^Lot 399 Ambrose E. Burnside

Union general and onetime commander of the Army of the Potomac (1824–1881); the distinctive whiskers he sported gave rise to the word ‘sideburns.’ War-dated ALS signed “A. E. Burnside,” one page, 7.7 x 7.75, Head-Quarters Department letterhead, June 9, 1862. In full: “Will you please give an order for my little steamer to have coal, and allow the same pilot that brought her up top return with her to-night—he is the captain of the small boat you sent down with the dredge for the canal—Nothing new—I am ordered up to see McClellan.” Double matted and framed with a portrait of Burnside to an overall size of 19 x 12.5. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a few wrinkles, and some scattered light toning. Provenance: Christies Sale 2361, December 3, 2010.