Bate served in the Confederate forces in the Civil War, attaining the rank of major general and commanding a division in the Army of Tennessee. He also served as governor of Tennessee from 1883 to 1887 and subsequently as United States senator from 1887 until his death. Ink signature, “Wm. M. Bate Tennessee,” on an off-white 5 x 2.5 sheet. In fine condition, with some mild toning to right side over the second “e” in “Tennessee.” RR Auction COA.
