Subject: Military engineering

Autograph letter signed by Captain Alfred Mordecai, dated February 18, 1846, from the Washington Arsenal, to William Kemble, President of the West Point Foundry Association. The letter discusses the successful operation of a steam engine furnished by the Foundry Association and details the final payment, including deductions for completing the engine. A second page itemizes the costs of materials and labor involved in completing the engine.

Letter written by Captain Alfred Mordecai to Lt. Marsena R. Patrick on October 29, 1841, from the Washington Arsenal in Washington, D.C. The letter advises Patrick that his papers have been forwarded for audit. The letter is significant for its strong signature of Captain Mordecai.

A one-page letter dated October 8, 1858, written and signed by Morgan L. Smith (1822-1874), a Civil War brigadier general, to Major Alfred Mordecai at the Watertown Arsenal. The letter details armament for the fortifications at Fort Schuyler. Major Alfred Mordecai (1804-1887) was a distinguished military officer who served at West Point, oversaw fort construction, commanded the Washington Arsenal, and made significant contributions to military technology. He served in the Mexican War, observed the Crimean War, and authored important works on military ordinance. He notably retired from the U.S. Army in 1861 to avoid fighting in the Civil War.