By the President of the United States, A Proclamation. Respecting Soldiers Absent Without Leave. Executive Mansion, March 10, 1863.
Washington, D.C. Executive Mansion, 1863. Small Octavo. Item #027103
4 page, folded pamphlet issued to military. The large number of desertions in the Civil War was becoming epidemic. Previously, they might go home to bring in a harvest, to visit a wife (or girl friend) or simply be tired of either war or what often seemed like endless waiting for something to happen. This offered soldiers amnesty if they returned before April 1, 1863. Their only penalty would be the forfeiture of pay and allowances during their absence. After that date they will be arrested as "deserters and punished as the law provides." Pages 2-3 lists 36 places where they can report. Besides those near the places of conflict, it includes locations as far away as Fort Vancouver (Washington Territory), Fort Randall (Dakota Territory), Salt Lake City, and San Francisco.
Price: $235.00