Description:

(UNION NAVY) COMMANDER MAXWELL WOODHULL DENIES ‘CURSING' HIS CREW
MAXWELL WOODHULL (1813-1863) U.S. Navy commander of the sidewheel steamer USS CONNECTICUT, organized supply lines for blockading squadrons along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, later commanded the gunboat USS CIMARRON as part of the James Rover Flotilla under Charles Wilkes. He was killed accidentally by a shot from a saluting gun. Very fine content, war-date manuscript L.S., 1p. legal folio, Key West, March 24, 1862, to Admiral William W. McKean, commander of the Gulf Blockading Squadron. Woodhull, writing aboard the Connecticut, responds to accusations that he has mistreated men under his command, in full: ‘Your communication, with the report of Master's Mate Howard is received. I can only say, that the language attributed to me is not true – I am not in in the habit of cursing men. I did endeavour however to still the noise the Boat's crew were making, and may have said as no one was killed, there was no harm done – the Boat's crews of all the vessels do at times make more noise and confusion than is at all necessary, and I am obliged to personally exert my authority to quiet them – how it could be possible for me to say that there had been none killed on board the ‘Niagara' [McKean's flagship] is remarkable, when I knew she was engaged under fire against superior force two whole days. I can also say that Mr Howard must have been mistaken, as I am not in any way disposed to insult, or use reproachful epithets to men or officers – I, myself, have no recollection of saying, what he has charged me with.' He signs ‘M Woodhull' at the conclusion, with his rank added in another hand. The letter shows original mailing folds, with very slight splits thereto at the edges, otherwise in fine condition overall.

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

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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