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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Hurlbut, Stephen Augustus (1815-1882) to James B. McPherson

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08901 Author/Creator: Hurlbut, Stephen Augustus (1815-1882) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 April 1864 Pagination: 5 p. : docket ; 25.5 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Major General Hurlbut writes to Major General McPherson, commander of the Department of the Tennessee, about military strategy and organization. Counsels against consolidating "Memphis & Vicksburgh into the 'District of the Miss. River." Outlines his concerns, maintaining that even though it will affect his command, his sole concern is "the progress of our arms." Suggests that "the colored troops in this command should be fully under the control of the commanding General and that the system by which Brig Genl Thomas is authorized to issue independent orders direct to them without passing through my Head Quarters is injurious in every respect." Recommends the occupation of Yazoo City and Harrisburgh, and the strategic use of the marine brigade. Explains the need for his requisition of horses to be filled quickly. Written from the Headquarters of the 16th Army Corps.

Hurlbut, Stephen Augustus, 1815-1882
McPherson, James Birdseye, 1828-1864

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