Auction details |
163. (A MASSACHUSETTS COLONEL IS PRESENTED WITH A SWORD AFTER GETTYSBURG) A rare war-date manuscript speech written by 1st Lieut. Edwin C. Bennett, 22nd Massachusetts Vol., in period ink, 5pp. 8vo., Culpeper, [Va.], Oct. 1863 being a rousing speech given, by him on behalf of the regiment, to Col. William S. Tilton during the presentation of a sword, sash, and spurs as a token of their appreciation for his service, in part: "I have been deputed by the officers of this regiment to address you in a complimentary...tenor, and to present you tokens...of their high appreciation of your merits as a man and officer. After two years of service...toils and privations...we are cheered in the performance of our duties for fraternal attachments...many a friend...has sealed his devotion with his blood...while we mourn the noble departed, we delight to honor the living...you...have been identified with this regiment from the date of its organization, leaving the Bay State as major...on the Peninsula, your fidelity...and attachment to the regiment, were ever conspicuous. Wounded and captured at Gaine's Mill you rejoined us as Lieut. Col....and conducted us through...Antietan and Fredericksburg. After...Fredericksburg, you was...commissioned...Col...in midsummer `wild war's cruel blast' rang out upon our Borders, menacing our homes...at Gettysburg, where the 5th Corps...roll[ed] back the tide of invasion in wreak and dismay. Your...skill of management on that occasion not only excited the enthusiasm and admiration of the brigade, but also received the encomiums of your superiors. This brilliant record belongs not to you alone. We claim it as part and parcel of glory of the twenty-second...the history of [which]...many a bright page is yet to be added...I request you to accept this sword, sash, and spurs, and with them our best...congratulations on your restoration to health and active usefulness...". Both men served faithfully throughout the remainder of the war. Tilton reached the rank of brevet brigadier general while Bennett achieved the rank of brevet lieut. colonel before the war's end. A most unusual speech, as war-date presentation speeches for sword and the like, are seldom encountered in the marketplace. Near fine. $700-900
ImagesClick on thumbnails to see larger images: 
View Alexander Autographs, Inc. next auction.Similar lots up for auction |
486355
