For your consideration is the Rare First Edition of, "Personal Reminiscences of Gen. Robert E. Lee", 1874, by Rev. J. William Jones, D. D., formerly chaplain Army Northern Virginia, and of Washington College, Virginia (Washington & Lee University, Lexington, Virginia). Robert E. Lee lived only five years after the end of the War Between the States. Dedicated to his work in directing the education of young men at Washington College in Lexington, Virginia, where he served as president, he did not have time or opportunity to write his memoirs. One of his chaplains with whom he was quite close in Christian fellowship - his familial friend, J. William Jones, set about to prepare a near approximation of Lee’s memoirs, which was endorsed both by the Lee family and Washington (and Lee) College. Lee’s story is told topically as Jones looks at various aspects of his life and character. Included are an abundance of professional and personal correspondence by Lee that give the reader insight into Lee, the man, soldier, husband, and father better than any narrative describing him. General Lee has come to be known as one of the most beloved generals in history, but perhaps his greatest contribution to the United States was his effort to reunite the country following the American Civil War. In the opinions of his contemporaries and historians, Lee played a crucial role in restoring peace following the war. This green clothbound gold gilt hardcover is in amazingly good condition overall, the gold gilt is bright and clean. Scuffing noted to stamped illustrated cover edges, binding loose but attached. Intact pages exhibit age tanning and light foxing, no other obvious marring noted. Measures 6"W x 9.25"L x 1.5"D