Large Historical Archive, Paul H Weinert Papers and
Photos as Medal of Honor
Recipient for his actions in the Battle of Wounded Knee,
participation as Cavalry Flag
Bearer in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, his Military career,
and subsequent private life as an American Hero.
Interests: American Westward Expansion, Battle of Wounded Knee or Wounded Knee
Massacre, Medal of Honor Recipient, Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, Impact on Native
American Culture resulting from American's Manifest Destiny
Author's Note: Paul Weinert was a Man of His Times, meaning that he lived his entire
life within the boundaries. norms. and mores of his contemporary culture. Weinert
peaked at the culmination of America's own version of Manifest Destiny, culminating in
Westward Expansion at the detriment of the Indigenous Native American Culture. At
that time in American History, the Native American was seen as a pediment to
Westward Expansion and advancing "civilization" to the western United States.
Although near the end of the protracted Native American Culture mass extinction, the
near-final major blow was the Battle of Wounded Knee, now commonly known as the
Wounded Knee Massacre, seen clearly in history as a retaliation to "Custer's Last Stand
at the Little Big Horn". At that time in history, the white popular version of the story
dominated the American Culture, and was a view that Paul Weinert believed as not only
defensible, but honorable. Weinert lived his entire life as an American Hero, and while
reprehensible in retrospect, it is unlikely Weinert knew anything other than adoration in
his lifetime. Time lends perspective.
Description: Significant archive of photographs and papers associated with Paul H.
Weinert, one of twenty soldiers awarded the Medal of Honor for action at Wounded
Knee who later joined Buffalo Bill's Wild West traveling show, comprising material
associated with both of these aspects of his life and career. As a member of Battery 'E'
of the 1st Regiment of US Artillery, Weinert took part in what was then called the Battle
of Wounded Knee, but is now typically referred to as the Wounded Knee Massacre
Wounded Knee: On December 29, 1890, a detachment of the 7th Cavalry, supported
by a battery of Hotchkiss guns from the 1st Artillery, surrounded a Lakota encampment
near Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. It is said that when the cavalrymen made
contact to confiscate their arms, the gun of Black Coyote—a deaf Lakota who did not
want to give up his expensive rifle—accidentally went off, prompting the American
troops to fire on the largely disarmed and helpless Native American Indians. When
commanding officer Lt. Harry Hawthorne was wounded, Weinert assumed command
and directed the artillery fire, successfully clearing out a key position in a ravine that had
been occupied by Sioux warriors. He and the second cannoneer remained under heavy
fire throughout the battle, advancing their gun after each discharge to attain better
positions. In the end, between 250 and 300 Lakota men, women, and children were
killed in the lopsided fight, which saw just 25 American deaths. Note: Author suggests
further reading on the topic, including the Wikipedia page
Weinert was one of twenty men awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry at
Wounded Knee, his citation reading: 'Taking the place of his commanding officer who
had fallen severely wounded, he gallantly served his piece, after each fire advancing it
to a better position.' In modern times, these Medals of Honor have proven
controversial—in 2001, the National Congress of American Indians passed two
resolutions condemning the military awards and called on the US government to rescind
them, though that has not taken place. In addition to his military service throughout the
1890s, Weinert joined the famous traveling Western show of William F. 'Buffalo Bill'
Cody, serving as its cavalry standard bearer in 1896.
Highlights include:
Photographs:
Three original mounted albumen photographs of the aftermath of the Battle of
Wounded Knee published by the Northwestern Photographic Co. of Chadron,
Nebraska, all with titles inherent to the image. Includes: an 8 x 5 photograph entitled
"Gathering up the Dead at the Battle of Wounded Knee S.D.," showing a horse-drawn
cart filled with bodies in the foreground, with cavalry officers on horseback silhouetted in
the background; an 8.5 x 6.5 photograph entitled "Birds Eye View of Battlefield at
Wounded Knee, S.D. looking North," showing Big Foot's camp three weeks after the
massacre, with bodies of four Lakota Sioux wrapped in blankets in the foreground and
American soldiers amid scattered debris of the camp in the stark distance; and an 8.5 x
6.5 photograph entitled "Birds Eye View of Can[y]on at Wounded Knee, S.D.," showing
a wagon chassis with two dead horses in the foreground, and soldiers standing amidst
the corpses of Native Americans scattered about the base of the canyon in the
background.
Ten mounted albumen portraits of Paul H. Weinert throughout his military career,
highlighted by a rare early oversized portrait of him wearing his newly earned
Medal of Honor, affixed to a 7.75 x 10 mount. Others include two different earlier
cabinet portraits of Weinert in a military coat; an early cabinet portrait of Weinert by M.
Hofsteater of the Wisconsin Territory, showing him in formal attire and holding his cap
with the insignia of Battery 'E,' 1st US Artillery; another cabinet photo by Hofsteater,
showing Weinert in uniform beside his horse; two identical cabinet photos by A. H.
Baumann of Crawford, Nebraska, showing him in uniform with the insignia of Troop 'L,'
1st US Cavalry, with his Medal of Honor on his chest; a cabinet photo by Fiero's Studio,
showing Weinert with three medals on his chest (including the Medal of Honor); and two
identical oval portraits of Weinert wearing his medals by Barrows of Boston.
Two different albumen photographs on 8.5 x 6.5 mounts showing American
soldiers at their encampment.
A square albumen portrait of a cavalry officer on horseback affixed to a 5.25 x
5.25 mount, inscribed on the reverse in ink, "Compliments of Mildred, Taken Apr.
16, 1899."
A square albumen photograph showing a cavalry officer on horseback holding an
American flag with a Native American Indian in front of him, affixed to a 5 x 5
mount, with a studio's backstamp, "D. J. Schmedlie, 3330 Franklin Ave."
Four 8.5 x 6 albumen portraits showing artillery batteries from afar, with ink
notations to several of the images (presumably identifying Weinert), affixed to
larger mounts. One is annotated on the reverse of the mount, Light Batteries E & K - 1st
N. Y. Artillery, Captains Allyn Capron & J. W. Dillenback, Presidio, San Francisco,
California, 1889, Presented to M. P. H. Weinert, St. George Hotel, Brooklyn, N.Y., Sept.
13th 1900."
An unusual 10 x 8 albumen portrait of American officers posing with their
bicycles, Weinert identified with an ink notation, affixed to its original Spencer of
Chicago mount.
A 9.5 x 7.25 mounted albumen photograph by N. L. Stebbins of Boston, showing
Weinert and three others on horseback.
Two different albumen photographs of a troop, both affixed to gray 6.5 x 4.25
mounts, one showing cavalry officers standing atop their horses, and one showing the
men dressed in matching white outfits with hats.
Two identical albumen photographs of a group of men in their barracks, featuring
Weinert at the center with his Medal of Honor on his chest, affixed to 6.5 x 5.5
mounts.
A 6.25 x 4 albumen portrait of an artillery company (presumably the Battery 'E' of
the 1st Regiment of Artillery), affixed to a trimmed Northwest Photographic Co.
mount, advertising their views of Wounded Knee on the reverse.
A 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of three cavalry officers by Morris of Santa Cruz,
California.
An albumen photograph of the peace council between the Sioux and Chippewa at
Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show on September 11, 1896, affixed to its original 11 x 9.5
mount with printed caption, taken by S. W. Bailey of Ashland, Wisconsin. The reverse of
the mount bears an affixed printed transcript of the council's proceedings.
An albumen photograph of the men in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show, captioned
within the image, "Dressing Room at Buffalo Bill's Wild West 1897," affixed to a 12 x 10
mount.
A 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of legendary sharpshooter Annie Oakley by Stacy of
Brooklyn, bearing Oakley's facsimile signature on the mount.
A glossy 5 x 4 photo of cowboys and Native American Indians on
horseback,
perhaps during a rehearsal for Buffalo Bill's show.
A 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Chief Joseph and his family by E. B. Snell, Elite
Gallery, Wellington, Kansas, showing the leader of the Wal-lam-wat-kain (Wallowa)
band of the Nez Perce at the center. Erroneously identified on the reverse in modern
ballpoint as "Red Cloud."
A 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite–style card reproducing a cabinet portrait of "Jack Red
Cloud," chief of the Oglala Lakota Sioux, by Trager and Kuhn, Crawford, Nebraska,
with the studio's name inherent to the image.
Also includes an assortment of Weinert family photographs.
Letters, Documents, and Ephemera:
An original admission ticket for the 1897 season of "Buffalo Bill's Wild West and
Congress of Rough Riders of the World," authentically signed along the bottom in ink
by Buffalo Bill, "W. F. Cody."
Four of Paul H. Weinert's military commissions, dated from 1890 to 1898, with
appointments including: "Corporal in Light Battery 'E' of the 1st Regiment of Artillery"
(1890); "Sergeant in Light Battery 'E' of the First Regiment of Artillery" (1891); "Corporal
in Troop 'C' of the Fifth Regiment of Cavalry" (1894); and "Sergeant in Troop L of the
First Regiment of Cavalry" (1898).
Two of Paul H. Weinert's Army of the United States discharge papers: one
discharging him from service in the "First Regiment of Artillery" in 1891, recording his
military record on the reverse, which notes his receipt of the Medal of Honor, "Awarded
a medal for distinguished service at Wounded Knee Creek S.D, Dec. 29, 1890 by U.S.
Congress"; and one discharging him from service in the "Fifth Regiment of Cavalry" in
1895. Both certificates describe Weinert's character as "Excellent."
Three ALSs by Paul H. Weinert, totaling seven pages on five sheets, all dated
1903, including two to his wife and one to his son. Weinert writes about general matters,
saying that he plans to buy a new toothbrush and necktie, discussing an upcoming
carnival, and expressing his love for his wife. The longer love letter to his wife closes
with sickeningly sweet expressions of his affection: "Well, my own dear darling tootsie
tootsie duckie dumpling huckleberry juice sweetie sickiemore weenie write soon and
often to your own loving lemon pie pumpkin squash snoozer, Paul H. Weinert, Met. Park
Police, Revere Beach, Mass."
Also includes ephemera such as a few newspaper clippings, a few letters sent to
Weinert, and condolence letters sent to Weinert's wife after his passing.
Condition: In overall very good to fine condition. Various sizes. Contained in binder
with pocketed pages.
$4,750.00
849-117
History, Military, American Naval History,
Mss. Document, USS Frigate Constitution
Boston June 20, 1798 Receipt: United State Naval Agent
borrows Four Ton of Canister Shot and
Four Eighteen-pound Cannon
for use on the USS Frigate Constitution.
Agent borrows Four Ton of Canister Shot and Four Eighteen-pound Cannon
for use on the USS Frigate Constitution. Of importance, the receipt is a historical deviation
from the Wikipedia version which notes that sixteen cannons were borrowed vs. the four
found in this receipt. The Cannon and shot were borrowed from Castle Island when
the Constitution was ordered out on her first run but had not yet been fully outfitted with cannon.
Transcript as follows:
Boston June 20, 1798
Received from Amasa Davis QM Gen. of Castle Island, under
command of William Perkins, esg four tons of Cannister Shott
the property of Commonwealth Massachusetts.
Four cannon of Eighteen Pound Calliber, for use of the
United States Frigate Constitution
which i have a promise to replace immediately
Signed by duplicates
F L Jackson, Naval Agent of
behalf of the United States
End of Transcript
MSS, Ink on laid paper 9.25 x 7.25 sight, add 1.5" for period frame
Condition: typical folds, strong ink, not examined out of frame.
$6,225.00
270-167
Letter Archive, Asst. Surgeon James Rogers, H.M.S. Revenge
Included are 5 19th century surgical instruments;
2 by M. Wocher, 3 by Luer
Description: Very interesting letter grouping of Asst Surgeon James Rogers, H.M.S.
Revenge, along with MSS formulas for various cures mostly in Latin, a poem "The Tear"
written by Dr. Rogers aboard the Revenge in 1838, and 5 small surgical tools belonging
to Dr. Rogers. This is most interesting archive demanding further research.
Five letters to Dr. James Rogers to/from John Rogers, his father. All have stampless
envelopes with interesting postmarks including to Rogers aboard H.M.S Revenge, Cape
of Good Hope or Elsewhere. Another to Rogers on the Revenge in Portsmouth, another
to Rogers aboard the H.M.S. Isis. John Rogers spares no words in detailing the family
happenings throughout the period of 1837 to 1847, the date of the last letter. Two letters
are addressed to Dr. James Rogers, Oakland County, State of Michigan Letters are all
readable, although one is tearing at all seams and another has cross-writing on the
entire surface. (twice the content, but harder to read).
In 1976, a letter was written to the Minister of Defense, London, England to enquire
about Asst Surgeon James Rogers service in the British Navy. The reply is included in
the archive stating that James Rogers did indeed serve as Asst. Surgeon on the H.M.S
Revenge in 1831, and additionally detailed the service history of the H.M.S Revenge
from 1805 to 1849. Further info on the H.M.S. Revenge can be found
at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Revenge_(1805)
Condition: All items are readable with legible handwriting. Most have some minor
condition issues not affecting the content. One letter has severe seam separation but
remains legible. Surgical tools are intact. Overall, well-worn but of acceptable condition
for the researcher, collector, or family archivist.
$375.00
171-181
Americana, Newspaper, Connecticut Courant July 20, 1795
Description: Writer's note. As a researcher and collector of early American MSS and
printed material, I generally dismiss non-war or non-important historical American dated
newspapers, but I could not put this one down once I started reading. The entire front
page is about the May 20,21 events in the French Revolution. Being that America has
just completed an insurrection, and France attempting to copy the process, Americans
took a keen interest in the events as they happened. 1795 was near the end of the
French Revolt and focused on the formation of their new government. Anyone with an
interest in France, Democracy, the Human Condition, would find this 4 page volume
most interesting. Later in the volume there is the typical news copied from other national
gazettes, and the 4th page has a 1/2+ column on the Connecticut Manufactory Lottery
with "Now or Never" banner heading. Following the lottery write up in an advertisement
for Western Expansion with a man gathering his travelers and offering 200 acres to be
conveyed when they arrive (uh huh). Fascinating reading for an inquiring mind, history
buff.
Size: 19" x 11" or 19" x 22" when unfolded. Printed both sides, so 4 pp
Condition: Typical fraying and chipping at edges, folds, curling, some discoloration, but
fully readable copy Overall: Good++
$135.00
621-190
Newspaper: Fairfield Gazette or Independent Intelligencer
Vol 1. No. 27, Feb 1, 1787
Published by Miller, Forgue, and Bulkeley 4 pages
Description: Interesting view of early America in Fairfield, Connecticut’s first
newspaper, or at least claims to be the 1st. Content ranges from tilted editorials to
extracts of news from other printed sources. On the 4th and last page are Regimental
Orders from the Hartford Barracks, Jan 10, 1787, for Col. Humphrey's crew with details
of what troops need to wear, how they need to dress, the need for uniformity, what
badges are acceptable, regimental colors, etc. Despite the wear from use, seam
separations, and other conditions from age, this is a very interesting paper worthy of
being framed, studied, or simply read. Not researched to determine surviving copies,
but a quick internet search found just one copy in images, and this a different first year
issue.
Size: 10" x 17" H per single page. Unfolded 20" x 17" H.
Printed both sides totally 4 printed pages.
Condition: Seam separations, darkening in places, owner names:
"Jon_ Benedict" (or close to that)
$110.00
171-203
Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860), Letter Signed, One Page, Philadelphia, Dec. 26, 1857
Peale at age 80 acknowledges a solicitation for his autograph; he states that he is, “the only living artist who ever painted Washington from life”. Date/Period: 1857
Measurement: Frame: 18.5" x 14.75"; view: 15.5" x 11.75"; letter: 4.75" x 7.5";
GW image: 5" x 6.5"
As you desire my autograph, at 80 years of age – the only Artist living who ever
painted Washington from the life, I give it with pleasure; but to render it to some
service to the cause of Temperance, permit me to add, that my hand is now as
steady as it was at eighteen – enabling me to paint with undiminished faculty and
pleasure.
Respectfully Yours
Rembrandt Peale
At the age of eighteen, Rembrandt Peale painted his famous portrait of Washington
from life as his father, Charles Willson Peale observed.
Washington posed for Charles Willson Peale while in Philadelphia attending the
Constitutional Convention. Relying on a long personal association, Peale approached
Washington on his son's behalf in 1795, the President agreed to three sittings.
The young Rembrandt Peale captured the grandeur of Washington; the artist captured
the determination and the sheer physical presence, a remarkably faithful likeness of
Washington. Rembrandt demonstrated a near obsession with Washington and
replicated his famous portrait seventy-nine times.
$4,950.00
232-389
Broadsheet; “An Act For the Government and Regulation of Seamen in the Merchant’s Service, 1790"
Nice example of American Naval Regulation of Labor Agreements between master and crew on Interstate Voyages. Form is pre-printed with Mss. entries; Working document concerning Brig Ruby of Newburyport, Mass, and the detailed (by Act) contract between Master John Dilloway and the six crew members; their roles, wages, etc. in MSS. on an 1811 voyage from Newburyport to the West Indies
In 1790, a Federal Law was enacted requiring detailed contracts between a ship's master and the crew for all interstate voyages. The full law was printed on the document, with the opposite side to be filled in Manuscript with details of the voyage, master and crew. Forms were pre-printed, and filled in prior to each voyage with appropriate details. All forms of the broadsheet are rare, with full copies very hard to find in any form. There are several variations of the broadsheet as they were printed by various booksellers.
Act reads: "Congress of the United States, at the second session, begun and held at the city of New York, on Monday the 4th of January, 1790. And Act for the Government and Regulation of Seamen in the Merchant's Service. It is agreed, between the Master, Seamen, and Mariners of the (Brig Ruby of Newburyport,) Master, now bound from the port of (Newburyport to the West Indies), that in consideration of the monthly or other wages, against each respective Seaman and Mariner's Name Hereunder Set, they severally shall and will perform the above mentioned voyage"
Act continues in 3 column format and closed with printed names of Frederick Muhlenburg, John Adams, Geo Washington and Thomas Jefferson as signers of the 1790 Act.
(Matte: 17.5 by 22”, Sight: 16.75 by 12.5”) Condition: Fold creases, otherwise fine. Very Rare
$2,500
232-336
AMERICAN ICON: Marilyn Monroe Final Judgment of Divorce
Between Norma Jeanne Di Maggio and Joseph Paul Di Maggio
Judgment Date Oct 25, 1954 Superior Court State of California
"A Full True and Correct Copy of the Original on file and made in my Office and entered Oct 31, 1955 Judgment Book 2988 Page 88 (signed by) M. Leach, Deputy, and then (at the bottom) by Judge Elmer D Doyle". This certified copy was most likely made as proof of divorce for banking or legal reasons. A wonderful, displayable artifact from perhaps the most famous courtship and marriage of the 20th Century. A plethora of information is available on the internet for Joe Di Maggio, Marilyn Monroe, Norma Jeanne Di Maggio, the marriage, the divorce, and more! And who was not enamored by the
story? This writer was fascinated, and I was only 1 year old at the time.
On legal paper, 8.5" x 13.5" unframed, with a fold at the 10" line leaving a nice display area of 8.5" x 10" with 2 paper punch holes at the top for placement in legal binder. Deputy Leach signature and certificate date in blue ink as is Judge Elmer D. Doyle’s signature at the 10" line; Immediately after Doyle's signature at the 10th inch
of the paper, with Doyle's signature slightly folded (buy can be unfolded
for framing or display. In plastic slip jacket. Excellent Condition.
FWIW: The Di Maggio Wedding Certificate sold at auction for $123k. That's how much collectors love the story and the celebrities involved. Ken Goldin of Golding Auctions used this quote at the time Goldin Auctions achieved the 123k sale " Despite the divorce, they remained friends until her death in 1962 from a drug overdose, and DiMaggio had roses delivered to her grave every week after her death until he died in 1999, according to the Post.". Of course, the Wedding Certificate was the sole, personal document issued on the day of their marriage (Jan 14, 1954), and Weddings are more glamorous than divorces, and of course the Divorce Certificate is just an official contemporary copy, but Gees!
$1,775.00
1039-47
MARITIME LAW: PROTECTION OF SEAMAN RIGHTS
2 Sided Partially Printed Document, Obverse: United States of America; An Act for the Government and
Regulation of Seaman in the Merchants' Service; Printed Names of Frederick Augustus Muhlenberg,
John Adams, and George Washington. Obverse is the full Act in 3 columns. Reverse is an agreement
between Ship Masters, Seaman and Mariners filled out by Master, specifically spelling out the terms
of the agreement including the Ship, Destination, Duration, List of all names Master and Crew, Place
and Date of Entry; Names Rank or Role, Witness of Signing (preventing sailors going unwillingly),
Advance Wages, day wage rates, and Full/final wages. In summary, the Ships Master is responsible to
meet the terms of the contract and is likely to be checked at each U.S. Port. This act went a long
way in protecting the rights of the seamen and ensured that they got paid per agreement. An
important piece of Maritime Law. This 2 sided partially printed document is framed so either side
can be displayed and shows handsomely both ways. Not inspected out of the frame, but apparently
legible. Ship Master is Henry Barnard, and also carried a 10-man crew. Fascinating piece of U.S.
Maritime Law and History. Folds, creases include some small losses at folds and some small text
loss. See pictures for detail. Many names to research!
(View area: 11.5" x 15"; overall: 13.5" x 17")
$925.00
1039-49
Book: Travels Round the World in the Years 1767,1768, 1769, 1770,1771 by
Monsieur de Pages, Translated from the French Volume 1 (only) of a 3 Vol Set Date/Period: 2nd Edition, London: J. Murray 1792-1793. 8vo. First Volume ONLY
Measurement: 8 vo.5 5/8" x 8 3/8" 300 numbered pages
Material: Rebound in brown calf.
Condition: Very readable. Pages clean, Overall nice, refreshed copy
Additional Information: Monsieur Pierre Marie Francois de Pages was a French
naval officer and world traveler adventuring through North America. Later, de Pages
accompanied an expedition towards the South Pole in 1773-4 and towards the North
Pole in 1776
$800.00
110-985
ALS, General Orders, 1807, Massachusetts Militia
CONTENT: ALS, (COPY) of 2 sided letter to Brig. Gen. S Holman from
the Maj General of Seventh Div. Mass Militia (Maj Gen Davis),
signed by John Spurr Jr ADC (aide de camp) Seventh Div. Mass. Militia;
dated July 20 1807
ALS: This is a COPY of a letter from the "Major General of Seventh Division" (gen Davis), and signed "John Spurr, Jr ADC", (aide de camp) requesting the formation of a detachment of artillery and cavalry for use by the Commander in Chief (Jefferson), and providing instructions/ details on the personnel elements of forming a detachment of Artillery (29 men) and Calvary (71 men), totally 100 men. This COPY is hand written by Jacob Fisher, Brig Major, in Fisher's handwriting, and is addressed on the envelope or Outer Folds: to "Cap James Wilder, Sterling “(Mass) . " General Orders July 1807" This COPY sent/signed by Jacob Fisher, Brig Major, and addressed accordingly on envelope (outer folds)
CONTENT: ALS, (COPY) of 2 sided letter to Brig. Gen. S Holman from Maj General Seventh Div. Mass Militia (Maj Gen Davis), signed by John Spurr Jr ADC (Seventh Div. Mass. Militia) dated July 20 1807,
Side 1: "Division Head Quarters at Oxford (Mass), July 20, 1807. Brig Gen S. Holman"….. Is a letter Brig Gen S Holman requesting support for ongoing troops to support the needs of the “Commander in Chief" (Thomas Jefferson) for his use in the defense of the United States. In other words, this letter outlines and appeals for a national force at the disposal of the President. The need was a result of Jefferson's isolationist/protectionist trade policies, England's growing opposition, and (later) evolving with Madison's actions until the War of 1812 resulted. At the time of this letter, there was a growing support for a national military. A large number of this General Order were hand copied and distributed to those who could/would/should follow through with urgency, and thus providing Jefferson with a known level of military support. Side 1 is signed “By Order of the Maj General of Seventh Division (Davis), John Spurr Jr., ADC"
Side 2: This side details the specific detailed personnel instructions for the formation of a 100 man detachment, with 29 men Artillery and 71 Calvary, including ranks. And signed again “By Order of the Maj General of Seventh Division (presumed Maj-Gen Davis), John Spurr Jr., ADC" (Aide de Camp)
$625
110-766
Further Research: Proceedings of the Worcester Society of Antiquity, Volume ppg. 123-127, available on Google books, provides details of how this General Order evolved into a large gathering of Mass. Militia in Worcester, Mass, Sept 1807, just 2 months after the letter described was originally sent. Levi Lincoln Jr, Brig Gen S Holman spoke at the gathering. John Spurr Jr sent the invitations.
Of Note: According to preceding’s of the Worcester Society of Antiquity, Volume 9 "The State Militia, especially the Seventh Division, was composed in 1807 of active, energetic men, who felt an interest in citizen soldiery of the Commonwealth, and are willing to contribute both time and resources to their respective organizations". Thomas Jefferson, through his isolationist/protectionist trade policies, was leading the U.S. closer to the War of 1812. In context, this document/letter is an element of military history leading to " An Act for Regulating, Governing, and Training the Militia of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts" passed March 6, 1810, which is the foundation for U.S ongoing military.
Names mentioned in ALS:
John Spurr Jr: There is a John Spurr listed in the participants of the Boston Tea Party; with a newspaper notation that he later became a Colonel in the Rhode Island militia. In the official US Gov. Archives, a John Spurr was commissioned captain in the Mass Bay Militia. Not sure either are the same guy, but being that this ALS is not actually penned or signed by him, there’s not a lot of reason to check. Rationale: Thomas Jefferson is mentioned in the letter, but obviously he was not involved in writing or signing, so only has a passing significance.
Major Jacob Fisher: The Jacob Fisher House is owned by the Lancaster Historical Society. “Major Fisher, a cabinetmaker from Princeton, no doubt came to Lancaster through his marriage to Nancy Carter, who was from a prominent Lancaster family. A respected and effective leader, Fisher served on many town committees, and his energy and talent promoted the development of business in the area." Taken from: https://www.digitalcommonwealth.org/search/commonwealth:73666j716
Brig. Gen S. Holman is not significant because he did not write or sign this letter, although he did have a long military history from the Rev War through leading the Massachusetts Seventh Division
Thomas Jefferson: Only mentioned as Commander in Chief. Not significant in regards to this letter.
Summary: Very interesting content for the military historian, local historian (Lancaster). In terms of historical significance, this MSS. is a worthy historical document reflecting the development in political and military thought as it pertains to forming a regular militia to be used by the Commander in Chief (national deployment) for the defense of the U.S., and at the discretion of the Commander in Chief.
Copies of General Orders are not uncommon, as they were required to be kept in a Regimental Book, or by any division receiving primary copies also, general orders were hand copied often, and we sent around to staff, subordinates, etc. Many ended up in private hands and many were tossed. ALL general orders are available in the military archives, so the General Order portion of this content is not original. The letter portion of the content appealing for the detachment into specific Artillery and Calvary units has well documented detail, but still is compelling due to historical context. Should be of interest to a collector or researcher of Worcester County, Lancaster, Sterling, or even general Massachusetts military history, or to a student of the period surrounding Jefferson/Madison's time in office, and/or the War of 1812, and/or, the history of American commerce, and/or the history of American maritime impact on international trade
Antique, Mathematics & Ciphering Book, Wallpaper Cover
41 Pages, Laid Paper, Both Sides [82 pages]
John Gere 1797/1798, Schoolmaster or Student
Mehetable Geres [sic] Book – MARCH 11TH - 1820
Mathematical definitions, arithmetic formulas, calculations, exercises, and problems
Likely a teacher’s handwritten lesson planning book, 41-pages both sides filled front-to-
back with basic to advanced mathematical and measuring exercises, rules and
examples; time, apothecaries and weights…John appears to have been the original
owner with Mehetable probably his daughter. Generally, very good condition with
typical minor edge losses to cover. Pages are folded in half then stitched into wallpaper
cover. Spine is partially split. (13 x 8.25")
$545.00
1072-57
Vermont Carriage Certificates of Tax Paid, Third Collection District of Vermont
Lot of 2 Date/Period: 1815 and 1817
Measurement: Each approximately 6.25 X 7.5”
Material: Printed and handwritten on paper
Condition: Good, typical folds, short crease tear to one document
Additional Information: Certifying that Simeon Stevens of the town of Newbury paid a
duty of two dollars for the year 1815, a second certificate for the year 1817. The 1817
certificate for a two-wheel carriage/chase; the 1815 certificate for a four-wheel carriage.
The certificates are signed by Thomas Leverette who became Vermont Secretary of
State. When Simeon Stevens was born on 24 March 1789, in Newbury, Orange,
Vermont, his father, Colonel Simeon Stevens, was 21; Simeon was one of first to settle
in Newbury Vermont. In 1762 he was a 1st LT in 1st Co. of Newbury minutemen and
Captain of Co of Col. Bebell's regiment from Apr 1778-Nov 30, 1779. His mother,
Hannah Bailey, was 17. He married Betsey L. Bayley on 19 February 1817, in Vermont.
They were the parents of at least 3 sons and 1 daughter. He died on 22 March 1862, in
his hometown, at the age of 72, and was buried in Newbury, Orange, Vermont, United
States.
$375.00 the lot of two
879-145
Researcher Special: 18th & 19th Century Clipped
Autograph Archive
24 clipped autographs, unsearched or researched. Appear to be late 18th, early 19th C.
Names include Bernard Henry, Thomas Oxnard, Josh Dodge, John Mahieu, etc. See
scans and determine your interest. Consignor claimed an association with T. Jefferson,
possibly an ambassador. Yours to figure out. Look over the clips to decide. I am afraid
we will not be able to answer questions on this lot. Interesting looking lot! (We have
four pages of related information that will accompany the lot)
Condition: Cut as expected, but no major issues.
$275.00
110-976
Printed and Handwritten Document
Months, days, numbers, and names are all hand written in black ink. No. 361 / Treasury-Office, Aug't 17th 1789. / I certify That Capt. Asa Upson / has lodged in this Office the following Notes, viz. / 1 Army Note[s] due June 1, 1785, amounting to 11 - 2 - .75 / Ditto - - 1786, / Ditto - - 1787, / Ditto - - 1788, / Note[s] issued February 1781, 18 - 11 - 2 / Ditto per Act of May 1781, / Ditto per Ditto, payable to the Bearer, / Ditto per Act of May 1783, &c. / Amounting to [Pounds] 29 - 13 - 2 .75 / For which I have issued 1 Note[s] for 28 - 4 - 0 / Leaving the Sum of 1 - 9 - 2 .75 / [total] 29 - 13 - 2 .75 / For which he is entitled to receive Certificates in pur- / suance of and Act of the General Assembly passed in May / 1789. / J Huntington Treasurer. Folded vertically and written in black ink on the blank side - No 361 / Capt Asa Upson. There is a decorative border printed around the text. Approximately 7 5/8" x 6 .25". In excellent condition.
$175
XJT-40
Book: Eneas Africanus, by Harry Edward Stillwell Date/Period: 1928 Printing by J W Burke Macon, Georgia.
One of several reprints of the 1920 original
Measurement: 5" x 6 7/8” 47 numbered pages
Material: Green Marbled Board Cover
Condition: Inscribed "Betty Bentsen 1925" in ink on title page. (inscription pre-dates
printing). Some shelf wear and signs of use.
Additional Information: Harry Stillwell Edwards (1855-1938) was an American
journalist, novelist, and poet, born at Macon, Georgia. He studied law at Mercer
University, Macon, and graduated in 1877. He was assistant editor and editor of Macon
journals (1881-1888), gaining distinction as a writer of dialect stories. This book
represents classical Southern Racist Views of the 19th Century, and although culturally
significant, may be found offensive to most.
$150.00
110-991
Western Expansion: 1857 Presidential Land Grant
Unframed 16 x 10 document for land in Michigan. Document ink has lightened, but readable by
someone with great eyes and some magnification. Signed by James Buchanan as President (sect?)
with appropriate counter signatures. An affordable way to own a presidential document
$125.00
1225-6
Hayward - Fay Archive, Concord, Massachusetts, Silhouettes, Letters & Documents
Jonathan and Lucy Prescott Fay
Samuel Prescott Phillips Fay
John Fay
Dr. Heywood - SOLD
(Three hollow-cut profiles are stamped KING; William King; two by anonymous hand) Nearly all material relates to Justice Abiel Haywood of Concord, Massachusetts Haywood Archive: Oversized shoe box of documents, legal papers, related letters, and miscellaneous ephemera, mostly dating from the very late 18th C. to the 3rd Qtr. of the 19th C., with the vast bulk being early 1800's. Most, or all, of the contents seems to be associated with Justice Haywood; he presided over all kinds of legal disputes. A quick survey of the contents seems to be heavy on the financial disputes, wills, and land agreements, with outliers to include an 1828 blank voting tally sheet for choosing Representatives to the House, A complaint for forced intimacy, congressional record extract, etc. Lots of interesting items, appears to be 200+ (we didn't count them), interesting names, content, an interesting variety of old paper. Some of the towns (from memory only) Concord, Boston, Bridgewater, Chelmsford, Acton, etc...and many, many 1800's New England names to research! Some of these items seem quite worthy of framing, and worthy of further study!
SOLD
110-886
Americana: State of Connecticut Treasury Note 1780
Signed by J. Lawrence, Treasurer - SOLD
Description: Hartford, CT. June 1st, 1780, Note indicating debt by State of Conn to
(partial name obscured) Signed by J. Lawrence as Treasurer, Light foxing and toning,
Fine to VF, interest paid endorsements on back payable from 1781 until 1785 when
cancelled. (see hole in document) Rare loan document and one of the first issued
mentioning the "United States". "Payable in gold or silver coins.... after cessation of
hostilities between Great Britain and these United States."
Size: Approx 5" x 8" with a cancel hole right center size of a US Quarter
Condition: As normally found. Some toning, fold, edge trimmed, and document
cancelled. "Treasury" is script across obverse
SOLD
621-193
Americana, Farm Ledger, Working Daybook, and later
Justice of the Peace Log - SOLD
Description: Journal, Daybook and Copybook, or perhaps a multi-generational multi-
use book descended in the George Griswold family of Guilford, Connecticut
Starts: 1772
For the researcher or town historian, this volume represents an opportunity to learn so
much about Guilford, Ct history through the work or different Griswold family members.
The original purpose is a Daybook or Account book for Griswold of Guilford,
Connecticut. As most account books are set up, the originator created an alphabetical
index listing each customer or client and on what page their account was located. It is
not a store ledger, but a list of services performed, farm produce sold, and misc. other
entries. It is likely that these services reflect at least one man and possibly one woman.
Entries are for plowing, cord of wood, carting flax, a load of stone, mending a fence,
sewing a dress, and many more related categories. The entries reflect a very hard-
working man with general farm and carpentry skills. Researching this section of the
book led to site showing standard rates for different work by years. For example, carting
wood was 9 shillings a day in 1776, and plowing only 3 shilling per day. So much to
learn!! This section covers 80 pages + with many entries on every page. Many, many
names. followed by 58 blank pages (of the greatest paper).
Turn the book over and start from the other end: The second life of the volume belongs
to George Griswold, Justice of the Peace, New Haven County beginning 1821 George
used this as his copybook for official transactions which he entitled. "Sundry Records"
followed by page headers "Licenses" using 110 pages with each license number by
year, and then sequenced No 1- No. (last one for the year), repeat, etc. 1821-1827.,
Also, there is a 2 page section with taxes collected between 1825 and 1833. A page
listing Division of Services breaking New Haven County by sections (or not?)
Very cool, very interesting ledger starting in Colonial America and stretching through the
early 19th century. Much to learn here, especially for someone interested in Guilford Ct,
Connecticut history, and more.
Size: 6.75" x 16", vellum covered. Rough page count is 225-240 total pages.
Condition: Cover is vellum and thus well protected, yet it does show the wear of
constant use. There are minor seam separations on the spine, but the book is intact
with no loose pages. Cover is tight to book.
SOLD
621-192
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