Title:
General George B. McClellan Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) Discussing Civil War Maps and Failing Eyesight – Santiago, June 20, 1864 – PSA Letter of Authenticity #AR05358

Description:
A remarkable Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by General George B. McClellan, written entirely in his hand and signed "Geo. B. McClellan," from Santiago, dated June 20, 1864. Penned during his travels following his removal from command of the Army of the Potomac, the letter is addressed to Professor A. D. Bache, one of America's leading scientists and Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Survey.

In this warm personal letter, McClellan thanks Professor Bache for forwarding an admirable collection of war maps, expressing sincere appreciation for the thoughtful gift. He apologizes for not acknowledging their receipt sooner, explaining that severe eye trouble has prevented him from reading or writing for a period of time. He concludes by sending his regards to Mrs. Bache and extending best wishes to the professor.

Full Transcription:

Santiago, June 20, 1864

My dear Professor,

Your kind note of May 27 duly reached me, as well as the admirable collection of War Maps sent to me by your direction. Please accept my sincere thanks for them, and my apology for so long neglecting to acknowledge their receipt.

My eyes troubled me for a time from overwork so that I was obliged to write as little as possible and had to postpone all writing for a time.

With the sincere hope that your health is restored and with my regards to Mrs. Bache—in which, as well as to yourself, Mrs. McClellan desires to unite.

Ever remaining your friend,

Geo. B. McClellan

Prof. A. D. Bache

The single-page manuscript letter remains in very good condition, exhibiting expected fold lines, light age toning, and minor handling wear consistent with its age. McClellan's flowing signature is bold and attractive, providing excellent display quality.

Historical Context:
This letter was written during a pivotal period in George B. McClellan's life. Having been relieved of command of the Army of the Potomac by President Abraham Lincoln in late 1862, McClellan spent portions of 1864 traveling abroad before returning to the United States to accept the Democratic nomination for President later that year.

The recipient, Professor Alexander Dallas Bache, was among the most respected American scientists of the nineteenth century. As Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Survey, Bache played an essential role in supporting Union military operations by producing accurate topographical surveys and maps used extensively by Union commanders during the Civil War. McClellan's gratitude for Bache's collection of war maps reflects both his professional interest in military cartography and the importance of accurate mapping to Civil War strategy.

Equally compelling is McClellan's candid admission that overworked eyes had temporarily prevented him from reading and writing, providing an intimate glimpse into the physical toll endured by one of the Civil War's most prominent generals. Letters discussing his health and personal circumstances, rather than battlefield operations or politics, are considerably scarcer and offer collectors a more personal perspective on McClellan's life during the war.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
The signature has been fully authenticated by PSA Authentication.

• PSA Letter of Authenticity Certification Number: AR05358
• One-page Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) entirely in McClellan's hand.
• Boldly signed "Geo. B. McClellan."
• Accompanied by the original PSA Letter of Authenticity with matching certification number and reference image.
• 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:
An outstanding Civil War-era autograph letter combining military history, personal reflection, and historical association. McClellan's discussion of Civil War maps supplied by the distinguished scientist Alexander Dallas Bache, coupled with his revealing comments about his failing eyesight, creates an unusually personal and historically significant manuscript. Fully authenticated by PSA, this is an exceptional opportunity to acquire an important letter from one of the Union Army's most famous generals during one of the defining years of the American Civil War.

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.