This letter was written by Charles H. Burghardt (1844-1865) of Schenectady, New York, who enlisted on 8 September 1862 to serve three years in Co. D, 4th New York Heavy Artillery. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant of Co. B (and later Co. K) in December 1864 and was severely wounded in the left leg on 2 April 1865 at Sutherland Station, Virginia. The wound required amputation of the limb but was unsuccessful in saving his life. He died at Annapolis, Maryland in 17 April 1865.

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

Fort Ethan Allen, Va.
November 20th 1863

Dear Sister Libbie,

Having a few spare moments tonight and knowing that my sisters are always glad to hear from me, I thought I would try and write a few lines to you. Well, Libbie, I do not know what to write now that I have got commenced but I will try and make out a letter.

I am not as well as might be. I am troubled a good deal with a pain in my chest. It is on account of having to wear a knapsack—or a schoolhouse as we term it—on inspection. We were inspected yesterday by General Barry, Chief of Artillery, and a fine show we made. Our company was said to be the best drilled company in the regiment. We had to stand for two hours with our knapsacks on and it most killed me.

I suppose by the time I get home, you will have grown so that I will not know you. I suppose you are going to school and that you will beat me so far as education is concerned.

You must tell mother that she must write oftener and send me some Schenectady papers. If Mother sends me a box, I want her to send me a pillow case as I have got a feather pillow but not pillow case. But it is most bed time and I must close. Tell Mother I shall expect the box and my mouth begins to water now for the good things. With love to Mother and Mary and for yourself a good share, I close. From your brother, — Charlie