Lot 530
Two Confederate Wartime Letters. Lot of two letters, one from Johnson's Island Prison, the other written by Walter (Bowie?) of Mosby's Rangers.
The first letter, written by Henry H. Lumpkin to "My Dear Cousin". February 5, 1865 from Johnson's Island. Written on lined paper, mailing folds, minor edge separation, minor foxing. Obviously responding to an offer of help, Lumpkin writes "Your kind letter…was received yesterday, I can not take advantage of your generous offer just now, as I am in no great need…"I have been unwell for some days and shall endeavor to get a permit from the Surgeon to send to you for a box of provisions…". The second letter, three pages written while the soldier was "Home", September 29, 1864. To Mrs. Waddie Duckett. Mailing folds with some fold separation. Evidence of a personal conflict flows through this letter: "…certain things have been said about me -- And no chance even given to prove them false, I sought the opportunity and was constantly refused…I have never in the slightest degree acted in such a manner….I wish you would say to Alice that what she heard was false…" but the soldier's life remains unforgotten "..I am constantly in the field…Col Mosby has given me command of a company…I have faced death often lately and expect sooner or later to meet that fate…" An interesting letter with layers. We believe the writer may be Walter Bowie -- the last name is somewhat indistinguishable (not helped by the fold and split across the center) but definitely begins with a "B" and a Lt. Walter Bowie was in a newly formed company of Mosby's rangers (the unit was activated mid-September 1844). Walter Bowie was Mosby's premier scout in Maryland, and often visited his family while in the field. Killed in October 1864 while on a raid. The Bowies of Prince George's County had close family and social ties with the Ducketts, adding to the circumstantial evidence that this may indeed be a letter from Mosby's fallen scout -- a letter written mere days before his death.
Estimated Value $150 - 200.
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| Realized $150 |
