Description:

John B. Magruder
Boston, MA, October 24, 1869
J. Magruder's Speech "was frequently interrupted by many rounds of applause"
ALS

John Bankhead Magruder (1807-1871) autograph letter signed. One page of a small bifolium, 3.8" x 4.9" (unfolds to 7.6" x 4.9"); Boston; October 24, 1869. The former Confederate general sends a notice to a "Colo. Phillips" of the New York Herald of an address recently delivered in Boston. Light offsetting around the signature, rough edge along the bottom, and a mounting strip along integral fold. Recipient's filing docket at top right and later annotation in pencil on blank integral.

In full:

"To Colo Phillips – NY Herald –
My Dear Sir

I avail myself to our old acquaintance to ask you to have some notice of my reception here as a lecturer as it means something more than personal kindness. I send the comments of the Press. My lecture was frequently interrupted by many rounds of applause. Do what you think right.

Yours very truly
J Bankhead Magruder."

After the Confederacy's defeat in the Civil War, Magruder went into exile in Mexico, where he entered the service of Emperor Maximilian I. When Maximilian's regime collapsed in 1867, Magruder returned to the United States and settled in Houston. In 1869 he was invited to lecture in many major cities, including Boston, where audiences were curious to hear a firsthand account of his experiences in Mexico and his reflections on the aftermath of the war. As evidenced by this letter, he was warmly received.

The letter is accompanied by a later photographic portrait of Magruder.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 7.6" x 4.9"
  • Medium: ALS

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