Butler, Walter (1752-81) Loyalist who became a captain in Butler's Rangers, formed by his father, John. He was probably the most hated Loyalist in America, not least because he commanded the Loyalist raiding party that attacked Cherry Valley on November 11, 1778, and butchered many women and children. He was captured in 1777 by Continental Army troops commanded by Lt. Col. Marinus Willett, but escaped after a few months. Ironically, it was Lt. Col. Willett, who, on October 30, 1781, came across Butler again while pursuing Major John Ross' forces after the Battle of Johnstown. Butler was shot and scalped by one of Willett's Indian allies. The news of his death caused great rejoicing in New York's Mohawk Valley.
Autograph Document Signed twice, once in the text and once at the end, as attorney for the defendant in a case before the County of Tryon Inferior Court of Common Pleas, 8½ x 7½ inches, n.p., n.d. Butler had studied law and practiced in Albany, New York, before the start of the American Revolution.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 1,250,
Joe Rubinfine, 1983,
Colonial and Revolutionary America
