Controversial is the legacy of General Benjamin Butler, the famed “Beast” of New Orleans.  He held several professional titles during his life including lawyer, general, governor, and congressman.  Best known today for his military governorship of New Orleans and largely ineffective leadership at the head of the Army of the James, he enjoyed considerably more success in his other ventures.  By the 1870’s, he successfully lobbied for the passage of the 1875 Civil Rights Act and became a champion of workers’ rights on the national stage.

This letter is folded vertically into 4 sections with 2 lighter horizontal folds and is addressed to the agent of the steam ship Star in the East.  A short note, it directs the recipient to give “disabled soldier” Owen Sweeny transport to Augusta, “on account of National Asylum.” It is signed by Benjamin Butler and written in his own hand.  The letter is dated June 15^th, 1871.  A faded pencil notation at lower left appears to feature his signature and his title. The reverse shows evidence of previous mounting with light staining.

An interesting piece from the post-war life of one of the Civil War’s most notable figures with a reference to a disabled soldier.  Certainly a great item of ephemera for any collection. [cm][ph:L]

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