>A document boldly signed by Chester Arthur (1829-1886), future 21st U.S. President, as "C.A. Arthur / Brig Genl + AAQMG / S. N.Y." near the bottom of the page. Issued from New York City on January 13, 1862. The blue-lined, red-ruled section at the top of the partially printed and partially handwritten document serves as a receipt for wartime provisions. Counter-signed by William H.H. Smith as "Wm H.H. Smith" at lower right. Docketed verso. Expected wear including paper folds, as well as isolated closed tears and chipped edges. The folds and chips are discretely repaired verso. Else very good to near fine. 8.5" x 14." Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services, certification number A76367, dated September 5, 2018.

The document is addressed to the attention of William H.H. Smith, whose exact role in 1862 is unknown, but who could have then been serving as a clerk in the Department of the Navy, as he is listed as doing in records from five years later, in 1867. The receipt is for "275 Pairs Blue cloth Pants @ $4 12/100" for a total of $1,133.

Young New York City lawyer Chester A. Arthur had become involved in Republican Party politics and joined the New York militia before the Civil War. After war was declared, Arthur was commissioned as a Brigadier General and Assistant Quartermaster General of the New York militia. Though a political appointment, serving as assistant quartermaster general was no sinecure; Arthur was responsible for feeding, sheltering, and provisioning thousands of Union troops passing through New York City on their war to battlefronts. It required a mastery of logistics, finances, and record-keeping which Arthur excelled in.

Arthur was promoted to Inspector General of the New York militia just a month later, in February 1862, and to Quartermaster General of the New York militia in July 1862. In addition to ensuring the quality of barracks, food, and equipment, Arthur was also involved in recruitment. His term ended in January 1863, after the election of Democrat Party candidates. Arthur would serve as Vice President of the United States from March through September 1881, and as President between September 1881 and March 1885.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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