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Taylor, Zachary

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:0.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Taylor, Zachary
Taylor, Zachary (1784-1850) 12th President of the United States (1849-18500. Autograph letter signed ("Z. Taylor") 1 page, 10 x 8", "Near Rodney Mississippi," Jan. 28, 1843. A letter of commendation to General Persifer F. Smith, praising Smith's service in the Second Seminole War (1835-1842). "…I can state with great pleasure, that while on duty with you in Florida, & the Louisiana volunteers in 37 & 8…you not only rendered highly important services to the country, as well as in the opinion of a very large majority of your associates in arms, fully sustained yourself in the responsible station you occupied as an officer & a gentleman, as well as the high character of the gallant State you represented on that occasion, so much so, that had our recent difficulties with Great Britain terminated in an appeal to arms…both Majr. Genl. Gaines & myself had determined to have urged your appointment at least to the command of a regiment or corps…." Left margin is slightly uneven. Boldly penned and signed in blue ink.

After defeating the Seminoles at the Battle of Okeechobee (Dec. 25, 1837) Taylor was breveted a brigadier general and made commander of all U.S. forces in Florida. He left Florida in 1840 and became commander of the 2nd Dept, Western Division, headquartered at Fort Smith, Arkansas. The difficulties with Great Britain to which Taylor probably refers were resolved with the Webster-Ashburton Treaty (1842), which settled most of the boundary line (Oregon excepted) between Canada and the U.S., resolved to close down the slave trade once and for all, and agreed to the extradition of criminals. Smith would go on to serve with distinction in the Mexican War.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,500.

Our item number 150895