John Stark Letter Signed (1781), Requesting a Sleigh for the Imminent New York Winter New Hampshire native and military officer (1728-1822) known for coining the phrase that became the state motto, 'Live Free or Die.' He served as a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, participating in the Battles of Bunker Hill, Trenton, Princeton, and Bennington, becoming widely known as the 'Hero of Bennington' for his exemplary service in the latter. Revolutionary War-dated LS signed “John Stark, BG,” one page, 6.75 x 8.25, November 30, 1781. Addressed from Saratoga, New York, a letter to Major Nicholas Quackenbush, Assistant Deputy Quartermaster to the Continental forces in Albany, in full: “The snow has put me in mind of the sleigh you promised me last summer. I should be glad to have it sent as soon as possible to this place. You will likewise find a return of the Quarter master Stores in your possession.” Affixed by its left edge to a slightly larger backing sheet and in very good to fine condition, with staining to the upper left, and show-through along the left edge from a mounting strip on the back. Accompanied by an engraved portrait of Stark bearing a preprinted signature.