Lot 646: Sgt. Alvin York Signed Check and Related Ephemera

Sgt. Alvin C. York (Tennessee, 1887-1964) signed check from the Jamestown, Tennessee Union Bank, written to the Jamestown Motor Co. for $2.97. Framed under glass with a photographic print of York and the autograph of York's son, Andrew, who authenticated his father's signature on this check in 2004. This lot also includes two copies of the 1922 book SERGEANT YORK AND HIS PEOPLE by Sam K. Cowan, one of which is autographed by his grandson, Jimmy York. Framed: 13 1/2" H x 11 1/2"W. Biography: Alvin Cullum York (1887-1964) was one of the most decorated soldiers of the First World War. A recipient of the Medal of Honor and the French Legion of Honour, York is considered one of the greatest of Tennessee's native sons. In October of 1918, he famously led an attack on a German machine gun nest, commandeering 35 machine guns, killing at least 25 enemy soldiers, and capturing 132 more. After the United States became involved in the war in 1917, Alvin York received his induction orders from the U. S. Government. He was twenty-nine years old and had never been more than a few miles away from home. He visited the general store of Parson Pile in order to send his military draft registration. York had reservations about serving in the war based on his religious convictions, but upon later reflection he determined it was his duty to fight in a war against the evils of the world. After basic training, Private Alvin York served at Camp Gordon, Georgia, in Company G, 328th Infantry Regiment, 82nd U.S. Army Infantry Division. Cpl. York and his company were sent to the battle lines in Western Europe. During an attack on his battalion along the Decauville rail line north of Chatel-Chehery, in the Argonne Forest of France on October 8, 1918, Sergeant Bernard Early, four non-commissioned officers and thirteen privates, including York, were ordered to penetrate behind the German lines and take out the nest of machine guns. The group was largely successful in their endeavor, capturing many Germans who were preparing a counter-attack against Americans. However, machine gun fire broke out on a ridge. Many in the unit were killed or injured. The losses put Cpl. York in charge, and he and seven infantrymen worked their way into position to take out the German guns. York and his men encountered several Germans and attacked their positions, killing many and capturing others. After failing to kill York, a German Major surrendered to him, and commanded his men to do likewise.(source:http://teva.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/landingpage/collection/p15138coll10).

PROVENANCE: Collection of John Cooper.

CONDITION: 1/2" loss to left edge of check, not affecting signature. Other framed items are in good condition. Books are in poor condition.