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Offered here is a scarce autograph letter signed by J. Beaden Kirby, grandson of Major General Jacob Brown (1775–1828), the famed U.S. Army commander of the War of 1812, and son of Colonel Edmund Kirby (1794–1849).
Dated Feb. 5, 1860, Brownville, N.Y., this letter is addressed to Benson J. Lossing (1813–1891), the noted American historian and author of The Pictorial Field Book of the War of 1812.
In the letter, Kirby responds to one of Lossing’s circulars announcing his forthcoming book and politely offers assistance:
> “…I am glad to see by it that there is a prospect that the ‘Field Book of the War of 1812’ will be issued. If there is anything I can do to further your plan, please advise me… I have looked over your queries & unless specially directed to some point, cannot assist you.”
Kirby goes on to say that if Lossing needs details within the scope of his knowledge or resources, he will be happy to help. This letter was likely written in response to a request from Lossing for memorabilia, letters, or other materials belonging to Kirby’s late father, Col. Edmund Kirby, who died in Brownville in 1849.
Adding to its significance, the third page bears Lossing’s own marginal notes, identifying Kirby’s lineage and recording that the writer died only a few months after penning this letter. At the bottom margin, in pencil, appears “Handwriting of B. J. Lossing”, further strengthening provenance.
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Historical Significance:
J. Beaden Kirby (d. 1860) – grandson of Maj. Gen. Jacob Brown, one of the United States’ most important War of 1812 commanders. Kirby himself died young, making his letters scarce.
Col. Edmund Kirby – career officer in the Quartermaster’s Department, died in Brownville, N.Y. in 1849.
Benson J. Lossing – historian, engraver, and author, whose Field Books remain foundational works on the American Revolution and War of 1812. His personal notes in this letter connect it directly to his research process.
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Condition:
Well-preserved 3-page letter on lined paper, with strong, legible handwriting. Ink remains bold. Lossing’s marginal notes and pencil annotations present.
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Value:
Letters from direct descendants of War of 1812 generals are uncommon, and examples connected directly to Lossing’s research are especially desirable. This piece combines authorship, content, and provenance, making it a fine acquisition for collectors of War of 1812 material, Benson J. Lossing manuscripts, or Brown/Kirby family history.
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First time offered publicly in over 70 years.
