July 5, 1863: John Henry Brown’s Journal

John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.

Transcript:

Sunday. Heavy fighting at Gettysburg on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday, the enemy repulsed with great loss. Lee commenced his retreat on Friday evening. Amongst the killed on our side was the gallant Major General John F. Reynolds, who was born in the City of Lancaster & with whom I once went to school. The command of the Army of the Potomac was offered to him by the President, before it was given to Meade, but for some reason declined by him.

Citation: John Henry Brown, autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 573/14.1