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Halleck, H. W. (Henry Wager) (1815-1872) to George B. McClellan

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02655 Author/Creator: Halleck, H. W. (Henry Wager) (1815-1872) Place Written: St. Louis, Missouri Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 March 1862 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 22 x 13 cm. Order a Copy

Celebrates Union victory at the Battle of Pea Ridge, a major battle in the Trans-Mississippi. Relates that "The Army of the Southwest, under Genl Curtis, after three days hard fighting near Sugar Creek, Ark, has gained a most glorious victory over the combined forces of Van Dorn, McCulloch, Price & McIntosh." The Union army managed to repulse the attack, despite having been surprised by the Confederates. The Confederates are forced to leave Arkansas. McCulloch and McCintosh were killed during the battle. Claims that "Our loss in killed & wounded estimated at one thousand; that of the enemy still larger. Guns, flags, provisions, &c captured in large quantities. Our cavalry in pursuit of the flying enemy." In fact the Union lost over 1,384 men, while the Confederates lost only around 800. However, the Union held the position, which was the main objective. Written in pencil upon stationery of the Department of the Missouri. Signed as Major General.

St Louis March 10th 1862
Major Genl McClellan
Washington
The Army of the Southwest under Genl Curtis, after three days hard fighting near Sugar Creek, Ark, has gained a most glorious victory over the combined forces of Van Dorn, McCulloch, Price & McIntosh. Our loss in killed & wounded estimated at one thousand; that of the enemy still larger. Guns, flags, provisions, &c captured in large quantities. Our cavalry in pursuit of the flying enemy.
H. W. Halleck
Major Genl

Halleck, Henry Wager, 1815-1872
McClellan, George B., 1826-1885

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