Details:

Horace Lawson Hunley autograph on an album page, boldly autographed "H. L. Hunley" and inscribed above "Charleston S.C. August 3rd 1863." An exceptional wartime autograph dated at Charleston only weeks before Hunley's death during a test dive of the pioneering Confederate submarine that would bear his name.

The album page measures approximately 6.5 x 3.75". Fine condition with expected light age toning, a small spot near the autograph, minor foxing along the lower edge, and light handling wear. The autograph is large, bold, and exceptionally well preserved.

Horace Lawson Hunley (1823–1863) was an American lawyer, businessman, and Confederate marine engineer best remembered for financing and helping develop the submarine H. L. Hunley during the Civil War. Working with James McClintock and Baxter Watson, Hunley participated in a series of experimental submarine projects intended to break the Union blockade of Southern ports. Their most successful vessel was transported to Charleston in 1863 for operations against the Union blockading fleet. On October 15, 1863, Hunley was aboard the submarine during a training exercise when it failed to resurface, killing him and the entire crew. The vessel was recovered and returned to service, and on February 17, 1864, the H. L. Hunley sank the USS Housatonic off Charleston Harbor, becoming the first combat submarine in history to sink an enemy warship. This autograph, dated August 3, 1863, was executed in Charleston during the historic period in which Hunley and his submarine were preparing for operations.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11695 1419209-1