Civil War Telegram Order Signed by Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler – August 9th, 1861, Annapolis

Civil War Telegram Order Signed by Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler – August 9th, 1861, Annapolis - Inventory Number: DOC 387

Rare and historically significant handwritten military order issued and signed by Major General Benjamin F. Butler, dated August 9th [1861], from Annapolis, Maryland. Penned in bold ink entirely in Butler’s hand, the directive reads:

“The dispatch to the Associated Press will be telegraphed according to the direction. No other telegraphic matter will be sent over the wires to Washington containing war information. On public service – Benj. F. Butler, Maj. Genl. Comdg.”

Addressed to the Telegraphic Operator at Annapolis, this document reflects the Union Army’s efforts to restrict battlefield communications during a critical early phase of the Civil War. Butler, a controversial but pivotal figure, was known for his strict control over information and his aggressive occupation policies in border states.

At the bottom of the page is a poignant personal annotation in another hand, reading:

“Keep this, Mary, as I wish to preserve it, it being an order of Butler’s. Leave it with ny things please.

Single page, 8” x 10”, ink on lined paper with light folds and minor edge wear. An evocative and rare artifact tying together military command, telegraphic censorship, and personal sentiment on the Union home front.

Comes housed in 12 x 16 riker display case with blue velvet and descriptive card.

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Inventory Number: DOC 387