Confederate general (1829–1864) who was killed at the Third Battle of Winchester in the Shenandoah Valley. Rare war-dated ALS signed “R. E. Rhodes, Col. Comg. 5th Reg. Ala. Vols,” one page, lightly-lined, 8 x 7, July 2, 1861. Letter to Lt. Col. Charles H. Tyler, seeking Ewell’s authorization of an additional first lieutenant in his regiment. In part: “It will be best and most agreeable for all parties…for Mr. Whiting to serve in the manner proposed, his connection with his company. I take great pleasure in sustaining Capt. Fowler in his estimate of Mr. Harris’s ability. Mr. Harris is the best 1st Lieut. in the regiment, in fact far better than usual. Under these circumstances and since it is the custom in the regular service to have 11 first Lieuts. in instances in which the 1st Lieut. of a Company is Adj—and since Mr. Whiting himself (the present Adj) is perfectly content that his position should be entirely regimental, expiring with the disbandment of the regiment. I hope the Gen’l or his superiors will authorize me speedily to authorize Capt. Fowler to elect with the aid of his Company another Lieut.” A partial letter concerning the matter is on the reverse, written in an unknown hand. Mild toning over upper portion of text and a couple of chips to left edge, otherwise fine condition. Rodes is quite scarce in any autographic material, particularly in war-dated items. This is the first we have ever offered. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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