Bidspirit auction | Hatch, H. F. Autograph Letter

Hatch, H. F. Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) on Michigan State Prison Letterhead. Jackson, MI, 1889. (Signed) - This autograph letter signed (ALS) is authored by H. F. Hatch in his capacity as Warden of the Michigan State Prison. The document, dated March 14, 1889, is written on official prison stationery. The letterhead features a printed Seal of the State of Michigan in the upper left corner and a detailed directory of prison officials, including Warden Hatch, Deputy Warden O. C. Tompkins, Clerk D. D. Spaulding, Chaplain Rev. Geo. H. Hickox, and Physician N. H. Williams. The Board of Inspectors listed includes Dwight S. Smith, William Chamberlain, and William A. Woodard. The letter is addressed to Joseph McCall, Recorder, in response to a petition from Louis Goecker. The content serves as a character recommendation, utilizing fraternal terminology such as Brother, Council, and Brother Knight (Br. K.). Hatch describes Goecker as a thorough Gentleman and notes he is well drilled and able to perform nearly all the duties of the place, concluding with the statement that there is not a spot on him. The document is composed on a single leaf of vertically-lined paper with dark ink handwriting and a manuscript signature by Hatch at the conclusion. Width: 8.5 inches Height: 11 inches. The paper exhibits overall age-toning and yellowing consistent with age. There is a persistent six-way fold pattern from original mailing. Minor edge wear and small nicks are visible along the margins. The reverse of the leaf shows significant ink ghosting. The printed graphics and manuscript text remain clear and highly legible with minimal fading to the ink.