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Written on January 5, 1880, from his home in New Straitsville, Ohio, Phisterer writes to his old friend, Townsend, to tell him that he had that morning received notice that he was being passed over for a position as Assistant Adjutant General, rank of Colonel, in Ohio. He writes that losing out on the position was due to politics and jealousy due to his previous role in organizing the Governor's Guard in that state, and he was "beginning to feel blue," but later that same day he received a letter from Townsend. In that letter, Townsend had offered Phisterer very nearly the same position - Acting Assistant Adjutant General, rank of Colonel - but in the State of New York. Phisterer was overwhelmed by the "kind and generous offer," writing "I can scarcely understand how I have deserved all your favors, and though men usually think a great deal of themselves, I must confess you must think more of me, than I do myself. If my acceptance will not put you in any kind of difficulty, & not lay you open to any charges, I shall with the greatest pleasure accept the position." He closes the letter "With many heartfelt thanks, my dear General, I am yours, Fred Phisterer." Frederick Phisterer (1836-1909) received the Medal of Honor for passing along information "under a heavy fire" at the Battle of Stones River (Murfreesboro), in Tennessee in 1862. The information was credited with saving a battalion of regular troops from "capture or annihilation." Later in life, Phisterer compiled the 6 volume New York in the War of the Rebellion. General Frederick Townsend (1825-1897) was an Officer of the US Army s 18th Infantry. He also served three terms as Adjutant General of the State of New York, both before the Civil War, from 1857-1861, and after, from 1880-1882. Phisterer served as Townsend s Adjutant of the 2nd Battalion in Stones River/Murfreesboro. Written on the first two pages of a sheet of lightly ruled writing paper. Measures approximately 8" x 10" when unfolded. Condition: Fold lines, slightly faded ink at lower right corner of page 1. Generally in very good condition with a strong signature. Seller Inventory # A00913
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