2020-07 2 sessions
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/23/2020
War-date Union Signal Corps officer's letter, 3pp. 8vo., written by Lt. Julius Marshall Swain (1836-1911), "Signal Station, Norfolk, Va., 13th Dec. 1863," to his friend, Frank, in part: "…Col. Myer, our comdg. officer, has been relieved and sent to Memphis, though he still retains his rank…Gen. Butler has laid a heavy hand on drinking shops and houses of ill fame, as well as, sutler & merchants…he means to make it a paying department whether or not from any entirely selfish motives I cant say. His order in regard to the darkies is refreshing and Chas. Sumner & Co. could not have been more flat footed. My boy has decided to join the Col'd. cavalry and though I shall miss him much…I can but wish him God speed. The sight of a few black Zouaves and cavalry who are…permitted to move round among the brethren has given a new impulse to enlistment's and the ni**ers are gathering, they is. When Spring opens…we shall be ready for the rebus and by another Fall no doubt Grant will get up to Richmond…address me: Genl. Getty's Head qrs., Norfolk, Va. Very truly, Julius." Near fine. On his arrival to assume command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina, in November, 1863, Butler supported the enlistment of runaway slaves and free blacken into the U. S. army. Overtime the nucleus of these regiments become the 25th Corps, Army of the James.
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