Lincoln, Execution of Pvt. Brown, 1/28/1865

In this document from the Adjutant General’s Office (National Archives, Record Group 94, M619), President Lincoln orders the military to proceed with the execution of a Pvt. George Rock, or George Rock Brown under an alias, an accused Union army deserter. Related documents including a corresponding order that replicates Lincoln’s letter below may be found in Basler’s Collected Works (Vol. 8, p. 89, footnote 1).

TRANSCRIPT:

Executive Mansion

Jan. 28, 1865

The order for the suspension of the execution of the sentence of Private Brown, alias Rock, is hereby cancelled and the sentence will be executed at such time & place as the commanding general may direct.

A. Lincoln

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