PENDLETON, Alexander Swift "Sandie" (1840-1864). Autograph letter signed ("A.S. Pendleton"). Winchester, [VA], 10 July 1861.

6 1/4 pages, 5 x 8 in., creased at folds, with some staining throughout.

In this letter to his sister, Rose Pendleton (ca 1847-1910), Sandie covers a number of subjects, the first being new uniform pieces he would like to have made for himself, including "a cap like Pa's & the College boy's'" and an overcoat with a long skirt for riding. He notes that it should be made to fit a "good size man" as he has "filled up wonderfully" since joining the campaign.

Pendleton then expresses some disappointment that his sister expressed no fears regarding his safety "in the skirmish," which likely refers to the Battle of Falling Waters (Hoke's Run), on 2 July. He writes: "But I will have the credit any how, and tell you just for spite, that I was in it, & in as much danger as any body else, and as long as I am on the Staff acting aide for the General I hope & expect to have a hand in any fighting that goes on. I was that day carrying messages right in the thick of the fight, & with bullets falling all around. Two bombs burst within 10 feet of me. What do you think of that now?"

The general Pendleton refers to is legendary General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, who asked Pendleton to join his staff as a second lieutenant and brigade ordnance officer in June, shortly before this letter was written. Pendleton would ultimately become Jackson's assistant adjutant general, serving with him from First Manassas through Chancellorsville.

Pendleton goes on to explain his new location: "I suppose you wonder why I write from Winchester. Our brigade moved up today from our previous camp 4 miles below. There is constant expectation of a fight here. They are throwing up redoubts here &c....The enemy it is reported will advance from Martinsburg. We hope so...We are quartered on the right of the R.R. having as usual the post of honour & danger. If there is any fighting done our brigade will have its due show, for the men are activated by the double principle of revenge & patriotism. Gen. Jackson says they are first rate soldiers, & they will prove it true."

Pendleton's pride in his brigade and readiness to take on the enemy is paramount in this letter, and it is perhaps this spirit, in part, which made him a standout for leadership positions, even after the death of General Jackson under Generals Ewell and Early.

Unfortunately, Sandie Pendleton, the only son (with five sisters) of General William Pendleton (1809-1883), did not survive the war. He was promoted through the ranks to lieutenant colonel, and was wounded at Fisher's Hill on 22 September 1864 while trying to rally the troops. He died the following day, just five days short of his 24th birthday.