Title:
William T. Sherman – ALS to Gen. Thomas J. Wood – Dated January 11, 1869 – Beckett Certified

Description:
Historic Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by General William T. Sherman, penned on official Headquarters Military Division of the Missouri stationery and dated January 11, 1869, from St. Louis. Addressed to General Thomas J. Wood, the two-page letter discusses political support for a postmaster appointment in Lexington, Kentucky, and features Sherman’s bold and full signature at the conclusion:
"W. T. Sherman / General."

Full Transcription:

Saint Louis Jan 11, 1869
Gen. T. J. Wood
Dear Gen'l –
Your of Jan 8 is received touching the appointment of Col. Rice by Postmaster Gen. at Lexington, Ky. Certainly I will help him here all I can.
I think he should make a (?) application for the office and get the endorsement of several of the citizens of Lexington. spirit as for the enthusiasm to serve the U.S. from every portion of the city & people. (?) Thomas being in Kentucky should endorse first. You
(page 2)
+ I afterword. when he could hold the paper till a new Postmaster General is announced.
Yours truly,
W. T. Sherman
General.

The letter is handwritten entirely in Sherman’s hand, folded once horizontally and vertically with light age toning and minor wear consistent with postal handling. The ink remains dark and highly legible throughout.

Historical Context:
William Tecumseh Sherman (1820–1891) was among the most influential Union generals of the Civil War and later served as Commanding General of the U.S. Army from 1869 to 1883. Just nine months after the end of Andrew Johnson’s presidency, Sherman was managing military affairs in the Department of the Missouri, a key command during the Reconstruction era.

This letter, written in early 1869—before Ulysses S. Grant was inaugurated president—demonstrates Sherman’s involvement in local political appointments and civilian-military relations. The mention of Col. Rice, his potential appointment as Postmaster of Lexington, Kentucky, and the need for endorsements reflects the highly personal and political nature of such roles in the postwar United States.

The recipient, General Thomas J. Wood (1823–1906), was also a distinguished Union officer, having served with notable success during the war. Sherman's recommendation of Rice and mention of “Thomas being in Kentucky” as a possible supporter, suggests a coordinated effort among Union officers to back trusted candidates for important civil positions.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Certified authentic by Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).

• Certification Number: 0001666030

• Encapsulated in a crystal-clear BAS slab, ensuring long-term preservation and display.

• Signature and handwritten content by W. T. Sherman, verified as authentic.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This exceptional ALS from General William T. Sherman provides an uncommon glimpse into the post-Civil War administrative duties of one of America’s most important military leaders. Rich in political and historical content, and addressed to fellow Union General Thomas J. Wood, the letter is a powerful example of Reconstruction-era networking, combining military prestige with civil authority. A rare and desirable acquisition for collectors of Union leadership, Civil War history, and presidential-era government documents.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.