A young Chicago clerk, Elmer Ephraim Ellsworth organized a company of Zouaves for the Union Army at the beginning of the Civil War. Zouaves were troops known for their exotic Algerian-inspired costumes and flamboyant drill. They performed at the White House in 1860. In May 1861 this New York Zouave regiment helped to take Alexandria, Virginia. It was here Ellsworth was killed in a dispute over the removal of the Confederate flag. Ellsworth was a friend and election aide of Abraham Lincoln. He is considered the first prominent Union casualty of the Civil War. Elmer was 'like a son' to President Lincoln who was so greatly upset at the death of the young man that an elaborate funeral was held for Elmer Ephraim Ellsworth in the White House. Signature "E.E. Ellsworth" on 1 x 4" sheet, n.p., n.d. Ellsworth's signature is extremely rare. Excellent. (#MIL)