Partial self-contained partly-printed DS, signed “R. E. Lee, Capt. Engrs.,” one page, 7.75 x 2, no date but circa 1838. Lee certifies the necessity of services rendered for the “Improvement of the Mississippi, above the Mouth of the Ohio.” Neatly signed at the conclusion in ink by Robert E. Lee. Includes several strands of Lee's hair, encapsulated in a plastic pouch and affixed to a notarized certificate documenting the provenance, as certified by famed autograph dealer Charles Hamilton. Impressively double-matted and framed together with images and a biographical plaque to an overall size of 32 x 18.5. In fine condition. At the time of the signature, Lee was a decade removed from graduating West Point as a lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers. Between 1837 and 1842, he supervised the development of St. Louis harbor and the upper Mississippi and Missouri rivers, ultimately earning a promotion to captain for his work there.
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