A Mohawk chief, Brant saw his first battle at age thirteen. He was a close ally of the English and terrorized New York and Pennsylvania colonists once the Revolution began. After the war, he procured a land grant for his tribe from the governor of Canada. Rare LS signed “Jos. Brant,” one page, 7.5 x 12.5, January 19, 1805. Letter to an unidentified recipient. In part, “I have this day rec'd your favor… by the hand of Messrs Stuart [likely John Stuart with whom Brant translated the Gospel of Mark into the Mohawk language] & Cummings who are now here authorised [sic] by letters of administration to take charge of the affairs of the late Capt. at whose hands you with no doubt have equal Justice done you with other creditors to the Estate, and as far as my influence will extend… which will I presume be more satisfactory… the assets will if prudently managed leave a surplus after paying all the debts if I may judge from present appearances. I have some hopes to have the pleasure of seeing you this winter till then I beg you will accept of my best wishes.” In very good condition, with professional repairs to separations along transmittal folds, lightly affecting a few words of text, small area of paper replacement to lower left side affecting nothing, and light toning, heavier to the edges. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
