Description:

Gideon Welles
[Washington, D.C.], April 25, 1865
Gideon Welles Signed 1865 Detachment of Command
Partially printed DS
Partial-printed document signed "G. Welles" as Secretary of the Navy. 1p on Navy Department stationary, measuring 8" x 9.75", [Washington, D.C.], dated April 25, 1865. The order, addressed to Commander J.C. Williamson of Brooklyn, NY, detaches him from "the command of the Naval Rendezvous, Brooklyn…". Featuring multiple endorsements from other Navy officials on verso. Exhibits darkened edge toning and damp staining, not affecting signature, with light creasing throughout; dealer's notes in blue at lower right. Overall good condition.

Gideon Welles (1802-1878) was the United States Secretary of the Navy from 1861 to 1869, a cabinet post he was awarded after supporting Abraham Lincoln in the 1860 election. Although he opposed the Union blockade of Southern ports during the Civil War, Welles was largely credited for the effective sealing off of the Confederate coastline, which prevented the exchange of war supplies. Indeed, this was marked as a major cause of victory for the Union, with the U.S. Navy expanding almost tenfold during his tenure.

Throughout the War, James C. Williamson (1813-1871) would take command of numerous ships, including the U.S.S. Penguin and U.S.S. Flag. Notably in 1863, the Flag became instrumental in the transport of Union troops to the Second Battle of Fort Wagner.

This lot comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 8" x 9.75"
  • Medium: Partially printed DS

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June 26, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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