Raynor HCA 2014-04
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2014
A good immediate postwar Union General's letter, 1 1/2pp 4to., signed by WILLIAM HOFFMAN (1807-1884) adding rank as brevet brigadier general commanding general of prisoner, on "Office of the Commissary General of Prisoners" stationery, Washington, D. C., Sep[t. 6, 1865 to brevet Lt. Col. Surgeon James H. Thompson [formerly of the 12th Maine]. Thompson was assigned to Point Lookout in 1864 and later served in the Soldier's Home in Washington, in part: "As you have been relieved from duty at the Depot of Prisoners of War at Point Lookout. I will…express to you my high appreciation of the efficient manner in which you have performed the laborious and responsible duties of your office. At the time you were assigned to duty at the Depot the sanitary condition of the camp and hospital was very unfavorable, but your energy and good judgement governed by proper humane feelings soon inaugurated measures which brought about most commendable reforms…the sick were supplied with everything necessary to their comfort…the hospital fund was so judiciously managed as to leave a surplus of over $ 25,000 to be returned to the Subsistence Department…as a reward for your services the War Department has given you a brevet…". Interestingly, Thompson's diary can now be found in the Michigan Historical Society. Minor fold splits, else VG.
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