BUST VIEW CDV OF MAJOR GENERAL ERASMUS D KEYS

$75.00 SOLD
Originally $85.00

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Item Code: P12956

Nice, clear bust view image of Keys wearing the double-breasted frock coat of a Major General. Back mark is Richards’ Photograph Gallery in Philadelphia. Period pencil inscription at top reads "Gen. Keys."

Erasmus D. Keys was born in Brimfield, Mass. on May 29, 1810 but while still young his family moved to Maine. Keys attended West Point and graduated 10th in the Class of 1832 and was appointed a Lieutenant in the 3rd US Artillery. Keys pre-war service was varied and interesting. He was an instructor, visited many different posts having duty in each and spent time in the Pacific Northwest chasing Indians.

When the Civil War broke out Keys was promoted to Colonel of the 11th US Infantry. He fought at 1st Bull Run as commander of the 1st Brigade, 1st Division under General Tyler. In August of 1861 he was promoted to Brigadier General of Volunteers and was given command of the IV Corps of the Army of the Potomac. Keys led the IV Corps during the Peninsula Campaign and the Seven Days battles before Richmond. When the campaign was over and the army shifted to northern Virginia, Keys and his Corps were left behind to become part of General John Dix’s Department of Virginia. On March 12, 1863 Keys was promoted to Major General of Volunteers to rank from May 5, 1862.

During the Gettysburg Campaign Keys was assigned by General Dix to threaten Richmond. Keys did not perform to Dix’s satisfaction and was relieved of command. He spent the rest of his service in administrative duties. He resigned from the Army on May 6, 1864.

After the war Keys moved to California and was involved in mining and banking. While on a trip to Europe with his wife he died in Nice, France on October 14, 1895. He is buried in West Point Cemetery.

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