This is the first document that we have had regarding the gallantry of Boomer’s Brigade at the fight for Vicksburg.  We are offering a letter from Gen. E. A. Carr writing to Gen. U. S. Grant.  This was apparently the official retained copy.  Col. Boomer led the 26^th Missouri and during the Vicksburg Campaign commanded the 3^rd Brigade, 7^th Division of the 17^th Corps.  Col. Boomer was killed leading his brigade on the assault of Vicksburg May 22, 1863.  Our letter is dated May 25, 1863, “Head Quarters 14^th Division near Vicksburg”. 

                Here is the great content:
                                                                                                                                Head Quarters 14^th Division
                                                                                                                        Near Vicksburg, May 23^rd, 1863

General,

            I desire to record my testimony to the gallant conduct of Boomer’s
Brigade of your Division on the 22^nd inst., in the attack on the defense of
Vicksburg. 

            The only chance to secure the lodgment made by my Division on the
enemies’ works was evidently to send reinforcements to them; and though
it entailed the loss of brave men, I felt that the importance of the object
made it absolutely necessary to try.

            Col. Boomer formed his Brigade in two lines, placed himself in the
centre, and marched them forward in the most gallant style.

            The enemy had been heavily reinforced and the Brigade was met
with a tremendous storm of bullets, but not a man flinched. 

            They moved forward steadily down the hill, scrambled across the
first ravine and were just formed to advance to the next when Boomer
was struck down.

            Col. Putnam was about to continue the advance when he learned
that the last words of Boomer were not to attempt to charge those works.

            I was glad that no farther advance was made for it proved that the
enemy had had time to concentrate so strongly in front, that it was
impossible to take his works. 

            When ordered to retire the Brigade moved back steadily, took up
its assigned position and held it until order away.

Besides being a gallant and noble soldier Col. Boomer was a personal
friend of mine, and I keenly feel his loss, but he died at the head of his
Command nobly performing his duty to his country and to the cause.

                                                            Very Respectfully

                                                            Your Obdt. Servt.

                                                            (signed)   E. A. Carr

                                                                                    Brig. Genl.

Official

(Signed)    W. C. Rochester

                     Asst. Adjt. Genl.

 

Official

                     Robert Clemwell

                    Capt. A.A.A.G

                                        The letter is docketed: “Hd. Qts. 14^th Div. May 25^th 1863, Letter from 
                                        Genl. Carr in regards to the conduct of 3^rd Brigade 7^th Div. in a 
                                            charge made May 22, 63.” 

The document measures 7 ½ x 12 ½ inches and is in overall fine condition with minor staining and aging.  A very historic document!

#L147 - Price $595

Bottom half of front:

Top half of back: