Lot
782 
Fort Buchanan N.M., Feb 28, yellow cover originating in Mexico with red boxed "Franco* / en Alamos" two-line postmark and matching red "3" reales rate handstamp on reverse, entered U.S. mails with 3¢ dull red (26), tied by clear strike of "Fort Buchanan, N.M. Feb 28" Type 1 cds to Sacramento, Alta California and carried by the Butterfield stage; 3¢ light pre-use crease, couple mended opening tears at top, Very Fine and rare use, ex-Risvold. Estimate $7,500 - 10,000.
ONE OF ONLY TWO RECORDED COVERS ORIGINATING IN MEXICO WITH THE "FRANCO EN ALAMOS" HANDSTAMP TYING STAMP.
This fort was located near the Sonoita River about 40 miles south-southwest of Tucson in what was then the Territory of New Mexico, before the establishment of the Arizona Territory in 1863.
The first detachment of U. S. First Dragoons under Col. J. V. F. Blake arrived at the site on Nov. 17, 1856, and began the construction of the fort, first calling it Camp Moore. The fort developed rapidly and on May 29, 1859 the name was changed to Fort Buchanan. It was a rough and crude establishment in the early days, but played an important part during the Indian wars against the Apaches and other tribes scattered through the area. The Post Office was established on June 5, 1857 and discontinued Oct. 21, 1863.
During the early days of the Civil War the fort was burned on July 21, 1861 to keep it from falling into the hands of Confederate troops who were coming from Texas into the southern area of New Mexico during the Civil War.
Realized: $6,000