Exceptional LS, one page, 8 x 9.5, June 1, 1819. Letter to "the ancient and Honourable Artillery Company," in part: "Accept my thanks for your polite Invitation to your Anniversary Dinner at Faneuil Hall on the 7th of this month. Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to meet a Society which I have held in Veneration from my earliest youth and to whom I attribute in a great degree that Valour [Mil]itary Skill science and discipline which has contributed much to the present prosperity and glory of the United [St]ates—But if I should not appear at your Festival, which I ardently desire—my uncommon Age, and various infirmity's must be the apology." Handsomely cloth-matted with a portrait to an overall size of 20 x 15.25. In very good to fine condition, with seal-related paper loss to left edge.
The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts is the oldest chartered military organization in North America, having been founded in 1638 by Governor John Winthrop. It was established as a volunteer militia company that would train on a regular basis to increase the readiness and military skills of the members; many of its members, including John Brooks, William Heath, William Hull, and Benjamin Lincoln, served with distinction during the Revolutionary War. Adams clearly admired the service of this organization, and this letter presents a wonderful association.
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