LEE, ROBERT EDWARD (1807-70) Confederate General & Commander of the Army of Northern Virginia

Autograph Document Signed, 8” x 10”, Fort Hamilton, New York, June 2, 1846, “R.E. Lee, Capt[ain] Eng[inee]rs,” a partly printed requisition for supplies sold to the U.S. Army for use at the installation.  The hardware being purchased is enumerated in Lee’s hand on the front, as is a three-line docket beneath his signature on the reverse.  While serving as post engineer at Fort Hamilton, 1841-46, Lee is credited with the design and construction of several New York-area fortifications, notably Fort Richmond, Fort Tompkins, and the forts at Willetts Point and Sandy Hook.

Seldom seen in its entire form, as Lee’s signature and four lines of print preceding it are often excised and sold as a smaller document.  Lightly and evenly toned, with two horizontal folds, several minor stains and paper breaks.