Lot #8100

[P. G. T. Beauregard]

Description

In a telegram to Jefferson Davis, General Beauregard vows to defend Fort Sumter at all costs: "It shall be held if necessary with muskets & bayonets"

Civil War-dated manuscript telegram signed on Beauregard's behalf by a telegraph clerk, “G. T. Beauregard, Gen'l Comd'g,” one page, 7.75 x 4.25, The Southern Telegraph Companies letterhead, August 21, 1863. Important message to "Pres't J. Davis," in full: "Gen'l Gilmore hs gone to Savannah he has been teleg'hed to return. Everything practicable with our means has been done to protect Sumter it shall be held if necessary with muskets & bayonets." In fine condition, with old mounting remnants on the reverse. Accompanied by a gorgeous custom-made presentation folder with a quarter leather binding.

The Union’s attempts to retake Fort Sumter began on April 7, 1863, when Rear Admiral Samuel Francis DuPont led a naval attack on the fort with nine ironclad warships. Under Beauregard’s command, the Confederate troops effectively repelled the attack, dealing enough damage to the USS Keokuk to sink it the next day. The men strengthened their position throughout the summer, always prepared to respond to an attack. On August 17th, the fort was fired upon again by Union General Quincy Adams Gillmore in a bombardment that lasted for seven days. Although five immense Parrott guns reduced Fort Sumter to rubble, Beauregard’s men refused to surrender and held the fort. In this historic telegram, Beauregard is fully aware of the symbolism of holding the position and promises to defend it at all costs. In reply, Davis confirmed Beauregard’s decision to fight to the last. The Confederates held onto Fort Sumter, under almost constant heavy bombardment, until mid-February 1865.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Letter Collection
• Dates: #553 - Ended June 28, 2018