger B. Taney” at the conclusion, and signed twice more on the docket “R.B.Taney.” A terrific legal autograph item from a key Chief Justice. | |||
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53. CHARLES THOMSON (1729-1824). | ||
| Philadelphia teacher and merchant, he served as Secretary of the Continental Congress 1774-1789. A friend of Benjamin Franklin, he was widely respected for his intellect, abilities and zeal. Letter written and signed by Thomson, dated October 26, 1784, at Philadelphia, and addressed to US Minister to France THOMAS JEFFERSON (1743-1826), 3rd US President and the author of the Declaration of Independence. Thomson has written a letter of introduction for Joseph Norris, a future president of the Bank of Pennsylvania. He solicits Jefferson’s aid on Norris’ behalf, and also implores Jefferson to help guard him from the “vice and folly” of Paris. Jefferson has docketed the letter in his own hand “C. Thomson.” A rare and interesting letter from within the Revolutionary inner circle. $2900.00 | |||
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54. WILLIAM THORNTON (1759-1828). | ||
| Architect, inventor. Designed the US Capitol and the Library Company of Philadelphia building. Served from 1802 until his death as Superintendent of the United States Patent Office. Signature on paper of Thornton signed as justice of the peace, “William Thornton, J.P.” $115.00 | |||
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55. WILLIAM THORNTON (1759-1828). | ||
| Architect, inventor. Designed the US Capitol and the Library Company of Philadelphia building. Served from 1802 until his death as Superintendent of the United States Patent Office. Manuscript document dated June 12, 1824, concerning the sale of a parcel of land in Washington DC, Signed on both the front and back by Thornton as Justice of the Peace. $385.00 | |||
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56. GEORGE FRANCIS TRAIN (1829-1904). | ||
| Merchant, entrepreneur, traveler, author, eccentric. Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days was said to have been patterned on one of Train’s adventures. Brief poem, written and signed by Train and dated “Xmas ‘99.” “Ah well! The World is discreet/ There are many who pause and wait/ But here is a man who plants his feet/ Sometimes in advance of fate! Geo. Francis Train, Madison Square.” $150.00 | |||
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57. MESHECH WEARE (1713-1786). | ||
| American Revolutionary Statesman, First President of the State of New Hampshire, as well as Chief Justice of the state Superior Court. Large, partially printed document appointing Nathaniel Emerson a colonel in the state militia, dated Christmas Day, December 25, 1784. Even brown age toning, and boldly signed “M Weare.” $2500.00 | |||
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58. DANIEL WEBSTER (1782-1852). | ||
| Statesman, considered by many of his contemporaries to be the greatest Lawyer of the period. A renowned orator, Webster, along with Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun, was one of the “Great Triumvirate” that dominated Congressional politics in the mid-nineteenth century. Postal cover addressed in Webster’s hand to J. M. Howard, Esq. of Detroit with a Washington DC postmark for January 14, 1805. Set with an intact red wax seal bearing the initials “D. W.” and Webster’s free frank signature “Dan.l. Webster.” All writing is light but legible. $245.00 | |||
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59. MARINUS WILLETT (1740-1830). | ||
| Patriot activist, a leader of the New York City Sons of Liberty, later appointed Mayor. Continental Army Colonel, commanded US forces in the Mohawk Valley 1780-1783. After the war, he was a prominent Anti-Federalist and opponent of the ratification of the US Constitution. Partially printed order dated August 17, 1784, for the “Sherif of the City of New-York” to take Joseph Rose into custody. Signed on the reverse by Willett, as Sheriff. $135.00 | |||
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60. OLIVER WOLCOTT JR. (1760-1833). | ||
| Son of Declaration of Independence Signer Oliver Wolcott, friend and ally of Alexander Hamilton, who Wolcott succeeded as US Secretary of the Treasury under President Washington 1795-1800. Governor of Connecticut 1817-1827. Letter dated September 15, 1800, and addressed to Robert Goodloe Harper (1765-1825), a veteran of the Revolution, serving under General Nathanael Greene at the age of fifteen, and a Major-General during the War of 1812. At the time of Wolcott’s writing, Harper was serving as a Federalist US Congressman for South Carolina. The letter concerns the ship “Snow Ranger” and her liability to American customs duties. Signed by Wolcott as Secretary of the Treasury. $295.00 | |||
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61. THOMAS WHARTON (1735-1778). | ||
| Patriot activist, early member of the Philadelphia Committee of Correspondence. President of the Council of Safety 1776, and President of Pennsylvania 1777-1778. Pay order for 12 pounds made out to John Smith for ten days expenses and services, for himself and his horse. Revolutionary War-dated July 9, 1777, and signed by Wharton as President of Pennsylvania, the equivalent of Governor at the time. $550.00 | |||
