September 2023 Auction Ends Thursday, September 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/28/2023
Zachary Taylor autograph letter signed, penned on 30 September 1823 ''Near Baton Rouge''. Taylor writes to Dr. Thomas Lawson, a military surgeon who would later serve as U.S. Surgeon General, on a range of topics including military failures, a court martial, and senior officers in the army protecting each other from punishment. Composed on four pages, lengthy letter reads in small part,
''...The independent and able view you have taken of the proceedings of the court martial in the case of Col. [Matthew] Arbuckle, as expressed to the Surgeon Gen'l & which will no doubt be laid before the Secretary of War as well as the course you have pursued in this business, will no doubt meet the approbation of all your friends, notwithstanding it may bring upon you the enmity of some of the gentlemen...which I know is a matter of perfect indifference to you...it appears now to be the policy of those high in office, particularly the army, to protect & shield from punishment each other, no matter what outrages they may commit...''
Taylor continues, ''...We are about 22 miles from B Rouge directly out from the river, with very few inhabitants near us...what few troops left here have suffered considerable...but we have had but few deaths...I regret to learn that so large a portion of our army on Red River, particularly that part stationed at Camp Joseph, should have been so unfortunate in their attacks...so many defeats...no want on their part of courage or discipline. They ought to keep in mind that old proverb, that a faint heart never won fair lady...Z. Taylor''. With much more content.
Four page letter on bifolium stationery measures 15.5'' x 10'' unfolded. With integral address leaf on fourth page displaying remnants of red wax seal and two postmarks from 14 October, Baton Rouge. Professional restoration to folds and small areas of infill where paper loss has occurred on edges. Minor toning and browning. Overall in very good condition.
Zachary Taylor Autograph Letter Signed -- ''...I regret to learn that so large a portion of our army...should have been so unfortunate in their attacks...a faint heart never won fair lady...''
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