Farmer, George E., fl. 1865 to Mr. Farmer
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00808.01 Author/Creator: Farmer, George E., fl. 1865 Place Written: Nottoway, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: April 14, 1865 Pagination: 3 p. ; 20 x 13 cm Order a Copy
Writes to his father that he is in excellent spirits after being present at Confederate General Robert E. Lee's surrender. Discusses the Appomattox Campaign and indicates that he participated in the fighting near Dinwiddie Courthouse and was with the dismounted cavalry at Five Forks. Explains that though the fighting was fierce, the soldiers knew it was the end of the war and that the Confederates could be beaten. He was also present at the battle on Brown's Road and was with the advance the day Confederate General Richard S. Ewell was captured. Describes the events of the morning of 9 April 1865, the day Lee surrendered. Reports that though the remainder of Lee's army was completely surrounded, Lee attempted a desperate attack but was thwarted by Union General George A. Custer's cavalry along with General Philip H. Sheridan. Mentions that this would have been the last great charge of the war if it had not been held back by the white surrender flag. The two armies lay in sight of each other without firing for the day. Notes that they are now in camp on the Southside Railroad about 40 miles from Petersburg. Gives love to all. Written on U.S. Sanitary Commission stationary.
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