Dated “Headquarters 2 Brig, 1^st Div. 19^th A.C. Franklin La. February 20^th, 1864. Titled—"General Orders No. 1.” 2 pp., in ink, w/endorsement. 10.75” x 7.75”. Exhibits fold-marks, else fine.  Written one month before the commencement of the ill-fated Red River Campaign, pitting Gen. Banks Union forces against Gen. Richard Taylor’s rebels. Text:

“In compliance with Special Orders #4, extract II from Corps Headquarter the undersigned assumes command of the 2^nd Brigade 1^st Div. 19^th A.C. The following officers will temporarily compose his staff and be obeyed and respected accordingly;

Capt. B.P. Hervy Asst. Adjt General and Chief of staff / 1^st Lieut Albert Tildan 26 Mass. Vet. Vols. Aide de Camp / 1^st Lieut. Archibald Starkweather 26 Mass. Vet. Vols Aide de Camp /Capt. John A. Lynch 26^th Mass. Vet. Vols Asst. Inspector General / 1^st Lieut. John S. Bergen 173^rd N.Y. Vols Apt quarter Master…Jas. W McMillan /Brig Genl. Vols.”

General James Winning McMillan served as a sergeant in the Mexican War and during the Civil War was promoted Brig. General of Vols, 11/29/1862. He was engaged with the army of Gen. B.F. Butler, and in conjunction with Farragut’s naval forces participated in the capture of the blockade runner “Fox”, one of the richest prices of the war. He particularly distinguished himself during the disastrous Red River Campaign, where, after Gen. Franklin was wounded and Gen. Emory assumed command of the corps, he succeeded to command of the first Division. With this division he held the ground at Sabine Cross-roads and covered the retreat of the federal army, saving it from destruction. He was brevetted major-general of volunteers, March 5, 1865, and resigned from the army May 15 following. He subsequently received an appointment as a member of the board of review of the United States pension office. Gen. McMillan died March, 1903.

Excellent memento of a distinguished Union division commander. Invites further research. In protective sleeve.  [JP]

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