The following letter, authored in late April 1865 by a Union soldier encamped near Washington, reflects his anticipation of soon mustering out of the army. He identified himself as “Isack Smith” and directed the correspondence to his wife, Catherine, while also referring to his unnamed “little boy.” Additionally, he acknowledged having received communication from “Peter Larkin’s wife,” though it remains unclear whether the Larkins resided in proximity to the Smiths. Regrettably, due to the prevalence of these common names and a lack of further identifying details, I was unable to ascertain Isaac’s identity. Nevertheless, I have transcribed the letter, as it articulates compelling sentiments regarding the reactions to the news of President Lincoln’s assassination.

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

Camp near Washington City
April 30th 1865

Dear Wife,

I have a few leisure moments so I thought I would pen a few lines to you. In regards to the good news—Oh how glorious that, and I expect to see you all before long. They all think that we will be discharged very soon. I hope we will. That is my wish. I don’t think that I could make a better one.

I answered your last letter. Tell the little boy that his father will soon be home. I received a letter from Peter Larkin’s wife the other day. They were all well. Her proposal was to me that I was glad that the President was dead but that is not so. I am sorry for him. It is bad but it can’t be helped now for it is too late. We lost a Father when we lost Abraham Lincoln.

We are about 5 miles from the City of Washington. I haven’t one thing more to write. All the news I can give you is this—you can look for me home before long. Give a kiss for me to the little boy. Here is one for yourself. This is from your affectionate husband, — Isack Smith

To Mrs. Catharine Smith

Here is a Soldier’s Dream [The Soldier’s Dream & The Soldier’s Tear lyrics]