Lot 343
Stuart, James Ewell Brown "Jeb". Autograph letter signed ("J.E.B Stuart") as Major General Commanding, 2 pages, 10 x 7¾ in., "Hd. Qrd. Cavalry Division Army of Nor. Va.," April 16, 1863. To Hon. M.R.H. Garnet in the C.S. House of Representatives and hand delivered by General Robert E. Lee's oldest son, Gen. W.H.F. "Rooney" Lee. Stuart gives the Confederate Congress his ideas on improving the Cavalry service:
"I understand from Brig. General W.H.F. Lee that you have signified a desire to aid in any legislation needed for the Cavalry service - if we would state succintly what is wanted. Availing myself of your kind offer I submit the following through his kindness for your consideration. An Act providing for remuneration for Cavalry horses permanently disabled by wounds or rendered permanently unserviceable by accident received when the owner is in the immediate execution of an order - or unavoidably captured by the enemy. The extension of the law, authorizing military courts, to each Army Corps or Department, so as to include a Division of Cavalry attached to a grand army - absolutely necessary to ensure speedy trial and justice, and preserve discipline. (see copy of urgent letter on this subject to Gen. R.E. Lee, April 9th, 1863). A Veterinary Surgeon to each Brigade of Cavalry, to be selected and appointed after thorough examination into his qualifications, with the rank of Major. The amount of saving in horse flesh to the Confederacy by a competent Veterinary Surgeon to each Brigade would be incredible. I assure you that no greater service could be rendered the cavalry of the Provisional Army than the passage of such laws as embrace the foregoing…."
Stuart likely drafted this letter, reread it a time or two for corrections, then signed in slightly darker ink. This is possibly the only known J.E.B. Stuart field letter addressed to the Confederate Congress in private hands. It was purchased from the descendants of a Union soldier who had captured it during the Fall of Richmond in 1865. Text is light but legible; minor edge splits.
Estimated Value $16,000 - 20,000.
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| Realized $7,200 |
