Letter fragment, paper

This fragment of a letter from Ulysses S. Grant to his wife Julia was found in a window at the Grant home during an historic preservation project. Estimated to be from 1850 or 1851, the letter begins "Dearest Julia" and indicates that Grant is anticipating news of the birth of his son, Fred, or regimental transfer. Grant served in the military during the Civil War and as president during Reconstruction, two very tumultuous and defining periods in American history. Personal letters such as this one provide insight into Grant's relationships and attitudes toward family, and can help historians support conclusions about what motivated his decision making.