Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) to William T. Sherman
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03512 Author/Creator: Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 25 May 1863 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 25 x 19.9 cm. Order a Copy
Written at Headquarters of the Department of the Tennessee near Vicksburg, Mississippi. Grant writes to Sherman in the early days of the siege of Vicksburg. Relates he ordered Colonel Johnson to ascertain the number of Confederate troops north of the Black River, and to burn a bridge over the river, leaving Haynes' Bluff without a garrison. Writes "I deem that point of so much importance that I am willing to weaken our force here rather that to leave it unoccupied." Orders Sherman to send a brigade to assist in fortifying the bluff. Endorsed by Sherman, who orders Tuttle (possibly General James Madison Tuttle) to send a brigade to Haynes' Bluff.
Head Quarters, Dept. of the Ten.
Near Vicksburg, May 25th 1863
Maj. Gen. W.T. Sherman,
Comd.g 15th Army Corps,
Gen.
I send you report of Col. Johnson who was sent in command of the Cavalry expedition to burn the Black River Bridge. I have now ordered Col. Johnson to move by the Jackson road to get East of Black River and then strike North and ascertain the number and intentions of the enemy, if possible, and to burn the bridge he first started out for if he can. This will leave Haine's Bluff without a garrison. I deem that point of so much [2] importance that I am willing to weaken our force here rather than to leave it unoccupied. I would direct therefore that our Brigade from your command be sent there with as little delay as possible to hold the place.
Yours &c
U.S. Grant
Maj. Gen.
[docket]
Hd. Qrts, Dept of the Tenn.
Near Vicksburg May. 25, 63
_____________________________
Grant. U.S.
Maj. Genl, Comdg
_____________________________
Relative to sending Col. Johnson
With Cavly to ascertain the
Number of the enemy near
Black River.
____________________________
Recd (B.A.C.) May 26th, 1863.
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