Raynors HCA 2014-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/6/2014
THOMAS H. RUGER (1833-1907) Wisconsin native who graduated #3 in the class of 1854 that also produced eight Confederate and three Union generals. During the war, Ruger commanded the 3rd Wisconsin against Stonewall Jackson in the Valley, commanded a brigade at Antietam (where he was wounded), commanded a division in the 12th Corps during the battle of Gettysburg (where he cited for "gallant and meritorious" conduct during the battle), and was brevet major general for his heroic actions during the battle of Franklin, Tenn. His postwar career included being provisional Gov. of Georgia in 1868, superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point, 1871-1876 and commander of the Department of the South, 1876-1878. Ruger writes four letters (10pages) to father primarily reviewing his studies in Math Ethics, Philosophy, French and others. Through these letters Ruger's determination and self-discipline is clearly expressed. The majority of the letters are signed "T.H. Ruger, and occasionally “Howard Ruger." In very small part: "…[6/12/51], "You need not fear anything for the result of the examination in French and Ethics, as it does not amount to anything …" …[1/8/52] "I have been dieting for the last three days, have diminished my coffee at breakfast to half … There were 16 found deficient in the Plebe class this January. … In math I expect to stay about the same standing. …[11/4/52] "You speak of the report from the Sec of War and that you were pleased to see that I had no demerits. A person who has not been here does not know how liable a person is to get demerits. … I expect you will hear that I have some soon." …[1/28/54] "… I have concluded to get into the Engineers if I can. .. if I go into the Engineers, I will probably be sent to California.." Ruger writes nine letters (26pages) to his mother, these a little more personal in nature, yet still focused on studies and life at West Point. The majority of the letters are signed "T.H. Ruger," or, "Howard Ruger." In small part, [1/15/1850] "I never heard of anyone saying that he liked a Cadet's life better than a Citizens." …[11/19/1850] "The regulations for furniture are posted on every door, as there is a place for chairs, shoes, beds, books, clothes, guns, workstand, looking glass, everything in fact …".. [9/21/1851] "They give us more to do each year because they think we can do more .." [3/22/1851] "…There is no use in looking back at a man whose coat is on your back …" [2/15/1851] "I like the order which is kept here in everything, but as you know I always like to have a voice in the matter if it concerns myself. It was quite hard to do exactly as others wish at first, but it soon wore off." [9/7/1851] "How do you make the hunting … for my part I would give a good deal for a good hunt .." …[12/11/1853] "It is getting to be time for me to decide what corps of the army I am to enter … the staff corps are the highest, the Engineers, Topographical Engineers and Ordinance" …[4/15/1854] "My wife when I get married some 8 or 10 years from now, and if she has money enough to support me, I will resign…." [8/11 no year] "… two others and myself started for the top of Crows Nest not forgetting to take a good eyeglass along to take a look at the country … be seen several villages along the river … and looking down on the camp, the tents looked small enough …" His father is concerned about his West Point demerits in these two letters to Ruger to include, [10/14/1850], 3pp., in small part, "I have received the report of the Secretary of War and am glad to see that you have not any marks of demerit. … I intended to send you a little money … learn from the Secretary of War that is a punishable offence …" … plus, [5/20/1852, 2pp., in part, "I am glad to see that you are … getting up in Drawing and in French. But I regret that you have more demerits this year than last…." Five letters to Ruger from his Mother, with a lot of home news content. We select a few excerpts to include, [12/22/1850], 3pp., in part, "I think you are studying to hard, after the examinations I hope it will not be necessary." … plus, [11/16/1851],1pp., in part, "… the sad news of your uncle Morgan's death .. He was taken in full health with apoplexy … died the next evening … never spoke after he was taken …"plus, [4/18/no year], 1pp., in part, "I always think that if you are well, that is the best news, next best is your good standing. …" … plus, [5/19/no year], 3pp., in part, "I wish you could spend this encampment at home. I don't see why they cannot permit you to do so …" … plus, [7/16/ no year] 1pp., in part, "I sent you some things and I wish we were rich enough to send you some money. …" This grouping includes four letters to Ruger from brother and sister.Most of the content addresses home news of the family and Ruger's friends. Twenty-one letters to Ruger from his Aunt Elisa to Ruger. Elisa is very encouraging and again provides Ruger with updates on the family and friends from home. Seven letters to Ruger from his Uncle Bradley. Nicely written letters with friends and family news. Finally, four letters to Ruger from his various friends and relatives including a cousin and a Frier. In total, there are 13 letters by Ruger at West Point; and 43 letters written to Ruger while he was at West Point; an archive of 56 Cadet Ruger Letters.
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