Union general and onetime commander of the Army of the Potomac (1824–1881); the distinctive whiskers he sported gave rise to the word ‘sideburns.’ Two items: one Civil War-dated ALS signed “A. E. Burnside, Maj Genl,” one lightly-lined page, 5 x 8, September 6, 1864, in part: “I take great pleasure in sending your autographs as requested. I am always to do anything in my power to aid your noble commission in its quest and good work.”; and an original 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite portrait of Burnside, by J. Gurney & Son of New York, signed in the lower border in black ink, “A. E. Burnside, M. G.” A mailing fold passing through the signature, a few creases, and overall toning to the letter, and silvering to dark areas of the image, otherwise fine condition. RR Auction COA.
