Lot 160
Lafayette, Marquis de (1757-1834) French statesman and soldier, hero of the U.S. Revolutionary War and active in the early phases of the French Revolution, a lifelong proponent of human rights and liberty.
Autograph Letter. One page, recto and verso, 7 x 5½", "Frederics Burg", Virginia, April 25, 1781. In English, incomplete and unsigned. The lower portion of the sheet with the signature is missing. Content and context indicate it was probably destined for Baron Von Steuben. Transmittal folds, adhesive residue verso. Very good to fine condition.
Written during the 1781 Virginia Campaign, which ended with the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown, as Lafayette is leading his troops to Richmond to defend the city and its military stores from the British, who had just landed at Petersburg. "Your favor of the 21st came this morning to hand and I have since then received a letter from Governor Jefferson dated last night werein he informs me that the enemy had landed near Petersburg and were advancing to that place. What opposition have you been able to make…The enemy being about Petersburg and being said to intend a visit to Richmond. The detachment will advance towards that place until intelligence from you enable me more certainly to determine its movements…" Lafayette reached Richmond only four days later and thwarted the British plans. Lafayette's leadership was vital to the success of the Virginia Campaign and the ultimate victory of American troops. If this letter were intact, it would have a value of $15,000 to $20,000. Regardless, we are fortunate to offer this piece of America's history.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 4,000.
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