Distinguished Union general (1815–1872) best known for leading his troops to a commanding victory over Lee’s Confederates at Gettysburg in one of the pivotal battles of the Civil War. ALS signed “Geo. G. Meade,” three lightly lined pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 7.75, Headquarters, Military Division of the Atlantic letterhead, October 15, 1870. Meade writes to artist and Gettysburg historian John B. Bachelder (1825–1894). In full: “I duly received your circular from Boston in reference to the repairing of your painting of the Battle of Gettysburgh [sic]. At the time I expected to be in Boston in a few weeks, when I proffered to pay the $50 in advance. Circumstances delayed my visit to Boston till the first week in this month—when in going to the place of exhibition I found the painting was no longer in exhibition & you out of town. I write now to ascertain your address, and to know whether I can still send the amt. in the directions indicated in your circular. I heard a great deal in Boston of the crowds who had visited your painting, and the appreciation it received….” The painting in question is the monumental “Repulse of Longstreet’s Assault at the Battle of Gettysburg” by James Walker. Bachelder, who commissioned the painting from Walker and supervised completion of the 7.5´ x 20´ work, took the painting with him on a lecture tour of the United States; it was later published as an engraving. Intersecting folds (vertical fold to first name), and a touch of subtle soiling and handling wear, otherwise fine, bright condition. R&R COA.
