Semmes, Paul Jones (1815-1863) to Augustus Viele
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00508.07 Author/Creator: Semmes, Paul Jones (1815-1863) Place Written: Columbus, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 January 1861 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 19 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Semmes's retained copy. Writes to Viele in West Troy, New York. Insists that Governor Brown and the State of Georgia will only make payments for the cannons produced by Viele's foundry according to the terms of the contract. Advises that Mr. Kemble of New York will appoint an inspector for the cannons in case Lieutenant Balsh cannot find one. Viele might have been worried about getting his payment as the war drew nearer.
Semmes was a Georgia banker and plantation owner who served as agent for the State of Georgia during the preparations for the Civil War. He served as colonel of the 2nd Georgia in the Confederate Army at the outbreak of the war and was promoted to brigadier general in March 1862. He was assigned to a brigade in McLaws' division of Longstreet's corps fighting in Crampton's Gap, Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg, Salem Church, and Gettysburg, where he was mortally wounded.
Columbus Ga
14 Jary 1861
To Aug Viele
West Troy NYK
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 5 inst has been recd. You may rest assured that the Governor will make payment promptly in accordance with our contract.
I do not feel authorized to vary the Contract & therefore refer you to Gov. Brown [inserted: at] Milledgeville [struck: Ga] who might probably do so.
In Mr. Kemble 26 Broadway N York informed me that, in Case Lieut. Balsh could not [illegible] quit as inspector his son Goveuneur Kemble Eq. will act in that Capacity. Where therefore you are ready for the Inspection please apply notify the G. Kemble through the Mr. Kemble. Mr. G.K. will [illegible] of course West Troy [illegible] until you advise him. You are ready for him. Very Respectfully,
Paul J Semmes
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