Raynors HCA 2018-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/21/2018
A "Contraband (Negro)" Spy-General Banks Orders: "Kick Him As Long As He Would Stay." Union General's letter written by Brevet Major General Thomas Howard Ruger (1833-1907), as lieutenant colonel, 3rd Wisconsin Vols., 4pp. 8vo., "Camp Pinkney, Sandy Hook, M. D., July 31st, 1861," to his wife, in part: "…things begin to look warlike…we have the position on the right…we have just been brigaded…regular pickets and outposts are established. One of our companies is at the ford opposite Harpers Ferry. Another on outpost a mile and a half…up the Potomac…I was called on for 3 companies to guard the wagon train and the ammunition…Col. Hamilton is absent on leave, gone to Washington…I find quite a number of army acquaintances here. I am cordially received everywhere…a Contraband (Negro) about twenty years old came into our pickets the other day and was brought into camp. I questioned him…he pretended that he was owned by a man here at Harpers Ferry and was carried off by Gen. Johnston when he occupied the place…said he was at Winchester and…at Manassas. I sent him…to Gen. Banks who sent him back with his thanks and directions to kick him as long as he would stay. The next day Capt. Simpson of the Corps of Topographical Engineers came over to examine him. He had evidently been with the rebel army…he described well several men that Simpson knew also Beauregard and a class mate of mine by the name of [JEB] Stuart who has command of the cavalry that was with Johnston…with much love, T. H. Ruger…". The original stamped transmittal cover, with manuscript "Sandy Hook, Md, Aug. 3" cancellation, addressed: "Mrs. T. H. Ruger, Janesville, Wisconsin," is included. Minor toning, else VG
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