"To all who shall see these presents greeting: Know ye That reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity, and abilities of Alfred Wynkoop, I have nominated, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate do appoint him Surgeon of Volunteers, in the service of the United States: to rank as such from the eleventh day of September eighteen hundred and sixty two. He is therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of Surgeon, by doing and performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. And I do strictly charge, and require all Officers and Soldiers under his command to be obedient to his orders as Surgeon. And he is to observe and follow such orders, and directions from time to time, as he shall receive from me, or the future President of the United States of America, or the General, or other superior Officers set over him, according to the rules and discipline of War. This Commission to continue in force during the pleasure of the President of the United States for the time being. Given under my hand, at the City of Washington, this twenty seventh day of February in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and sixty three, and in the eighty seventh year of the Independence of the United States.

(signed) Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War,

Abraham Lincoln.

Source:

Michael S. Hollander, MSHOLLBKS@aol.com.

    I'd like to offer a special thanks to Michael S. Hollander, MSHOLLBKS@aol.com, who had this item up for sale on Ebay in July of 2000 and very kindly provided me with the scan of Alfred Wynkoop's Certificate as well as the transcription of Alfred's appointment which you've just read above. Michael, thank you so much for your help. I'm extremely grateful.

    Chris