Showing results by author "Horace Porter" in All Categories

In the final year of the American Civil War, Horace Porter served as aide-de-camp to General Ulysses S. Grant, the commanding general of the Northern armies. This captivating memoir, penned in 1897, draws from Porters extensive notes taken during this pivotal time in history. It is highly esteemed by historians for its vivid portrayal of events. Porter continued to work closely with Grant until 1869 and then served as his personal secretary in the White House until 1872. He later held the position of U.S. ambassador to France from 1897 to 1905. (David Wales)

These are personal reminiscences of Grant which allow us to peer back in time to see him through the eyes of those who knew him. Some of the anecdotes describe brief encounters with Grant, while others are from historically prominent men who knew Grant well. What they have in common are the intimate details that reveal the personality and character of General Grant.

Horace Porter served as lieutenant colonel on Ulysses S. Grant's staff from April 1864 to the end of the Civil War. He accompanied Grant into battle in the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, and Petersburg campaigns, and was present at Lee's surrender at McLean's house. Throughout the war, he kept extensive notes that capture Grant's conversations, as well as his own observations of military life.