Page 121 - 86-Book2

Burnside and the IX Corps then moved to Petersburg where he oversaw the digging of a mine under the Confederate lines to allow Union forces to blow a hole in the line with explosives. The idea was sound, but the execution of the attack during The Battle of the Crater was a failure do
to last minute changes in the plan. Initially, Burnside had intended to
use a specially trained division of U.S. Colored Troops to lead the assault around the sides of the crater created by the explosion and through the gap. Instead, Meade ordered Burnside not to use the African-American troops supposedly fearing possible political repercussions if they were slaughtered. The replacement division was selected by drawing lots,
and Brigadier General James H. Ledlie’s 1st Division was selected. Ledlie did not properly prepare his men and was reportedly found behind the lines drunk and asleep during the attack. Instead of charging around the sides of the crater and utilizing the confusion in the Confederate lines to their advantage, the Union soldiers poured into the crater itself and did not advance rapidly. The Confederate forces were able to reform and fire down upon them. Burnside sent more men into the slaughter, and they eventually drove the Confederates back briefly before being pushed back, and the overall situation in the Siege of Petersburg remained unchanged. Burnside was initially censured and removed from command and placed on leave after the disaster, but he was eventually exonerated and Meade instead blamed for changing the plans over Burnside’s objections.
Burnside returned to his career in the railroad industry, including as
the president of the Rhode Island Locomotive Works that replaced
the Burnside Rifle Company after they completed their Civil War arms contracts, and their first steam engine was named for him. He also served as governor of Rhode Island in 1866-1869, first president of the National Rifle Association in 1871, and an officer of multiple veteran organizations, including as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic in 1871-1873. In 1874, he was elected to the U.S. Senate and remained in office until his death in 1881. He lives on as the namesake for “sideburns.” CONDITION: Very good overall with dark aged patina on the hilt and scabbard, absent languet button, somewhat loose grip, and distinct etching and mottled gray patina and mild oxidation/pitting on the blade. The knot is good with moderate wear including torn and loose threads. This is a rare opportunity to get you hands on a Civil War sword inscribed to one of just five commanders of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War.
Estimate: 40,000 - 60,000
119