Lot 989

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

ALEXANDER HAMILTON FAMILY LETTER ARCHIVE
Good grouping of letters from family members of ALEXANDER HAMILTON (1755 - 1804), Secretary of the Treasury who, with Madison and Jay, supported the Constitution through their contributions to The Federalist, mortally wounded in a duel with Aaron Burr. These letters apparently originated from ALEXANDER HAMILTON (1816-1889), Hamilton's grandson. Included is: ALEXANDER HAMILTON, JR. (1786-1875), second son to Alexander Hamilton, a lawyer who fought in the Duke of Wellington's army then returned to America to fight in the War of 1812 as an infantry captain. He was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1819. A.L.S. to his son Alexander in New York discussing certificates of classical studies: "...I have not in my possession any copies of the certificates, and the originals I think must be filed as I have said with the Clerk. I have been busy all days with the affairs of the Office...I wish to send this with a despatch for the Great Western...read Liebig's Chemistry and beat your neighbors with the aid of science. I shall be very happy to give you valuable hints now and then...". Also MARY MORRIS (HAMILTON) SCHUYLER, granddaughter of both Alexander Hamilton and great grand-niece of Signer LEWIS MORRIS, her mother MARY MORRIS HAMILTON, daughter-in-law of Alexander, and CHARLOTTE HAMILTON, a total of three letters addressed to ALEXANDER HAMILTON (1816-1889), Hamilton's grandson who dockets them. The first, written by Mary and her mother, 2pp. 4to., New York, Aug., 1842 describing "Elizabeth's" serious illness, presumably a female relative or his girlfriend, with his mother reminding him that he is a Christian and must have faith. The second letter, by Mary Morris Hamilton and Charlotte, 2pp. 4to., Ossining, Aug., 1842: "...the dear girl is not so ill as you fear...[she] will live to bless and make you happy...", the third letter from Mary Morris alone to her son, 2pp. 4to., New York, Sep. 17, 184[2], recommends typical period medical treatment. The fifth letter is from CHARLES A. HAMILTON, another descendant from another branch of the family, 1p, 4to., New York, Sep. 15, 1847, speaks of victories in the Mexican War: "...Among the wounded...Schuyler is mentioned: He was wounded severely, but what may be the exact meaning of the term is doubtful. This is a great shock to mama...there may be a good reason not to mention the battle to [Elizabeth]...". Also present are two letters from one L. A. SMITH addressed to the same grandson, Alexander, both 2pp. 4to., New York, 1845, one mentioning that he is to be married, the second a rather angry letter in response to Hamilton's declining an invitation. Another letter, social content, is marked as being from Elizabeth Smith to her sister, 1845, with the last letter, also addressed to Hamilton, a love letter from West Point, 1842, is signed simply "Eh" (Elizabeth Hamilton?). With integral address leaves, overall very good.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

COD (cash on delivery), Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent USPS priority, USPS International Express (for most overseas), DHL or UPS Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items are not shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee.

September 11, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 22.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000