Bidspirit auction | JOHNSON KELLY DUNCAN

JOHNSON KELLY DUNCAN - (1827 - 1862) Confederate brigadier general, originally an antebellum officer in the U.S. Army who later commanded the Confederate forts defending New Orleans during the Union Navy's successful attacks that led to the fall of the South's largest city. Exchanged after being taken prisoner by Farragut, Duncan was assigned to the staff of General Braxton Bragg, becoming Chief of Staff. Died of malaria. War-date A.L.S., 1p. 4to., 'Forts Jackson &St. Phillip, La.', Mar. 30, 1862, to Major General MANSFIELD LOVELL, military commander of New Orleans. In part: '...General, Herewith enclosed, I have the honor to enclose a special requisition for ordnance and ordnance stores, which I consider absolutely necessary for the successful defence of this place against any attack. Please do not fail to increase my batteries according thereto, with larger and heavier guns, as far as possibly lies in your power...' Fine condition. Duncan, a brilliant artilleryman, fought with distinction in his efforts to protect the city...to no avail.