War-dated ALS, in pencil, signed “U. S. Grant, Maj. Gen,” one page, 7.5 x 6, May 19, 1863. Grant hastily writes to an unidentified general, with research indicating the recipient was James McPherson. In full: “Dear Gen, Sherman has possession of several of the enemy’s batteries. His sight is now on the Miss. River. I have sent to Macfeely to bring up a load of supplies to Lake’s Landing. Condit Smith is ordered to unload all the wagons on the right and take them to the Landing after supplies for the Army at once.” In fine condition, with a rough top edge, several intersecting folds, one through first letter of signature, and a small repair to a horizontal left edge separation.
On the afternoon in question, Grant launched the first of his assaults on the Confederate fortress at Vicksburg after having closed in the preceding week. His goal was to overwhelm the Southern forces before they could become fully organized. However, Grant’s efforts were unsuccessful, as were subsequent attacks by Grant, Sherman, and McPherson…despite Sherman’s possession of several Southern batteries, as noted in this communication. The demoralized Union forces ultimately opted to wait out their Confederate opponents, leading to surrender two months later. A scarce and desirable military missive, written from the field. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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