After nearly five decades in the antiques and historical collectibles industry, we occasionally encounter pieces of American history that still capture our attention.
This is an original 1886 Civil War widow’s pension certificate issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
The certificate documents pension benefits granted to Mary G. West, widow of Samuel C. West, who served in Company H of the 4th New York Cavalry, a regiment that saw extensive service with the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War.
The document lists their child:
Wilfred D. West (born February 7, 1863)
It bears the printed signatures of:
William F. Vilas – Secretary of the Interior
Joseph H. Barrett – Commissioner of Pensions
Civil War pension documents are fascinating artifacts of American history, reflecting the federal government's long-term support of Union soldiers and their families well into the late 19th century.
Pieces like this appeal to:
• Civil War collectors
• military historians
• genealogists
• collectors of antique government documents
Condition is very good for its age with original fold lines and normal age toning.
A wonderful and authentic piece of Civil War era documentary history.