Lot 14
  • 14

Ross, Major-General Robert--Baxter, Alexander

Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
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Description

  • Autograph manuscript "Account of the death of General Ross Killed in the Action near Baltimore on the 12th September 1814"
  • ink on paper
describing how Ross "who was always at the head of the Column, with the advanced light troops, received at [sic] Mortall wound by a musket Ball", with precise details of the wound and Ross's symptoms and death ("...with much fervour, again mentioned his Wife and family, and where to direct to her ... he became speechless, and after two or 3 convulsive respirations, and at long intervals he expired..."), 2 pages, folio, Chesapeake, 17 September 1814; with his autograph draft memorial to Sir James McGregor, Director General of Hospitals, petitioning for promotion on the grounds of his military service, 2 pages, folio, London, 25 July 1815, integral blank; with a contemporary print, account of Ross's death with tape on left edge, both items with nicks at edges

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

A FIRST HAND ACCOUNT OF THE DEATH OF THE MAN WHO BURNED WASHINGTON BY THE SURGEON WHO TENDED HIS WOUNDS. Ross commanded the British expeditionary force that invaded the US in retaliation to attacks on Canada. After defeating an American force at the Battle of Bladensburg on 24 August 1814, Ross occupied Washington, DC, where he ordered the burning of public buildings, before turning to attack Baltimore. Ross was killed by snipers in skirmishes that presaged the Battle of Point and the subsequent British defeat at Baltimore.