Scarce example of “Kit” Carson, the famous Indian fighter
CARSON, CHRISTOPHER (“KIT”). Noted American frontiersman, scout, and soldier (1809–1868) who takes a place among the most colorful personalities in the Old West. Rare circa late 1860s ink signature, “C. Carson,” on an off-white 2 1/4 x 4 slip of cream paper.
After making his name as a trapper and mountain man who guided John C. Fremont’s expeditions through the western frontier, Carson led Union troops in New Mexico during the Civil War before being sent to suppress the Native American Indians on the frontier. In October 1865, Carson was awarded the brevet rank of brigadier general ‘for gallantry in the battle of Valverde, and for distinguished conduct and gallantry in the wars against the Mescalero Apaches and against the Navajo natives of New Mexico,’ and appointed commandant of Fort Garland in Colorado. An extraordinary piece from Carson’s legendary carrier. Carson’s signature is rare in any form.