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Lot #319
Robert Rogers Rare Autograph Letter Signed (1778)

Rare 1778 autograph letter signed by the influential founder of Rogers' Rangers

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Estimate: $4000+
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Description

Rare 1778 autograph letter signed by the influential founder of Rogers' Rangers

New Hampshire frontiersman (1731-1795) who served in the British army during both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. During the French and Indian War Rogers, he raised and commanded the famous Rogers' Rangers. The guidelines he developed for his men—known as Robert Rogers' 28 'Rules of Ranging'—remain in use by the United States Army Rangers to this day. Very rare Revolutionary War-dated ALS signed "Rob't Rogers," one page, 6.25 x 8, August 20, 1778. Handwritten letter to merchant and innkeeper William Arnold, in full: "Be so kind as to break open that box of Cloaths which Doctor Parrish and I left in your Care & take out 2 plain shirts both dirty one mine & the other the Doctors both mark'd, one JP the other RR. A pair of white ribb'd cotton stockings mark'd RR. a pair of black Cloath Garters & a box of Wafers all which you will find in the box, please to take them out & Send them to Mr. Gideon Mumfords & he will forward them by Allen tomorrow in so doing you will oblige your friend." Addressed on the reverse in Rogers' own hand. In fine condition, with scattered light staining and soiling.

Two months after penning this letter, Rogers journeyed to Canada to discuss his plan to raise a new Corps of Royalists to suppress patriot rebellions in the Revolutionary War. After several rejected proposals, he finally received approval from British commander-in-chief in New York City, General Henry Clinton, to build his regiment, and began recruitment for the King's Rangers. Rogers' autograph is extremely rare in any form.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Revolutionary War
  • Dates: #670 - Ended July 12, 2023





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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