Description

Description: In this one-page autograph letter signed, Sherman writes to his close friend/companion Margaret Middleton. He states in part: “I now have the tickets for the matinee… Dec 3 at 2pm — and renew the invitation — my understanding is that you come to us for lunch punctual at 1pm and immediately after we go to the Broadway Theatre. I fear the performance will be too long, but I will take you home at any time you and I become tired…”

Letter is written on one side (9 1/4″ x 5 1/2″) of a folded piece of ruled stationery. Sherman writes from his home at 75 West 71st St. New York City. Comes with the original transmittal envelope addressed in Sherman’s hand. Item #A01429

William Tecumseh Sherman (1820-1891) served in the US military for a number of years before resigning to spend more than a decade as a banker, businessman, and superintendent of a military academy. He rejoined the military for the US Civil War, becoming one of its most famous generals for leading Union troops across the south in “scorched earth” campaigns. After the War, he continued his military career and was promoted to General of the Army, his troops primarily fighting Native Americans along the wagon trails and railroads. In retirement, he was a constant presence at New York’s theatres, lectures, and galleries, and also occasionally thrilled audiences at speaking engagements.

Margaret Lee Middleton (1848-1921) was a Manhattan socialite, who was a skilled and respected genealogist and librarian for many years. She also dedicated a portion of her time to work with charitable organizations. Like Sherman, she was an aficionado of theatre and the arts. Although she was nearly three decades younger than Sherman, the two struck up a close relationship in the 1880s based on their common interests, and often attended events together. It seems they may have been introduced by mutual friend, Mary Thompson Hunt, whose 1884 death brought them closer.

Condition: Letter has mailing fold lines, otherwise very good. (Envelope has multiple water spots).