Republic of Texas Supreme Court Justice and Texas Ranger (1804–1859). At the age of 15, he contracted tubercular arthritis that caused his right leg to permanently stiffen at a 90 degree angle. In order to walk, a wooden leg had to be fastened to his knee. Because of this, he later acquired the nickname ‘Three-Legged-Willie.’ Despite this handicap, he organized a company of Rangers and participated in the Battle of San Jacinto. Handwritten promissory note, signed “R. M. Williamson,” on a 7.75 x 4.5 lightly-lined sheet, dated December 1, 1857. Williamson writes, “$1500. On the first day of March AD 1858 I promise to pay Joshua S. Thomas or order the sum of Fifteen hundred dollars for value received this the 1st day December AD 1857.” Reverse bears two endorsements. Intersecting folds, a couple light vertical creases through portions of last name of signature, with a few pinholes and partial separations along folds, a bit of scattered light paper loss from wax seals (no longer present), scattered wrinkling and creasing, and several spots of toning from the aforementioned seals, otherwise very good condition. A rare offering from one of the most interesting characters in early Texas history. The Robert Davis Collection, read more about Robert Davis. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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