Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) to Joseph E. Johnston
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03260 Author/Creator: Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) Place Written: Raleigh, North Carolina Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 27 April 1865 Pagination: 4 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Written one day after General Johnston's surrender to Major General Sherman. Sherman's letter concerns repatriation of Confederate troops, providing supplies to Confederate troops, and Sherman's hope that the wounds of war can be healed. Informs of his orders to General John M. Schofield to facilitate the return of the men to their homes. Gives his view on the end of the war, "Now that the war is over I am willing to risk my person & reputation as heretofore, to heal the Wound made by the Past War. And I think my feeling is shared by the whole Army." Continues on to comment on some men who may not comply with the truce. "If we are forced to Deal with them it must be with severity, but I hope they will be managed by the People of the South." Written on stationary marked "Head Quarters Military Division of the Mississippi."
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