January 2022 Auction Ends Thursday, January 27th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/10/2022
Scarce execution order, perhaps the only one extant, signed by Major General Nathanael Greene in the final year of the Revolutionary War. Datelined Charleston, South Carolina on 23 February 1783, Greene here orders one of his men shot for desertion, just months before the War would end in April. Although Greene captured the city of Charleston in December 1782, thereby controlling the mid-Atlantic seaboard, provisions from the government were infrequent, and Greene used his own funds to feed and clothe his troops. It appears, however, that he had to resort to more punitive measures such as this execution to keep order. Two page document has large, bold signature, ''Nath Greene'', reading in part,
''...Whereas at a General Court martial held by Order of Brigadier Genl. Gist in Camp at James Island...the following soldier was tried -- Thomas Nicholson of the first Pennsylvania Regiment for Desertion -- And was Sentenced to suffer Death (two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto). Which said Trial and Sentence was approved by me...These are therefore to Charge and command you Lt. Jacob Whitzel [sic]--- to have the said sentence put in execution between the Hours of Ten and twelve oClock this Morning, by having the said Thomas Nicholson Shot to Death... '' Below Greene's signature, Lt. Jacob Weitzel endorses the document to confirm the execution was carried out: ''I Do certify that according to the within Warrant to me Directed Thos. Nicholson was Shot between the hours within mentioned. Ja'b Weitzel Lt. Comman'g the Guard''.
Two page document measures approximately 15'' x 12'', framed to a size of 18.75'' x 16''. Small holes along fold lines. Not examined out of frame, but appears in very good to near fine condition with bold handwriting.
Scarce Execution Order Signed by Nathanael Greene During the Revolutionary War -- Greene Orders One of His Men Shot for Desertion
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