Famed Union General (1820–1891) best known for his devastating campaigns in the deep South, including the “March to the Sea,” that led to the capture of Atlanta and Savannah and proved to be one of the turning points of the Civil War. ALS signed “W. T. Sherman, Lt. Genl.,” one lightly lined page, 7.75 x 9.5, Headquarters, Military Division of the Missouri letterhead, December 28, 1868. Sherman writes to J. A. C[ampbell; this portion of the recipient’s name in pencil]. In part: “I have the honor to acknowledge … your letter … notifying me that at your meeting in Chicago on the 15th inst. the Society had extended to me and my staff the rights of membership. I accept the same with pleasure, and will notify all officers who comprised my staff. Say at the taking of Atlanta—that they are also embraced in the list of honorary members of the Society of the Army of the Ohio….” Sherman’s capture of Atlanta on September 2, 1864 proved to be one of his greatest exploits. Pivotal politically as well as militarily, it also helped ensure Lincoln’s reelection two months later against Democratic Party candidate and former Union commander George B. McClellan, whose party platform included acknowledgment of the Confederacy’s independence. A most handsome example with an uncommon and coveted direct reference to the military triumph that forever cemented his reputation!
