American chemist and inventor (1853-1927) best known for several innovations related to explosives, including smokeless gunpowder. TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, December 11, 1904. Letter to Admiral Charles O'Neil, in part: "I met the Special Board on Naval Ordnance at the Maryland Hotel…I explained the fuze to them, and it was agreed that we should, between us, make out a program for testing it, and I am now at work…I enclose you copy of a letter written by me to Gen. William Crozier, Chief of Ordnance of the United States Army, in answer to the recent report of the Ordnance Board on some experiments made with Maximite…I have recently devised a new apparatus and method for charging shell with my new high explosive. During my visit to Washington, I explained these to Gen. Crozier, and he has promised to have them tested." Attached is the copy of Maxim's nine-page letter (secretarially signed), plus an authentically signed statement concerning a royalty agreement between Maxim and O'Neil for the sale of his inventions. In very good to fine condition, with creasing to the last page. Excellent content from the weapons innovator.
