Parker, Ely S. (1828-1895) to John
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07085 Author/Creator: Parker, Ely S. (1828-1895) Place Written: City Point, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 March 1865 Pagination: 3 p. ; 25.1 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Gives an update on news near the end of the war to an unknown friend named John. Reports that Charleston, Georgetown, Fort Fisher, Wilmington and Confederate General Benjamin Butler have all fallen. Also writes about Union General Philip A. Sheridan's march through the Shenandoah Valley where he captured Charlottesville and Stauton. Remarks on the campaigns of Union Generals George H. Thomas and Edward R. Canby, "Of Thomas I regret to say that he is a slow coach...His tardiness has rather a tendency to disjoint our nose. Canby has also been very slow in commencing the Execution of his portion of the work, but I believe he has now started." States they are successfully holding the line against General Robert E. Lee. Gives some information on military appointments and mentions Andrew Johnson's inauguration. "The inauguration recently took place, and Andy Johnson was severely indisposed by a big drunk when taking the oath." Parker signs "Parker alias Scribe." On stationary from the Head Quarters Armies of the United States.
Parker was an Iroquois of the Seneca tribe born at Indian Falls, New York. During the American Civil War he was commissioned a captain in 1863 and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel. Parker became the adjutant to his friend Ulysses S. Grant, and wrote the final drafts for the surrender at Appomattox Courthouse in April 1865.
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