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Robert E. Lee

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:NA Estimated At:2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
Robert E. Lee

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Auction Date:2014 Jun 18 @ 18:00 (UTC-05:00 : EST/CDT)
Location:236 Commercial St., Suite 100, Boston, Massachusetts, 02109, United States
ALS - Autograph Letter Signed
ANS - Autograph Note Signed
AQS - Autograph Quotation Signed
AMQS - Autograph Musical Quotation Signed
DS - Document Signed
FDC - First Day Cover
Inscribed - “Personalized”
ISP - Inscribed Signed Photograph
LS - Letter Signed
SP - Signed Photograph
TLS - Typed Letter Signed
ALS signed “R. E. Lee,” one page, 5 x 8, May 23, 1859. Letter to Major P. V. Hagner. In part: “I thought Housings had been adopted by the Board—I knew I voted against it—If not adopted, I do not wish any. I will have the hasp plates in the bit as you suggest [sketch]. The 2 enveloped by the C, different from that of the men. The pommel pouches must have covers of course, to secure their contents—I wish them light & seemly.” In fine condition, with light overall toning.

Lee penned this exceptional letter discussing his riding gear while with the Second United States Cavalry, his last US Army command. Most remarkable is the diagram he sketches in the middle, showing the number "2" encircled by a "C"—undoubtedly an insignia conceived to represent the 2nd Cavalry Regiment—as he would like it to appear on a custom-made bit for his horse. He goes on to discuss his saddle, specifically requesting that there be a high quality pouch on the pommel. Lee was known to be fastidious and particular about his equestrian tack and supplies, serving on the US Army board that conducted saddle trials during a redesign process that resulted in the 1859 transition from the standard Grimsley saddle to one based on George B. McClellan's design. His own preference was a modified Grimsley that he used from his time in the Second US Cavalry through the end of the Civil War. A tremendously interesting letter of the utmost desirability, intimately associated with Lee's career on horseback.