Third-person ALS by J. E. B. Stuart, signed three times within the text as “Lieutenant J. E. B. Stuart” and “Lieut. Stuart,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, March 18, 1857. Marked “Copy” and addressed from “Head Quarters Dept. of the West, Fort Leavenworth [Kansas],” a handwritten letter of recommendation written on behalf of J. E. B. Stuart for himself. This retained true copy highlights Stuart’s qualities as a top candidate for a position in the Subsistence Department and was sent on his behalf by George Deas, Major and Asst. Adjt. Gen. (later a Confederate Lt. Col.). It reads, in full: “Lieutenant J. E. B. Stuart of the 1st Regt. of Cavalry has informed me that he is to be an applicant for appointment in the Subsistence Department. Lieut. Stuart has been the Regimental Quartermaster since July 1855 and has by virtue of that office also done the duties of the Commissariat at Fort Leavenworth, I believe to the Satisfaction of every one. So far as my own observation extends since the Head Quarters of this Dept. have been at Fort Leavenworth, that is, since Aug. last, it gives me much pleasure to say that Lieut. Stuart has been in every respect a most attentive and industrious officer, and I have never heard any one say a word to the contrary. From the size of the garrison he must necessarily have had much to demand his attention, besides which he has been charged with the duties of Supply to the force in the interior, in the field, and at fixed Stations, which responsibilities have been fully met to the satisfaction of the General in command of the Department.” The lower left bears an attestation by “Ch’s. Brewer, Asst. Surg. U.S.A.” that this letter is “a true copy,” with Stuart signing Deas’s name in the lower right. In fine condition.
Accompanied by copies of letters from future Union General Edwin Vose Sumner (March 22, 1857) and Virginia Congressman Thomas S. Bocock (April 17, 1857), both proffering hearty letters of recommendation for Stuart’s placement in the department of Commissary General George Gibson, a post he failed to obtain. The mention of July 1855 refers to the creation of the 1st Cavalry at Fort Leavenworth. At the time of writing, Stuart was serving as a Union officer and was regularly skirmishing with Indians and riding the delicate line between anti- and pro-slavery guerrillas in Bleeding Kansas. The letter showcases his ambition as he sought advancement to the Subsistence Department and highlights the meteoric rise of one of the military heroes of the South, whose life would be cut short at the age of 31.
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