ALS signed “W. T. Sherman, Maj. Genl,” one page, lightly-lined, 7.5 x 9.5, Head Quarters Military Division of the Mississippi letterhead, March 23, 1866. Letter to James H. Ingraham of Portland, Maine. In full: “I am very glad to hear from you that the citizens of Maine are intent on providing for the families of the fallen soldiers. If ever a sacred duty was imposed on a Civilised People, it is this; to see that the widows and orphans do not suffer, after their natural protectors have given their all and their lives, that we the survivors may rest in security. I believe this spirit is universal in our Land, and it is the Crowning Glory of the ‘Great War.’” Matted and framed with a small portrait of Sherman to an overall size of 16.5 x 15. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, and scattered toning and soiling. Provenance: The Victor and Irene Murr Jacobs Collection, Sotheby’s, October 29, 1996; Christies Sale 2361, December 3, 2010.
Heeding Lincoln’s call “to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan,” Maine governor Samuel Cony urged the state legislature in February 1866 to aid disabled veterans and families who had lost a loved one in the Civil War. The Maine legislature passed the Pension Act, which provided for disabled soldiers and seamen or their families. At the time of this letter, Sherman held command of the Military Division of the Mississippi, covering territory west of the Mississippi and east of the Rocky Mountains. An eloquent and rousing letter in which the great Union general affirms America’s duty to provide for its veterans. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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