Description:

Civil War
Richmond, VA, December 5, 1863
Captain Tattnall Paulding ALS From Libby Prison During 9 Months as POW
ALS
An autograph letter signed by Captain Tattnall Paulding of the 3rd US Cavalry while in captivity at Libby Prison. 1p, measuring 6.75" x 8.5", Richmond, dated December 5, 1863. Signed "T. Paulding" and addressed to his father, Admiral Hiram Paulding. He writes to thank his father for a recent package and letters before instructing him on how he might keep or sell his horse, "Dunder." With flattened mail folds. Light mounting residue on verso. Overall very fine. Paulding was in almost constant correspondence with his family during his internment, and his letters provide incredible source accounts of life in Libby Prison.

In part:
"I wrote you a few days since acknowledging receipt of the box shipped to me on the 17th ult. Three days ago I received your letter of 24th & 25 and Emma's of 21st which were very welcome. I received also a not from Mrs. Morris who has sent me a box for distribution and a few articles for myself. She tells me that my horse is in Washington. I dislike to part with 'Dunder' on account of his having done me such good service but he is a good deal stiffened by constant & hard work & I will have to look for another horse before I again go into the field. He would do good service on the farm or as a saddle horse for the girls - being free from other defects than those consequent on hard work & is as gentle as possible…I am entitled to forage, but do not know how to get it. It cannot be drawn for past months. Perhaps the Qr. Ma. in Washington will tell Mr. Morris how it can be drawn for future months. I am very well. Please write me often. You will realize my constant anxiety to hear from dear mother. I trust that the bracing air of winter will restore her to health…"

Capt. Tattnall Paulding (1840-1907) received his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant on May 14, 1861 and was appointed to the 3rd US Cavalry. He served with distinction through the campaigns of 1862, Stoneman's Raid and the Battle of Brandy Station. During the Gettysburg Campaign, Paulding commanded a unit against Confederate cavalry General "Grumble" Jones. Although his regiment was outnumbered and overrun, Paulding received a brevet promotion to captain for ‘gallant and meritorious service' during the battle. At the Battle of Brandy Station, Paulding was captured and spent the following next nine months confined in Libby Prison. He was eventually released in August 1864 and promoted to captain in the 6th U.S. Cavalry.

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: 6.75" x 8.5"
  • Medium: ALS

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