Existing comment:
Robert E. Lee's General Order No. 9
Photo-reproduction of library original
Upon Confederate General Robert E. Lee's surrender to the Union Army at Appomattox Court House he made his farewell address to his men. Lee's general order to cease fighting and return home is poignant in its simplicity and gratitude for the efforts of those who fought and sacrificed for the cause of the South under his leadership. Transcribed by a clerk at the Headquarters of the Army of Northern Virginia, twelve original copies were made to be sent to Lee's regiments, with an additional copy given to the clerk. Immediately the Order began being duplicated with versions disseminating across the country. Some of these, such as the Order No. 9 held by the Maryland Historical Society, are signed by Lee himself. |