War-dated vellum DS as president, signed “Abraham Lincoln” and countersigned by Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, one page, 15.5 x 19, August 1, 1864. Elaborately designed appointment. In part: “Know Ye, That reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity, and abilities of R. T. Shillinglaw, I have nominated and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate do appoint him Captain in the Veteran Reserve Corp.” Framed to an overall size of 17.5 x 21.5. Intersecting horizontal and vertical folds, a horizontal fold through Lincoln’s signature, handwritten portions light but legible, folds along the perimeter evidently from past display, wrinkling, soiling, and a small area of old tape visible at the extreme bottom edge. The original green seal is intact and attractive.
Originally thought to have been killed in the Battle of Bull Run, Shillinglaw miraculously survived a head wound and injuries to both legs, only to be taken prisoner by Confederate forces. Held as a prisoner of war for five months, he was eventually made part of a prisoner exchange and returned to New York City in January 1862. One year later, still recovering from his wounds, Shillinglaw was discharged from the service, but his “patriotism, valor, fidelity, and abilities” led President Lincoln to solicit his services here in 1864 and reinstate him as a Union captain. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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