Autograph letter signed by Brigadier General Emerson Opdycke (1830-1884), to an unnamed General. New York City, New York, 16 April 1884. 2 pages, 8vo, with printed pamphlet In Memoriam Emerson Opdycke. N.p., n.d. 8vo [wrappers absent].

In the letter, Opdycke discusses topics of history, including the Harvard Historical Lectures, a paper he is writing on campaigns of the Civil War, and a book that his correspondent is writing. He suggests some "points...solely in the interest of true history" for the General's consideration, particularly concerning Confederate General Braxton Bragg, as he revises his publication: "[Bragg was not wholly to blame [during the Chattanooga Campaign]...but as the com'd'g Genl. in the field, he, like Thomas at Nashville, should have firmly adheared [sic] to sound strategy...Suppose such a general as Grant, Thomas, Sheridan, Stonewall Jackson, or R.E. Lee had been in Bragg's place...! I need not suggest to you the results."

Penned just nine days before his death (he accidentally shot himself while cleaning his rifle), it is clear that his death was an accident, as he discusses future plans and projects. 

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Manuscripts, Documents, Letters, Ephemera, Signatures, Autographs]