The following letter was written by Henry C. Applegate (1843-1938) of Sumner, Illinois, who enlisted as a corporal in Co. A, 11th Missouri Infantry, and was discharged as a Lieutenant, serving as the regimental quartermaster. He resigned his commission at Demopolis, Alabama, on 8 October 1865. William E. Panabaker (1822-1881), also of Sumner, Lawrence county, Illinois, served as the captain of Co. A, 11th Missouri. In his letter, Henry identified his regiment as the 7th Missouri but this was probably based on his assumption that the company would be incorporated into that regiment. The 11th Missouri wasn’t mustered into service until 16 August 1861. They were known as the “Missouri Rifles.”

Henry was the son of Joseph Coward William Applegate (1808-1885) and Zylphia Ann Potter (1811-1870) of Sumner, Lawrence county, Illinois.

Henry wrote the letter to Mr. & Mrs. T. D. Bower. My assumption is that Mr. Bower taught a select school or was a latin teacher.

Transcription

St. Louis, [Missouri]
July 21, 1861

Mr. T. D. Bower & Wife,

I received your letter before I started from the city of Sumner. I am glad to hear you have a school in Olney and am very sorry to say I could not come through. However, I am not discouraged in the least. Tell me how many scholars you have. Is Miss Hattie coming? I hope so. When did you hear from “Phene” last? Is she well, &c.

We arrived in the city last Thursday and came on to the arsenal where we will remain until we get our company made up. We lack about fifteen men. Our Capt. went home [to Illinois] today and will be back next Friday.

It has just been raining and everything is wet so I will close my letter. Give my [respects] to all the folks from your Tuus Amicus [Latin for “Your Friend”] — H. C. Applegate

Direct in care of Capt. [William E.] Panebaker, 7th Regt., St. Louis Arsenal

P. S. Write before next Thursday or I will not get it.