Rutherford B. Hayes Autograph Letter Signed as President

ALS as president, signed “R. B. Hayes,” one page, 4.5 x 7, Executive Mansion letterhead, January 7, 1880. Marked "Private," a handwritten letter to Colonel Emmons Clark, in full: “I have your note of the 5th inst., and in reply beg to assure you that it will give me great pleasure to put your name on the list referred to without the formality of testimonials.” In fine condition.

Emmons Clark (1827–1905) was a prominent New York militia officer, Civil War veteran, public-health administrator, and historian, best known for his long association with the Seventh Regiment, New York National Guard. Serving as captain of Company B when the Civil War began, Clark and the Seventh were among the earliest militia units to respond to Lincoln’s April 1861 call for troops, traveling to Washington to help secure the capital. He subsequently rose through the regiment and in June 1864 became its colonel and commanding officer, a position he held for 25 years, until 1889. Closely identified with the Seventh Regiment throughout the postwar era, Clark later authored the monumental two-volume History of the Seventh Regiment of New York, 1806–1889, published in 1890. He also served as secretary of the New York City Board of Health, pursuing a significant career in public service alongside his military activities.