This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/28/2023
Zachary Taylor letter signed as General, dated 3 April 1846 while encamped in Texas on the eve of the Mexican-American War. Letter is dated only days before fighting erupted on 25 April between the two countries in their dispute over the Texas boundary line. Boldly signed ''Z. Taylor'' as Commanding General of U.S. forces, Taylor writes to Commodore D. Conner, U.S. Navy at the Commanding Home Squadron off Very Cruz. From ''Camp near Matamoras'' (later Fort Brown), letter reads in part,
''The army under my orders has reached its destination on the Rio Grande without actual resistance from the Mexicans although they have assumed and still retain an attitude decidedly hostile. They allow no communication with the town of Matamoras and are actively engaged in the preparation of batteries and defences on the bank of the river within a few yards of our position. I cannot believe that they mediate offensive operations, but in the meantime I am strengthening my position and making ready to hold it at all hazards...Much is said of the expected arrival of Ampedia with large reinforcements but I learn nothing worthy of confidence respecting his movements...'' Taylor then writes of movements of naval vessels and army-navy cooperation in the defenses of Port isabel.
Two page letter on bifolium stationery measures 8'' x 10''. Smoothed folds, block of toning to first page and repair to seam, overall in very good plus condition. Accompanied by a large portrait of Taylor as General, engraved by Illman & Sons, measuring 18'' x 22'', framed to a size of 24.5'' x 29''. Engraving has some foxing to margins and small closed tears, overall in very good condition.