Item No. 0672392

This letter was written by Brigadier General James S. Negley on April 30, 1861—just days after the attack on Fort Sumter. On April 19 Negley had been appointed to command a brigade of the Pennsylvania Militia, which was then organizing as part of General Robert Patterson’s command. Writing to fellow militia brigade commander General George C. Wynkoop, Negley writes, “I have caused the arrest and examination [of] Chas. N. Wittler of Maryland. I cause him to be reported to you.” He then signs the document as brigadier general. It is unclear who Wittler (or Wittes?) is. Worthy of additional research.

James S. Negley would be transferred to the Army of the Ohio in the fall of 1861, eventually becoming a division commander and fighting at Stones River and Chickamauga. His reputation took a hit after Chickamauga when he was criticized for his division’s behavior in the defeat. Nashville’s Fort Negley is named in his honor.

The letter was written on one side of a 7 3/4” x 9 3/4” letter sheet bearing the letterhead of the “Head Quarters First Brigade Military Department” of Western Pennsylvania. Briefly docketed on reverse. Old tape residue at top, else excellent.