The Devereuxs of Alexandria, Virginia were moderate people. The eldest son seemed the most
moderate of all.
Claude Devereux wanted no part of secession. None of his family wanted Virginia to leave the Union.
This family of bankers owned no slaves and believed slavery to be an institution to be rid of. The
Devereux wanted to be left alone in their private world.
Nevertheless, they found Virginia's decision to secede compelling...