Strong, William Kerley (1805-1867) to Francis E. Spinner
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03226 Author/Creator: Strong, William Kerley (1805-1867) Place Written: St. Louis, Missouri Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 November 1861 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 24.5 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Discusses being placed in charge of Camp Benton, Missouri after John C. Fremont retired. Informs that he has held one review and inspection, and daily drills and parades. States that there are now 1000 troops at the camp. Comments that he has received a warm welcome from the troops. States that Fremont has been enthusiastically welcomed in St. Louis and seems cheerful. Encloses the autograph of Robert H. McMillan of New York (not present), praises his character, and recommends him for a position at the Treasury. Ask Spinner to write to McMillan. Written from Camp Benton, St. Louis, Missouri on patriotic lettersheet depicting the camp.
Strong was commissioned a Brigadier General in the Union Army in September 1861. Spinner was the United States Treasurer 1861-1875.
[excerpt]
The revocation of Fremont's command brought all associated with him on his staff to a dead halt: The occasion has been availed of by Brig Gen Curtis in command of St Louis & vicinity to place me in charge of this cantonement. I promptly assumed the command & have been here since the 8th & am well pleased with the work ... I have had one review & inspection & daily company & regimental drills & parades. We have now about 10000 troops in the camp & shall have a review to morrow or next day by Major Genl Halleck & Hunter. The officers have received me with great cordiality. They have all met me in a body & welcomed me to the command of the Post, and I have been serenaded by the bands of several of the regiments so that all betokens a prospect of usefulness. Most of the troops which have been on the march to Springfield are said to be on their way back to St Louis & I suppose I suppose their destination from here will be Kentucky or down the Mississippi … Fremont retired gracefully from his command & was received with great enthusiasm by the people on his arrival at St Louis - he seems cheerful & will doubtless soon have his say of the matters in controversy & the public will then render their verdict…
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