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1899 Richmond Pearson Hobson Signed Letter from Hong Kong – Medal of Honor Recipient, U.S. Navy, Spanish-American War
Item Description:
This is an original, hand-signed letter dated March 7, 1899, from Richmond Pearson Hobson (1870–1937), a U.S. Navy officer, Spanish-American War hero, and later U.S. Congressman, written from Hong Kong. Addressed to B.F. Brown of Augusta, Georgia, the letter provides insight into Hobson\'s naval duties during America\'s rising influence in the Pacific following the Spanish-American War (1898).
Letter Transcription:
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Hong Kong, March 7, 1899
B.F. Brown, Esq.,
Augusta, Ga.
My dear Sir:—
It only gives me pleasure to comply with your request contained in your letter of Dec. 20th, the long delay in acknowledgment being due to the circumstances of duty and constant movement.
Assuring you of my full appreciation of your kind words, I am,
Sincerely yours,
Richmond Pearson Hobson
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Historical Significance:
Richmond Pearson Hobson (1870–1937): A Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic but unsuccessful attempt to block Santiago Harbor by sinking the USS Merrimac during the Spanish-American War. After resigning from the U.S. Navy in 1903, he became a U.S. Congressman (1907–1915) and was a prominent leader in the prohibition movement. He played a key role in shaping U.S. naval policy and expansion in the Pacific.
B.F. Brown (Confederate Veteran, Augusta, GA):
Brown was a sergeant in Company L, 1st South Carolina Volunteers (CSA) during the American Civil War (1861–1865).
He was active in Confederate veteran organizations, particularly Camp 435 of the Confederate Survivors Association in Augusta, Georgia.
His newspaper clippings and business card suggest he remained deeply involved in Southern heritage and veterans\' affairs.
Why Was Hobson in Hong Kong?
The letter’s origin from Hong Kong suggests Hobson was involved in post-war naval operations, likely tied to:
1. The U.S. occupation of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War (1898).
2. Naval repairs, shipbuilding, and diplomacy in a British-controlled port.
3. The U.S. Navy’s increasing presence in the Pacific and China trade routes.
Condition:
Original letter on period paper/light cardboard, folded, with some wear but legible handwriting.
Signed by Richmond Pearson Hobson in black ink.
Accompanied by clippings from The Augusta Chronicle (May 8, 1899) referencing B.F. Brown and his Confederate veteran activities.
Why Collect This?
Rare, first-hand naval history artifact from a Medal of Honor recipient.
Direct connection to Spanish-American War and U.S. imperial expansion.
Confederate veteran correspondence, offering insight into post-Civil War reconciliation and social networks.
Shipping & Handling:
Securely packaged, acid-free archival sleeve included.
Free U.S. shipping via USPS Priority Mail.
International shipping available.
A must-have for collectors of U.S. Navy memorabilia, Spanish-American War history, and Confederate veteran artifacts!
