Civil War–dated unsigned autograph document, one page, 7.5 x 9.5, June 18, 1863. Special Order 164 relieving Major General McClernand of command after disastrous losses at Vicksburg. In full: “Maj. Gen. J. A. McClernand is hereby relieved from the Command of the 13th Army Corps. He will proceed to any point he may select in the state of Ill. and report by letter to Head Quarters of the Army for orders. Maj. Gen. E. O. C. Ord is hereby appointed to the command of the 13th Army Corps, subject to the approval of the President and will immediately assume charge of the same.” Document is written entirely in Grant’s hand, with the exception of the date and the last two words, “of the same.” Grant also struck through two sets of words, one in the first line, “E .O. C. Ord,” and one in the final line, “the command.” Intersecting folds and two circular areas of staining, otherwise fine condition. Grant disliked McClernand from the beginning, and was finally able to relieve him of command after he failed in his assaults on Vicksburg and for his insubordination in communicating with the press against orders. The man Grant replaced him with, Edward Ord, went on to command the the Army of the James during the Appomattox Campaign, playing a crucial role in the breakthrough at Petersburg and helping to force the surrender of Robert E. Lee. An incredible document that demonstrates Grant’s decisive actions, with an association that foreshadows the combined efforts of Grant and Ord in bringing about the climactic Union victory and end of the war at Appomattox. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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