Lot 359
Webb, Alexander S (1835-1911) Union general. Twenty Autograph Letters Signed ("Andy Webb," "Alex. S. Webb," and "Webb"), to the Hero of Little Round Top, Joshua Chamberlain (1828-1914), 38pp total, 8vo, some on New York: Monuments Commission for the Battlefields of Gettysburg and Chattanooga stationery.
Webb, who commanded the "Philadelphia Brigade" at Gettysburg, covers many subjects with his "Dear Old Chum," including Medal of Honor scandals (medals given to undeserving soldiers because of political connections or bribes), pension bills, his own historical studies, and revising his 1881 book, The Peninsula: McClellan's Campaign of 1862 ("How much of Porter's misfortune [at Second Manassas] can I leave out?") Webb shows his concern for Chamberlain's health: "I am sorry to know that old wounds trouble a glorious old soldier" (1904); "But you are a man in every sense of the word, a Manly Man; and you will bear it all as Chamberlain can bear it" (1905). Webb offers to help enact a soldier's retirement bill in Congress and is bitterly angry when his efforts are thwarted. He tells Chamberlain, "You deserve a peaceful and a restful continuation of a well spent life. Scholar & patriot, wounded soldier famed for gallant actions….You should be recognized by the Representatives of the people….there is a certain bitterness on the part of regimental field officers in Congress…due to the fact that but few of them were over anxious to expose themselve to bullets when they were planning elections and these men vote solidly against your recognition. Your offence was that you became greater than they…." A moving correspondence from one Gettysburg Medal of Honor winner to another.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,500.
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