Description:

HUGH JUDSON KILPATRICK
(1836 - 1881) Union major general called "Kill Cavalry" by his men, he fought at Gettysburg, and led several raids on Richmond and Jonesboro. Kilpatrick also had the dubious honor of being the first officer to be wounded in Civil War combat. Excessively rare content war-date A.L.S as Lieutenant Colonel and commander of the 2nd NY Volunteer Cavalry (Harris Light Cavalry), 3pp., "Camp at Falmouth Va.", April 20, 1862, a report to the Governor of New York and Union general Edwin D. Morgan. Kilpatrick delivers a personal report of his very first battle in command, in part: "... I have the honor to report that in the march from Catlett's Station to Falmouth, a distance of 28 miles, the 2nd New York Cavalry had the front, and as you have already learned, no doubt, met the enemy's cavalry about 3 miles south of the Spotted Tavern, where my advanced guard received the first fire and charge of the Rebels, and where our men proved that they could not only receive, sustain, but return a blow, and we saw the backs of our foe from that point to within a mile of Col. [Rooney] Lee's camp. We skirmished with the enemy driving him before us. Col. Lee's whole force had left his camp to give us battle. I ordered Major Davies with his battalion forward. Although this battalion had not yet been engaged, they charged at a run and Lee's cavalry was forced on fences into the woods in all directions to avoid the rush of our men and their biting sabres. We took several prisoners, killed and wounded five, and captured many horses. I regret to state that Lt. Nelson J. Decker of Co. D fell at the head of his men, at the site of the Rebel camp. A brave soldier and more gallant gentleman the Army does not furnish. In the affair of the morning of the 18th inst. my regiment and Col. Bayard's 1st Penna. Cavalry were ambushed. The officers and men alike bore themselves like soldiers of many battles, charging the enemy under the most difficult circumstances, and yet every time successful. In the affair we lost 6 killed and 13 wounded, besides 19 horses. I take great pleasure in bringing to your favorable notice Capt. J.F. Cooke and his Lieutenant of Co. B who met the first shock of the enemy - Major Davies who in both affairs handled his battalion with the greatest skill and coolness - Capt. McIrvin and his Lieut. - Capt. Milligan and Lts. Morgan and Ferris - who charged up to and over the Rebel barricade. We hope that in this, our first engagement, we have won an honorable position among the many regiments you, Sir, have sent from the great State of New York, to battle for the Constitution and the cause of Right...." Kilpatrick's battle report is not only his first as commander, but a report of the 2nd NY Cavalry's very first engagement with Confederate troops! Just a few months later, Kilpatrick would gain both rank and infamy as a reckless charger during the Second Battle of Bull Run. Boldly signed, "J Kilpatrick, Lt. Col. Commanding". Fine.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent priority or equivalent by courier, signature required, unless otherwise instructed. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice.

May 13, 2009 10:00 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 21.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000