This letter was written by William Graham Hazelrigg (1834-1896) who served as a private in Co. A, 19th Regiment US Infantry until he was wounded on 7 April 1862 in the Battle of Shiloh. Military records indicate that he received a severe wound in the left leg that required amputation to save his life.

William was the son of William Hazelrigg (1794-1853) and Elizabeth Wall (1795-1867) of Sullivan county, Indiana. He was married to Cecelia Morgan Scranton (1843-1915) in 1864. After the war, he found in employment as a sewing machine salesman, and as a commercial grocer. In 1880, he was residing in Evansville, Indiana.

William wrote this letter to J. O. Jones, the postmaster at Terre Haute, Indiana, on the very next day after filing for an invalid’s pension.

Transcription

Terre Haute
April 29, 1863

Mr. Jones, P. M., Sir,

I was wounded at the Battle of Shiloh 7th of April ’63 [1862], disabling me for life and there is nothing that I can do to make a living at—only writing. I wish to know if you will give me employment in the [post] office. I have a slight knowledge of the business. I can give you good references. If you can give me employment, I will call and see you soon. Hoping to receive a reply soon, I remain yours truly, — Wm. G. Hazelrigg

P. S. Please address me through the P. O. — W. G. H.