Word is crossing the wire that the one-and-only Civil War (and WWI and WWII) historian, the indefatigable 97-year-old Edwin C. Bearss, has died.
I have not yet spoken with his daughter Ginny (we are routinely in touch) but it looks to be true. A very sad day, my friends.
When he was suffering from dehydration at Gettysburg and collapsed a few years back, he looked up and saw Howard's statue and in his unique way, said "God, take me when you want, but my God not under the shadow of O. O. Howard! Can't I die by Hancock!" Or words to that effect.
Let us hope he and Hancock are together now. If they are, Ed Is pointing his walking stick this way and that, asking Hancock questions.
I was fortunate enough to work with Ed on several book projects, for which I am grateful.
Rest in Peace my friend.
Ted and all of us here at Savas Beatie.