HOLOGRAPH OATH OF ALLEGIANCE | ELLSWORTH GUARD ZOUAVES, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
[San Francisco]: [1863]. Folio, 1 page (w. 8 in. x h. 32.75 in.). In Very Good condition. Handwritten oath of allegiance, in ink, on single page consisting of three ruled sheets of paper pasted together. Some light uneven age toning overall, with minor discoloration to page caused by use of adhesive in assembling the document. Moderate creasing to second and third sheets. Some light wear to right edge of second sheet and roughly one-inch square chip to right edge of third sheet (not impacting text or signatures). Verso blank, except for small, faint pencil notation from previous seller. Signed by sixty-nine signatories. Undated, but likely dating to approximately 1863. The oath reads: "We the undersigned Members of the "Ellsworth Guard Zouaves", Do most solemnly swear before Almighty God that we recognize no other government over us than that of the government of the "United States" of America now held at Washington in the District of Columbia. And, recognizing such a form of government we do most solemnly swear that we will defend its flag from treachery and Rebellion that is now existing in our midst. That when our country calls us we will be willing to give our aid and support for the suppression of the Rebellion, and rally around that banner that has been our guide and protection. So Help me God! [69 signatories]" LA Consignment. Shelved in Room F. More