Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) to Edward O.C. Ord
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03219 Author/Creator: Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 April 1870 Pagination: 3 p. ; 25 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Remarks upon issues mentioned in General Ord's last letter such as the death of General George Henry Thomas, the assignment of John McAllister Schofield to his post, and the creation of a new department in Arizona. Sherman also writes that there is no need to keep more than three companies in Alaska. He discusses conditions in Arizona and mentions his desire to visit Ord in California this summer. Wants to move back to St. Louis, Missouri, "As soon as I can properly I think I will move back to Saint Louis, and have leave the Politicians to run the Army. They need its patronage and will have it in spite of anything I can do ... "
After the Civil War, Ord commanded the Departments of Ohio, Arkansas, 4th Military District, California, Platte, and Texas. Thomas died on active duty while commanding the Military Division of the Pacific. Schofield commanded the division 1870-1876 and went on to serve as commanding general 1888-1895.
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