1863 Civil War Rogersville TN Letter Group Basil Duke Andrew Johnson content For Sale

Original grouping of two handwritten Civil War-era letters written from Rogersville, Hawkins County, Tennessee, including a letter dated June 3, 1863, and an additional related letter or partial letter by the same correspondent, signed with the initials “W.H.S.” Both letters were written to the same recipient, “Miss Annie,” and together provide an engaging firsthand glimpse into life and politics in East Tennessee during the American Civil War.

The June 3, 1863 letter contains several historically significant references, including Confederate cavalry commander Basil W. Duke, discussion of Union and Secession sentiment in East Tennessee, possible troop movements through the mountain gaps, and a likely reference to Unionist leader Andrew Johnson. The companion letter is more personal in nature, discussing the writer’s affection for East Tennessee, his desire to eventually leave the region, his sister Mrs. Cox in Arkansas, and his thoughts on the future. The correspondence captures both the political uncertainty and personal reflections of an educated East Tennessean living amid one of the most divided regions of the Civil War.

Both letters remain in good condition with expected mailing folds, light toning, scattered age-related wear, and minor edge wear consistent with their age. The June 3 letter features period cross-writing on one page, making portions more difficult to read. The signature is abbreviated “W.H.S.” and the writer has not been positively identified. Please review all photographs carefully for condition and content.