Joel Chandler Harris, Author of the Uncle Remus and ‘Brer Rabbit stories, Tells a Fascinating Tale That Took Place in Atlanta During Sherman’s March to the Sea

A very uncommon letter, as we can find just two others of Harris reaching the public sale market in over half a century

Joel Chandler Harris was a journalist, fiction writer, and folklorist best known for his collection of Uncle Remus and ‘Brer Rabbit stories. In addition, he published local-color stories in prominent magazines such as Scribner’s, Harper’s, and The Century, and wrote for the Atlanta Constitution newspaper. Born in Georgia, he was there throughout the Battle of Atlanta and Sherman’s March to the Sea.

Autograph letter signed, Atlanta, office of the Atlanta Constitution, January 23, 1886, to Richard Watson Gilder, editor of the Century Magazine, about the veracity of a being published in Century. “The sketch of Mr. Wallace Reed is based on a fact, namely: that there was an old lady of his acquaintance in Atlanta during the siege who prayed night and day for an opportunity to poison General Sherman. This old lady, who figures in the sketch under a fictitious name, and who is now dead, happened to be in charge of the house which the general chose for his headquarters, and she remained in charge. Her prayers were answered to that extent, but to the astonishment of all who had heard her threats, she announced that General Sherman had been greatly misunderstood and misrepresented, and she became very solicitous for his safety.

“The sketch is part of the history of the siege...Why not get Mr. Reed to write you a history of the siege of Atlanta from an insider’s point of view? He has some very interesting material, and I think he could write it up to suit you.” A very uncommon letter, as we can find just two others of Harris reaching the public sale market in over half a century.

A fascinating story, one we’ve never heard before, of the fiery secessionist woman who ended up hosting Sherman in Atlanta, and ended up liking him. Truly a one of a kind letter.