Lot #388

J. E. B. Stuart

Description

A rare endorsement from the Battle of the Wilderness, signed exactly one week before Stuart’s untimely death

Fabled Confederate general (1833–1864) best known for his consummate skill in reconnaissance and as a cavalry officer. After leading successful offensive actions during the Northern Virginia Campaign—as well as a ‘late,’ disastrous showing at Gettysburg, which led to a personal rebuke by Lee—Stuart was killed during the Overland Campaign at the age of 31. War-dated endorsement signed, “J. E. B. Stuart, Major Genl,” clipped from a larger document concerning the promotion of an officer. Endorsement reads, “Hd Qrs…Respectfully forwarded and recommended,” and is signed underneath by Stuart. Double matted and framed with a color engraved portrait and a descriptive plaque to an overall size of 23.25 x 22. Front portion of document is affixed to reverse of frame. In fine condition, with last couple letters of signature a shade or two light due to decreased ink flow, and light show-through from writing on reverse.

In the spring of 1864, Grant launched the Overland Campaign offensive against Lee's army with the Battle of the Wilderness. On May 4, two days after this endorsement was signed, Stuart's cavalry was stretched along the Rapidan River to gather intelligence and report any movements. The battle took place the next day based, in part, on reports supplied by Stuart's men but it was fought to a tactical draw. Grant disengaged and pushed his offensive towards the Confederate capital of Richmond. While Grant and Lee marched their troops towards Spotsylvania, Stuart's cavalry fought delaying actions at Laurel Hill.

Sheridan, with Grant's blessing, aggressively directed his cavalry to "move out in force against Stuart's command and whip it." The CSA general answered by sending his outnumbered force to intercept the Union troops. The two armies collided at the Battle of the Yellow Tavern on May 11 where the 1st Virginia Calvary mounted a countercharge, pushing Sheridan's soldiers back. As Stuart fired his revolver at the retreating Michigan Calvary, a dismounted Union private, John Huff, shot and mortally wounded the general. He was taken to Richmond by ambulance and died the next day, effectively crippling the Confederate cavalry for the rest of the war. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.

Auction Info

• Auction Title:
• Dates: #383 - Ended February 15, 2012

This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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