Cowan, Andrew (fl. 1861-1887) to Henry Jackson Hunt
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02382.105 Author/Creator: Cowan, Andrew (fl. 1861-1887) Place Written: Louisville, Kentucky Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 26 October 1885 Pagination: 6 p. ; 24.2 x 15.2 cm. Order a Copy
Thanks Hunt for a recent favor. Recalls details of the Battle of Gettysburg for Hunt, who is writing an article on the topic. Speculates as to why General Alexander S. Webb left the 1st New York Light Artillery out of his report on the Battle of Gettysburg. Relates that after the battle, Webb "shook hands with me, regretted that he could not retain such a 'splendid Battery always' and said he would give us full credit for the splendid work we had done." Discusses Wheeler's Battery, which participated in the Battle of Gettysburg. Mentions a drawing of Gettysburg by John B. Bachelder, and notes that Bachelder asked him questions regarding his battery's position during the battle. Discusses the battle in detail. Remarks "Like yourself I am over whelmed with work and it is a torment to think of doing this writing yet it must be done in justice to my men... I dont care a rap personally but many of my old soldiers feel that I should take some steps to set things right before it is too late." Reports on the current location and status of some of the men he served with. Notes that he will write to Generals Abner Doubleday and Webb. Expresses regret that President Chester Arthur did not sign a bill Hunt submitted (possibly regarding military retirement rank and pay). Notes that Arthur's position was strained after the case regarding the actions of Fitz John Porter at Second Manassas. Written on Mantle and Cowan, Leather and Belting stationery.
Hunt had served as Chief of Artillery for the Army of the Potomac. After the Civil War, he occupied various military posts, including that of Governor of the Soldier's Home in Washington, D.C. from 1883 until his death. Cowan served in the First New York Independent Battery of Light Artillery, Sixth Corps, Army of the Potomac during the Civil War.
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