Farmer, George E., fl. 1865 to Maggie
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00808.03 Author/Creator: Farmer, George E., fl. 1865 Place Written: Petersburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: May 4, 1865 Pagination: 3 p. ; 20 x 13 cm. Order a Copy
Writes that Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston did not surrender as soon as anticipated. Remarks that Union General Philip H. Sheridan's "destroying Angels took the war path again." States that his regiment marched along the Boydton Road and reached the Nottoway River the same night. By Friday, they were 100 miles from Petersburg on the south side of the Staunton River when they heard of Johnston's surrender, halted for the night, and continued on to Petersburg the next day. Comments upon the condition of the city of Petersburg. Laments the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and says the army is in mourning. Remarks that Union General William T. Sherman has made a mistake in leaving the military field and trying to become a statesman, and says, "As to his being crazy if that is so the mad house and not West Point is the proper place to recruit Generals." Indicates that they are waiting to hear whether they will be discharged or retained. Mentions that father is not well. Maggie is possibly his sister.
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