Banks, Nathaniel Prentiss (1816-1894) to Ulysses S. Grant
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03374 Author/Creator: Banks, Nathaniel Prentiss (1816-1894) Place Written: Port Hudson, Louisiana Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 08 July 1863 Pagination: 1 p. 32 x 21 cm Order a Copy
Apparently a telegram. Major General Banks, commander of the Department of the Gulf, sends word to Major General Grant, commander of the Department of the Tennessee, to announce the capture of Port Hudson, Louisiana. This letter marks the advent of unfettered Union control of the Mississippi River. The Vicksburg garrison had surrendered to Grant on July 4, four days prior to this note.
Head Quarters Dept of The Gulf Nineteenth Army Corps.
Before Port Hudson July 8, 1863.
Major General Grant;
U.S.A
Commanding Department of the Tennessee. Vicksburg.
General: The Mississippi is opened! I have the honor to inform you that the Garrison of Port Hudson surrendered unconditionally this afternoon. We shall take formal possession at 7. o'clock in the morning.
Very Resptfly - Your Obed. Servt.
N. P. Banks.
Major General Commading.
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