^#1655 ^Lot 1713 William H. French

Union general (1815–1881) who participated in the Florida Wars and the Mexican War. He commanded a brigade of the 2nd Corps during the Peninsular campaign, and a division of the corps at Antietam. He also fought in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and commanded the District of Harpers Ferry during the Gettysburg campaign. War-dated ALS signed “Wm. H. French, Maj. Gen. V.,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, embossed letterhead, February 27, 1863. General French writes a letter of recommendation from the Headquarters of the 3rd Division, 2nd Corps, Army of the Potomac to Captain William A. Kirk, 57th New York Volunteers, in full: “Having applied to me for such testimony as regards your military service whilst under my command, it is in my power to state that I have known you since the 1st December 1861, and have noticed your conduct as an officer up to September 1862 when I was assigned to a superior command. You have always been a zealous and indefatigable soldier, at your post, day & night. I have frequently called on your for special duty of the Peninsula and remember your valuable services in the battle of Fair Oaks. Should your services be brought to especial notice for the purpose of promotion, I am sure an inquiry into them would ensure to you success.” Intersecting folds, a few trivial areas of paper loss, a moderate area of soiling towards the top edge of the first page, and some scattered light toning, otherwise very good condition.