Incredibly rare ALS signed “Z. Taylor,” one page, 7.5 x 9, March 8, 1822. Letter to Major William Bradford. In full: “This will be handed you by my friend Surgeon Thos. Lawson of the U.S. Army who is just setting out for Fort Smith at which place he expects to be detained some six or eight weeks, during his stay at your place, any attention it may be in your power to extend to him will confer an obligation on your obt. servant.” Nicely matted and framed with a gold-inlaid, sterling silver portrait plate issued in a limited edition by the Franklin Mint in the early-to-mid 1970s to an overall size of 26.5 x 17. In fine condition, with light intersecting folds, with a horizontal fold passing lightly through Taylor’s signature.
In late 1821, Lieutenant Colonel Zachary Taylor and his 7th Infantry set out to locate a new post more convenient to the conflict zone along the Sabine River frontier in Louisiana, a contentious border between the US and Spanish territories. By March of 1822, he had established Fort Jesup outside of Natchitoches, and quickly gained control of the former Neutral Strip. It was during this period that Taylor met fellow War of 1812 veteran Thomas Lawson, senior surgeon in the army medical department, with whom he would build a lasting friendship. The two served together in the Florida Campaigns and the Mexican-American War, in which their familiarity with the border territories became increasingly important. Autograph letters by Taylor, especially from such an early date in his military career, are highly scarce; this beautifully penned piece, regarding a trusted friend who would go on to become the second Surgeon General of the US Army, is one of the finest we have seen. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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