Col. Robert F. Taylor, 1st New York Veteran Cavalry, writes on May 17, 1864 and describes the action at the Battle of New Market, Virginia, which took place on May 15th. This is where the VMI Cadets helped the Confederates defeat Union Major General Franz Sigel. Twice Taylor’s Cavalry charged the rebel infantry, but they were driven back with the loss of 14 men, including Capt. John J. Carter (who won the Medal of Honor for Antietam). During the charge at New Market, “A shell passed through his horse’s neck and exploded, pieces of it striking Carter in the face”! The concussion so completely paralyzed him that for several hours, “He was unconscious and unable to speak”!
Written clearly in ink, Colonel’s letters describing battles are rare! Letters regarding the Battle of New Market are especially desirable!
#L59– Price $795
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