(California) Joseph B. HULL (1803-1890) career naval officer who entered the U.S. Navy as a midshipman in 1813, with consequent promotions to lieutenant in 1825, Commander in 1841, Captain in 1855, and Commodore in 1862, shortly after his retirement.

Autograph Note Signed “JB Hull“, 1 page, 248 x 200 mm. (9 3/4 x 7 7/8 in.), San Francisco, 1 February 1847, to Pass[ed] Mid[dhipman] John C. Febiger (d. 1898), in full: “You will be relieved by Pass Mid M Lanahan at the Block House, of his post, and you are at liberty at your request to rejoin the U.S. Ship ‘Dale’ now at the Port of Monterey.”

In 1847, Hull was the highest ranking naval officer in San Francisco, and as such he helped to organize the first rescue attempt of the Donner party on 17 February 1847, just 16 days after he issued this order.

The recipient, John C. Febiger, entered the Navy as a Midshipman, 4 September, 1838 and subsequently a passed midshipman, 1844; master, 1852; lieutenant 1853; commander, 1862; captain, 1868; commodore, 1874; and finally Rear Admiral, 1882—which was also the year of his retirement.

Light toning, slight soiling, usual folds, light ink smean to the “S” in “San Francisco“, overall fine condition.

(EXA 5717) $450