April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/12/2023
Lot consists of 2 letters by Gen. James Clinton from the Dr. John K. Lattimer Collection, both accompanied by JSA letters of authenticity. (A) Letter from Clinton to George Washington datelined 12 May 1781 Albany, New York. Clinton was in charge of the Northern Department before leaving to take part in the siege of Yorktown. A nice letter showing the immediacy of composition by its corrections and differences from the fair copy received by Washington. The letter concerns difficulties of supply, noting receipt of 2 letters from Washington and the forwarding of supplies to Fort Schuyler (Fort Stanwix,) the difficulties of transportation, receipt of impress warrants from the Governor for flour and beef, or fish. He notes it will be difficult to distinguish between flour privately owned and that having been purchased by the French Army (Rochambeau’s allied forces) and the general scarcity of beef. “I am persuaded of your Excellency’s Disposition to assist me as far you may be enabled. I sincerely regret that you are not furnished with Means equal to your Desires - and in return beg leave to request your Excellency’s Confidence no exertion shall be wanting on my part to render the Burden as light as possible. James Clinton.” CONDITION: Excellent. (B) 26 March 1787 letter by Clinton at Little Britain, New York, certifying that on 21 September 1772 he had laid out lines for a 5,600 acre tract of land next to the “German Patent,” a grant of land near Newburgh, NY. Docketed on the reverse, “Certificate from Genl. James Clinton.” CONDITION: Excellent. Clinton was born in Little Britain, Ulster County, New York in 1736. He served in provincial forces during the French and Indian War. He took part in the invasion of Canada, commanded the 3rd and 2nd New York regiments, was promoted to Brigadier General, fought in the Saratoga Campaign, during which he was wounded, opposed British and Tory forces near Albany, and took part in the 1779 expedition against the Iroquois. In 1780 he commanded the Northern Department, and then joined the siege of Yorktown. He was brevetted Major General and later served in the New York assembly and senate. He was brother of George Clinton, NY Governor and Vice President, and father of Governor DeWitt Clinton. He died in 1812.
Item Dimensions: 15" X 9 - 1/2"
Paperwork
JSA LOAs, consigner notes