Confederacy, Mesilla N.M./Nov. 23 (1861). Full clear strike of circular datestamp with manuscript "Due 10" on cover to "H.M. Alford Esq., Austin Cty, Texas" from Albert N. Alford with manuscript routing endorsement "Via San Antonio" at lower left, reverse with soldier's endorsement of "A.N. Alford, Co. A, T.M.R. (Texas Mounted Rifles), CSA", two small professionally mended tears at top & reduced at right, F.-V.F.; with 1965 P.F. certificate. Estimate  $7,500 - 10,000. A CHOICE EXAMPLE OF THE RARE "MESILLA N.M." DATESTAMP FROM THE CONFEDERATE OCCUPATION OF NEW MEXICO IN THE NEWLY-FORMED TERRITORY OF ARIZONAIn July 1861 Lt. Col. John Baylor raised the Confederate flag at Fort Bliss, later occupying Fort Fillmore and the town of Mesilla. On August 1st he issued a proclamation establishing the Confederate Territory of Arizona, naming Mesilla as its capital. In January 1862, the Confederate Congress passed a bill establishing the Territory of Arizona. President Davis signed the bill in January and issued his presidential proclamation shortly thereafter.Albert N[elson] Alford enlisted as a private in Company A, Texas Mounted Rifles, which was organized in May 1861, but reorganized in April 1862 as the 2nd Cavalry Regiment. The regiment was active in various conflicts in New Mexico Territory. In late 1861 and early 1862, it was actually known as the Army of New Mexico, but later well known as part of the Trans-Mississippi Department. According to specialists in Arizona and New Mexico postal history, there are fewer than ten examples known of the Mesilla, N.M. occupation marking. $0 (Image)