Jun 27, 2024 - Sale 2675

Sale 2675 - Lot 116

Unsold
Estimate: $ 800 - $ 1,200
(CIVIL WAR--VIRGINIA.) Robert B. Hathaway. Letter with detailed map of the possible river crossings at Ellis's Ford. Illustrated Autograph Letter Signed to Major Gilbert M. Elliott of the same regiment. One page, 10 x 7¾ inches; minor foxing, light soiling to verso of integral blank. Virginia, 4 August 1863
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Additional Details

The 102nd New York Infantry fought at Gettysburg in July 1863, helped pursue Lee's retreating army into Virginia, and then was stationed along the Rappahannock River through September. In this letter, one of the regiment's lieutenants surveys the river crossing to help the regiment push further south.

The main landmark on this map is Ellis's Ford, a gold-mining area on the Rappahannock on the Fauquier-Culpeper county line northwest of Fredericksburg. This map shows the ford to the far left, along with a representation of the home of Mr. Ellis. Several other buildings and landmark features are shown on both sides of the river, including steep hills and high banks which would render a crossing impractical. The river itself is surveyed as it ranges from a rocky crossing to "clear and swift" to "still and muddy about 10 feet deep."

The letter explains: "Above please find sketch of river from Ellis Ford to extent picketed by left wing of 102d Regt. On examination I think the only place possible to cross is either at the dam or below to Ellis' Mill where by the aid of rocks small parties could cross. Above the dam the water is deep and banks on each side steep. Refer you to the above as the bank varies in height."

The regiment was soon transferred to the Army of the Cumberland to join Sherman's march, and never did make it across the Rappahannock.