Original Confederate requisition for writing implements, that include: paper, envelopes, and pen points. The document is hand-written in ink by Capt. John C. Forbes of the 42nd Virginia Infantry in early 1864. After fighting at First Kernstown and in Jackson's Valley Campaign, the 42nd was assigned to Terry's Brigade in the Army of Northern Virginia. It was active in many conflicts from the Seven Days' Battles to Gettysburg to Cold Harbor, then moved with General Early to the Shenandoah Valley and was involved in the Appomattox operations. By the end of the war, the regiment, which counted nearly 800 effectives in 1861, had but 45 men present at Lee’s surrender. Captain Forbes filled this form out “in the field” near Orange Court House, Virginia, claiming that the stationary goods were a necessity. Forbes enlisted in 1861, was promoted to Captain in 1862, and was court-martialed in 1863. 1864 found him back in the field, where he drafted this document. He served for the remainder of the War.

This document is accompanied by a modern note that describes it as being found in the cloth pouch of Lt. Colonel Fleming Saunders, 42nd Virginia.


[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Document, Relic]