ALS signed “Fr. Pierce,” one page, 5.25 x 8, January 8, [1855]. Letter to Generals Sam Houston and Thomas Jefferson Rusk, both senators from Texas. In full: “The soldiers of the War of 1812 now in this City propose to call on me at 1 o’clock today—Your presence on the occasion would be gratifying to them & myself.” In very good to fine condition, with a professionally repaired tear to the central horizontal fold.
Washington hosted a convention of veterans of the War of 1812 on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans, the decisive battle of the conflict. President Pierce welcomed them at the White House, and the next day they received the unprecedented honor of an invitation to occupy seats upon the floor of the Senate without the bar. Houston himself was a veteran of the conflict, having seen action at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend under Andrew Jackson’s command before being injured in a skirmish with Creek Indians; he spent the remainder of the war recuperating in a New Orleans hospital while Jackson led his troops to victory. An uncommon format boasting excellent political and military associations, this is an especially rare and desirable piece.
Ex. Sotheby’s, October 26, 1988; sale 5759, lot 142. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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