Post Office Accounting Form for letters from Columbus, Mississippi to Canton, Mississippi dated Aug 21, 1864 with printed name of J. Isaacs, P.M. showing amount paid by stamps and money on that date, usual crease and spindle holes. $45.

Georgia manuscript cancel on cover to Lt. James D. Anthony, Co. L, 1st Regt. Ga Regulars, Chattahoochee Arsenal Florida. Stamp missing at upper right. The arsenal part of the address was penned out and replaced with “Per W A McDonald, Courier, Savannah, Ga”  all in manuscript. Small contemporary clipped out embossed circular SEAL OF THE INTERIOR COURT accompanies, undoubtedly from original enclosure no longer present. Very unusual piece with significant amount of additional information included. The subject of one of my "Confederate Post" columns in the American Stamp Dealer and Collector. $400.
 

Chattahoochee Arsenal was the scene of the first military action of the Civil War in Florida. On January 6, 1861, acting under orders from Governor Madison Perry, the Quincy Young Guards seized the facility from its caretaker force without firing a shot. The arsenal then served the state and the Confederacy for the next four years.

James Rembert Anthony enlisted as a private in Company A, 9th Regiment, Georgia Infantry Jun. 11, 1861.  He was elected 2nd Lieutenant Company I, 1st Regiment, Georgia Regulars, Sept. 5, 1861; 1st Lieutenant Oct. 3, 1862. Wounded Petersburg, Virginia 1864. Elected Captain Company C, Mar. 28, 1865. Born in Washington, GA September 2, 1841. Found on the roster of Company L, 1st Regiment Georgia Regulars, Fulton County "Atlanta Greys" or "Fulton Greys". This regiment was stationed at Apalachicola Arsenal, Florida from April 9, 1863 to November 10, 1863.

Texas Brigade, hand-carried by military courier, cover linking two Texan Confederates. Addressed simply too “Col. Henry N. Potter.” Endorsed across the top “From C.B. Gardiner, Clerk in Adjt. Genls. Office, Texas Brigade.” Potter served in 6th Texas Infantry. Born in Conn., he moved to Galveston County in 1838, serving in the Republic of Texas Congress. A member of the Cavalry of the West, Gardiner had his horse shot out from under him in a fight around Las Rucias Ranch: “The brief but fierce battle ended in a complete rout of the Federals. The Union cavalry fought fiercely...believing that since they were Texas Unionists, the Confederates might execute them as traitors...”--The Yankee Invasion of Texas, Townsend, p. 102. Gardiner also served in the 15th Texas Light Artillery, Trans-Mississippi Dept. Extra historical military information accompanies.  $240.

Civil War Correspondence. Four letters written by Louisa Maury from New Orleans in August and October 1862 to her Aunt Ann in New York City, content briefly mentions the Battle of Shiloh, writer's husband who is a Confederate prisoner of war, some other interesting reading; these were found in the accompanying overall gray Quartermaster General's Department, State of New York "Official Business" envelope, addressed but no evidence it went through the mails. The letters were most likely carried by "Flag of Truce" and one is noted as “Politeness of Mr. Messina”. Some content reads, "...my sister started for Galveston the week after the Federals entered New Orleans. Her husband is in the army but where I do not know. His only brother died here just before my sister left from the affects of sickness contracted while in camp at Corinth. He was in the battle of Shiloh and escaped death and then came home to die of disease which to a soldier seems worse than instant death upon the battlefield." And "The news sent me of my brother was the greatest pleasure I have had in a long time. I had heard so many different stories of him that I was very uneasy about him. First he was dead then a prisoner then badly wounded and in Richmond." And, "II suppose this note will not reach you for a month..." Very Fine and interesting correspondence sent across enemy lines during the war.   $600. Click on linked pages to see letters.

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New Orleans to Le Havre, France, July 1861, blue folded letter datelined "New Orleans 8 July, 1861", France 20¢ Blue, tied by diamond grid cancel, blue "FORWARDED BY J. BARBE, HAVRE" octagonal handstamp, Paris datestamp, Le Havre receiving 7 Aug ’61 backstamp; letter  to H. F. McKenna Esq, Care J. Barbe Esq, Havre France from W. Bogart which relates to business and states "we are in hourly expectation of hearing of hard fighting in Virginia", file fold and minor edge nick, Very Fine, probably sent inside an across-the-lines express cover to the North and then sent outside the mails to Le Havre. Docketing on verso “Chas Lagory Hotel Byron, Rue Laffatte, Paris 21 Aug 61. Extremely clean and showy. $450.

AM. LETTER EXPRESS CO. / LOUISVILLE KY. / 307 GREEN, CSA Catalog ALS-01c, blue circular datestamp on back of 3¢ red Star Die entire #U26 to Joseph Wenger Sen., Edom, Rockingham County Virginia;  blue NASHVILLE / Ten. // AUG / 24 / 1861 cds with matching "PAID" straightline and "10" handstamps, manuscript "Due 5" with large pencil "X" below it; another pencil mark cancels the indicia, edge wear and soiling, Very late southbound through-the-lines cover carried by private express, mailed only four days before the final American Letter Express trip left Nashville and had its letter bags seized in Louisville by a U.S. marshal, the Special Routes census records only one later example. This cover not recorded and is listed as “unsupported” in the CSA Catalog, thus this is the listing copy and only one recorded. ] 1984 PF certificate 1300546, CCV $4,000.  $2,000.

Letter from Union soldier, signed F(rancis?) Patton, Oakland, Spencer County [Indiana], Jan. 5, 1862, 4 pp., 4 ½”  x 7 ¾” to his son G. L. Patton. “...I have been out in Warrie and Dubois...and at Camp Shanklin...Calhoon on Green River...45 [miles[ from Bo[w]lingreen. There are about 7,000 men in camp here, 1,100 of them cavalry & fine horses they have to[o]...it is Jackson’s Cavalry...They had a skirmish...It is reported Jackson killed 60 of the secesh and he lost 8 killed & 25 missing supposed to be taken prisoners. It is said they burnt the Town. Also that a boy 14 years old was ordered to surrender himself prisoner by a Secesh Captain. Boy shot him with his revolver and mounted the Captain’s horse & rode him safe into Camp. I had determined to stay here and see the Bolingreen Battle go off but Maj. Shanklin told me he had reported his Regt. not fit for duty for 2 months...If you was called to do your duty as a soldier, stand to your Post at all hazards, obey your superior officers with alacrity and show mercy to them that mercy is due...That single instance of the deserter that Ben... saw shot is enough to warn every man of his fate and duty...You should be careful about the small pox...You had better get vaccinated at once....”  Includes names soldiers who have died. With typewritten transcript. Minor tears at folds repaired with document film.  $475.

The Case of the Confederate Prize Ship. Intriguing manuscript entitled, “Capture of Ship Marathon, May 1861,” apparently a draft legal statement of this noted episode - likely prepared during and for the Alabama Claims, circa 1885. In contemporary hand of ship’s trustee, the brother of the late Henry S. Tyler, one of the vessel’s owners, referring to having read testimony of the ship’s captain. On lined pale blue lettersheet, 8” x 10 ½”, 3 ½  pp. Some pen and pencil underlining; curious replacement of words “Confederate States” with “captors.” It took over twenty years, but in 1885 the Marathon’s original owners sued, in the Court known as Alabama Claims, for losses when their ship was captured on the high seas by the Confederate cruiser Music, and towed to New Orleans. “On arrival at New Orleans, Capt. Chauncey Tyler (one of the owners) made a simulate(d) sale or transfer to Anna Heaton, a British subject, for the purpose if possible of releasing his Ship from the Confederate States [crossed out and replaced with ‘Captors’]. The sale was not a bona fide transaction...done merely to prevent the condemnation as a prize of War, and for the purpose of misleading the Confederate Authorities, and obtain the escape of the vessel, and was not intended to divest the title of the real owners...and as the Ship’s Trustee(?) I continued to pay her bills & expenses, the same as before the pretended transfer...After the arrival of the Vessel at Liverpool in Aug. 1861 until she was sold in New York in Mar. 1862, she was a loss to the owners...and the complicated condition of the title was very embarrassing...” Listing owners of the ship, in sixteenth interests, including Chauncey, Horace, Christopher, and Selden Tyler, Richard Pratt, Wm. Palmer, Gideon Parker, Hezekiah Scovil, et al. In describing the members of his Tyler family, the writer continues, “There is no real difference...so any money received from Ship Marathon would go to the same parties...” Moderate foxing, handling, and edge wear, -a  fascinating artifact of this saga, just weeks after Fort Sumter. The legal aspects of the case were unique and fascinating. From the beginning, the story became inordinately complicated. The litigants not only were exhaustive in their pursuit, but must have been exhausted themselves; in the end, the Court awarded no damages. Ironically, the success of the Alabama Claims Commission was due in large part to another Tyler - the former Confederate Treasury Secretary - whose postwar assistance was rewarded with a judgeship. Alabama Claims manuscript material has largely vanished from the market. With modern research. $450.

UNDERGROUND LETTER headed Nov 15th 1862 to Will, articulate 4-page letter North to South to Confederate Soldier William H. Gordon Jr. (Georgetown, DC to Richmond, Virginia) from both mother & sister – 2 pages from each. Docketing on last page reads “Georgetown D.C. Nov. 2 & 3/62, Mother & Sister, Underground” says, in part, “Have promised to write you by every opportunity, I again commence a letter as a friend offered to dispatch a document.” Mentions sending carte-visites to Mr. Ould… “Will any reach their places of destination is the question.” Gordon was a prisoner at Old Capitol just prior to this. $100. 

William H. Gordon, Jr. The Wheatley and Gordon families lived at 3041-3045 N Street, Georgetown, D.C. during the Civil War. Although both families had southern sympathies, William H. Gordon, Sr. remained in his U.S. government job. He was commended upon retirement as being "one of the oldest and most valuable of government employees." Much more information on linked page.

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FLAG OF TRUCE LETTER (4 pages) headed March 12, 1863, North to South letter to Confederate Soldier William H Gordon, Jr (Georgetown, DC to Richmond, Virginia) from his sister, Josie concerning her repeated attempts to communicate by any way possible, his probable transfer to more active service, etc. This letter reads in part, "I will again make an effort to send you one (letter) through that source (flag of truce)…I despatched (sic) an open letter to you in Feb. & but a short time since flattered myself a second was on its way to you when alas! It was returned (to) me with the discouraging message that it could not be sent…The ladies who went down in Jan took messages for you & Mother’s photograph…Your letters of Jan 13th had been received, but not the one by flag of truce earlier in the month."  $120.

William H. Gordon, Jr. The Wheatley and Gordon families lived at 3041-3045 N Street, Georgetown, D.C. during the Civil War. Although both families had southern sympathies, William H. Gordon, Sr. remained in his U.S. government job. He was commended upon retirement as being "one of the oldest and most valuable of government employees." Much more information on linked page.

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SOUTHERN EXPRESS COMPANY / AUGUSTA GA // MAY 31 blue double circle on cover addressed to W. Johnston Esq, Station No 6 CRR Screven Co, Geo with docketing at top “320$ from P A Scranton” on TURNED COVER addressed but not postally used to “Mrs. P A Scranton Burlington, Connecticut.” Five red wax seals on verso sealing back flaps. The absence of a mail registration system in the Confederacy made it necessary to use express companies to transmit valuable letters. Postage was required on all express letters, but the Act of April 1862 changed the law from allowing adhesive stamps to requiring stamped envelopes, which of course the government did not provide. The calculated effect of this regulation was a ban on private express mail, but surviving covers show that the companies continued to carry letters. It was illegal for express companies to carry mail starting June 1, 1862. Although “May 1862” is penciled on the verso, it is more likely immediately postwar and sold as such although it could potentially be a “last day” cover. The same markings were used during the war and immediately postwar. $550. Much more information on linked page.

LETTER (no cover) 4-pages headed “McKinley [Tennessee] Dec 29th/1861” addressed to “Dear Cousin” from Sue saying that “Dr. Anderson has returned home and was highly pleased with Arkansas. If the blockade is opened between now and next fall, I expect we will move there and would like to have you and your better half to move also nearby us where we can see each other often…William sais (sic) tell cousin Hoskins that Arkansas is a fine country for other things as well as cotton, corn, wheat & potatoes grow there to a perfection…It seems that hog meat is about as cheap there as in Tennessee…There are no Union men in that neighborhood and I don’t think in the county, all states right secessionists, no Brownlowes or bridg[e] burners; all seem to be united hand and heart in the great move for southern liberty and independence. William Joins. $200.

Letter - page 2 - click to view    
Letter - page 3 - click to view 
Letter - page 4 - click to view

MILITARY COURIER from ARKANSAS to TEXAS: CSA 11, 10¢ blue (gum stains) tied neat bold CAMDEN / Ark // OCT / 1 [1863] cds on homemade cover to Mrs. Mattie Yell, Waco, McClennan Co, Texas, from her husband, Col. Fountain Pitts Yell who served the 26th Arkansas Infantry. Cover with sealed tear at upper left and staining along right side. “Courier” noted at lower left. Military mail was taken across the river between Arkansas and Texas by express services such as those run by Bernos and Barksdale of the 2nd Arkansas. Such express covers incurred a charge of $1.00 and catalog $3,500 in the CSA Catalog and are very rare. Others were sent by military courier which presumably achieved the same thing without the additional outlay for postage. Ex Clippert. $1,100.

Fountain Pitts Yell (1834-1864) served in Co. A, 2th Arkansas Infantry and later in reorganized Company S, 26th Arkansas Infantry.  Much more information on the linked page.

MILITARY COURIER or COURTESY from TEXAS to ARKANSAS: CSA 12c, 10¢ bluish green (4 large to just clear margins) tied WASHINGTON / Ark. // FEB / 21 [1864] on cover (slightly reduced at right) to Col. J. R. Pettigrew, Fagan’s Brigade, Camden, Arkansas, with ORIGINAL 2-PAGE LETTER headed “Waco Texas Feb 14 / 64” to “Dear Jim” from “Yell” - Fountain Pitts Yell. He begins by saying “I drop you a line by Israel Pettigrew” who acted either as an official or unofficial courier from Texas to Arkansas where he dropped the letter into the Confederate mail system. Military mail was taken across the river between Arkansas and Texas by express services such as those run by Bernos and Barksdale of the 2nd Arkansas who advertised their services in the Houston Telegraph. Such express covers incurred a charge of $1.00 and catalog $3,500 in the CSA Catalog and are very rare. Others were sent by military courier which presumably achieved the same thing without the additional outlay for postage. In his letter, Yell speaks about wanting to keep up on news of his wife, Mattie, in Arkansas. He also says, in part, “There is some excitement here about the Feds landing a force on the Coast – expect a fight every day…saw that Marmaduke had taken Pine Bluff and torn up the Rail Road from Little Rock to White River. Am glad to hear that you are doing something in Arkansas for if they are not driven out of Arkansas we will be starved out in one more year for Texas with her droughts can’t support the Trans Mississippi District…If we succeed and I live through this war (he was killed in action two months later) will leave Texas.” Fabulous use and letter with great provenance of Ex Lemley and Gallagher. Ex Clippert. $1,250.

Fountain Pitts Yell (1834-1864) enlisted 1 July 1862 as Captain in Co. A, 2th Arkansas Infantry and later in reorganized Company S, 26th Arkansas Infantry (also known as Morgan’s Battalion and the 3rd Trans-Mississippi Rifle Regiment).
Israel Delany Pettigrew (1827-1917) served as a private in Company D, 1st Battalion Arkansas Cavalry.
James R. Pettigrew enlisted 1 August 1862 as Captain in Co. K, Arkansas 34th Infantry, Trans-Mississippi Department (also called the 2nd Arkansas). He was subsequently promoted to Major and then Lt. Colonel.

Much more information on the linked page.

Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and CSA 12

PER COURIER VIA LEWISVILLE, ARKANSAS: CSA 12c, 10¢ bluish green, uncanceled on cover to “Mrs. Sadie Armstrong, Washington, Arkansas” and in the same hand, “Care of Col. Jno. R. Eakin” (editor of the Washington Telegraph) with important directive at upper right in different hand, “Per Courier via Lewisville.” In the Washington Telegraph, February 5, 1862, “Rev. B. B. Black, Chaplain of the South Arkansas (McNair's) Regiment, will leave for camp next Monday. Persons desiring to send letters or very small packages to their friends in camp, will please leave them at the drug store of Moore & Smith before 9 o'clock Monday morning.” If the stamp is original to the cover, this would mean it could not have been Black who carried it, but it is likely that Eakin looked for others to transport mail. Regrettably, the upper right corner of both stamp and cover have been poorly restored / stained. Nonetheless, a rare use. Ex Gallagher and Clippert. $350.

Col. John R. Eakin (1822-1885) was editor of the Washington Telegraph, the foremost organ of Confederate propaganda in the southern part of Arkansas and the only editor in the state to continue publication throughout the war and into the Reconstruction period. Much more information on the linked page.

Bartimeus “Bartee” or “Bartie” B. Black enlisted as a Chaplain and was commissioned into Field and Staff of the 4th Arkansas Infantry. Much more information on the linked page.

Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and CSA 12

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI COURIER OR COURTESY: PINE BLUFF / ARK // JUN / 20 / 1862 double circle datestamp with matching 5 DUE (CSA Catalog Type D) on cover to Mrs. F. K. Keesee, Hillsboro, Arks, with “Politeness of Mr. Green” at lower left in ink and same handwriting as address; pencil notation at top “From C. Ashbrook, Co. G. Harpers’ Reg. Ark. Mt. Rifles, Churchills’ Brigade, Van Dorns’ Division.” Tiny bit of upper left corner replaced and top back flap missing, CARRIED EAST TO WEST ACROSS THE MISSISSIPPI WHERE IT ENTERED THE MAIL SYSTEM IN ARKANSAS. Ex Clippert. $1,750.

Calvin Ashbrook - Company G, 1st Arkansas Mounted Rifles (Napoleon Rifles) was discharged from Camp Ingraham, Miss, and given travel allowance (300 miles) back to Napoleon, Arkansas. Copy of discharge papers included. Much more information on the linked page.

Milton S. Keesee (1837- 1883) and Fannie (Coburn) Keesee (1840-1880) were in the same household in Hillsboro in the 1860 U.S. census. Milton S. Keesee served as a private and later as a lieutenant with the 1st Arkansas Mounted Rifles. Much more information on the linked page.

Listed in Miscellaneous-2 and Arkansas Stampless

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI COURTESY USE: US #26 3¢ star-die entire to Mrs. Rowland B. Smith, Camden, Arkansas, with manuscript directive at lower left “Fav[or] I (?) Mack.” Sent from an officer in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry home to his wife, Rose. Uncanceled adversity use of demonetized U.S. envelope, which never passed through the mails, unknown date. Like all the other Arkansas regiments raised in the first wave of recruiting in 1861, the regiments were taken into Confederate armies east of the Mississippi River. Water staining which is likely a result of that hazardous journey across the river. Ex Matz and Clippert. $350.

Rowland B. Smith: Second Lieutenant enlisted in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry (aka Carroll's Regiment), 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of the West. He quickly advanced to the rank of Major and became the commissary supply officer on staff of Cabell's Brigade. He later served on General Dockery's staff and was severely wounded at the Battle of Marks' Mill.” Much more information on the linked page.

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI COURIER USE: US #27 3¢ star-die entire to Mrs. Rowland B. Smith, Care Maj. E. N. Woodland, Camden, Arkansas, with manuscript directive at lower left “Courier.” Sent from an officer in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry home to his wife, Rose. Uncanceled adversity use of demonetized U.S. envelope, which never passed through the mails, unknown date. Like all the other Arkansas regiments raised in the first wave of recruiting in 1861, the regiments were taken into Confederate armies east of the Mississippi River. Clipped corner upper right and water staining which is likely a result of that hazardous journey across the river. Ex Matz and Clippert. $300.

Rowland B. Smith: Second Lieutenant enlisted in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry (aka Carroll's Regiment), 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of the West. He quickly advanced to the rank of Major and became the commissary supply officer on staff of Cabell's Brigade. He later served on General Dockery's staff and was severely wounded at the Battle of Marks' Mill.” Much more information on the linked page.

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI COURIER or COURTESY USE: US #27 3¢ star-die entire to Mrs. Rowland B. Smith, Camden, Arkansas, in faint pencil with manuscript directive at lower left “Fav[or] Courier.” Sent from an officer in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry home to his wife, Rose. Uncanceled adversity use of demonetized U.S. envelope, which never passed through the mails, unknown date. Like all the other Arkansas regiments raised in the first wave of recruiting in 1861, the regiments were taken into Confederate armies east of the Mississippi River. Water staining which is likely a result of that hazardous journey across the river. Ex Matz and Clippert. $300.

Rowland B. Smith: Second Lieutenant enlisted in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry (aka Carroll's Regiment), 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of the West. He quickly advanced to the rank of Major and became the commissary supply officer on staff of Cabell's Brigade. He later served on General Dockery's staff and was severely wounded at the Battle of Marks' Mill.” Much more information on the linked page.

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI COURIER or COURTESY USE: US #27 3¢ star-die entire to Mrs. Rowland B. Smith, Camden, Arkansas, with manuscript directive at lower left “Fav[or] M. A. Guynemere.” Sent from an officer in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry home to his wife, Rose. Uncanceled adversity use of demonetized U.S. envelope, which never passed through the mails, unknown date. Like all the other Arkansas regiments raised in the first wave of recruiting in 1861, the regiments were taken into Confederate armies east of the Mississippi River. Water staining which is likely a result of that hazardous journey across the river. Ex Matz and Clippert. $300.

Rowland B. Smith: Second Lieutenant enlisted in Co. I, 18th Arkansas Infantry (aka Carroll's Regiment), 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of the West. He quickly advanced to the rank of Major and became the commissary supply officer on staff of Cabell's Brigade. He later served on General Dockery's staff and was severely wounded at the Battle of Marks' Mill.” Much more information on the linked page.

SMUGGLED MAIL: CSA 12a, 10¢ milky blue (pre-use tear), tied by red ALEXANDRIA / LA. // FEB / 11 [1864] cds on folded letter datelined "Alexandria La. 11 Feby 1864" from George P. Evans to Col. S. F. Moseley, Jefferson Tex. The sender states "By the hands of Col. Gress of Dallas just from N.O. on parole I have recd a letter from Mr. Babcock dated 1st inst." Attached to this letter is a letter from Babcock to Moseley datelined "New Orleans Jany 8th 1864" which was smuggled out of the Union-occupied city to Alexandria La., concerning investing Confederate dollars in cotton. The February 11 letter mentions trying to find a reliable way to send money, minor mucilage stains where letters were joined together, expected splits along folds, a scarce TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  letter carried by courier and placed into the mails at Alexandria, ex Dr. Hubert Skinner. $1,400.

Sam. F. Moseley & Co., Attorneys at Law, General Land, Immigration and Collecting Agents, Jefferson, Texas. The Commercial Emporium of Northern and Eastern Texas and Adjacent Indian Territories, and Center of the Cotton and Grain Growing Portions of Texas [Jefferson, Texas, n.p., ca. 1866]. This is about all I could find on Moseley but a good jumping off point for more research, if you are so inclined.

ADAMS EX. CO. * LOUISVILLE, KY. * // JUL / 26 / 1861 beautifully struck cds on northbound cover to Miss Mary A. Comfort, Shiremanstown, Cumberland, County, Pa., originated somewhere in the South, franked with US 26, 3¢ dull red tied by blue grid with matching LOUISVILLE / KY. // JUL / 27 / 1861 double circle datestamp, cover reduced at right with side flap replaced and restoration along right side of cover under stamp which may not have originated on this cover, although the blue grid is that of Louisville. Very Fine appearing. CC Type AEN-1, CV $800. Special Routes Census No. N-AD-33 showing stamp replaced. $500.

ADAMS EX. CO. * LOUISVILLE, KY. * // AUG / 18 / 1861 nicely struck cds on northbound cover to Geo. W. Joneson, Esqr. Atty at Law, Buffalo, N.Y., originated somewhere in the South, franked with US 26, 3¢ dull red tied by blue grid with matching LOUISVILLE / KY. // AUG / 20 double circle datestamp, cover reduced bit at top with sealed tear through postmark. CC Type AEN-1, CV $800. Special Routes Census No. N-AD-74. $600.

ADAMS EX. CO. * LOUISVILLE, KY. * // JUL / 10 (inverted date) / 1861 clearly struck cds on northbound cover to L. C. Dewing, Care Dewing Thayer & Co, 784 Chambers St., New York, originated somewhere in the South, franked with US 26, 3¢ dull red straddle pane at right, tied by blue grid with matching LOUISVILLE / KY. // JUL / 11 double circle datestamp, cover reduced, manuscript “40/1” at top, reduced at right into express marking and large sealed tear extending from the bottom edge of cover up to express marking, Special Routes Census No. N-AD-15. $500.

Soldier’s letter with fancy stippling headed McPhersonville, So. Ca. August the 30th 1863 to Miss Louisa O. Whitmore and signed J.K. Lewis. Both spelling and grammar are a sometimes amusing challenge, e.g., “I haint no importante war nuse to communicate at present.” He states there are 30,000 troops in Charleston and “hope the Yankeys wont get Charleston…to right is all the satisfaction that wee have know and i low to make youse of it…” Charming 4 ½” x 6 ½” doubled side sheet with few small edge tears and bit of archival tape reinforcement. $300.

NORFOLK / VA // MAY / 27 / ’65 double circle datestamp with straightline DUE 6 on cover to Wm. S. Upshar, Norfolk, Va., and neat HELD FOR POSTAGE at left. Scarce immediate post-war use. $325.

CONFEDERATE NAVY: CSA 7-L, 5¢ blue vertical pair (pre-use crease tied bold WILMINGTON / N.C. // NOV / 30 [1864] cds on cover to Mr. Wm Rowzee, Salisbury, N.C., part of top back flap missing with opening tears extending over top edge of cover at left. Original letter from Wilmington NC Nov 29th 1864 from “C.W. Rowzee, Surgeon Steward CSA, Wilmington, NC” to parents saying that “I am on duty for the present at the Naval Hospital…No furloughs given here…I am lucky enough in saving my life & getting good easy places but devilish unlucky in getting furlough.” NICE CONFEDERATE NAVY LETTER with full typed transcript and copy of Rowzee on microfiche roster.  $425.

Claudius W. Rowzee was a 25-year-old physician who served in Co. K, NC 8th Infantry. He served on the CSS Albemarle, captured again at Fort Fisher. Much more information on linked page.

US U26, 3¢ star-die cut square tied AUGUSTA / GA // JUL / 18 [1861] on piece with beautifully struck blue oval of ADAMS EXPRESS CO / AUGUSTA / GA // JUL 18 [1861] cds, as well as Confederate PAID 10 rate and 2/ (two bits) for the Express rate through the lines. A lovely piece with a 1989 CSA Certificate, Ex Stanley. Full cover catalogs $2,500 in CSA catalog. A bargain way to “fill the space.” $550.

US U27, 3¢ star-die cut square tied together on piece with US 26, 3¢ dull red, on small piece double rated with ADAMS EXPRESS CO / LOUISVILLE, KY / JUL /30 / 1861 cds; express agent’s double line circle PAID / J.W.R. and 25 uprated to 50 for double rate. A scarce piece with a 1985 CSA Certificate, Ex Stanley. Full cover would be in the thousands. $650.

THE WONDERLAND POSTAGE-STAMP CASE by Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known as LEWIS CARROLL, published by Emberlin & Son, 1890 (but after 1907) Folded card, reinforced by cloth, designed to hold and protect stamps of various sizes, third edition. The case is decorated with select illustrations of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by John Tenniel; the case can be flipped so that the baby Alice holds in one image transforms into a pig, and the Cheshire Cat disappears. This image features the postage-stamp case, its cover, and Carroll’s 39 page pamphlet Eight or Nine Wise Words About Letter Writing, published 1907. Printed pink matching envelope (worn) included, stamp case clean and bright.  A RARE AND SUPER COLLECTIBLE STAMP CASE AND PIECE OF CARROLLIANA. Very Fine.  See Kelleher's Collectors Connection, issue 8, for an article regarding these delightful stamp cases.

SOLDIER’S LETTER: “The South has gained a great victory at Richmond…” Smyth Co. Va June 30th 1862 headed 2-page 8” x 10” letter on blue lined paper to “Dier brother” by O. N. Wolfe to Isaac W. Wolfe and (on same sheets) James D. Fletcher to Merry Wolfe in Stock Creek, Virginia. Letter (uneducated spelling and grammar) sent from Saltville, Va., saying in part, “I take the time to tell you about the grate victory the South gas gained at Richmond, they have taken 43 Genrals and forty two or three peares of cannons and a good many Colonels and Privates…if this is true I hope peace will be made before much longer as I am tirde of all of this plase…have been through the rivers and now are just on the side of the salt mill, direct letters to Saltville PO.” Mentions that he is eating well and is mending (wounded)… “If we never meate on earth may be meat in heaven…Poun Gap Battalion, Captain Haynes Company…James D. Fletcher” (VA 21st Infantry). He refers to the battles of late around Richmond-Mechanicsville, First Cold Harbor, Gaines Mill-the Seven Days Battles. Excellent letter from North Carolina soldiers stationed or recuperating at Saltville. $550.

James Dykes Fletcher served in Co. C, Va 56th Infantry. He also served in Va 21st Batt. Infantry and Va 64th Infantry, Department of Western Virginia. More information on linked page.

Milledge Luke Bonham ALS, original copy of telegram dated Charleston [SC] July 17/ 64 3 ¾ p.m. to “My call for troops to fill your requisition nearly complete. It is telegraphed from Richmond that you by proclamation direct all person between 18 & 45 not in service to report to Camp of Instruction. My organization of the five thousand embraces most of these, shall I beat (?) up that if so I don’t think five thousand under fifty years of age can be obtained. M. L. Bonham.” On 8” x 10” in bold dark ink. $400.

STEAMER GENL. QUITMAN ultramarine oval handstamp tied on 3¢ star-die entire #U27 by cancel of a mail contract packet boat which operated on the Mississippi River. This 1861 use is from the well-known Carroll Hoy & Co., New Orleans correspondence. Rare use as Confederate Use of U.S. postal entire. Usual pin holes found on all this correspondence. Listed in the CSA catalog with a dash for value. $750

CSA 6, 5¢ light blue pair, tied by two strikes of "Southern Express Co. / Lynchburg / Va. / ? 16" double-circle datestamp on small commercially made cover to James P. Hawkins, Charlottesville Va. Hawkins was the Southern Express Co. agent at Charlottesville and endorsed "Kindness of Ex Messenger" indicating no express fee was charged; slightly reduced at right, Very Fine and RARE EXAMPLE OF THIS CONFEDERATE EXPRESS COMPANY MARKING FROM LYNCHBURG, ex Laurence and Sam Williams of Lynchburg, signed Bartels 1925, Molesworth signed this in 1967 saying the only one from Lynchburg he’d ever seen, with 1975 CSA certificate, CSA Catalog value $2,500. $2,000. James P. Hawkins worked as a messenger for Southern Express from at least 1862 to May 1865. General Orders No. 77, dated October 22, 1862, exempted Southern Express employees from conscription. He worked as an agent on the Virginia Central and the Orange & Alexandria railroads and wrote about his wartime work. His diaries are housed in Navarro College's Pearce Civil War Collection. Hawkins’ wartime express activity is available on historynet.com from a reprint of an article by Julie Holcomb in the May 2003 issue of America's Civil War.

“Due 2” in pencil, addressed simply to “Genl J Simms” (General James P. Simms) on small folded letter (open for letter display) headed 29 June 1864. It reads, “Dear Genl, The party whom you may see has a written direction from C- saying that on application for the Negroes they will be provided or some such thing – let it be shown to You. [signed] Brown.” “Brown” was Georgia Governor Joseph Emerson Brown (signature matches known examples). Slight archival tape repairs on file splits and light soiling, durably inked. NICE USE TO / FROM KEY CONFEDERATE NOTABLES WITH SCARCE DROP RATE AND SLAVE CONTENT. $450. LL

General James Phillip Simms was a lawyer in Covington, Georgia, before and after the war. On December 8, 1864 Simms was promoted to brigadier general and given permanent command of his brigade. Much more information on linked page.

LETTER: CSA 13, 20¢ green, tied neat RICHMOND / VA cds on overpaid cover to Edward W. Brown, Powhatan Court House, Virginia, with most interesting 2-page LETTER signed Mary S. Harwood, headed Richmond, August 25, 1864, letter file fold splits neatly repaired with archival tape. Writer requests Brown’s legal advice solicited by her mother regarding the sale of one of her servants (euphemism for slave), Harriett, because of her (bad) conduct. She wants to give the sale proceeds to the writer and her sister and does not want to buy any more servants, given the current political climate. She is wondering about the legalities of such a transaction and if it is necessary to inform the court of the sale or if she can dispose of the money as she wishes, with the securities being exempt. She declares the “servants” (slaves) are such “troublesome creatures.” Also says, “We hear roar of cannon day & night, almost constantly. Last night about 2 O’clock we heard very rapid firing not withstanding it was dark & rainy, down toward Petersburg.” This was during the Richmond-Petersburg Campaign, 1988 CSA certificate 01728 opining genuine overpayment of single letter rate, Ex P.W.W. Powell. SCV $1,250 just for a single rate use and no letter, back flap missing and small edge tears at top. $450.

Edward Smith Brown (1818-1908) came from good stock in every sense of the word, for his parents were more than ordinary people in a community of the highest social advantages until after the close of the Civil War. Very detailed bio on linked page.

Listed in both CSA 13 and Miscellaneous-2 LL

TRANS-MISSISSIPPI-EAST TO WEST: CSA 12-AD, 10¢ blue horizontal strip of 4, folded and partially separated at center, uncanceled on TRANS-MISSISSIPPI cover carried by military courier addressed to Co. Ben Allston, Genl. E. K. Smith’s Staff, Trans Mississippi (department headquarters) in Shreveport, La, with pencil docketing at left “Sept 17/64”, part of top back flap removed. Listed in Krieger census as E90 as “two pairs.” $1,000.

Benjamin Allston was an inspector general for General Kirby Smith  as well as chief of the secret service. Detailed bio on linked page.

Dietz Printing Co. elaborate flamboyant engraved stationery dated Mar. 18, 1911, to J. M. Bartels Co., New York handwritten announcement of the acquisition of “the magnificent collection of Mr. Franklin Stearns, consisting of Confederate locals and gen’l issues on cover, U.S. adhesives on and off cover, and Brit. Colonies…”  Colorful piece of philatelic history. A photo of Franklin Sterns Jr., (1848-1898) and August Dietz together among a dozen or so others is shown on the CSA website in front of Dietz’ office in 1898 http://www.csalliance.org/CSA/csa-1.htm  Sterns, Sr., was a leading Unionist in Richmond during the war, which earned him several trips to prison during the war. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_Stearns $55.

MAJOR GENERAL JEREMY FRANCIS GILMER: Confederate States of America. War Department. Engineer Bureau, (WD-EN-01, CV $500) Three-line imprint at lower left of small blue cover (heavy watermark and embossing under top back flap “Manufactured by Waterlow & Sons, 65 to 68 London Wall, London.” Addressed to Brig. Gen. E. P. Alexander as "Chief of Artillery, Gen. Longstreet's Corps," SIGNATURE as [MAJOR GENERAL] "J. F. Gilmer Dec. 3rd 64 River Defense", Very Fine, military courier use as shown by manuscript directive at lower left to be delivered “By Capt. Goodwin.” (likely Archibald B. Goodwin of Va. 9th Infantry, Army Northern Virginia) MILITARY COURIER-DELIVERED BUSINESS LETTER FROM ONE CONFEDERATE GENERAL TO ANOTHER. GILMER AUTOGRAPH VALUE as well as scarce imprint and not one but two general officers. $700. 

Major General Jeremy Francis Gilmer was a soldier, mapmaker, and civil engineer most noted for his service as the Chief Engineer of the Confederate States Army during the Civil War. Brigadier General Edward Porter Alexander was a military engineer, railroad executive, planter, and author who was the officer in charge of the massive artillery bombardment preceding Pickett's Charge. Much more information on linked page.

Listed in both Imprints-2 and Miscellaneous-2

VIRGINIA GOVERNOR JOHN LETCHER: CSA 8, 2¢ brown red with large margins to in where separated unevenly prior to use, tied well-struck RICHMOND / VA. // FEB / 10 cds on cover locally addressed by Governor John Letcher to R. A. Brock, Esq. with State of Virginia, Executive Department imprint (S-VA-01, CV $500) at lower left, embossing under top back flap “Manufactured by Waterlow & Sons, 65 to 68 London Wall, London.” Very Fine. Ex Snead III. $1,000.

Robert Alonzo Brock donated an enormous collection of Civil War documents to the Huntingdon Library in San Marino, Ca. comprised of his own private and official correspondences. John Letcher is best known as Virginia’s Civil War-era governor. Much more information on linked page.

Listed in both Imprints-2 and Miscellaneous-2

IRGINIA GOVERNOR JOHN LETCHER: CSA 12-ADc, 10¢ bluish green (small faults) tied RICHMOND / VA. // DEC / 26 cds on cover addressed by Governor John Letcher to Mr. J. D. Davidson, Lexington, Rockbridge [County] Va. with State of Virginia, Executive Department imprint (S-VA-01, CV $500) at lower left of envelope which is addressed upside down thus placed it at upper right, embossing under top back flap “Manufactured by Waterlow & Sons, 65 to 68 London Wall, London.” On verso is a note by Letcher, “If you want to send me a telegram write to N. K. Fant, Mayor of S. ? to Despatch to you & I will get it. Letcher.” Ex Whittle. $350.

John Letcher is best known as Virginia’s Civil War-era governor. Much more information on linked page.

Listed in both Imprints-2 and Miscellaneous-2

US 26, 3¢ dull red cancelled by grid on embossed Valentine cover to Miss Mag Cranford, Columbia, So Ca. with delightful ornate original Valentine enclosure “To Miss Mag” dated “Athens Ga 14th Feb 1861” and opening “O Idol of my dreams!” Top back flap missing and some back-flap adhesions of little consequence, 1980 PF Certificate. Rare Confederate State use of US postage on a Valentine, difficult to find covers and Valentines which truly belong together. A total charmer! $750.

CSA 7-L, 5¢ light blue pair tied CHARLOTTESVILLE / VA // JAN / 4 / 1863 dcds on small commercially-made cover, manuscript “By Courier Line & otherwise from Lynchburg.” To John W. Davis, Care of A. M. Smith, Engineer Corps, Wytheville, Wythe County, Va. RARE MANUSCRIPT DIRECTIVE routing the letter via military courier after arrival in Lynchburg. Wytheville was of strategic importance because of a nearby lead mines and the railroad that served it. This mine supplied lead for about one-third of the Confederate Army munitions. Ex Gimelson and Engstler. $350.

CENTREVILLE / TEN // JUN / 12 [1861] double strike of UNLISTED GREEN POSTMARK and manuscript “Paid” on 7-star flag patriotic (CSA Catalog 7-5A), to Governor [Isham] Harris, Nashville, Tenn. "Sold at Green & Co's. Book Store Nashville, Tenn." imprint, missing part of back flap, fresh and Very Fine and RARE UNLISTED INDEPENDENT STATE USE after the Confederate postal system had begun operations (Tennessee seceded on June 8 and was admitted to the Confederacy on July 2), Ex Gallagher and Kilbourne. $1,900.

CSA 7, 5¢ blue pair (tiny faults) tied beautifully struck SOUTHERN EXPRESS CO. / KNOXVILLE, TENN. // AUG / 3 double-circle datestamp (CSA catalog type E, CCV $2,500) , on cover to “Mrs. E. A. Jordan, Davisboro, Washington Co, Geo” with pencil manuscript ”Paid R E”, faint diagonal cover crease affecting right stamp and cover slightly reduced at right, fresh, SCARCE USE. 2012 PF certificate. $1,300.

The Southern Express Company was the largest private express company operating in the Confederacy. More detailed history on the linked page.

PRIZE COURT COVER presented as EVIDENCE OF A LEGAL SEIZURE OF A BLOCKADE-RUNNER. PENDLETON / S.C. // JUL / 22 [1861] with matching handstamped PAID 5, red manuscript court docket of “HHE” (Henry H. Elliot, the commissioner who initialed it as evidence in the case - CSA catalog PC-01, CCV $3,500). This was one of the early prize court cases of the Civil War. Addressed to the “Emilio Puig, Esq., Care of Spanish Consul, Charleston S.C.” It is one of the covers discovered in a false-bottom trunk. On 20 June 1863, a decree of restitution was ordered as the court ruled that the seizure had been without cause, Ex Birkinbine and Walske with his penciled notes on verso, Extremely Fine, 2012 PF certificate. $3,750.

Emilio Puig was a resident of Charleston who is believed to have been engaged in running Cuban commodities into the South through the Union blockade. More detailed history on the linked page.

Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and Blockade sections

Printed County Tax form dated 1839 to Revenue on 1 tract ½ Acres of Land, includes categories for “Slaves at 30 cents each,” horses at 8 cents, County & Parish Levy at One Dollar. Made out for “Adam Licklider” (sic) to Mr. Richard P. Fletcher, S.R.C., Received by J.A. Mitchell, Deputy for Fletcher. 5.125” x 1.5,” signed on the back “Ad Lickliter,” fresh, Very Fine. $60.

Adam Lichliter (1805-1888) was the first postmaster at the Shenandoah town of Timberville, Rockingham County, Virginia, when the post office was established there in 1827. Much more information on the linked page.

Printed County Tax form dated 1843 to Revenue on 1 tract ½ Acres of Land, includes categories for “Slaves at 46 cents each,” horses at 14 cents, County & Parish Levy at $1, and 1 clock. Made out for Adam Lickliter to Mr. John P. Campbell, S.R.C., Received by J.A. Mitchell, Deputy for Cambpell. 5.125” x 1.5,” signed on the back “Ad Licklighter,” (sic) fresh, Very Fine. $60.

Adam Lichliter (1805-1888) was the first postmaster at the Shenandoah town of Timberville, Rockingham County, Virginia, when the post office was established there in 1827. Much more information on the linked page.

Unused Union patriotic, Soldier, Eagle and Flag $40.

Unused Union patriotic, Eagle and Draped Flags $60.

RICHMOND / Va // JAN / 9 [1862] with matching DUE 5 (CSA Catalog type O) on cover to Mrs. William W. Boyce, Winnsboro, So. Carolina. Small edge faults across top and small piece replaced at top right. Scarce MEMBER OF CONGRESS frank to allow mail to be sent postage due. At upper right “Fr Wm. W. Boyce M.C.” and inside “Write often my dear.” Van Dyk MacBride description in pencil on verso. $350.

Congressmen were permitted to send letters without prepayment of postage. More information on linked page.

Listed in Miscellaneous-2 and Virginia Stampless, Section 3

Hand-carried (likely military courier) illuminated gray advertising cover of Jno. C. Whitner, Dealer in Gold and Exchange, Collector of Notes & Accounts, West Point, Ga.; addressed to Mrs. Howell Cobb, Athens, Georgia, by her husband HOWELL COBB AND THUS AN INDIRECT AUTOGRAPH, top flap removed and tiny sealed tear at upper right. $400.

Howell Cobb (1815-1868) was a founder of the Confederacy who served as president of the Confederate Provisional Congress (1861-62), as well as a major general of the Confederate army. Listed in both Advertising and Miscellaneous-2 

Trans-Rio Grande use of outer folded lettersheet to Sr. D. José San Román, Brownsville [Texas] with bold fancy double-oval handstamp of ADMINISTRATION / DEL CARRO (railroad) / DE CORREOS and FRANCO and “Enero 19” at bottom (January 19). Originated from Matamoros, Mexico. Example of mail carried across the Rio Grande from Matamoros to Brownsville, well-known correspondence. $850.

The only international frontier between the Confederacy and a neutral country was formed by the Rio Grande River. This border between southwest Texas and northern Mexico represented a conduit for supplies and mail that could circumvent the Federal blockade of the Confederate coastline. Mail was exchanged across the Rio Grande throughout the war, mostly between commercial correspondents in Mexico and Texas. Full explanation of this is explained in the award-winning book Special Mail Routes of the American Civil War: A Guide to Across-the-Lines Postal History by Steven C. Walske and Scott R. Trepel.

José San Román was a merchant, banker and broker in the contraband cotton trade of the Civil War. See extensive bio on linked page.

PRIZE MONEY FOR CREW MEMBERS. Dated U.S. Gunboat Aroostook, Off Galveston, Texas, 14th Sep. 1864, this 2-page order, which is apparently written and signed by then-Lt. Commander Joseph E. Skerrett, assigns Acting Ensign H. L. Ramson, of the Aroostook, to accompany a prize of 38 bales of cotton to the Prize Court in New Orleans and to remain there until a judgment is made; on the back of the order, dated Sep 22, is an order for Ransom to Take passage on the Arkansas to rejoin your vessel, which was signed by Commodore "J[ames] S[hedden] Palmer. This small archive highlights the importance of prize money in motivating ship crews participating in the blockade. Large lot which may necessitate additional shipping cost (inquire). $600.

Second album page with 1864 Aroostook letter with writeup

Page 1 of 1864 letter, fully open - image partially cut off at bottom as too large for scanner bed but document all there

Page 2 of 1864 letter, fully open

Page 1 of 1865 letter, fully open

Page 2 of 1865 letter, fully open

File docketing on 1864 letter, signed by Commodore Palmer

More detailed information on the linked page concerning Ramson, Joseph E. Skerrett, and James Shedden Palmer.

CSA 11, 10¢ blue tied by a partial RICHMOND / Va. // OCT 15 CDS, bit of paper clip rust at the top and light file fold affects stamp. CSS Palmetto State, Ironclad Ram cover addressed to Mr. A.T. Smythe, C. S. St[eamer] P. State, Charleston, So Ca. WONDERFUL CONFEDERATE NAVY ADDRESS. Listed in both Misc-2 and CSA 11-3 sections. $700.

Augustine Thomas Smythe (1842-1914) was a Signal Officer on the C.S. Palmetto State - much more info on linked page.

NASHVILLE / Ten. // AUG / 9 / 1861, blue CDS with matching PAID and "5" handstamps on cover to L.M. Blackford, University of Virginia, docketed "Am. Letter Express / Recd Aug 14 1861/Ackn" at left; flap torn, Very Fine, ex-Brandon. In the Brandon sale (Siegel), this contained two American Letter Express notices. It is listed in the Walske-Trepel Special Routes census as across-the-lines use # S-AX-19, but probably originated in Nashville. Either way, it is a desirable use. $550.

Lancelot Minor Blackford enlisted in the Virginia Rockbridge 1st Light Artillery on 9-2-61 and was later promoted to 24th VA Infantry Field & Staff as adjutant. He was a graduate of UVA and post-war was principal for the Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va.

CSA 7-R, 5¢ blue pair (tiny nick out of top margin, right stamp), tied bold clear CHARLESTON / S.C. // DEC / 18 / 1862 CDS on neat blue commercially-made cover addressed in the hand of Gen. Alfred H. Colquitt to his brother, Col. Peyton H. Colquitt, Columbus, Ga., with ms. “O.B.” at top (Official Business). From the award-winning Brian M. Green “Confederate Generals” exhibit and signed by him. Brian states this is the only war-dated cover he has ever seen addressed by Gen. Colquitt. Examples of 4 Colquitt-signed documents from the National Archives accompany, easily corroborating the handwriting. RARE GEN. ALFRED H. COLQUITT WAR-TIME AUTOGRAPH USE made even more interesting by the use to his brother. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and CSA 7, Section 2. Biographical data on linked page. PHOTO OF GEN. ALFRED H. COLQUITT $950.   

US 3¢ red star-die entire U27, unused, back flap gummed but not sealed, pristine, Very Fine, SCV $45. $60.

US 65, 3¢ rose used with target cancel and matching occupied NEW ORLEANS / LA // JAN / 8 / 1863 double-circle datestamp on cover to Wm Hester, Knoxville, Knox County, Illinois, with interesting ORIGINAL 4-PAGE LETTER (pages 1 and 4) (pages 2-3) headed 11 St. Castleman Villas, Barnes, England, Decr 31, 1862, and signed Virginia (?) Waite mentioning Sir Roland (sic) Hill (initiator of the first postage stamp – the penny-black in England) saying she had received a letter from him declaring that the Boston post office had acknowledged the receipt and delivery of a letter which her husband declares he never received. H says he has not received any letters from her since July 19. She also mentions taking her child to the Crystal Palace to see the Christmas decorations. $30.

GB 33, 1p Red tied duplex on mourning cover to Lieutenant E.E. Fairfax Williamson, Conf. States Army, No. 15, Warwick Cresent (sic), Kensington, London with House of Commons embossed seal on back of black-edged flaps. Williamson was NOT in the Confederate Army. He was a FEDERAL SPY POSING AS A CONFEDERATE ARMY OFFICER IN ENGLAND. This intriguing cover was written up in a Daniel T. Gilbert article in the July-August 1980 Confederate Philatelist, a copy of which is included. Secretary of State Judah P. Benjamin urgently wrote to Henry Hotz in London on September 24, 1862, warning him that: “One E.E. Fairfax Williamson who has just gone to England and whose address is to be found at Peabody’s banking house is a Federal spy. Please write a warning at once to all our agents and officers in Europe. Williamson is about twenty years of age, fair complexion, blue eyes, bad teeth.” $1,250. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and Mourning Covers

Confederate States of America, Department of State. Imprinted cover (DS-02, CCV $750 just for imprint, not counting the rare use) with a red wax seal of the Department of State on back flap as well as Paris, France, backstamps. Legal envelope franked with GB 4p vermillion #34 (faulty at bottom) and 1s green #42 tied London "W24" oval grid and other European transit markings. The cover is addressed to Edwin de Leon, Esq., Hotel du Rhin, Place Vendôme, Paris. This was, and still is, a ritzy area of Paris with fashionable and deluxe hotels. Sealed tear at right edge and bit of light staining. A RARE and sexy use. $1,250.  Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and Imprints-2

Edwin de Leon biography on linked page.

Confederate States of America, Department of State. Imprinted cover (DS-02, CCV $750 for imprint,) with a red wax seal of the Department of State on back flap. Hand-carried to Edwin de Leon, Esq., Paris, Care of Dr. Girard.Large opening tear across top. Rare use. $350. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and Imprints-2

Edwin de Leon biography on linked page.

CSA 7-R 5¢ blue vertical pair tied RICHMOND / Va. cds on OVERPAID DROP letter to Theo. S. Garrett Jr., Navy Department, Richmond, Virginia. Garrett was a clerk with the Confederate Navy Department; part of top back flap missing, signed by Brian Green. $250. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and CSA 7-2

SMUGGLED LETTER from CAMP HOFFMAN, POINT LOOKOUT, MD: from Sgt. Hugh Davis Smith, a prisoner of war at Point Lookout, datelined "Prisoners Camp, Point Lookout, Maryland, Dec 21st 1863", to "My Loving Mother, Kind Brother & Fond Sisters."Three clues lead to the conclusion that the letter was smuggled: 1.) the letter is written on both sides of the sheet - against regulations; 2.) Smith signed only his initials: "H" on the main letter and "HDS" on a postscript - another violation; and 3.) in the letter he wrote, "An opportunity has offered itself by some of my fellow prisoners…who leave on tomorrow for the South"…"This will have to go in the black." He is more literate and well-written than the average soldier; typed transcription accompanies and letter mounted on exhibit page.  (see letter page 2) VERY RARE.  $550. LL. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and POW-1

Hugh Davis Smith biographical info accessible by clicking on item thumbnail image.

HART'S ISLAND, NEW YORK HARBOR: US 65, 3¢ rose tied by a weak New York duplex, May 1865 on MOURNING COVER to James M. Morey, Prisons Camp, Hart's Island, New York Harbor Comp 2.; cover reduced at the right trimming off black edge otherwise Very Fine with intact back and flaps edged in black. Included is the ORIGINAL LETTER datelined Jersey City, May 11, 1865,from Morey's mother who was visiting the East from Franklin, Tenn., beginning the process of getting him released by taking the oath of allegiance. At the end of the letter, she writes of conditions in Tennessee, "A blight seems to over spread the land; a hopelessness for the future, which they have not the energy to throw off." ONE OF ONLY 22 RECORDED USES – Hart’s Island was only in operation for four months. $1,100. Listed in both Miscellaneous-2 and POW-2

James M. Morey (1844-1923) was born in Jonesboro, Tenn., and died in Greensville, Tenn. He enlisted as a corporal October 15, 1862, and mustered into Co. D, 32nd Tenn. Infantry. He was taken prisoner February 15, 1865, at Orangeburg, SC.

CSA 7-R pair 5¢ dark blue with 3 large margins including part of adjoining stamp at top, just in at right, tied by bold RICHMOND / VA. // APR / 1863 circular datestamp with blank slug for day on exquisite multicolored floral wallpaper cover to Miss Eliza J(ane) Hardman, Stone Mountain, Ga., with original 2-page love note in a simple puzzle format, also a small pressed fern leaf, trivial edge wear and tiny nick at bottom. Rare with the wallpaper design on the outside. (back of cover and second page of letter) $1,800. Listed in both Wallpaper and Miscellaneous-2 sections.

Eliza JANE Hardman Wells and George RILEY Wells biographies on thumbnail-linked page.

CSA 12-KB, 10¢ deep blue with large to enormous margins on 3 sides, touched at top, tied by very light strike of LAGRANGE / Ga. // Apr / 9 / (1865) circular datestamp on homemade cover to Miss Missouria H. Stokes, Grantville Ga., part of back flap missing, Very Fine and scarce late use likely mailed on the date of General Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House. $650. Listed in both CSAS 12-3 and Miscellaneous-2 sections.

Missouria Horton Stokes was an American social reformer and writer in the temperance movement. Bio on thumbnail-linked page.

STEAMER VICKSBURG large blue oval handstamp cancel on U27, 3¢ red Star Die entire to G. Rubin Davis, Natchez Miss.,extensive April 1861 docketing at left indicating this is a Confederate State use, Fine, with 1999 CSA certificate as genuine CSA Use. RARE and choice. Only black and white tracing appears in the mostly color CSA Catalog which speaks to its rarity, CCV $2,500. $2,500.

CS Steamship City of Vicksburg info on thumbnail-linked page.

1862 July-Vedette Mail from Tucson to Los Angeles via Fort Yuma. Cover endorsed “Soldier’s letter, 1st Lt. J. P. Hargrave, Act. Adjt.” (Lt. Joseph Priestly Hargrave, Co. F, 1st Regiment, California Volunteers), addressed to Mrs. Clara S. Nye, Memphis, Michigan, in the hand of De Witt Vestal, carried by Vedette Mail from Tucson to Fort Yuma, then by another Vedette rider to Los Angeles where it entered mails with “Los Angeles Cal. Aug. 1” circular datestamp and “10” in oval due handstamp, which replaced the earlier device requiring manuscript rate, slight edge wear, still Very Fine. RARE VEDETTE MAIL COVER FROM UNION-OCCUPIED TUCSON IN MILITARY DISTRICT OF ARIZONA. Fort Yuma was the staging area for Union troops preparing to invade the Confederate territory of Arizona. Ex Birkinbine. VEDETTE MAIL is military mail carried by vedettes (French military term), defined as cavalry sentries or outpost pickets whose function was to relay information, give signals, warnings of danger, etc., to the main body of troops. Article on same in 4Q 2022 Civil War Philatelist. $1,400.

Joseph Priestly Hargrave served in Co. F, 1st Regiment, California Volunteers. Clara Sutherland Nye was a widow who operated a millinery business. Much more detailed info on thumbnail-linked page.

CSA 13, 10¢ green pair, small margins to cutting in, tied by MOBILE ALA. // ? 5 double-circle datestamp on westbound Trans-Mississippi Express cover to Col. Ben Allston, Gen. Kirby Smith's staff, Shreveport La., Trans Miss Department, reduced at left and missing top back flap. No more than 20 covers with a pair of the 20¢ green paying the 40¢ Trans-Mississippi Express rate are known. Most of the known covers are heavily stained and damaged. This cover is one of several known from the Col. Ben Allston correspondence, each paying the 40¢ Trans-Mississippi rate. Unlisted in Krieger. Ex Felton. SCV $4,500. $2,750.

Benjamin Allston served in the Trans-Mississippi department as inspector general for General Kirby Smith. Much more detailed info on thumbnail-linked page.