Remarkable archive associated with Stuart's invention of a saber hanger, including an ALS encouraging purchase of his device for state troops and the original patent model displayed in a shadowbox.
The ALS, signed "J. E. B. Stuart," is written on the reverse of the full-page diagram from a two-page circular advertising the invention, 8.25 x 10.5, January 25, 1860, in part: "I have recently sent to the chairman of committee of Legislature of Va on Military affairs—this circular—as I am unacquainted with him and know you, I write also to enclose this to you to ask that you bring the improvement described to the notice of the Legislature and have it introduced into the Cavalry Service of our state. Get at least an appropriation for $500 belts with this impro[vemen]t which will not cost more than $1500, and my agents Knorr, Nece & Co. of Phila. will furnish them of good quality at short notice. Encourage home inventions by all means. This improvement meets with great favor among the officers of the Army. Of course I would rather get an appropriation for more than 500, say rather 5000—but I think the state could afford at least to buy 500—for experiment, if the adoption by the gov't is not a sufficient guarantee of usefulness and merit."
Stuart's original brass working patent model, along with its patent office tag ("No. 25,684, 1859, J. E. B. Stuart, Method of attaching sabers & belts, Patented Oct. 4th 1859") is mounted in an impressive 32 x 24 shadowbox, along with prints of the text of the patent and an image of Stuart in uniform. In fine condition.
