1886 John D. Long Signed Postal Card – Sec. of Navy, Spanish–American War For Sale

Offered here is an original 1886 United States 1¢ Jefferson brown postal card, hand-signed by John D. Long (1838–1915), U.S. Congressman, Governor of Massachusetts, and later Secretary of the Navy under President William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. Long is historically important for overseeing naval expansion during the Spanish–American War, working alongside Assistant Secretary Theodore Roosevelt, who would famously resign to form the Rough Riders.

This postal acknowledgment card, dated Sept. 13, 1886, is addressed to D. C. Pavey Esq., Pittsfield, Massachusetts. The pre-printed reply acknowledges receipt of correspondence and is signed at the bottom by John D. Long in ink.

Details:

Authentic 1886 U.S. Postal Card with Jefferson vignette

Bold ink signature of John D. Long

Clear Hingham, Mass. circular date cancel

Measures approx. 3\" x 5.5\"

Fine condition with light toning, small corner/edge wear

Historical Note:

John D. Long served as Governor of Massachusetts (1880–83), a U.S. Congressman (1883–89), and most notably as Secretary of the Navy (1897–1902). His tenure modernized the U.S. fleet and prepared America for its emergence as a world naval power. Authentic signatures from his early Congressional period are scarce.

A fine addition to any autograph, naval, or political history collection.