War-dated ALS signed “C. A. Arthur, Eng. in Chief,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, State of New York, Quartermaster General’s Department letterhead, September 3, 1861. Arthur writes to General Thomas Hillhouse. In full: “I herewith enclose the oath of office for Col. Bendix. I have telegraphed to you to send him orders to join join [sic] his Regt., by the direction of the Commander-in-Chief. I am General, respectfully…” Light toning and soiling, a few tiny chips and tears, and faint show-through from docket to reverse, otherwise fine condition.
Bendix (1818–1877) fought in the Battles of the Wilderness, Second Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. As the Civil War approached, Arthur was assigned the position of New York's Quartermaster-General, which put him in charge of supplying the state's volunteer troops. He was given the rank of brigadier general and was thus called “General” all his life. His excellent and efficient handling of the job earned him an important place in the state's Republican organization, which ultimately helped get him elected as the nation’s twentieth Chief Executive. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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