Taylor, Richard (1826-1879) [Soldiers of the Army of Western Louisiana!]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00825.01 Author/Creator: Taylor, Richard (1826-1879) Place Written: Louisiana Type: Manuscript Date: 23 May 1864 Pagination: 3 p. ; 27 x 21.5 cm. Order a Copy
Rallying speech written by Taylor's adjutant. Strongly exhorts his Confederate troops to repulse Union General Nathaniel P. Banks' army. Begins by stating that on 13 March 1864, Union forces of 30,000 men with ironclads and 150 mounted guns moved to conquer Texas and Louisiana. Extensively praises the Confederate troops of Texas and Louisiana for holding out for 70 days of fighting. Lists their accomplishments including how many they have killed, wounded or taken prisoner, and the destruction they have caused to the Union forces. "Soldiers! These are your great and noble deeds, and they will live in chronicle and in song, as the Southern race exists to honor the earth." Calls on the men to stay strong as there is still more work to be done.
The Red River campaign was an unsuccessful Union effort to seize control of the important cotton-growing states of Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. Provenance from seller's description states this speech was written by Taylor's adjutant.
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