Civil War-dated ALS signed “S. R. Curtis, Maj. Genl,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 10, October 31, 1863. Somber handwritten letter to General W. K. Strong, relaying news of his son's recent death, in part: "We were all glad to get your kind letter of the 19th sympathizing so tenderly with us in our deep affection. The details have probably reached you by the papers. The attack on General Blunt’s escort was sudden and the work short. The rebels took no prisoners or shot them soon after they were taken. 83 bodies have been found. Henry’s horse was shot and fell but followed our men and escaped leaving Henry whose body was found near the spot where the horse fell. The powder marks, and scorched whiskers showed that the weapon had been held close to his head. He must have died instantly. They took his coat boots sword and money, but left his watch which was in his fob without a chain, and his sleeve buttons and a ring on his finger. His pistol was also found nearby; five of the six loads discharged. He evidently fought and fell fighting for his General and his Country…The loss, and the circumstances are all heartbreaking. My poor wife and his young widow, are trying to bear their affection, and we all try to be reconciled to all our terrible ills.” In fine condition.
In October 1863, Major Henry Zarah Curtis, adjutant to Brig. Gen. James G. Blunt, was killed by Quantrill's Raiders. In this surprise attack at the Battle of Baxter Springs, Quantrill's men wore Federal uniforms and gave no quarter. Samuel Curtis named Fort Zarah in memory of his son. Quantrill's Raiders were the best-known of the pro-Confederate partisan guerrillas (also known as 'bushwhackers') who fought in the American Civil War. Their leader was William Quantrill and they included Jesse James and his brother Frank.
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