Dated Washington, DC. / August 3, 1863. 11 pp., 4.75” x 7.25. In pristine condition, w/two ring holes, left margin.

This order details the charges of murder brought against six citizens of Missouri, acting as rebel insurgents and bushwhackers in the spring and summer of 1862. Tried by military commission, all pleaded not guilty to all specifications, were found guilty and sentenced to be shot to death.

In all cases but one, the sentence of death was set aside as inoperative, the officer ordering the commission failing to approve it, with the prisoners being released. The proceedings in the case of Thomas J. Caldwell, however, were submitted to the President of the United States, who approved the sentence and directed that it be carried to execution. [Caldwell was accused of being a member of guerrillas who waylaid a party of Union soldiers led by and having shot one Captain Beard to death].

Here is an instance of one Missouri guerrilla whose death sentence Abraham Lincoln would not commute. Invites further research. In protective sleeve.   [jp][ph:L]

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