TLS, one page, 8 x 10.5, State of New York letterhead, September 13, 1930. A letter regarding the impending purchase of the farm of Revolutionary War General Baron von Steuben. In part, “Here is the latest information in regards to the Steuben Farm. The contract for its purchase has been sent to the Trustees of the Farm…When this is received, the State will proceed at once to complete the transaction. That brings up the question of a ceremony to take over the farm and the grave. Perhaps, as it is getting late this autumn it would be better to defer it to good weather in the spring.” In fine condition, with expected folds and a touch of mild toning.
Steuben, a Prussian army officer and trusted advisor to George Washington, came to America in 1777 and performed an invaluable service in the training and reorganization of the Continental army. He left the Army in 1784 and moved to a 1,600-acre farm in Oneida County, New York, thanks to a grant by the state in recognition of his wartime service. He died in Steubenville, New York, in 1794. The Steuben Memorial State Historic Site in Oneida County was later created to honor the "Drillmaster of the American Revolution." Incidentally, FDR was correct in assuming that September of 1930 was too late to hold a proper ceremony following the sale of the property, with a dedication of the hero’s burial place taking place the following year...in September. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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