Soldier and explorer (1770–1838) who, with Meriwether Lewis, undertook a two-year expedition in 1804 to discover a navigable route to the Pacific Ocean, in the process exploring and later describing much of the course along the Missouri River. Following the expedition, Clark resumed his military career, serving as agent for Indian affairs in St. Louis and leading a number of campaigns during the War of 1812. Rare manuscript DS, signed “W. Clark Lt. 4th Sub Legn,” one page, 7.75 x 3.5, June 10, 1794. Document reads, “Sir, please to deliver three quarts of whiskey for the use of the Chickasaw Indians present.” Signed at the conclusion by Clark, and countersigned by three other officers. Document is also annotated at the bottom, “Now please to deliver the whiskey a qt. at a time.” Double matted and framed with a portrait of Clark and a biographical plaque to an overall size of 18 x 28.5. In very good condition, with somewhat irregularly trimmed edges, paper loss along bottom edge, ink blot to Clark’s signature, some scattered toning, horizontal fold below signature, and light show-through from writing on reverse.
In this 1794 document, Clark is requesting "three quarts of whiskey for use of the Chickasaw Indians" to be delivered "a qt. at a time," using the alcohol as a means of control, and later for harmony and friendship, regulating the amount to prevent drunkenness. His relationship with the Chickasaws would play a crucial role in the victory at Fallen Timbers.
Clark served in General ‘Mad’ Anthony Wayne's army, the Legion of the United States, which marched north from Fort Washington to meet the Western Confederacy, an alliance of fifteen Native American tribes. Clark and the Chickasaws served as advance scouts, participating in several skirmishes as well as the Battle of Fallen Timbers, the last battle of the war, in which the American army defeated the Western Confederacy. During the August 20, 1794 fight, Clark commanded a Kentucky rifle company that drove back the enemy, leaving a number of Indians and Canadians dead. The day was hot and the close quarters fighting was so intense that two ounces of whiskey was issued to each soldier of the "holy Regulars" who were engaged in the brunt of the battle, recording in his diary that the troops "much required" the liquor because of their strenuous efforts. A year later, he became Meriwether Lewis' commanding officer, an association which would forever sear his name into American history. A rare document, one of only five known to exist. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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