(1830-1917) Brigadier general and the first recipient of the Medal of Honor for his successful rescue mission during the Apache Wars on Feb. 13, 1861, further serving in the Civil War and improvising one of the first field hospitals at the Battle of Shiloh. A nice lot of ephemera relating to the general, including: a holograph ‘War Department’ envelope, his signature at the top left; a period photo of Irwin in uniform, mounted to cardstock; a small sheet bearing his printed name and coat of arms; and a second holograph envelope. With a copy of a letter sent to Irwin from General William T. Sherman, 2pp. 4to., New York, May 7, 1890, in part: ‘...my best wishes attend you in your effort to secure the appointment of Durgeu [?] General of the U.S. Army on the retirement of the present incumbent. My position in affairs of office at this time however is such that I do not feel warranted in making any recommendations and I must beg you to excuse any active participation on your participation...’. Five pieces, all showing age appropriate wear.