Historically important war-dated manuscript general orders, two pages, lightly-lined, 7.75 x 9.75, April 16, 1865. A fair copy of General Orders No. 15 issued by Major General George G. Meade, announcing the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. In full: “The Major General commanding announces to the Army that official intelligence has been received of the death, by assassination, of the President of the United States. The President died at 7.22 on the morning of the 15th instant. To this Army this announcement will be received with profound sorrow and deep horror and indignation. The President, by the active interest he ever took in the welfare of this Army, and by his presence in frequent visits, especially during the recent operations had particularly endeared himself to both officers and soldiers, all of whom regarded him as a generous friend. An honest man, a noble patriot and sagacious statesman has fallen. No greater loss, at this particular moment, could have befallen our country. Whilst we bow with submission to the unfathomable and inscrutable decrees of Divine Providence, let us earnestly pray that God in his infinite mercy will so order that this terrible calamity shall not interfere with the prosperity and happiness of a beloved Country.” Light scattered staining and soiling, otherwise fine condition.
