Bate served in the Confederate forces in the Civil War, attaining the rank of major general and commanding a division in the Army of Tennessee. He also served as governor of Tennessee from 1883 to 1887 and subsequently as United States Senator from 1887 until his death. Bank check, 7.5 x 3, filled out in another hand and signed by Bate, “W. B. Bate,” payable to Ebbitt House for $5.00, February 11, 1905. In very good condition, with the expected cancellation cuts, stamp and holes to body, the latter of which heavily affect the majority of the signature. RRAuction COA.
