Opening Day Auction Closing May 9th
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/10/2015
After success on the battlefield during the Mexican-American War, Ulysses S. Grant left the army and had a string of business failures. With the beginning of the Civil War, Grant re-joined the Army and again found success on the battlefield. By the fourth year of the war, Grant had emerged as the North's answer to Robert E. Lee. Through his determination and unwavering confidence Grant struck blow after blow and by the spring of 1865 had the rebels on the ropes. This telegram, written from his headquarters at City Point, Virginia in the waning months of the war, shows how even facing victory Grant was the consummate professional, never letting his troops let their guard down. In the February 25, 1865 telegram Grant instructs his General Ord to keep his troops extra watchful due to high water on the James and Appomattox Rivers. Grant was fearful the Confederates would launch a surprise waterborne attack with rams. The 7 1/2" x 8 1/2" telegram is hand written on laid paper letterhead bearing the title "Head Quarters Armies of the United States". The paper is tones along the perimeter due to prior framing and there are several horizontal folds. The message and Grant's signature are delicate and clear, the ink aging to rich sepia. A 6" x 8 1/2" engraved portrait of General U.S. Grant is also included in this lot. A very attractive piece of Civil War history signed by the war's greatest commander. Authenticated by PSA/DNA #X03951