Partly printed document completed in manuscript. Secretarial signature of Martin Van Buren. Washington, D.C., 27 February 1841. 1 page, 16 1/8 x 10 1/8 in., with original wafer seal. 

A land grant for William Eckford (1802-1852) of Lowndes County, Mississippi. The grant came in a period of massive settlement and expansion of plantations on land bought by the Federal government from the native Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes. 

Originally from Virginia, Eckford moved to the Deep South and was evidently a successful planter. In 1850, Eckford enslaved over 45 individuals in Lowndes County, but also owned other property in Mississippi and Alabama. 

His son, also named William Eckford, served as Captain of Company B in the 13th Mississippi Infantry, enlisting at the very outbreak of war on 1 April 1861. They were immediately sent to the front and took part in the First Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) in the brigade of General Jubal A. Early. After winter camp in Virginia, they fought during the Seven Days Battle. Eckford was killed in action at the Battle of Malvern Hill on 1 July 1862. 

Early Mississippi land grants are uncommon. 

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