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Lot #390
Turner Ashby Civil War-Dated Autograph Letter Signed - an order to "destroy the Dam No. 4—by throwing such force as you can safely send"

"Destroy the Dam No. 4—by throwing such force as you can safely send out from Martinsburg"

Estimate: $3000+

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Server Time: 7/01/2024 11:26:33 AM EDT
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Description

"Destroy the Dam No. 4—by throwing such force as you can safely send out from Martinsburg"

Confederate cavalry commander (1828-1862) who achieved prominence as Stonewall Jackson's cavalry commander in the Shenandoah Valley before being killed in the Battle of Good's Farm. Civil War–dated ALS signed “Turner Ashby, Lt. Col. Comg.,” one page, 5.75 x 7.25, September 24, 1861. Handwritten letter to Col. Riley, sent from Camp Jefferson, requesting the destruction of a dam on the Potomac River. In full: "I shall need your cooperation in a few days to destroy the Dam No. 4—by throwing such force as you can safely send out from Martinsburg towards the Dam to be between that point and the crossing opposite Williamsport, but near enough to be supported by the whole body with me if you should be threatened. When I am prepared for the work I will inform you—Do not let this be known as secrecy is important." In fine condition.

Early in the war, Ashby and the 7th Virginia Cavalry functioned primarily on scout and outpost duty along the Potomac. In the spring of 1862, he served with distinction in the Shenandoah Valley campaign as head of Stonewall Jackson's cavalry. Only two weeks after his promotion to brigadier general, Ashby was killed in action near Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Revolutionary War, The War of 1812, and Civil War
  • Dates: June 21, 2024 - July 10, 2024





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