2006-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/31/2006
MAJOR ALFRED MORDECAI (1804-1887). His distinguished career included command of the famous Washington and Frankford, Pa arsenals. Promoted to major during Mexican War 1848 for meritorious services; as a leading member of the Ordnance Board he served with then Capt. George B. McClellan (later general) on a unique Ordnance Board sent abroad to report on the Crimean War and survey military organizations with special attention to Ordnance of European countries. This is the detailed report by Mordecai of that survey and overview of European military establishments, their arms and equipment. A scarce, significant work widely studied by the U.S. military. “MILITARY COMMISSION TO EUROPE IN 1855 AND 1856…REPORT OF MAJOR ALFRED MORDECAI OF THE ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT” published Washington, 1860; G. W. Bowman, printer. 232 pages (large 9 x 11) plus 20 fine detailed plates of cannon, mortars, machines for making and rifling gun barrels and more, plus 13 large fold-out plates with details of small arms, accessories, etc. at rear. A wealth of significant information for the researcher; for Judaica a superb example of an important Jewish officer’s career. Mordecai’s son (of same name) also graduated West Point (1861) ultimately rising to general in the U.S. Army. Light aging; text is exc. and better. Only the blank flyleaf dingy with some light damp staining. Cover aging, fading with wear at top and bottom of spine and corners; loose on inner hinge, needs repair there. Accompanied with two fine bio sketches.
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