^#1765 ^Lot 1825 Negro Regiment

War-dated LS signed “P. H. Watson,” one page, 7.75 x 8, War Department letterhead, April 3, 1863. Letter to D. S. Curtis. In full: “The Secretary of War directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 2nd instant requesting authority to raise and command a negro regiment; and, in reply, to inform you that your communication has been placed on the files of the Adjutant General for consideration.” Paper loss to uneven bottom edge, show-through from docketing on reverse and a bit of scattered light toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition. The Bureau of Colored Troops was not established until May of 1863, as such, this letter is an early reference to a request for a unit formation.