August 2019 Auction Ends Thursday, August 29th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/29/2019
Robert E. Lee signed partial general order no. 9, where he eloquently bids farewell to his Army of Northern Virginia. This is likely a period copy, though Lee unusually adds ''Genl'' after his signature, typically found on copies signed at Appomattox and not on souvenir copies signed after the war. 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''. Partial document is the second half of the order, reading in full, ''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 an 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''. Signature at lower left appears to read ''Hite'', the surname of a prominent Virginia family, and in the same penmanship as the body of the order. Single page measures 7.75'' x 4.875''. Professional restoration to folds, chip at upper left and heavy fading, though less so to signature. Overall good condition, accompanied by plaque of the order for framing. A rare surviving signed copy of Lee's farewell address from Appomattox.
Robert E. Lee Signed Partial General Order No. 9, Bidding Farewell to His Army -- Lee Signs With His Rank of ''Genl''
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