Financier, philanthropist, and Civil war soldier who was a member of the fabled Astor dynasty (1822-1890). ALS signed “J. J. Astor, Jr.,” one page, 5 x 8, April 20, 1866. Handwritten letter to "Major Gen'l Custer," in full: "My dear General, I send this to remind you of your promise to dine with me on Monday, at 6 o'clk." Astor gives his address as "338 Fifth Avenue." In very fine condition. Accompanied by Astor's personal visiting card, annotated in pencil in his own hand, "Gen'l Custer."
During the American Civil War, Astor served as a volunteer aide-de-camp, with the rank of colonel, to Major General George B. McClellan—then commanding general of the U.S. Army—from November 1861 to July 1862. In recognition of his services during the Peninsular Campaign, Astor was brevetted as a brigadier general in March 1865. During the same period, Custer served in the 5th Cavalry Regiment and also acted as McClellan's aide. A desirable letter connecting two of the 19th century's most significant Americans.
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