Autograph letter signed by Edward J. Cahill, 2nd Fireman, U.S. Navy. Hampton Roads, Virginia, 22 February [1862]. 4 pages, 8vo, on paper with red and blue border. Embossment of General George B. McClellan in upper left corner to recto. With original cover resealed with the word “SHIP” in an oval stamp to recto. 

This letter, written by Edward J. Cahill aboard the U.S.S. Minnesota to his brother, details a rumor “that Gen. Huger (Rebel military commandant) had sent down (by a flag of truce) proposals to Genl. Wool to surrender Norfolk and vicinity on condition that private property should not be confiscated, and they would lay down their arms and become loyal citizens again,” but he quickly deemed it a hoax. Additionally, Cahill questions his brother’s religious beliefs, most likely insinuating that Cahill was inspired by the Christian revival in the mid-19th century. 

Starting in 1857, businessman Jeremiah Lanphier began holding prayer meetings in New York; a year later, thousands were attending these daily meetings nationwide. These prayer meetings were held at midday, and Cahill alludes to one of these when he urges his brother “to step into the old South chapel… between the hours of 12 and 1 o’clock.” 

The U.S.S. Minnesota was stationed at Hampton Roads, Virginia, at the beginning of the Civil War. Fifteen days after this letter was written, the ship would be grounded and badly damaged during the pivotal Battle of Hampton Roads. 

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Manuscripts, Documents, Letters, Ephemera, Signatures, Autographs] [Navy, Naval History, Brown Water Navy, David Glasgow Farragut, David Dixon Porter, Battle of Mobile Bay, Battle of New Orleans, Blockade, Confederate Blockade] 

Minor light stains.