Raynors 2020-05 Putnal
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2020
A very rare early Secession Southern Rights service application signed endorsement by renowned Southern fire-eater WILLIAM L. YANCEY (1814-1863) being a heart-felt letter, 1 1/2pp. 4to., written by a certain, "J. D. F. Williams," Cahaba, Alabama, January 14, 1861, addressed to "Dear Yancey", reading, in part: "My position heretofore as an extreme Southern man, sectional in my feelings, and for several years past, an open and avowed disunionist for the sake of disunion imposes upon me an absolute necessity to take part in any struggle between the "North and the South" no matter what the sacrifice. I now have a handsome practice with no partner yet I will give it up…my wife…a prudent thoughtful woman urges me on so I am going if in no other capacity mine shall be that of a high private…if a proper place presents itself which will save me from the drudgery and hardship of the common soldier -use your influence to secure it for me…I have written very freely and frankly…if you can aid me. I always esteem the favor…J. D. F. Williams." Research shows that the 1860 census Williams is listed as a forty-three-year old attorney who lived in the "Fambro House" in Cahaba with his thirty-year-old wife, Emily (died May 8, 1862) and their four children. He also listed ownership of eleven slaves. Worthy of further research to see if he got the coveted position! Near fine.
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