Soldier, colonizer, and leading figure in the Texas Revolution (1788–1835), killed by a Mexican rifleman during the Siege of Bexar. Very rare manuscript DS, signed “Ben R. Milam,” one page, 8 x 3.5, May 13, 1831. Promissory note reads, in full: “Sixty days this date of this my only one of this tenor and date pay to the order of Broadwells Fulton & Co. One hundred and eighty one 54/100 dollars for value received and charge to account of Your Obt. Sert.” Note is addressed in the lower left corner, “To Mr. James Normend, Alexandria, La.” Note bears an ink cancellation notation through text which reads, “Accepted, James Normend,” and “Paid by Col. Milam,” in an unknown hand. Also written on the reverse, in an unknown hand, “Broadwells Fulton & Co.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one in between first name and middle initial of signature, cancellation notations lightly affecting text, and scattered light toning and foxing.
At the time Milam signed this note, he was a land agent who was trying to sell land in the cotton-growing area of Red River, and was simultaneously involved with clearing a blockage of the waterway known as the Red River Raft to make the area more attractive to settlers. Here, Milam is authorizing a payment to Broadwells Fulton & Co., the type of sales agent that many cotton planters relied on to sell their crops.
Milam joined Texan volunteers in the Goliad Campaign of 1835. Soon afterwards, Stephen Austin placed him in charge of a company of scouts to determine the best routes over which to retake San Antonio in the Siege of Bexar. Subsequently, he and Frank W. Johnson each lead a group of volunteers in house-to-house combat during the retaking of the town. On December 7, 1835, Milam was killed by a rifle shot while moving from one position to another. Three days later, the Mexican forces surrendered and vacated San Antonio.
This is only the second Milam item we have encountered. The Robert Davis Collection, read more about Robert Davis. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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