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Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8.5 x 11, July 1, 1868. President Johnson authorizes and directs the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to “a Warrant (form No. 3) for the pardon of Thomas B. Smith.” Signed neatly at the conclusion by Andrew Johnson. In very good to fine condition, with old repairs to short tears along the right edge, and a small smudge to the first letter of the signature.
Thomas Benton Smith (1838–1923) was a brigadier general in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. At the start of the war, he enlisted in the 20th Tennessee Infantry and quickly rose through the ranks, seeing early action at Mill Springs and Shiloh. Promoted to colonel, he led his regiment and a small brigade at Baton Rouge, earning praise for his conduct. Smith was seriously wounded at Stones River, returned to fight at Chickamauga, and after recovering again, rejoined the army for the Atlanta Campaign, where he was promoted to brigadier general and commanded Tyler’s Tennessee Brigade. He led notable actions at Utoy Creek—capturing Union prisoners and colors—and at Jonesborough, though unable to break fortified Union lines. His career ended at the Battle of Nashville, where he surrendered and was brutally attacked by Union Col. William L. McMillen after laying down his arms, causing severe and lasting brain injuries. Captured and imprisoned until July 1865, Smith later attempted railroad work and politics, but the effects of the assault left him institutionalized for much of the rest of his life.
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