LS signed “D. G. Farragut,” three pages, 7 x 13, New York, April 30, 1866. Letter to James W. Grimes. In part: “I have read over very carefully your Bill to ‘define the number and regulate the appointment of Officers in the Navy’ and see one or two very serious difficulties—viz—If the Rear Admirals are limited in number to twenty one, there will be no room for the retirement of those on the active list, as they become subject to that feature…If there should occasionally be room for one or two, there would yet be very little chance for the promotion of those old officers on the retired list, who have done the country good service, and obtained the highest rank of their day, and now only desire to die in the same relative position…I would also remark in relation to promotion by selection…selection is a difficult thing to manage in our Country in the time of peace. In war, the Country will submit to it as a military necessity. In time of peace it is apt to become an abuse, as it is in the British Navy, and which I believe they are trying to remedy…I am compelled to say that I think it would be a fatal blow to the best interests of the Navy, if carried into effect.” All three pages are cloth matted and framed with a portrait of Farragut and a small plaque to an overall size of 39.5 x 20.5. In fine condition.
Following his victory in the Battle of Mobile Bay in August of 1864, where he pushed through heavily mined waters to defeat the Confederate forces at their last major port on the Gulf of Mexico, Farragut was named America’s first vice admiral by President Lincoln. After the war he was promoted again to admiral, and given command of the European Squadron, which was to be his last active service. Offering advice to James Grimes, Republican Senator of Iowa and chairman of the Committee on Naval Affairs, Farragut gives his well-informed opinions on the formation of the recently redefined ranks in the US Navy. An excellent letter from the nation’s first admiral, using his experience to give voice to both active and retiring officers as the Navy began to take shape. Oversized. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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