Description:

(UNION NAVY) XANTHUS R. SMITH
(1839-1929) American maritime painter best known for his depictions of naval engagements of the Civil War, particularly 1869's ‘The Monitor and the Merrimack' and several works depicting the sinking of the Confederate raider ALABAMA by the USS KEARSARGE. War-date A.L.S., 1p. 8vo., Port Royal, SC, Sep. 26, 1862, to his parents. Smith writes from aboard the steam frigate USS WABASH, flagship of the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, during his wartime service as a U.S. Navy seaman, in full: ‘As the ‘Keystone State' is about leaving suddenly for the North with a mail, I take the opportunity of letting you know that I am well and getting on very comfortably so far. I am very anxious to hear from you. You had better direct your letters to New York, as there are vessels coming from there much oftener [sic] than from Philadelphia.' He signs at the conclusion in black ink. Shows original mailing folds, with very faint toning to the edges and archival tape mounting remnants to the verso, else very good. Also present is the original patriotically-themed transmittal envelope, franked ‘U.S. Ship'.

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November 14, 2025 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
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