Description
First edition of the Memoirs of General William T. Sherman, in scarce blue cloth binding.
Octavo, two volumes, 405pp. (Vol.1), 409 pp. (Vol.2). Blue cloth, title in gilt on spine and cover. Light wear to edges of spine, but otherwise near fine. Yellow endpapers, with contemporary ownership signature on front endpaper of both volumes, dated 1875. Foldout map at rear of Volume II, in near fine, but delicate condition. (Nevins II, 89) (Dornbusch II, 2429) A bright and vibrant example of this important Civil War memoir.
Published in 1875, Sherman’s memoirs were well received, with Mark Twain noting that he was “a master of narrative.” General Sherman was mentioned as a possible Presidential candidate in 1884, but declined the nomination, noting that “I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected.” This would forever be known as a Shermanesque statement and has been used by politicians ever since to put down speculation of seeking higher office.
