June 2023 Story Musgrave Auction Ends Thursday, June 29th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/29/2023
General William T. Sherman autograph letter signed, penned 21 July 1876 to West Point professor Robert W. Weir, who taught drawing to both Sherman and Ulysses S. Grant during their schooling at West Point. On U.S. Army stationery, Sherman informs Weir of his retirement and pension, bestowing effusive praise on the beloved professor. Letter reads in small part, ''I hardly know whether I ought to congratulate you or to sympathise with you, in being compelled to convey the information that the President has sent instruction to place your name on the Retired List...and to appoint to the place you have so long and honorably filled...your present assistant. / I have made the necessary inquiries and find that you will retire as a Colonel with an annual salary of $3375...As you thus pass into an honorable leisure I assure you that you carry with you the love and veneration of your old pupils, all of whom will remember the many acts that endeared you to them...how you inspired a love for nature, and nations beauty: how patiently you bore with those who could hardly distinguish a hay-stack from the distant hill, and especially that gracious manner...I saw the President [Ulysses S. Grant]...and he authorises me to convey to you the assurances of his love and profound respect...in the old Drawing Academy...I suppose you will return your residence at West Point. / With great respect / your Friend / W. T. Sherman / General.'' Four page letter on bifolium stationery measures 8'' x 9.875''. Separation along folds, else very good plus condition.
General William T. Sherman Autograph Letter Signed -- Sherman Writes a Glowing Letter to West Point Drawing Professor & Artist Robert W. Weir
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