Significant ALS signed “Z. Taylor,” one page, 7.75 x 10, August 1, 1848. Handwritten letter to Charles Harrod of New Orleans, concerning the disposition of a Congressional Gold Medal awarded to Taylor for his bravery in the Mexican-American War. The subject medal was one of three Congressional Gold Medals awarded to Taylor, issued for his distinguished achievements during military operations along the Rio Grande, for meritorious achievements at the Battle of Monterrey, and for valor at the Battle of Buena Vista. Taylor remains the only individual to be awarded the medal three times, and his achievements in the Mexican-American War would lead directly to his election to the presidency three months later.
Penned in Taylor's characteristically bold, rugged hand, the letter reads, in part: "Your esteemed letter of the 25th ulto. was duly received in which you say 'at the request of the Secretary of War I have the honor to be the bearer of a gold medal voted by Congress to you for services at Monterey, & to be handed by me to you'—which you will please retain in your possession or deposit in bank as you may think best, until I can visit the City which will be about the 20th, of the present month, when it will afford me much pleasure to receive it at your hands." Addressed on the integral leaf by Taylor. In fine condition, with an old mounting strip along the hinge edge of the integral address leaf. An important autograph letter by the war hero, with reference to the events that propelled him to political popularity in advance of the 1848 presidential election.
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