Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) to William Farrar Smith or Benjamin Franklin Butler
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00274 Author/Creator: Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) Place Written: City Point, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 June 1864 Pagination: 2 p. ; 20.5 x 25.1 cm. Order a Copy
Grant, Commander in Chief of the United States Army, informs Major General Butler or Smith that the 2nd Corps (28,000 soldiers) was directed to march toward Petersburg. Has not heard news of the expedition, but can still hear firing in the direction of Petersburg, Virginia. States that if Butler or Smith require the 2nd Corps, they should send notice to General Winfield Scott Hancock under cover to General John Gibbon. Written in pencil on Headquarters, Armies of the United States stationery.
Union operations against Petersburg occurring 9 and 15-18 June 1864 failed. During the Battles of Petersburg I and II, Smith commanded the 18th Corps in the Army of the Potomac.
City pt. Va, Jun 15th. 3.30 pm, - 1864.
Maj. Gen. Butler or Smith.
The 2d Corps, 28,000 strong was directed to march this morning on the direct road from Windmill Point to Petersburg stoping at Harrison Creek in the absence of further orders. I have not yet heard a word of the result of the expedition against Petersburg, but still hearing firing in that direction and seeing indications of the enemy moving from the North to the South side of the [inserted: James] river I have sent back orders to hurry up this Corps. If you require [struck: them] [inserted: it] send back [2] to Gen. Hancock, under cover to Gen. Gibbon, with directions for him to read, and [struck: they] it will push forward with all speed.
Respectfully &c
U.S. Grant
Lt. Gen
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