ALEXANDER GARDNER

ALEXANDER GARDNER
(1821 - 1882) American photographer employed by Mathew Brady to undertake studio work, and later produced what are considered to be the finest, most striking Civil War battlefield views of the period, bringing the horror of the war home to the North. Gardner later would become the official photographer for the Union Pacific Railroad. Very rare manuscript partly-printed D.S. 'Alex Gardner', 1p. oblong narrow 8vo., Washington, Feb. 27, 1880, a bank check drawn on the account of The Masonic Mutual relief Association account at Riggs & Co., making a $7.75 payment to J. J. Chapman. Signed by Gardner as Secretary, and by John E. Herrell as President. Cut cancel with no paper loss and not affecting signature, else very fine. Gardner was a lifelong Mason, and a Master Mason since 1854. In 1866 he and seven brother Mason organized this charity to benefit widows and orphans of deceased Master Masons. Gardner is very rare in any form!