Civil War Miscellaneous
1885 First Edition "Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant"
1885/86-Dated, First Edition, Complete Full Two Volume Set titled, "Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant", Volumes 1 & 2, Published by Charles L. Webster & Company, New York, NY, Fine.
Both Volumes of this complete set measure to 9" x 6.25" with Volume One consisting of 584 pages and Volume Two having 647 pages. Both volumes are in used condition, bearing few signs of wear from use. The original green hardcovers remain intact, the Volume 1 having some lightness and discoloration to the top quarter, yet very clean and nice within. Volume II, the cover boards with typical rubbing, the print is bold and the interior quite nice.
The facsimile of the original Terms of Lee' s Surrender, as written by General Grant is wholly intact. Also includes the printed "facsimile" inscription in Volume I by Grant that reads, "These volumes are dedicated to the American soldier and sailor. - U.S. Grant., New York City, May 23d, 1885." While many mistakenly believe such sets were inscribed by Grant's own hand, he actually died days after the manuscript was handed over to the publisher and never lived to see the manuscript in book form. A nice original complete set, which has a gold embossed image of U. S. Grant on its covers. (2 Vol. Set).
The "Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant" is an autobiography written by Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a renowned Civil War general. The memoir was published in two volumes, with the first volume covering Grant's early life, his military career leading up to the Civil War, and his experiences during the war up to the fall of Vicksburg in 1863.
The second volume continues the narrative, covering Grant's leadership during the later stages of the Civil War, including the battles of Chattanooga, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, and the Siege of Petersburg, leading to the eventual surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Court House.
Grant wrote the memoir during the final stages of his life when he was suffering from terminal cancer, primarily to provide financial security for his family. Despite his failing health, Grant wrote with clarity and insight, providing valuable firsthand accounts of the Civil War and his perspectives on the major events and personalities of his time.
The "Personal Memoirs of U.S. Grant" is regarded as one of the most important works of American literature, not only for its historical significance but also for its literary merit. Grant's straightforward and unadorned writing style, coupled with his firsthand knowledge of the events he describes, makes the memoir a compelling and invaluable resource for historians and readers interested in the Civil War era.
The memoir has been praised for its honesty, humility, and its portrayal of Grant as a military leader and a man of integrity. It remains a classic work in American literature and an essential primary source for understanding the Civil War and its aftermath.