Union general (1834-1862) who was killed in action at the Battle of Perryville during the Civil War. His brother, Confederate officer James B. Terrill, also died in battle. Together, they came to epitomize the notion of 'brother against brother' during the Civil War. Civil War-dated ALS signed “Very truly your son, William R. Terrill,” one page, 7.75 x 5, December 25, 1861. Brief letter to his father, prominent Bath County attorney William H. Terrill, penned from Munfordville, Kentucky. On Christmas Day, Terrill reassures his father of his well-being. In full: "My dear Father, I am here and well." In fine condition, with two vertical folds and light soiling.
A graduate of the United States Military Academy, William Terrill chose to stay with the Union Army while his brother, James Barbour Terrill, sided with the Confederacy. Both men rose to the rank of general, but William's decision divided the Virginian family—his father once threatened to have him hanged if he ever returned home. Sadly, neither Terrill brother would return alive, as both were killed in action during the bloody conflict. A poignant note as a son, moved by the spirit of Christmas, briefly reassures his estranged father.
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