The following letter was written by Augustus Smith (1839-1864), the son of Harry Smith (1802-1887) and Almira Naramore (1806-1899). He was born in Underhill, Vermont.

Augustus was a single, 22 year-old farmer residing in New Ipswich, New Hampshire when he enlisted on 23 December 1861 in Co. M, 1st New England Cavalry (1st Rhode Island) under Capt. William P. Ainsworth. He was sick in General Hospital from May 1862 until Aug. 1862; June 18, 1863, taken prisoner near Middleburg, VA; subsequently paroled at Annapolis, MD; Jan. 5, 1864, re – mustered as a veteran volunteer at Catlett’s Station, VA and transferred to New Hampshire Cavalry by order dated Jan. 7, 1864; died Oct. 6, 1864 at Columbia Furnace, Shenandoah Co. VA, age 25y, 3m; burial at Church Street Cemetery, Swanton Franklin Co. Vermont.

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Camp Arnold
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
February 16, 1862

Sister Jane,

I received your letter of the 9th with pleasure yesterday. I had waited long and anxious. I have nothing to write but our camp news as that is all I hear. I have been sick about five weeks since I enlisted but am now quite well. I was at Rollins while I was sick. I had two spells of being there. I think now I shall be able to stand soldier’s fare unless I have a draw back again.

We have good quarters here. We quartered in the city of Pawtucket most three weeks in the public buildings. We had fine times. The ladies of the city used to bring us in pies and cakes several times. There is a regiment here. It makes quite a village. We are about three miles from Providence.

Friday one battalion and a half went to Providence all mounted. It made a string about one mile & a half long single file. Governor Sprague marched us through the city. It being a little rainy which made it a little disagreeable. I was in the saddle about seven hours without getting out. I was some tired at night. I do not know where we are going from here. There is a good many stories circulating about us in regard to disbanding us but I put but little confidence in them. We have but little time to write. We have to drill six hours a day and take care of our horses &c., &c.

I received your picture but it was some damaged. I want you to write as soon as you get this. Give my respects to all inquiring friends. Write all the news and a good long letter for that is what we soldiers like. Yours as ever, — Augustus

Address: Camp Arnold, Pawtucket, R.I. Troop M, 3rd Battalion, N.E. Cavalry, Commanded by Capt. Wm. P. Ainsworth