Roper Benjamin D (1 results)

Single sheet of pale blue, lined paper, 8" x 12-1/2." Very Good. Entirely in ink manuscript. Dated at the bottom of the recto, "Charleston SC May 4, 1865." The document was written a few weeks after Appomattox. Gurney, commanding the Post of Charleston, organized the 127 New York Regiment in 1862. Despite a distinguished war record, Gurney is primarily remembered for a conflict with Stephen Swalls, "the first African American soldier promoted to commissioned rank. . . During the siege of Charleston, "Swails' application to muster as a 2nd Lieutenant with the regiment was refused by the War Department. The reason given was 'Lieutenant Swails' African descent.' Colonel William Gurney, the post commander, ordered Swails to remove his officer's uniform and reassume duties as an enlisted man" [Wikipedia article on Swalls] The order was eventually reversed. After Roper signs his loyalty oath, the endorsement of John Phillips is written: "I certify that I have long known intimately [sic] Benjamin D. Roper Esq the Petitioner. Mr. Roper was always a Union man and opposed to Secession. He never in any manner whatsoever aided the Rebellion." Docketed on the verso: "The Petition of B.D. Roper praying perm to sell a bond." With the approval note of Gurney: "Head Quarters City of Charleston | Charleston SC | May 5 1865 | Respectfully returned | Approved | Wm Gurney | Col. 127 NY | Commdg Post.".