Autographed on October 4, 1883, the larger of the two documents (meas. 13 ¼” x 8”) in the archive is one of the earliest dated signatures of 24 year old Teddy Roosevelt, who was only two years out of college. It is also the only document our research has uncovered from his time in the NY National Guard; and the only one that records his promotion.

What adds to the fascination of this piece is that it was acquired by us without knowledge that there was a smaller document (3” x 4 5/8”) attached to the back that a conservationist was able to successfully remove without damage. Once removed we discovered that on one side it contained a hand-written list of regimental members, including Roosevelt; and on the reverse, a list of names that records the actual date of Roosevelt’s promotion to Captain of the Militia. AND, all the names - including Roosevelt’s are in his own hand, along with rubric underlining. In total, Roosevelt’s autograph appears five times on both documents.

These documents were signed by Roosevelt only a few short months before he lost both his wife and mother…both on Valentine’s Day in 1884. After these tragic losses and disillusionment with lack of progress as an idealistic NY State Assemblyman, he moved West to his ranch in the Badlands of the Dakota Territory for several years before returning East and launching what ultimately became an incredibly remarkable career leading to the Presidency.

These are extremely desirable pieces on all levels, and together are truly one of a kind. Each is housed in a beautiful archival frame, measuring 22 ½” x 17 3/8” and 12 3/8” x 13 7/8” respectively.

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