3029A "OFFICIAL" COPY OF ROBERT E. LEE'S GENERAL ORDER

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 1,000.00 USD
Estimated at 2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
NO. 9 WRITTEN BY CHARLES PICKETT, BROTHER & ADJUTANT OF GENERAL GEORGE PICKETT. 9.25" x 7.25", among the most iconic of all Civil War documents is the Robert E. Lee's farewell address to his Army of Northern Virginia, written at Appomattox courthouse after his surrender. His poignant address is well known among Civil War historians and aficionados. Appomattox, April 10, 1865 After four years of arduous service marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell the survivors of so many hard-fought battles, who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have consented to the result from no distrust of them. But feeling that valour and devotion could accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that must have attended the continuance of the contest, I have determined to avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement, officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you his blessing and protection. With an unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your Country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous consideration for myself. I bid all an affectionate farewell. R.E. Lee General This "Official" copy of General Order No. 9 was written & signed by Major Charles Pickett (1840-1899), brother & adjutant of his famous brother Gen. George Pickett. Signed "C Pickett / AAG" written in pencil on Confederate manufactured brown "necessity" paper. He copied 1st corps original GO #9 of Col. Osman Latrobe, 1st corps commander and Gen. Longstreet's AAG. George Pickett never forgave Lee for losing his division at Gettysburg, interesting association of his adjutant & brother. CONDITION: very good, dark text, cracked at folds, verso was used for some accounting purposes. (02-22756/JS). $2,000-4,000.