Real press photograph of the first letter hand written by Winston Churchill while in captivity by the Boers on 18 November 1899 to the Secretary of State for War of the South African Republic, protesting his capture and requesting his release ( " I have the honour to request that I may be set at liberty") on the basis that he is a special correspondent for a newspaper ( and not a soldier ) and because he was captured unarmed.

About this Item

15 cm x 19 cm. Near fine glossy legible condition with brown tape stain remains showing previous affixing of press description, not affecting text. The back has a label and stamp of the photographer indicating use in publications, probably newspapers. The letter is easily read and neatly written. Churchill compliments the burghers and officers of the Republic : " I have been treated with much consideration and kindness". Seller Inventory # 80391

By the way the chances of the original being locatable in the Archives ( or elsewehere ) is now close to nil. 

Photographer: Pretoria, Ensor and Palmer Photographers