2023-08 Raynors HCA Live
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/26/2023
Union Naval 1page autograph letter signed by "W(illia)m L Howorth" who on 7/29/1861 he mustered into "D" Co. MA 13th Infantry, and on 4/29/1863 he was commissioned into US Navy. In October, Howorth joined Cushing's expedition up the Roanoke River to sink Confederate ram Albemarle. Both the ram and the launch carrying the Federal sailors were destroyed and while Cushing and one other man escaped, Howorth and others were captured. In his report Cushing noted: "Acting Master's Mate William L. Howorth, of the Monticello, showed, as usual, conspicuous bravery. He is the same officer who has been with me twice in Wilmington harbor. I trust he may be promoted, when exchanged . . . .".In February 1865, Howorth was exchanged and promoted acting master. Honorably discharged in October, he reentered the Navy in 1866 and was appointed ensign 12 March 1868. He resigned 4 April 1869. Howorth's letter is datelined US Str Conemaugh, May 1865, 1pp, to Lt. Cmdr J.C. P. DeKrafft. In part, "This button was on my coat at the destruction of the Albermarle and remained on my coat until cut off this day while at Danville Rebel Military Prison ... I concealed a letter in the button and was searched several times, three times at Libby Prison by the notorious Dick Turner .. and the last time on the day of my parole and departure for the Union lines 22nd February/65. The letter I immediately delivered ..."
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