1862: William Young Farthing to Annie Watkins Farthing

This degraded yet largely legible letter was written by William Young Farthing (1812-1862) of Watauga, North Carolina, to his wife, Annie Watkins Farthing (1814-1882). William was the son of John Young Farthing (1784-1868) and Lucy Goss (1781-1827).

William volunteered his services as Captain of Co. E, 37th North Carolina Infantry in November 1861. He was taken prisoner at Hanover Court House, Virginia, on 27 May 1862 and confined in various places until sent to Johnson’s Island near Sandusky, Ohio. Due to poor health, he was finally exchanged in November 1862 but died of disease soon after returning home.

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

[Camp Magn]um 37th Regiment N. C. Troops
[January 5]th 1862

[Dear Annie, I] embrace the present opportunity [to write a] few lines to inform you that [I am enjoying] a reasonable portion of health [and am] sincerely hoping these few lines [may find] you and family enjoying the [same. The] health of those of my company [that have] been sick is improving. Some [already] have commenced their duties. We have gotten [very well] fixed here, and like our [camp much] better than we expected. But [recent] indications are we shall not remain [long,] the Col.[Charles C. Lee] having orders to be [ready] to march at a few hours [notice. To] what point we have to march [is] not ascertained. Even the Col. [doesn’t] know.

I suppose somewhere on [the way] we are to receive our wages, some [think next] week. We have already made out [pay rolls]. I cannot say now when I can [come] to see you all—whether before [our] service is out or not, though if [opportun]ity offers, I shall be certain to [come]. I am very anxious to see my family [and friends] in Watauga. I have not seen any of our connection in this county [with the] exception of William Halliburton [who came] to see us.

January the 8th 1862. [Since] the above I learn our destination is in this state. We are now packing [up]. I suppose it is expected that New B[erne] will be attacked by a great fleet that [has] fitted out. I would write more but [have] not time. I hope you will continue [to write] to me. So no more at present. I [remain] your affectionate husband until [death]. — William Y. Farthing

[to] Mrs. Anne W. Farthing