Autograph Letter Signed.
Supposedly the first officer killed in the Mexican-American War (the May 11th Battle of Palo Alto) was this U.S. Army artillery officer known as the "Father of Modern Artillery" for innovations such as a better saddle and the "flying artillery" -- lighter artillery pieces that can be moved from place to place. ALS, 1p lettersheet, 8" X 10", Ordnance Offices, New York, 12 December 1829. Addressed to Major Hoops. Very good. Handsomely, swiftly penned in rich brown ink, Ringgold here writes the military store keeper at Watervliet, New York, that "In October last I had the honour to transmit to you thro' the Quarter Master at this post by direction of the Ordc Department, together with invoices of the same certain ordnances and stores for which I have to beg you will furnish the usual receipts as the Quarter is nearly closed." After lengthy salutation and hurried signature, he adds rank of "Lt on ordc post / Com'g ordc dept." Integral address leaf also in his hand (and notes "'On public service'"). This is clearly a speedily penned note, and Ringgold's signature lacks the decorative paraph sometimes seen. Item #40471
Price: $395.00