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Sale 55: United States Postal History

Table of Contents

Slavery Related

Lot 1976    

[Slavery] James H. Holmes, ALS letter datelined "Steamer 'Martha Jewett' Lying somewhere in 'God's Creation' but said to be on the Missouri River, about 15 miles below Jefferson City, Aground on a Clay Bar, - Sunday, June 29th, 1856", wonderful abolitionist content "I am a humble…abolitionist, with a Sharp's rifle, and a tremendous knife…traveling alone among pro-slavery passengers, on a pro-slavery boat, with a pro-slavery captain and crew, destined for Kansas, intending to make that land of the Free and Brave my home. Hailing from Virginia, I am counted by those around me as 'all right on the goose,' as the Missourians say." and closing "Hurrah for Freemont & Dayton. The peoples choice, - the nominees of Freemen, who desire a free country, free speech, Free Kansas and - Free-Mont", signed "Jas. H. Holmes", original cover with red "Jefferson City Mo. Jul 1" cds addressed to Charleston S.C. bearing 1852, 3¢ dull red, Fine.
Scott No. 11    Estimate $300 - 400.

Once in Kansas Territory the writer, James H. Holmes, joined John Brown's gang. He engaged in plundering and robbing pro-slavery men in the Territory and did not hesitate to steal a few slaves from Missouri when the opportunity presented itself. He apparently did not join in the attack on Harpers Ferry and later joined the James H. Lane Frontier Guards.

Realized: $270

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