June 2017 Auction Ends Thursday, June 22nd, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/22/2017
Robert E. Lee signed general order no. 9, where he eloquently bids farewell to his Army of Northern Virginia. This is one of the few copies actually signed by Lee at Appomattox on 10 April 1865, as indicated by the addition of ''Genl'' to his name (which he left off on souvenir copies signed after the war), as well as by the clerical handwriting, blue lined paper stock used for some copies that day, and the deletion of the words ''and resources'', left off of some copies that day. On 10 April 1865, the day after meeting with General Grant to discuss surrender terms to end the Civil War, Lee drafted this order to be read to his troops, with copies made for corps commanders and other members of the army staff, all signed ''R.E. Lee / Genl''.
Document reads in full, ''Head Qtr Army N Va, / April 10th 1865 / General Order No 9 [flourish] / After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers [and resources]. I need not tell the survivors of so many hard fought battles who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have consented to this result from no distrust of them. But feeling that valor and devotion could accomplish nothing that would compensate the loss that must have attended the continuance of the contest, I determined to avoid the useless sacrifices of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement Officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you His blessing and protection. With unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous consideration of myself, I bid you all an affectionate farewell. [signed] R.E. Lee / Genl''.
Single page measures 7.75'' x 9.875''. Uniform toning, more browned at edges, but overall in very good plus condition. An exceptionally rare surviving signed copy of Lee's farewell address from Appomattox. With a COA from University Archives.
Robert E. Lee Signed General Order No. 9, Bidding Farewell to His Army -- Signed With His Rank of ''Genl'', Indicating an Appomattox Copy
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