October Legends and Americana Ending November 14th
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2015
(1) Manuscript Endorsement Signed “R E Lee / Genl” on lower portion of the verso of a partial letter signed “Wm J. Clarke,” Colonel, 24th Regt North Carolina Infantry, recommending John M.E. Valk of Mecklenburg County, Virginia, for a position in the Quartermaster’s Department. “He and his large family are refugees from their home because of his attachment to the cause of Southern Independence,” writes Clarke. Two pages, 8” x 9.25”. Soiling, staining, chipping do not materially affect Lee’s signature. Good condition.
In full, “Headqrs Dept Northn Va. 15 Oct 1862. Having great confidence in the recommendation of Genl. Ransom & Col Clarke, I do not hesitate to recommend Mr. Valk for the position of Asst Qr. Mr. Believing from his testimonials that he will prove an active & efficient officer, his position & services claim something for him from the Government. R E Lee Genl."
Col. Clarke notes that Valk “and his large family are refugees from their home because of his attachment to the cause of Southern Independence.” Colonel Matt W. Ransom writes, in part, “It gives me great pleasure to concur in the testimony borne by Col. Clarke on behalf of Capt. Valk … I can safely say that I know no man of superior moral worth or better business qualities." There is also an endorsement of William H. MacFarland who knows Mr Valk, “a gentleman of high character on whom my confidence may be reposed…”
(2) Autograph Letter Signed “U.S. Grant / Majr Gen,” One page, 7.5” x 9.75”. Head Qrs Mil. Div. of the Miss., Nashville Tenn Jan. 16, 1864. To General George H. Thomas, the "Rock of Chickamauga,” Head of Dept, of the Cumberland. Bears scorched markings of a fire. Silking on verso to strengthen paper. Good condition.
In full, “Head Qrs Mil. Div. of the Miss., Nashville Tenn. Jan 16th 1864 … Please send the bearer of this, Mrs. Bransford under Flag of Truce, to the Confederate lines. Very Respectfully, Your obt svt. U.S. Grant Majr Genl.”
According to “Confederate Veteran Magazine,” Vol. XIII (May 1905), p. 216, Mrs. Bransford was "the mother of a prominent Confederate officer," possibly Confederate Captain John S. Bransford, Army of the Tennessee.
Elegantly framed to an overall size of 26.5" x 21.5". Comes with letter of authenticity from University Archives.
This lot has a Reserve Price that has not been met.