From the Richmond Sentinel, 3/21/1863, p. 2, c. 3
“The Gallant
Pelham.” – The remains of Major
John Pelham, having been embalmed, were placed in a metallic coffin and again
laid in state at the Capitol yesterday, where many persons “silently gazed on
the face of the dead,” and some tender hand deposited an evergreen wreath,
intertwined with white flowers, upon the case which contained all that was
mortal of the fallen hero. The body was clad in the uniform of the Major’s rank.
The following brief but eloquent tribute to the memory of the dead has been
placed at our disposal by the gentleman to whom it is addressed:
CULPEPER, 18th March, 1863.
“Hon. J. L. M. CURRY,
of Ala.:
“The noble, the chivalric, the gallant Pelham is no more. He was killed in
action yesterday. His remains will be sent to you to-day. How much he was
beloved, appreciated and admired, let the tears of agony we have shed, and the
gloom of mourning throughout my command, bear witness. – His loss to the country
is irreparable.
“J. E.
B. STUART, Maj. Genl.”
The remains of Major
Pelham, attended by a large military escort, many officers and personal friends,
were taken to the Danville depot last evening, and will be sent thence to
Alabama for interment.
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last updated on
07/24/2009
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