Early Military Justice As A Traitor Is Shot In Front Of His Division

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004

An unusual war-date ink inscribed Union soldier’s 4pp. 4to., letter written by Corp. Benjamin F. Baldwin, Co. B, 16th New York Vol. “Camp Franklin”, [Washington], Dec. 15, 1861 concerning the execution of a deserter, in part: “…while…on picket…one of our cavalry men deserted…and was making his way to the Rebels at Fair Fax…he enspied an officer with a few mounted men…& supposing them to be Rebels he advanced& gave himself up…he gave all information in regard to our pickets also our arms here. Told…how they could get into our lines & take several hundred men…the officer got what news he wanted. He ordered Mr. Traitor to dismount…the officer proved to be Col. [Alfred W.] Taylor of the N. Y. 4th with a squad of men…he was tried by court martial & sentenced to be shot on…the 13th of Dec. our division (Gen. Franklin’s) were brought together…to witness the execution…such another case I do not wish to see. He had eleven bullets shot through him…[Lieut.] Col. [Samuel] Marsh [MWIA Gaines Mills June 27, 62]…is well. [He] sends his best regards. He is one of my best friends…our Capt. has resigned…”. Baldwin served faithfully throughout the remainder of his service being discharged in May 1863, but not after being wounded in battle. Very good.

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