• A handwritten letter that takes up almost two whole pages.
    Download Image

    A letter, dated July 10th 1863, from Major General George Stoneman praising Thaddeus Lowe's achievements in balloon reconnaissance during the Civil War. The letter reads: 

    Washington DC
    July 10th 1863

    My dear Sir

    Before we part I beg leave to testify to you in writing as I often have in words, my appreciation of the valuable services you have rendered the Govt during your connection with the Army of the Potomac in the use of your "portable Balloons" in the various operation of that Army.

    I have been up in them often and never made an ascent without coming down much better informed in regard to everything in my vicinity than I could possibly have been by any other means...

    I trust you will not be discouraged but will persevere in your laudable endeavours to serve the Govt and the cause, feeling assured that in the end you will be able to do away with the prejudices with which you have had to contend, and prove to the world the great utility of Balloons and Balloon Signals in the conduct of a war, and remain

    Very truly yours
    George Stoneman
    Maj Genl
    Comdg Cavly Corps

  • A handwritten letter that takes up almost two whole pages.

ID#:

NASM-99-40778 and NASM 99-40779

Source:

Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

Copyright/Owner:

Smithsonian Institution

Rights Usage:

Usage conditions apply

Terms of Use:

Smithsonian Terms of Use

For print or commercial use please see permissions information.