Raynors 2020-05 Putnal
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2020
A truly touching war-date Confederate letter written by the father of Confederate General John Caldwell Calhoun Sanders, Dr. Charles Peak Sanders (ca. 1812-1889), 2pp. folio., Richmond, [Va.], July 16, 1862, to Elizabeth C. Steele, wife of 1st Lt. Abner Newton Steele 11th Alabama who was killed during General Longstreet's assault upon the Union position at the battle of Glendale on June 30, 1862, reading, in part: "I have an opportunity at the moment and write you…in regard to the great misfortune which has befallen you. We feel for you and sympathize with you…your husband has fallen nobly…in a great cause. He could no more than vindicate it in the sacrifice of his heart's blood. His loss is severely felt by his associates in arms and notwithstanding our glorious repulse of our enemy, sadness & sorrow is seen in every countenance for the loss of those who are dear to them-endeaverous to become reconciled-yourself and dear children [and] are not without friends. Families afflicted as you are feel near to us if possible than before…in regard to the circumstances and death of the Col. [as he refers to her husband, Abner Newton Steele, KIA Glendale, Va., June 30, 1862] and the circumstances which preclude the transportation of his remains for the present…I have selected tomb stones and with suitable inscription will have them put up so as to mark the spot for any future visit [to his grave.] I could write you a great deal, but Mr. Patton is in the act of leaving and must defer until I complete my arrangements of his grave…as I before remarked he was decently buried in Oak[wood] Cemetery [Sec. C, Row I, Grave No. 13]; died at Mrs. Hopkins but will write you more. John [his son, Confederate General John Caldwell Calhoun Sanders] is recovering from his wound which was severe on his leg. Wm. was unhurt, Charley and Billy very slightly. I am much engaged with our wounded friends-many bad cases-of our own and Federals wounded more than two thousand have died since the battle. John's company [C, known as the "Confederate Guards"] lost in the two engagements 40 killed and wounded including 3 missing (14) killed. Our loss is very great and every horse holder will feel a thrill never before experienced…C. P. Sanders…". Near fine.
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