Robert E. Lee Civil War-Date Autograph Letter Signed to Dr. John C. Mercer
Item Details
A Civil War-date (February 10th, 1864) Robert E. Lee autograph letter signed to Dr. John C. Mercer, discussing the prospective promotion of Brigadier General Hugh Weedon Mercer. The letter reads in full, ‘Orange Co. 10 Feb. ’64 / Dr. John C. Mercer / Dear Sir, It will give me great pleasure to do anything I can towards the promotion of your brother Genl. Hugh W. Mercer. If he has been recommended by General Beauregard & has the command suitable to the desired grade, I know the opinions of the President so well that I feel assured nothing more will be required. If he has not the command, I do not know how under the law he can be promoted. I am with much respect, Your Obt. Servt., R E Lee, Genl.’ The letter was written four days prior to Sherman’s capture of Meridian. This previously undocumented correspondence is a rare glimpse into war-time politics and the shared connection of Robert E. Lee with the Mercer family.
John Cyrus Mercer (1810–1884) and brother Hugh Weedon Mercer (1808–1877) were grandsons of famed General (American Revolutionary War) Hugh Mercer (1726–1777). Dr. John Cyrus Mercer is noted to have practiced medicine in Williamsburg, Virginia. He was appointed the role of Surgeon in the United States Navy prior to resignation and appointment within the Confederate States Navy (Marine Hospital in Norfolk, VA). Hugh Weedon Mercer began his military career at the United States Military Academy (West Point) and later served as aide-de-camp to Major General Scott. He rose to the rank of 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Artillery before resigning his commission to pursue a role in banking. Following the succession of Georgia in 1861, Mercer enlisted in the Confederate Army and was commissioned at rank of Colonel of the 1st Georgia Infantry. By that October, he was promoted to rank of Brigadier General and assumed command over the district of Georgia the following year. Evidence of Brg. Gen. H.W. Mercer attaining higher rank cannot be corroborated, although a suggested promotion to Major General can be referenced in The Papers of Jefferson Davis, Vol. 8, 1862 (DNA, RG109, Officers).
The letter (single page; 6.5” x 7.5”) bears mail folds, horizontal tape repair to body, slight foxing, and moderate ink fading. The letter is matted under glass and is accompanied by a print after Mathew B. Brady’s 1865 portrait-photograph of Lee in front of the Appomattox Court House. The black and gilt-accent frame features hanging wire and a printed transcript (“Genl. [sic] John C. Mercer” transcribed title error) to the verso. Included is a Letter of Authenticity (Certification Number: Z51838) issued by James Spence Authentication, LLC.
Provenance: Ex collection of Dr. Charles B. Patton
Condition
- folds; tape repair; slight foxing; moderate ink fading.
Dimensions
Measurement of frame
Item #
18WDC016-226
