[SECOND SEMINOLE WAR]. JOHNSTON, Joseph E. (1807-1891). Autograph letter signed ("J.E. Johnston"). "Gary's Ferry" [Florida], 17 November 1836.

1 1/4 pages, 7 7/8 x 9 3/4 in., creased at folds, with toning and possible adhesive residue to left edge and a small tear to crease at left edge.

In this letter to a General Jones, likely General Roger Jones (1789-1852), Johnston writes: "Pursuant to the orders of the Secretary of War, I have the honor to report my arrival at this post. I shall proceed to Volusia as soon as possible, to Meet Gov. Call. When last heard from, he was marching to that place. Nothing is known here of Genl Jessup's position - it is supposed, however, that he has joined Gov. Call."

In a lengthy post script, Johnston reports futher detailed information discovered about the position and movements of Governor Call and the enemy. In part, "A negro prisoner reported that the Indians abandoned the cove a few days after the last skirmish, & retired, in the direction of Volusia, to the Wahoo swamp...After searching that swamp & receiving the necessary supplies at Volusia, Gov. Call intended to move into Philip's country - a little south of Lake Monroe. It was my first plan to go on to Fort Drane, & endeavor to over take the army. I find however, tha tit would be impossible to do so before it reaching Volusia..."

Governor Richard Keith Call (1792-1862) served as territorial Governor of Florida from 1836-1839 and again from 1841-1844. During his first term he also acted as brigadier general of the territorial militia, leading troops to victory at the Battle of Wahoo Swamp. That battle began on 21 November of 1836, less than a week after the date on the letter featured here.

Property from the James Milgram, M.D., Collection of Broadsides, Ephemeral Americana, and Historical Documents