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Military officer (1834–1889) who fought in the Civil War and against Native Americans in the West, but is best known for failing to come to Custer's aid during the Battle of Little Bighorn. Civil War–dated ALS signed “M. A. Reno, Capt. 1st U. S. Cav'y,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 9.75, October 11, 1864. Letter to Governor Horatio Seymour of New York, in part: "Permit me to inclose for your consideration a communication from Maj. Gen. Torbert Commdg. Cavalry, endorsed by Maj. Gen. Sheridan, nominating me for the position of Colonel, now vacant in the 25th N. Y. Cavalry. In addition to this and former recommendations, I may state that I have an experience of 7 years in this branch of the service, 3 years in the present war, besides an education at the National Academy at West Point. Should your Excellency determine to give me this position I give my solemn assurance, that my best efforts shall be directed to make it an organization alike creditable to the state and beneficial to the service." In fine condition, with partial splitting to the hinge.
Reno would be engaged at the Battle of Cedar Creek only eight days later, where he performed 'gallant and meritorious services' that earned him a rank of brevet lieutenant-colonel. Although he would not receive the appointment to the colonelcy of the 25th New York Cavalry that he sought with this letter, he was appointed colonel of the 12th Pennsylvania just months later in January 1865. Reno's autograph is very scarce, and this is the only ALS we have encountered.
The Collection of Dr. Joseph Matheu.
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