Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) to Eli Long
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01887 Author/Creator: Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) Place Written: Marysville, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: December 7, 1863 Pagination: 2 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. + 1 engraving ; b&w ; 28 x 21.8 cm + 1 engraving ; b&w ; 21.6 x 18.7 cm Order a Copy
Writes to Colonel Long (later General) ordering him to mount his cavalry to raid and capture a Confederate train that passed into the mountains toward Georgia. Advises him to, "Take all the horses, mules and animals that you can from citizens and make all captives of prisoners and enemies property that you can." Instructs him to cause as much confusion and alarm as possible. States that he (Sherman) will hold a force at Telico Plains at Columbus until Long returns and will try to have supplies waiting. Encourages Long by saying, "You have already done good and hard service. Do this at whatever cost of horseflesh you may and I pledge myself to do all I can for a remount in that you and your officers will have all the credit." One bust engraving of Eli Long and one bust engraving of William Tecumseh Sherman included.
This letter marks Sherman's first entrance into Georgia on a campaign that developed into his famous march to the sea.
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