Description:

LAFAYETTE MCLAWS RECOMMENDS PROMOTION FOR A LIEUTENANT OF ENGINEERS
LAFAYETTE MCLAWS (1821-1897) Confederate major general who fought with Jackson at Harper's Ferry, defended Marye's Heights, and led at the Peach Orchard and Devil's Den at Gettysburg. A fine content, war-date manuscript letter (unsigned), 2pp. 4to., [n.p.], Feb. 12, 1863, a retained copy, most likely penned by an adjutant, of a letter to Confederate Secretary of War James Seddon, recommending promotion for Lt. Duncan G. Campbell. McLaws expansively relates the man's extensive experience as an engineer on his staff, in full: ‘I take pleasure in recommending to your notice Lieut D G Campbell of the Engineers, who until recently has been under my command since August last. He joined me just before my Division left Richmond and was active and useful on the march in mapping the country and reconnoitering far in advance with the Dragoons occasionally & often alone. He was with me in Pleasant Valley and was of material assistance in gaining information of the enemy's movements in my attack on Maryland Heights, and operations against Harper's Ferry [sic]. At the Battle of Sharpsburg [Antietam], acting as A. D. C. he was conspicuous for his gallantry and coolness while carrying orders in the most exposed positions. While in Camp near Martinsburg he was in charge of several Brigades, engaged in destroying the Railroad from Winchester & the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad & pushed the work with great activity & efficiency. In my arrival in the advance at Fredericksburg he was actively engaged day & night & frequently all night for many nights in succession in superintending the construction of the works for the defence not only of my own position but for the whole front of defence. He showed good judgement [sic] in the selection of his positions, great energy and untiring industry in pushing the works to completion and a devotion to his duties under all circumstances I have never seen surpassed. At the Battle of Fredericksburg he again exhibited dashing gallantry in carrying out my orders & in reconnoitering the positions of the enemy. As he therefore possesses knowledge of his profession energy & industry in the execution of his duties, great gallantry as a soldier & is an accomplished & educated gentleman I conscientiously recommend him for promotion.' McLaws' name and rank are added at the conclusion in the same secretarial hand. Shows original mailing folds, with minor splits thereto showing cello tape repairs away from any text, otherwise in very good to fine condition overall. Lt. Campbell would eventually attain the rank of captain in March of 1864.

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March 27, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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