Description:

ELY S. PARKER
(1828 - 1895) Seneca Indian and Union brevet brigadier general, Grant's military secretary who transcribed the official copies of the surrender document at Appomattox. Rare sad content A.L.S. "Ely S. Parker" 3pp. 8vo., New York, Aug. 16, 1889 to former comrade Brevet Brig. Gen. John Corson Smith, colonel of the 96th Illinois and lieutenant governor of Illinois, who has invited him. In part: "…[to] be the guest of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois of F. and A.M...I have labored increasingly all this summer to bring about such a turn in my affairs as would enable me finally to send you the message 'Yes, I will come.' My trouble of course is principally financial. For some time past I have nothing but bad luck, so much so that at times I am very much discouraged at the perverseness of my fortunes...I am, and for some time past have been, a non-affiliated mason for non-payment of dues...Please do not humiliate me by again renewing the invitation. No one here knows of my troubles, and I have told it to you now in strict masonic confidence...I shall get through it in time....When I am myself once more, I shall be most happy to come out to see you. I shall not forget your request for two cabinet size photographs though I imagine you may not want them now…Mrs. Parker required yet a good deal of nursing and attention…". With original envelope docketed by Smith. Parker spent his last years on earth poverty-stricken, battling kidney disease, diabetes, and a serious of strokes. In 1895, he went to bed early and died in his sleep.

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September 27, 2012 11:00 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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