Description:

EGBERT VIELE
(1825 - 1902) Union brigadier general who took Norfolk and later served as Military Governor of the city. A.L.S., 3pp. 8vo., New York, Sep. 14, 1891, concerning the engagement between the Monitor and the Merrimac. In part: "...it was a drawn battle in so far that neither vessel was destroyed or surrendered but the Merrimack was undoubtedly so much injured as to render it completely harmless in an open sea fight. She remained afterwards at the mouth of the Elizabeth river in a defensive position and as a menace against any effort to take Norfolk. For this reason I planned the expedition to take Norfolk in the rear, which was successful. General Wool and Admiral Goldsborough had conceived the idea of drawing the Rebel ram into our engagement and then ramming her down with the huge steamer Vanderbilt that had been presented to the Government by Commodore Vanderbilt the owner. But the ram would not leave her position and the battle did not take place. What Sec'y Chase refers to was a bombardment of the Merrimack at a distance without any result whatsoever. When Mr. Chase called it a battle he spoke ironically. He afterwards accompanied me on the March to Norfolk, mounted on a horse which I furnished him. General Wool had very little to do with the matter. His age and infirmities incapacitated him for service. Although the Secretary of War, on his earnest appeal permitted him to have a miminal command. The President was actually the Commander- in-Chief on that occasion at least." In fine condition with original envelope.

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September 27, 2012 11:00 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

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