(CIVIL WAR CONFEDERATE) William H Richardson Letters by the

Sale 2646 - Lot 89

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Estimate: $ 600 - $ 900

(CIVIL WAR--CONFEDERATE.) William H. Richardson. Letters by the Adjutant General of Virginia, one discussing the progress of the war. 5 Autograph Letters Signed "W.H. Richardson" to friend David Coupland Randolph (1804-1886), each 1 to 3 pages, various sizes; mailing folds, condition generally strong; no envelopes or postal markings. Various places, 1862-1863 and 1867

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William Harvie Richardson (1795-1876) had been an officer in the War of 1812. After secession, he was appointed as adjutant general of the Virginia militia. His 14 April 1862 letter depicts Shiloh as a great Confederate victory: "The victory in the west is the most important yet gained, & if we can hold it against their immense reinforcements, it will prove a stunning blow to the d'd Yankees. . . . Our gallant fellows will put them to rout. Johnston, however, is an irreparable loss. He has not left his equal." He also expresses scorn for a regiment that had been left to defend Norfolk: "The poor fellows are doing nothing at Norfolk and will not be if Huger remains in command. . . . I have seen many an old woman in short gown & petticoats that in my estimation would have been more efficient than the commander of that important military post." The Union took Norfolk two weeks later. Richardson's 25 May 1863 letter complains that he had not been offered a field command in the Confederate army.

With--3 other items: an 1863 letter by William H. Richardson Jr.; an 1864 letter mentioning Richardson; and an 1856 receipt.