All posts by Griff

My passion is studying American history leading up to & including the Civil War. I particularly enjoy reading, transcribing & researching primary sources such as letters and diaries.
72nd New York Infantry, Camp Caldwell, President Abraham Lincoln

1861: Walter A. Bowdish to Maria Agnes Fellows

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I could not find an image of Walter but here is a tintype of Alfred T. Groat who also served in Co. G, 72nd New York Infantry (Photo Sleuth)

The following letter was written by Walter A. Bowdish (1839-1862), the son of Daniel Platt Bowdish (1812-1861) and Martha Caroline Granger (1813-1894) of Portland, Chautauqua county, New York.

Walter enlisted on 24 July 1861 as a private in Co. G, 72nd New York Infantry—Sickles’ Excelsior Brigade. He was known to have been wounded in the fighting at Turkey Bend (Malvern Hill) on July 1, 1862 and was carried as missing in action following that date. No identifiable body was ever recovered and all of the records of soldiers in Rebel prisons were examined following the pension application filed by Walter’s mother. Lt. James A. Smith of Co. I claimed he attempted to help Walter off the battlefield but Walter’s leg wounds were so severe (his blood “flowing in jetts” indicating a severed artery) that he had to leave him after struggling only a few steps. There was one letter written by Alfred found in his mother’s pension application submitted as proof of Walter’s sending her money while in the service. It was dated 2 May 1862 and I have included a transcript of it below.

Walter wrote the letter to Maria Agnes Fellows (1840-1911), the daughter of John Andrews Fellows (1806-1888) and his second wife, Olive Thwing (1809-1884) of Portland, Chautauqua county, New York. Agnes never married, though she clung to this letter the remainder of her life, dying in 1911.

Transcription

Addressed to Miss Agnes Fellows, Portland, Chautauqua county, N. Y.

Camp Caldwell
Monday, September 30th 1861

Miss Agnes Fellows
Dear Agnes,

Long had I waited for a reply to my last letter and had concluded that you were offended with the same. But Saturday the long looked for letter came. It had been very long on the way but the contents rewarded e for the anxiety it had caused me. Agnes dear, that letter has been perused many times since received. It has caused a new interest in my present situation.

You say in your letter that I was not too bold in writing as I did. You also wanted me to consider before going farther. I honor you for those words, yet I must say that this has not been the work of nor impulse of a few days or weeks, but has long been on my mind. The thought that your pure mind would revolt at my love has unlocked a secret in my breast. The night you attended the concert at Fredonia with me was a night of tumult on my heart. Oh how I longed to whisper in your ear that eve a tale of love. But the thought of slight acquaintance and a rejection kept it back.

Agnes dear, I can not write as I could talk to you were you here, but be assured that I love you deeply, truly and fondly. My love is no boyish love but a deep and lasting one. All I ask is a kind thought or word from you occasionally until my return. If with God’s mercy I am permitted, then will I convince you that I am serious in what I say.

Think not of your misfortune but as one of the dispensations of an “All wise Providence.” Bear it with the thought that it does not make you look any the less in my eyes. But to the contrary. endear you in my eyes and makes me long to be with you and protect you with an ever helping hand. Write to me, Agnes, and tell me truly whether you can return the love of the lone soldier boy. If you cannot, let this secret remain locked in your breast and forget that I ever offered the love of a true and honest heart to the kind and lovely Agnes Fellows.

The soldier in his far off tented field turns his thoughts to a loved home or some dear one. Why should not I as well? Waiting anxiously a reply to these few lines, I remain yours truly, fondly, and devotedly, — Walter A. Bowdish

[On a different sheet]

Our present situation is at the old camp (Caldwell). We cannot tell how long we stay here but I think not long as we have orders not to leave the camp on any account and to keep our knapsacks packed. Our forces on the other side of the [Potomac] river has begun to advance and are already in possession of Munson Hill and Fairfax Court House. This has been done without the loss of a single life.

Friday and Saturday there passed over the Long Bridge into Virginia over 180,000 troops. Things begin to look warlike now. On our regiment being reviewed by President Lincoln, he said we were the best body of men but one he had seen.

Last week there was a rumor afloat that we were to remain in our present situation as a home guard for the City on account of being the best drilled body of men in the service this side of the [Potomac] River. I have had a chance to leave this regiment and be in the Regular service [and] shall think of it a spell. If I go in the Regulars, I must stay three years—war or no war. If I stay where I am, I may be discharged before that time.

Since I commenced this letter I hear the 1st Regiment of the Brigade has received orders to march. They are encamped about half a mile from here. There is the drum beat for dress parade. More Anon. — Walter Bowdish

Letter 2

[Note: The following letter was found in the Pension Application File for Walter A. Bowdish. It was probably one of his last letters home.]

Camp Winfield Scott
Near Yorktown, Virginia
May 2nd 1862

Dear Mother,

Yours of the 26th came duly to hand this morning finding me at camp but not very well, having just returned from picket duty yesterday morning, the 30th. We laid in sight of the Rebs Battery all day and night in the midst of a heavy rain. We went into the trenches in the course of the night. Our pickets were driven in and then we stopped the Rebels there. They fell back to their Battery and then commenced firing shell. Some fell close to us but no one injured. In half hour they ceased firing.

At 8 o’clock we returned to camp, found the Pay Master and got two months pay. This morning we were mustered in for two months more and the pay master says he will be able to pay us in 12 or 15 days. ($20) twenty dollars of which I got is in the shape of an Allotment Bill and is payable to you or Order at any Bank, and when you present it, try and get half cent premium for they send them to New York City and get the gold which is worth 708 percent on the dollar. I have seen the Lieut. (Smith) and he promises to pay me soon, I hope, but fear him. I shall report to the Col. (Taylor) if he fails me. I send the $20 dollar bill and will send more in the next letter. Use them to your advantage and you will do all right…

I must close. I have one favor to ask. Write a long letter and tell something about how the neighbors are and write the news. I like to get letters but after waiting 10 or 15 days, get one with only a few lines, it disheartens one. I want something bedsides dead and wounded men to think of. Give love to all and tell them we expect battle soon. I remain your dutiful son, — Walter A. Bowdish

Fort Delaware, Prisoner of War

1865: Joseph Stras Peery to his Cousin

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Joseph Stras Peery in old age

The following letters were written by Joseph Stras Peery (1839-1925), the son of Harvey George Peery (1801-1869) and Rebecca Williams (1805-1890) of Tazewell county, Virginia. After receiving an elementary education in Tazewell, he attended Emory and Henry College.

At the start of the Civil War, Joseph enlisted in August 1861 in Co. G, 45th Virginia Infantry at Gauley. He was promoted to sergeant by April 1862 and commissioned a lieutenant by July 1862. He was captured at the Battle of Winchester on 19 September 1864 and sent to Ft. Delaware shortly after. On the date of his release, 17 June 1865, he was described as standing 6 feet tall, with blue eyes and light hair.

In 1868 married Livonia Ravina Brown. His post war occupation was farmer and merchant. He died 7/7/1925 at Glade Spring, Washington County, Virginia at the age of 87.

These letters, like others Joseph wrote from prison, were strictly censored. They were not allowed to discuss what was going on inside the prison nor share their attitude about events occurring outside. Rules required that all letters be written on one side of the paper and they could only be sent to relatives in the North or to relatives in Union-occupied southern states unless under a flag-of-truce. If correspondents were not actually relatives, letters were often addressed as “dear cousin.”

Letter 1

United States Military Prison
Fort Delaware, Delaware
February 1st 1865

My dear cousin,

Your kind and interesting letter was received this morning and was certainly glad to hear from you once more. I was just wondering what could be the matter that you did not answer my last. Had attributed it to frozen streams & bays. Never dreamed of you visiting the sunny land of flowers. I know you must have enjoyed yourself finely. couldn’t help it. I am glad you had the opportunity of seeing your Brothers. Hope that peace may soon be declared and that all may have the privilege of enjoying freely the society if friends and relations and the comforts of home.

Have had two letters from home lately—one from Mother, 9th December, All were well at that time. Also one from Sarah to Frank. Everything seemingly doing well. Little Bobbie had gotten almost entirely well. Sarah’s letter was very short. So much so I almost became offended. I’ve written to Maggie and I know she’ll give me all the news. She is always so precise in every little item of news.

I received a few days since a letter from R. S. B. He is very kind and offers anything that he is able to do for us. He has already done much tending to the wants of Brother J[ames] and therefore I think it would be ungenerous and unkind in us to ask more. I received the money you sent and am indeed very grateful and feel under many obligations to you. As regards the clothing, we have just applied for permits to send to an old business friend (in Baltimore) who wrote us a few days ago to do so. I will let you know how we success. I don’t know how to express my gratitude for your kind offers rendered more dear to me for certain reasons which I hope some day to be able to explain.

We have very hard fare but very good quarters. Don’t get too much to eat. Frank sends his best love to you. You must not laugh at my ill composed scroll for you must remember I’m in no secluded spot noted to the purpose. Be sure and write often. I am very fond of reading letters. Excuse all mistakes and accept this the kindest regards of your devoted cousin, — Joseph S. Peery

Letter 2

Fort Delaware, Delaware
March 29, 1865

Dear Cousin,

According to your request, I write again on the reception of your kind letter. It is pretty much as you said—nothing to do, but you know that no one is apt to be fond of writing unless they get answers equally in number to letters written. Now I think you must be a long time answering my letter—so long I’d given it up—that you did not intend doing so. Consequently I wrote you another and sent you a ring, the workmanship of a prisoner. A very poor thing it was. However, I thought you would value it as it was from your lovely cousin. Well, I was very agreeably surprised this morning with a letter from my dear sister. I’d written home and complained of sister Sarah not writing. She claimed that she was not indebted to me in that respect. One thing I know—that is, I’ve written to her often enough but it may be that she has never received any or but few.

Mr. Brittain had been at home, only for a short time, ten days. Would leave the day she wrote, the 6th of March. All were well. I intend writing soon. Will give them your message. As to me forgiving you for not sending such as you mentioned, I don’t think that there is anything to forgive for I am already indebted to you more perhaps that I’ll ever be able to return. We are all well and getting along as well as usual. Get “hard tack” twice a week for dinner, something new of late.

Frank sends much love to you. Noe I don’t want you to delay answering this letter. Never trouble yourself about those articles mentioned. I received a few lines from a friend at Johnson’s Island. James was well and I expect he was thinking like myself—that you was not very prompt in reply. I shall expect to hear from you soon.

Believe me as ever your devoted cousin, — Jo. S. Peery

45th Virginia Infantry, Johnson's Island Prison

1865: James Spotts Peery to his Cousin

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A post war image of Capt. James S. Peery

The following letter was written by James Spotts Peery (1837-1905) who entered the Confederate service as a 1st Lieutenant of Co. G, 45th Virginia Infantry in May 1861. By July 1862 he had been promoted to Captain of his company. He was wounded and taken prisoner on 5 June 1864 at Piedmont, Virginia, and transferred into the officer’s prison at Johnson’s Island (Ohio) on 22 June 1864 where he wrote this letter in January 1865.

When James took the Oath of Allegiance to be released from prison on 15 June 1865, he was described as 28 years old, standing 5 feet, 10 inches tall, with hazel eyes and dark hair. He gave his residence as Jeffersonville, Virginia.

James was the son of Harvey George Peery (1801-1869) and Rebecca Williams (1805-1890) of Tazewell county, Virginia.

The military prison on Johnson’s Island, Lake Erie, Ohio (Encyclopedia Virginia)

Transcription

Johnson’s Island, Ohio
January 2nd 1865

Dear Cousin,

Yours of the 14th December is to hand. I am glad to hear from you once more and sorry to hear of the death of little Mattie. It will be sad news for my brother and no doubt it will make his imprisoned life long and weary. God grant the time may soon arrive when we can once more return to our homes in peace. I am so tired of being separated from those I hold dear to me. Brother Joe’s address is, Lieut. Jos. S. Peery, Officer’s Prison, Fort Delaware, Capt. F. M. Peery, same place.

I received your letter of November 30th containing 50 cents. Answered it on 14th and enclosed you a ring. Let me know if you received it.

Cousin, you have to some extent excited my curiosity. I sometimes imagine you are very large, weighing about a hundred and sixty pounds; have red hair and blue eyes. Then again I imagine you are rather small, dark eyes, and black hair, and [ ] complexion, weighing about 120. I often come to the latter conclusion. Now to decide this matter to some extent, I want you to send me your photograph so I can judge for myself. I don’t suppose you will have any serious objections to sending it. I will take special care of it and if you wish, will give it to Maggie when I get home.

I have not heard from home since I last wrote. I think we will get a mail before a great while. Mrs. J. B. W. sent me some magazines a few days ago which were very acceptable. I have been reading “Rob Roy.” Did you ever read it? I think it is a splendid novel. I received $1 you sent in your last letter and very much obliged to you for it. Give my kindest regards to your brothers family. And believe me to be your devoted cousin, — James S. Peery

Don’t forget to write.

6th Virginia Cavalry

1863: William Dickenson Stone to his Sister

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Two unidentified members of the 6th Virginia Cavalry, wearing battle shirts and with Colt .36 caliber Navy revolvers

The following letter was written by William Dickenson Stone (1836-1908), the son of Edmund Stone (1805-1840) and Nancy Chapman Dickenson (1809-1854) of Cartersville, Pittsylvania county, Virginia. William did not marry until after the war, in 1867, to Mary Rosa Parker (1848-1931)—12 years his junior. He lived in Franklin county, Virginia, after the war.

During the Civil War, William entered the service as a private on 27 May 1861 in Co. E, 6th Virginia Cavalry. He was commissioned a lieutenant on 20 April 1862 and often signed the pay rolls as commander of his company. The regiment fought in Jackson’s Valley Campaign and in the conflicts at Second Manassas, Brandy Station, Upperville, Fairfield, Bristoe, Mine Run, The Wilderness, Todd’s Tavern, Spotsylvania, Haw’s Shop, and Cold Harbor. The regiment went on to take part in Early’s Shenandoah Valley operations and the Appomattox Campaign.

William’s letter makes a reference to the Confederate victory at Chickamauga in northern Georgia where Bragg’s army turned back Rosecrans’ army, forcing them to retreat back to Chattanooga. “We all are perfectly elated with the good news from Bragg’s army and I am at this moment anxiously awaiting the arrival of the mail to hear further particulars but must confess I feel some little apprehension from the fact that army has always been so unsuccessful. But Longstreet is there now which will doubtless change the tide of events for he has veteran soldiers who have never known defeat.”

Transcription

Orange county, Virginia
September 25, 1863

Dear Sue,

Your last letter was received a few days ago while on the march to meet the enemy but they retired before we met them. Consequently we did not get into action but have been on the march several days which is my excuse for the delay. We are again settled down at the same place near Morton’s Ford on the Rapidan.

There is no news of importance with this army but all are perfectly elated with the good news from Bragg’s army and I am at this moment anxiously awaiting the arrival of the mail to hear further particulars but must confess I feel some little apprehension from the fact that army has always been so unsuccessful. But Longstreet is there now which will doubtless change the tide of events for he has veteran soldiers who have never known defeat.

You wrote a good deal about the girls who in fact bother my mind very little at present but if any think enough to enquire after me, tell them I am still open to conviction by the power of their charms (that is!) provided my ind undergoes a change which is not altogether impossible. You and Mollie need not acquaint all the girls with my intention of living a bachelor’s life. Then they would barely respect me for none but marrying men are popular with them and I don’t care to be kicked out of society entirely before my time comes of my own choice.

Everything is so dull here. There is nothing to write about. Tell Sallie her letter was received yesterday and I will write to her tomorrow or next day. This leaves myself and friends well. Write soon. Direct to Orange County, 6th Virginia, Lamar’s Brigade.

My love to all anxious friends and accept the warmest love of your absent brother, — Wm. D. Stone

10th Virginia Infantry, Fort Delaware

1864: Daniel Green Martz to Lydia A. (Sellers) Martz

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The following letter was written by Daniel Green Martz (1839-1891), the son of Hiram Martz (1800-1861) and Hannah Asbury Mathews (1803-1861) of Harrisonburg, Rockingham county, Virginia. Daniel was married in April 1860 to Lydia Ann Sellers (1838-1924) and had a young son at the time he enlisted on 3 June 1861 at Lacey Springs, Virginia, to serve as a Lieutenant in Co. H, 10th Virginia Cavalry. After he failed to be reelected, he was discharged from the regiment in May 1862.

Martz later reenlisted as a private in Co. G, 10th Virginia Infantry and was taken prisoner in December 1863 and initially sent to Camp Chase in Ohio; then transferred to Fort Delaware on 15 April 1864 where he wrote this letter three weeks later. He was exchanged on 11 October 1864 and returned to his regiment for the remainder of the war. He was paroled on 20 April 1865 at New Market, Virginia.

Confederate prisoners arriving at Fort Delaware

Transcription

Fort Delaware
May 5th [1864]

Mrs. Lydia A. Martz—dear Lydia,

I have just received your short note of 21st March and was much pleased to hear of your general good health but sorry to hear of you suffering with toothache. I am well—all except a slight sore on my neck coming from diphtheria, an enlargement of the gland. It is much better, nearly well. I have not let you know of my throat being sore on account of its making you uneasy. All danger is now past. Indeed, I hope this may find you entirely well. Also Sissie and all my relations and friends.

Louis Wood is well. Why don’t some of my relations write to me? I think they might. I am sorry to hear of Grandmother’s ill health. Hope she is well before this time. What has taken cousin Mikie to South Carolina? Get Uncle Dorilas 1 to see W. D. Liout and let me know whether I received the position I applied for, Wrote on larger paper and write me longer letters. I hope to see you soon. Be of good cheer. My love to all. Kiss and embrace Sissie for me, Many kisses for you. Affectionately your husband. — Daniel G. Marty

[to] Lydia A. Martz

Direct to Fort Delaware, Division 28.

1 Dorilas J. Martz (1802-1872) served in the 97th Virginia Regiment (Spitzler’s)

Fort Delaware, Prisoner of War

1864: John P. Seabrook to Susan Lucy Taylor

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A post war image of John P. Seabrook

The following POW letter was written by Lt. John P. Seabrook (1835-1927) of Co. I (“Alabama Grey’s”), 38th Alabama Infantry. Seabrook’s regiment was organized at Mobile in May 1862 and took an active role in the campaigns of the Army of Tennessee from Chickamauga to Nashville. Seabrook was taken prisoner in the fighting at Missionary Ridge on 25 November 1863. He was first taken to Louisville, then Camp Chase in Ohio, and finally to Fort Delaware. According to muster rolls, Seabrook had most of his right arm amputated at the US Hospital in Nashville before being released into the prisoner system in mid-February 1864. Seabrook was finally paroled at Fort Delaware on 14 September 1864 and forwarded for exchange to Aiken’s Landing, Virginia. He returned to duty on 27 September 1864 and was with his regiment at Fort Blakely when it was surrendered on 9 April 1865. He was sent for a few weeks to Ship Island as a POW until exchanged on 6 May 1865.

Seabrook wrote the letter to Susan Lucy (Barry) Taylor (1807-1881), the wife of Col. James Jones Taylor (1802-1883) of Newport, Kentucky—located adjacent to Covington. The couple were wed in 1824 and had at least six children—three of who are mentioned in this letter; James Taylor (1833-1876), John Taylor (1836-1914), and Barry Taylor (1839-1887). Mrs. Taylor was the daughter of Hon. William T. Barry (1785-1835) who was a Kentucky Democratic politician who served as the first Cabinet level Postmaster General under President Andrew Jackson. Susan operated a benevolent society out of Newport, Kentucky, that supplied aid and comfort to Confederate prisoners of war confined in Yankee prisons.

Confederate prisoners arriving at Fort Delaware

Transcription

Fort Delaware
July 21, 1864

My dear friend,

The box of provisions forwarded to our mess was received on the 18th and gladly received. I wrote you on the 12th in answer to yours of the 30th June and hope it has reached you by this time. Having heard “Picciola” highly commended as a work specially adapted to prison reading, I am pleased to have an opportunity of reading it, and tender you my sincere thanks for your kindness in sending it. I will finish Caesar by the last of the month, being now engaged on the fifth book. I shall then begin anew and study it more critically. For some time I have been tasking myself to five pages a day—the balance of the time devoted to other reading. By so doing, my time passes away more lightly and pleasantly and thoughts of home are restrained to some extent.

We now look forward no longer to an early exchange, but have made up our minds to endure imprisonment till the close of the war or exchange of administration. But we are not dispirited. Several colds are prevalent in the prison but we enjoy better health otherwise than we were led to expect from our first impressions of the place and the representations of others.

My wound has never entirely healed and from some irritating cause within (perhaps a particle of bone) it does not seem disposed to heal. There has been no change in it for the past two months and has never for a moment been free from pain. I have become so accustomed to it, however, that I scarcely ever think of it except when perfectly idle.

Please accept my thanks for your many kindnesses and present my regards to Mrs. Abert. I have the honor to be very truly your friend, — John P. Seabrook

To Mrs. Susan L, Taylor

5th Iowa Infantry, Camp Warren

1861: Cyrus Miner to Sarah (Fay) Miner

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Cyrus Miner, Co. K, 5th Iowa Infantry
(John Wernick Collection)

The following letter was written by Cyrus Miner (1822-1888) of Co. K, 5th Iowa infantry who enlisted as a musician (drummer) on 15 July 1861. He wrote the letter to his wife, Sarah (Fay) Miner (1822-1889) and his four children. In the 1860 US Census, Cyrus and his family were enumerated in Linton, Allamakee county, Iowa, where Cyrus was employed as a carpenter. Ten years earlier, the family resided in Jones county, Iowa.

Cyrus began his service in Co. K but was later transferred to the regimental band and then transferred out on 1 October 1864.

The letter is particularly noteworthy for its great description of Camp Warren which was located outside of Burlington, Iowa, in July 1861. It’s comparable to another letter by William Codling, a private in Co. E of the 5th Iowa who wrote to his friend ten days earlier saying that Camp Warren was “on the Burlington Fairground two miles from town. There we are about 2300 men of us penned up on about thirty acres of ground with a high board fence and guarded on all ends and sides. We are allowed to go to town to the river twice a week to bathe but then under the command of an officer.” [See William Codling]

[Note: This letter is from the personal collection of John Wernick and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent. He also owns the image of Cyrus Miner.]

Transcription

Camp Warren
July 28, 1861

Dear Wife and Children,

It is with pleasure that I take my pen in hand to write a few lines to you. I am well and hope these few lines will find you blessed with the same blessing.

Our trip down the river was without any accident. There was 6 companies on board before we got to Burlington, about 500 in all, besides the boat’s crew.

I will give you a faint description of Camp Warren. There is 15 acres enclosed with a tight board fence about 7 and and half feet high. There is picket guard placed one about every eight round the camp. There is on that small piece of ground 2800 soldiers. The 5th Regiment and 6th are full. The 7th lacks 200. There is three rows of board shanties, 10 in each row. Each company occupies one.

Now, fancy to yourself three thousand people copped up as we are without anything to do. There is only four hours drill in each day. The remainder of the time is taken up in a little of everything that you can think of—card playing and jumping, singing, pulling squares, and everything that can be thought of below the sun. There is so much noise while I am writing that I cannot hear myself think. I do not know what I am writing or what I want to write. Damn the confusion.

Now a little about our grub. Each man is entitled to 18 ounces of bread, 20 ounces of beef, or 12 of pork, 2 ounces of coffee, 2 ounces sugar, salt and vinegar. Pepper as much as we want to use per day. No potatoes yet.

There is some sickness in the camp but not as much as I expected. There is only about 20 out of 2800—that is, 20 in the hospital, but there is one half in camp got the shits. I am blessed. I never felt better. I beat reveille 5 in the morning, retreat at sunset, tattoo at 9 in the evening. The taps at 9:30. Then every candle is blown out. Then everyone that is out after that is walked off to the guard house and kept there until morning. Then they are put on guard the next 24 hours or put to cleaning out the quarters or some mean work such as cleaning back house. There is no use in getting under guard.

It is two weeks today since we got in camp and I have not missed one call. I can go out every day after guard mounting—that is a nine in the morning. Then I have nothing to do until sundown. Farewell for this time. Direct to Camp Warren, Burlington, Iowa

— Cyrus

6th Virginia Cavalry, Smuggled Letter

1864: John R. Bowles to friend Ned

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John H. Burns, Co. D, 1st Virginia Cavalry

The following well-written letter was penned on a cold, wintery, January night in 1864 by John R. Bowles of Co. F, 6th Virginia Cavalry. He wrote the letter while on detached duty “recruiting horses for service” in Nelson and Botetourt counties of Virginia. According to muster records, Bowles enlisted as a private on 15 January 1863 at Mount Crawford. In November and December, 1863, his records state that he was “detailed to attend to horses of Cavalry Division near Ivy Depot.” By the summer of 1864 he had been promoted to a corporal, and by war’s end he was a sergeant. A note on his muster record informs us that he was formerly a resident of Baltimore, Maryland, and that he intended to return there after the war.

What makes this letter unusual is that it was addressed to his friend Ned who was clearly living in the North—probably in Maryland, and the letter had to be smuggled through enemy lines with little or no expectation of a response. Ned isn’t identified but my hunch is that he was a former schoolmate.

Transcription

Rockfish Valley, Nelson county, Va.
January 6th 1864

My Dearest Friend Ned,

By the dim and uncertain glare of my campfire to night, I will attempt to write you a few lines as I have just heard of a good opportunity of forwarding a letter through the lines. Have you thought of me often, old friend? And have you ever wondered whether I reverted to you in my retrospections? If you have, you may case for the future from such uncertain speculations for you are my companion yet—present in mind though absent a long ways and separated by distance and armies.

Just imagine yourself with me tonight in my winter hut of logs and mud with a glowing fire cracking and popping like shrapnel shells around you and three messmates reclining upon beds of the “softest chestnut boards” we could find and a lively conversation upon foxes and fox hunting with rich imaginative embellishments annexed and a pot of rice and boiled rabbit upon the floor and you have our introductory appearance exactly. Well, having made your bow, as I am done my supper, I will monopolize your company so just seat [yourself] by my side upon my blanket and we will talk of old times and present circumstances.

How are you and how are you getting along? Are you in business for George W. H. yet? How do you like your location now and what profits do you realize? What do you think of things in general? When were you in Baltimore? How are the people there and who’s married and who ain’t? Have you read Jeff’s Message and what do you think of it? Uncle Abe seems to be a little weak or very impudent, I don’t know which.

If you could see my jowls and hear our mischief, you wouldn’t conclude my apprehensions of starvation were felt nor suppose that the spirit of our army was broken. I have had a splendid time lately, Ned. I am now and have been for two months upon detached duty recruiting horses for service in this and Botetourt counties. I get good fare, have light duties, not much restricted and plenty of friends, both make and female. Invitations to dinner and evening candy-stews are frequent and our soldier boys stand in high repute. I have some fine lady friends—the first feminines I have conversed with since I have been in the army—and you may suppose that I am “making hay, &c.” quite rapidly in strict accordance with the ancient adage. How I wish often times that you could share their company with me.

We will rejoin our regiment early next spring in ample time for fighting. Well, Old fellow, I have smelt gunpowder very often since we parted and do not care if I never offend my nose again by the scent. I have been in twenty odd engagements during last year and witnessed spectacles such as the battlefield only presents. But such descriptions are woefully frequent in the newspapers so I will not attempt any superfluous representations. I spent a fifteen day furlough in Lynchburg, New Glasgow, & Amherst county recently amongst my relatives and had an old fashioned time of fatness and plenty. Miss Helen Christian is well and spoke kindly of you. We correspond regularly. She writes a good letter and is a fast friend of mine, I believe. I wish I could send you a letter she wrote me a few days since.

I stayed all night at Cousin Martha Staples’ last month, but Cousin Mary is still in Missouri. Do you ever hear from John Trowbridge? What are his sentiments? How is honest Old Zane? I would like to see him. Send him my love. How is John Black? I presume your acquaintance has considerably increased in Zanesville by this time. How do you like them?

I wrote a long letter to Mother & Sisters today 1 which I hope they will get. Your journals still contain accounts of prospective sufferings and ultimate starvation for us, but I will take the privilege of a freeman and contradict any such assertions most unqualifiedly if you please. We laugh at misrepresentation and consider it an evidence of their longing for such results as they cannot obtain upon the battlefield. I was at Gettysburg and much wanted to get home, but our artillery ammunition was exhausted and we had to lose the advantage of success and a gloriously planned campaign, worthy our incomparable commander in chief.

As to our “homespun,” it is very serviceable and does not interfere with a clean sight along a gun barrel at all. The times seem to indicate a prolonged struggle, Ned, but Providence still rules the universe though Lincoln sits in the chair.

The weather has been excessively cold and the New Year came blustering into power like a young giant. May he have good things in store for us. The snow is falling heavily now and rests upon the everlasting mountains around us like locks of hoary-age. The boys are snoring around now and as the fire is going out and the ink too, I must prepare to bid you good night with a hope that you will visit me in my slumbers. I wish you could answer this. Goodbye, Ned. Your sincere friend, — John R. Bowles

1 A photocopy of the 4-page letter Bowles wrote to his mother and sisters in Baltimore, Maryland, on 6 January 1864 can be found in the Library of Virginia. Accession No. 38884. In that letter Bowles states that he had been given a furlough to acquire horses for the company and regiment, that he had been able to visit relatives in Botetourt County, Virginia, and sending news of them home. Bowles comments on the battle of Gettysburg. He also asks how his family and friends in Baltimore are doing and describes some aspects of life as a soldier.

13th New Hampshire Infantry

1862: Robert Richard Thompson to Annie (Baldwin) Thompson

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Robert Richard Thompson wearing his officer’s uniform later in the war.

The following letter was written by Sgt. Robert Richard Thompson (1823-1864) who enlisted on 16 August 1862 in Co, H, 13th New Hampshire Infantry. A month later he was promoted to 1st Sergeant. On 1 June 1863, Robert was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant of Co. D and 13 months later promoted to 1st Lieutenant. Sadly, though he was “full in the faith all will come out right yet,” he was killed in the fight at Chapin’s Bluff, Virginia, on 29 September 1864.

Robert wrote the letter to his wife, Annie Lucia Baldwin whom he married in 1859. They had two girls prior to Robert’s enlistment.

Transcription

Addressed to Mrs. R. R. Thompson, Coos, Coos County, New Hampshire

Washington D. C.
October 9th 1862

My Dear Wife,

We arrived here last evening & a hard journey we had of it. We left Concord last Monday morning about half past 5 o’clock. The regiment were entertained by the citizens of Nashua & a very fine entertainment it was too. The Colonel, Lieut. Colonel, one company and one officer of our company & the Adjutant of the regiment are in it so you see the Nashua people are much interested in the regiment.

At 1 o’clock p.m., we started for Norwalk to take the boat for Jersey City, thence to Washington direct by cars. We remained in Baltimore from 6 o’clock a.m till 11 o’clock a.m. We were from that time till 9 in the evening traveling 40 miles. I do not know the cause of delay. We had to lie on the soft side of a board last night. Today I learn we leave to report to Gen. Casey and to camp on Munson Hill on the south side of the Potomac. I believe we shall be near the 17th Maine. I will write more in detail after we are settled. I have not been in the city.

How much I have thought of you on my way here. How lonesome you must be! But my dear wife, do not mourn my absence too much. I am very well & contented.

Does darling Jennie enquire why Papa does not come to bed now? It makes my heart ache to think it is necessary to be separated from you, but believe me, I am full in the faith all will come out right yet.

Troops are coming in at a great rate. I must close now for I must prepare to leave. From your most affectionate husband, — Robert

Do not write me till I send you direction.

11th Connecticut Infantry, Battle of Newbern

1862: Charles Warren to Albert L. Norris

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Charles Warren (ca 1865)

The following letter was written by Charles Warren (1835-1920) who entered the service as a sergeant in Co. B, 11th Connecticut Infantry, and soon after their first Battle of Newbern, described here, was promoted to 1st Sergeant. Warren later (July 1863) became Captain of Co. G, then Major (November 1864) and in command of the entire regiment in the last stages of the war. He was mustered out as the Colonel of the 11th Connecticut and after the war published a regimental history. Indeed, near the end of this letter he confesses, “It seems to me that I could write a volume about what I see.”

An obituary published on 4 November 1920 in The Press (Stafford Springs, Connecticut) informs us that Warren was “one of the most respected men in Stafford” when he died, having lived most of his life in the town. It says he worked as a young man in a local mill until 1850 when he entered into a partnership with Henry Thrall in the whole sale leather business in Boston which is where he worked until the Civil War began. He then returned home to join the 11th Connecticut, rose through the ranks to lead it by war’s end, and proudly asserted that he had participated in each and every battle in which the regiment was engaged.

After the war, Warren returned to Stafford where he entered the mercantile business and carried on with it until he sold out in 1881 to take a position as President of the Stafford Savings Bank.

In this letter, Warren gives us an incredible, eye-witness account of the Battle of Newbern in which the 11th Connecticut played a prominent role in what would be the first of many battles. We learn that it made quite an impression on him, as he related to his Boston friend, “It was a sickening sight that met us—dead horses, mangled men, broken cannon, knapsacks, guns, &c. were strewn in every direction. I shall never forget that sight—never, never. It is the sad side of a victory & no one knows anything about it until they see it as it is.”

[Note: This letter is from the personal collection of Richard Weiner and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]

Transcription

Addressed to Albert L. Norris, Esq., 94 Hanover Street, Boston, Mass.

Newbern [North Carolina]
April 7, 1862

Albert L. Norris, Esq.
My friend and brother,

Having a few leisure moments this afternoon, I thought I would improve them by writing you a few lines which I doubt not will be quite acceptable. In the first place, I have heard direct from Rufus at Hatteras Inlet & have the cheering news that he is much better & in fact, getting quite smart & thinks of coming to join us by the next steamer & so I expect to see him in a few days if we are not ordered to march. I understand that the 11th Regiment has been ordered to Beaufort but it is reported the order is countermanded. We are encamped by the side of the Trent River near a bridge in the woods & quite a pleasant place it is as the boys can bathe every day if they choose. We have moved our camp twice since I wrote you last.

I believe I promised to give you a long account of the Battle of Newbern but it has been so long since the battle, I think it would not interest you much & so I will give you only some items & incidents that came under my observation.

We left Hatteras I think on the 26th of February and landed on Roanoke Island the first of March & encamped in a corn field in front of a house & a very pleasant place it was. I visited the battlefield on the island and had some very interesting chats with some of the natives who gave me a very interesting account of the island and its defenses and the rebel troops that were encamped there. We took considerable pains to ornament our camp as it was reported that we were to stay here some time but out time on the island was destined to be short as orders were received on the afternoon of the 5th to have everything in readiness to go aboard the boats the next morning.

On the morning of the 6th of March, we marched to the beach and embarked on board the fleet and was towed out into Croatan Sound where we lay until the 11th when signals were hoisted for starting & the three brigades of Burnside’s Division moved down the Sound. I awaked up on the morning of the 12th and crawled out of bunk & went on deck & found that the fleet was off Hatteras Inlet anchored. Early in the morning the signals were up for starting & the fleet moved down Pamlico Sound headed by the gunboats. It was one of the most beautiful mornings & days that I ever beheld & I am sure that I never enjoyed a ride so much in my life as I did the one down Pamlico Sound on the 12th of March 1862.

Along in the afternoon, fires were seen on the mainland which we supposed were signal fires as they appeared at intervals all along the coast but I must hasten along with my story.

We sailed up Neuse River as far as Slocum’s Creek and anchored for the night. Orders were received to have the guns inspected & everything in order & when we landed to take our overcoats & blankets & leave our knapsacks on the boat & take three days rations. Orders were also given that in landing, strict silence would be insisted on among the men. I arose on the 13th & went on deck & seen the fleet was still anchored in the creek. Early in the morning a tugboat was seen approaching with one of the Generals aides & the boys crowded on deck to catch the order as we supposed he had orders for us. Says he, “Get your men ready with provisions and ammunition for the signals are already up for landing.” It took a good part of the day to land all the troops as we had to go ashore in light draft boats.

The 11th Connecticut got ashore about 3 o’clock p.m. and formed in line on the beach. Those that landed in the morning pushed on up the bank of the river towards Newbern. As we stood in line, an aide came galloping up and sings out, “They have evacuated the first battery & our men hold the railroad.” Of course there was considerable cheering at this.

We took up our line of march & a tough march it was as the mud was ankle deep a good part of th way. We marched until about 10 o’clock & halted for the night having passed the deserted earthworks and railroad. We were almost completely tired out, being wet trough and muddy from head to foot as it rained nearly all the time. We stopped by the side of the road and spread our blankets down on the wet grass and lay down on them and tried to sleep. I tried the experiment awhile but could not sleep and so I got up and sat by the camp fire until about half past two when we were ordered to advance.

We continued our march until we overtook the regiments ahead of us and halted. I lay down on the ground & dropped asleep but did not enjoy it long as we were ordered to march. A part of the 11th [Connecticut] Regiment was detailed to draw some 12-pound howitzers & Co. B was one of the companies. Well, on we went in the mud drawing the cannons up towards the battery that was reported not far ahead. The road was awful bad & the boys had not proceeded far before the wheel sunk nearly to the hubs in some places which made it very hard work to get them along.

Gen. Burnside passed us early in the morning going to the front with a smile on his countenance. Firing was now heard on our left by the infantry and soon a shell came whizzing through the woods followed by another and another. When it became evident that the battery was not far ahead, we pushed on up towards the firing and soon bullets began to whistle about our ears which was not very pleasant, I assure you. One poor fellow was shot in the forehead a few feet from me while he had hold of the rope of the cannon. The wounded were now being brought to the rear & officers were hurrying to and fro to bring up the troops and cannon & the excitement increasing but the boys kept on with the cannon & did not flinch at all as I could see.

Gen. burnside passed us again going to the rear and says, “Hurry those pieces, boys, for they will be needed!” The shot and shell were now flying thick around us although we could not see the enemy on account of the woods and smoke but in a short time we came out into the cleared space where the battery became plainly visible. We drew the pieces up into the cleared space to within about 35 rods [200 yards] of the enemy’s guns and wheeled them around under a galling fire & I wonder we were not cut to pieces more than we were.

We filed a little to the right of the road that leads to the battery and were ordered to lie down. A regiment was on our right lying flat on the ground which we found were the 24th Massachusetts which you are somewhat acquainted with. The fire of the artillery and infantry was truly terrific on both sides until about 11:30 o’clock when they see that our men had outflanked them and were preparing to charge when they began to give way & we rushed for the battery with bayonets fixed, yelling like savages.

Map shows the 11th Connecticut Infantry advancing by the railroad and then ordered to the right to replace the 27th Massachusetts (under the “S” in FOSTER), on the left side of the Old Beaufort Road, the 24th Massachusetts on the right side of that same road. The two howitzers are planted in the middle of the road near the edge of the clearing. Directly opposite the swampy clearing ahead lay the Confederate works anchored by the 16 guns of Brem’s and Latham’s Batteries.

The regiments were drawn up in line of the battery and Gen. Burnside coming up, cheer upon cheer rent the air. The boys all love the General and would fight for him until the last. He could not prevent tears from coming into his eyes to see the New England boys in the battery as he rode up.

It was a sickening sight that met us—dead horses, mangled men, broken cannon, knapsacks, guns, &c. were strewn in every direction. I shall never forget that sight—never, never. It is the sad side of a victory & no one knows anything about it until they see it as it is.

The army was just immediately on the march and we come on to the railroad at Woods brick yard and just the other side were rifle pits which were captured at the point of the bayonet. We expected another desperate fight ahead as it was reported that there was two more batteries a short distance ahead. The army took the railroad for Newbern and as far as the eye could reach each way was one dense mass of Union soldiers with colors flying which presented a beautiful sight.

In a short time, news was received that our gunboats had arrived at the wharf at Newbern when it became evident to us that the fighting was over. As we came in sight of the city, dense volumes of smoke were seen rising which was evidence enough that the rascals had fired the town and fled. We stopped just out of the city by the side of the Trent River. It seems to me that I could write a volume about what I see but I must wait until I see you.

Newbern is quite a pleasant place with shade trees and some very fine residences. Well, friend Albert, I shall have some large stories to tell when I get home. I wish you could see some of the prisoners that we have taken for they are the most miserable looking set that I ever saw. But I must close. More anon.

Yours, — Charles Warren