The following letter was written by John K. York who mustered into Co. H, 4th Maine Infantry on 9 November 1861. Two records in John’s pension file state that he died on 4 September 1862 from “wounds received in the neck” or “while engaged in battle with the enemy, he received a bayonet thrust in the neck and was sent to hospital and died from a wound and fever.” However, another affidavit, submitted by his captain, Albert L. Spencer, claims that John contracted a “Typhoid or Camp Fever” which was accompanied by a soreness in his throat and that he was sent to the hospital at David’s Island (NYC) about the 29th of June 1862 where he died on 4 September 1862. This claim is contradicted by Major Opdyke at David’s Island who says they treated John for a wound in the neck.

John was married to Alice (“Addie”) S. Debeck at Medway, Maine, on 30 April 1860. Their son, Willie, was born on 14 January 1861. A second child, Addie, was born on 22 July 1862. Their residence was given as Clifton, Penobscot county, Maine.

T R A N S C R I P T I O N

Alexandria, Loser’s [?] Hill, Virginia
December 12th 1861

Dear wife,

I will write again as I have an opportunity. I am well as yet & hope these lines will find you the same. I have written all of the news that I can think of before. When we was out scouting, there was a regiment of rebels in sight of us. They see us but we did not see them. When they see us, they left in a hurry. They cut their horses from their artillery, left their blankets, and some of their guns. They retreated to Richmond, Va. They are somewhat afraid, I reckon.

The 11th of December we had our arms tacked and to be ready to fall in at a moment’s warning, but as it happened, we did not have to march. I have got a cold. I have to write & cough, so no more at this time.

Addie, be ever true to me. Give my love to all of the folks. From your ever true husband, — John K. York

A kiss for Willie and one for you. Tell Susan to write to Moses.

You have a better chance to write than I do. Why I send a half a sheet of paper because I snd this [ ]. I have not heard from Elisha yet nor Billy. We should of went to see Billy but we have to be on guard this week. We shall get a better chance now. Send me some little thing of yours. Yours forever. Good night, Addie. A kiss. — John K. York

to Alice S. York

I am a going to send you a bosom pin. Write if you get it.