Lot 165
Ericsson, John - ALS Discussing His "Iron Boat" (1803-1889), Swedish-born American naval engineer and inventor who built the first armoured turret warship, the Monitor, and developed the screw propeller. Autograph letter signed "J. Ericsson," one page, 9¾ x 7¾", no place, Nov. 23, 1860. To an unidentified correspondent, "You must be very flush--not only do I find on my table a check for $365.75…but also your receipt for an equal amount….You will be glad to hear that I have carried my point in selection to the top houses of the iron boat. By to morrow night the upper deck will be as flush and clean as the back of the…receipt. The owner of the vessel, most fortunately, arrives today to second my objections so we shall lose no time. The engine is ready for cold pressure and the cold pressure pump is up and pipes attached. The (?) for working said pump will be in full working order to morrow." Fine condition.
On August 3, 1861, President Lincoln signed Bill 36 into law, establishing the Ironclad Board and authorizing $1.5 million for the construction of ironclad ships. On March 9, 1862, the first battle between ironclad warships took place. The USS Monitor and the former USS Merrimack (newly christened CSS Virginia) fought to a standstill. The U.S. Government soon placed an order for more ironclads, which played an important role in the blockade of the Confederacy. Estimate $1,500 - 2,000
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| Realized $1,375 |
