When the 2nd letter transcribed below was written by Horace Augustus Derry of Co. D, 20th Massachusetts Infantry in late November 1862, the Army of the Potomac was under the new command of Ambrose Burnside who pledged to take the army directly to Richmond, come hell or high water — or so it seemed. But a series of unfortunate circumstances and bad weather caused delays in Burnside’s plans, resulting in an ill-advised crossing of the Rappahannock River and assault on the Confederate rifle-pits above the town of Fredericksburg. For Horace, now a sergeant, it would be his last battle. He took a gunshot wound to the leg on that day and was returned to a Washington hospital where his leg was eventually amputated. He survived the wound but was discharged from the service in 1863. In recognition of his bravery, newspaper accounts state that he was promoted to 2d Lieutenant, but I could find no military record of this change in rank.
The Thomas Balch Library at Leesburg, Virginia has a letter that Horace wrote his mother on 7 January 1863 from Stanton Hospital in Washington D.C. where he was recovering from the gunshot wound he received at Fredericksburg. He describes the placement and severity of the wound, as well as the treatment he received in camp and in the hospital. He also told his mother that many men were dying of their wounds after losing limbs.
Another letter written by Horace to his mother, dated 24 January 1863 at Stanton Hospital, reads in part:
“My dear kind and loving mother, I received your kind and welcome letter of the 20th and was glad to hear that you were all alive and kicking. I am well but I cannot kick much yet with only one leg. The Doctor has thought to put a poultice on to draw it after being here over a month. Well, [it is] as much as any one can expect from one of these Doctors out here. I have not got my money yet and I don’t know as I ever shall but they have going to pay off some of the regts. And I expect ours will get paid… I do not know whether Alden [H. Holbrook]’s is any more than a flesh wound or not. If you know, I wish you would tell me. What does [brother] Charley think of Burnside? Our Division had a review the other day and Burnside come around and Gen. [O. O.] Howard, commander of our division, took his hat off and sung out, “Now boys, three cheers for Burnside,” but not one man cheered him. Rather hard don’t you think so? …You say that you suppose you must direct your letter to Lieutenant Derry… I think our first sergt. had ought to of had it before me. I do not call it any honor to be promoted in this army any way. It is a disgrace for a man to be in it anyway for we are all fighting for niggers. I think but then if I am Lieut. I shall try and do my duty the best I know how…” [Source: Derry letter sold on internet in 2008; transcribed text posted with letter]
Within a year of returning from the war, Horace married Stella M. Mabury of Boston. He found employment initially as a grocery clerk and later as the owner/operator of his own stables in East Boston. Boston newspapers reported him among the sleigh-owners who used to parade their rigs through city streets upon the first big snowfall each year in Boston. One article in 1898 called out his “natty sleigh” in particular that Horace drove in company with his wife and daughter Lillian (1864-1954). In January 1900, Hiram sold his stables and adjoining property at the corner of Meridian and Eutaw Streets and relocated to Sharon, and later Medford, Massachusetts. He died in 1925.
Horace was not the only member of his family to serve in the Civil War. Two older brothers also received wounds and survived the war. Barton Bass Derry (1830-1909) served as a first sergeant in Co. D, 39th Massachusetts. He was wounded on 8 May 1864 at Laurel Hill, Virginia. George Reed Derry (1831-1906) served in Co. G, 42nd Masachussetts. He was wounded and taken prisoner at the Battle of Galveston in January 1863.
Letter 1
[Editor’s Note: My thanks to Abbey Weber Jones for the first transcription of this letter.]
Addressed to Charles W. Mabury, South City Yard, Boston, Mass.
Camp near Yorktown [Virginia] April the 13th, 1862
Dear Mother,
I received your kind letter yesterday and was glad to hear that you were well. The papers that you sent me came in a good time, for I wanted something to read. I paid 10 cents for the New York Herald the same day that I received them. I have wrote two letters to Mother and have not had any answer yet. I should like to know the reason of it, and one to Charles and William and have not received an answer from either one of them. I hope that you will hear from Henry by the time you get this so that you can tell me where he is and how he likes [it]. If you get a letter from him, you let me know where he is and how to direct it and I will write to him. I hope that we shall see each other in a little while and then we will not have to write to each other.
You tell George Willett not to make a fool of himself by enlisting and coming out here for he will soon get sick of it. You say when you go down town you will carry your H.A.D. [head?] down and see if it does not look better than my other Mother’s. I am afraid it will not look so well. I am sorry that I did not have that one taken for increase, but it was my neglect. You know that I am forgetful. Don’t you know that night that I went out to Quincy and forgot to come back—don’t you? But you did not know where I slept, did you.
You say that you hope that you will not have anymore parties until Henry and me gets home. I hope that will be in a very short time for I like parties better than I do fighting. Don’t you? They say they had a hard fight at Island Number 10 and there was a great many lives lost on both sides; and I think there will be at Yorktown before it is taken but I hope not. I gave your love to Alden but Mrs. Talcott was not there so I could not give it to him but I heard that he was coming back before he got his discharge to see the boys and then I will give it to him. That will do for this time. You tell Stell my back has got well and I got rid of the boots. Give my love to Father and bub and sis.
From your son, — H. A. Derry
Letter 2
November 22nd 1862 Camp near Falmouth, Va.
Dear Mother,
I will now try and answer your kind letter of the 1st. We are paddling around in the mud now up to our knees. It has been raining for 3 or 4 days but it is a little pleasanter today and we are drying our things.
Capt. Frederick Dreher—a “Dutchman”—took temporary command of the 20th Mass. in November 1862.He was killed at the Battle of Fredericksburg.
Yesterday in the afternoon, I was ordered to go and get 24 men and go on guard over to Gen. [Darius] Couch’s Headquarters and over we went through the mud. We stopped there until dark and then there was 24 more came and I went and found out there was some mistake about it and they told me I might take my men and go back to camp and back we went through the mud again and that is about the way things are done all of the time. I shall be lad when we get some of our old officers back that knows something. Captain [Ferdinand] Dreher ¹ has got command of the regiment now. He is a Dutchman. You know we have been on the march the most of the time since I came back.
One day they marched us 20 miles and all we have on the march to eat is raw pork and hard bread. The boys find a great deal of fault and say they do not have enough of that.
We are close to Falmouth and on the other side of the [Rappahannock] River we can see the rebels on picket and we expect to cross in a few days. The pickets are near enough to talk to each other. We do not get many letters now for the mail does not go nor come regular now and I do not think it will until we get into winter quarters and I don’t know when that will be. I do not see much signs of it now and for my part, I do not want to go into winter quarters. I want to fight it out and come home.
Has [brother] Hen[ry] got home yet? You know you said he would be at home in two weeks but I guess he did not come.
We have not been paid off yet and I don’t think we shall for some time. I suppose you know George Willitt is sick at Washington and I think he is better off there than he would be in the army for I do not think he is well enough to stand it this winter out here. If we don’t go into winter quarters, I think a great many of is will be sick for half of the time we lie on the damp ground with nothing under us but one blanket.
I am sorry to hear that Stell [Stella A. Mabury] has been sick but I hope she is well now. She thought I had forgot the place where you lived and so she told me but I did not forget. You tell her I wrote a letter to her today and when I get time, I will write another one. Give my love to Hen[ry] and tell him I will write a letter to him as soon as I get time.
I must close now. Give my love to all of the folks over to South Boston, Emme, and all of the rest of the folks, and to Stell.
From your son, — H. A. Derry
¹ Capt. Ferdinand Dreher of Co. C, 20th Massachusetts, was killed at the Battle of Fredericksburg.
The following letters were written by George Brown Eckert (1840-1899) while serving as an officer in the 3rd US Infantry. His parents were Isaac Eckert (1800-1873) and Judith Hahn (1802-1875) of Reading, Berks county, PA. In 1860 he was a 20 year old clerk living with his parents and sister Rebecca in Reading, PA; his father was a wealthy iron master there. He enrolled in Reading, PA and mustered on 18 April 1861 in Harrisburg as a fifer (musician) in Company A, 25th Pennsylvania Infantry – the Ringgold Light Artillery – for 3 months’ service. He mustered out with them on 23 July. He was appointed 2nd Lieutenant of Co. C the 3rd United States Infantry on 5 August 1861 and was promoted to First Lieutenant on 12 March 1862. He was in command of Co. C during the Battle of Antietam (Sept. 1862) and again in action at Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. He returned to Trenton, New Jersey, on recruiting duty and resigned his commission as captain on 10 November 1864.
By 1870 he was again a clerk, in his father’s iron works in Reading. In 1873 he became a partner with his brother Henry in Eckert & Brother, and they took over their father Isaac’s iron business in Reading, operating the Henry Clay Furnace and iron mines. He was also a Director of the Farmers National Bank and briefly its President after his brother Henry died in 1894. George was said to be a “millionaire iron master” at his death at age 58 in 1899.
Letter 1
Camp Winfield Scott Near Yorktown, [Virginia] Saturday evening, April 19, 1862
I only received your letter of the 14th inst. about an hour ago making five full days for it to reach me. However, I think I will get them somewhat sooner as Gen. McClellan has issued an order to have all the letter for his Army directed to Washington D. C. You will direct viz: G. B. E., 3rd Infantry, USA, Sykes Brigade, Army of the Potomac, Washington D. C. I think that I will get letters directed in that way in about two days.
You cannot imagine how much delighted I was to get a letter from you, it being nearly ten days since I heard from you last. I received at the same time a letter from Father and eleven newspapers. I think from the hand writing David Benson sent them. I intend writing to him as soon as possible.
Since I wrote you the last letter, I have seen the New York Heralds what were brought into camp. I think I will see me more as there is to be a regular mail so if you send me some occasionally, I will be much obliged. I have not seen Charley since I left the camp near Yorktown. He then told me that he had been sick but was improving rapidly. I hope you have said nothing about his being sick so that his parents can hear it. If you have not, for precious sake, do not because he would feel angry with me I know. I saw Phil McHunberg [?] a few evening ago. He asked me when I heard from home. I told him I will remember you to him the first time I see him. I will tell you all the news I can going about Charley hereafter with great pleasure. I was speaking to George Lauman about his sister getting married and he said he did not know where Bev, Kim got his taste. I never thought that [they] would make a match, did you?
Some time ago you spoke of praying for me. I hope you do. I hope to God that your prayers are heard, sister. I do nearly every night pray to myself for your protection and for the protection of all my friends, and if it should be God’s will that I should be a victim of this war, “so it will be.” But dear sister, I cannot say that I am prepared to meet that dreadful day. But I cannot help that. I have thought the matter over frequently. Very few men in the field are prepared to die, I can say, much to my sorrow. If they were, I think I would be nearer to it.
I do not know where the Ringgold Artillery are. Father says they are in our army but I think he is mistaken. Chris Doser is camped at Newport News. I do not think their regiment will be in the great fight but can’t say for certain. I am glad you are taking riding lessons so if I ever return I will be able to ride with you. Send me one of the vignettes as soon as you have then taken.
It would be useless for me to try to give you an idea of the army—especially of its artillery. The field artillery will reach from the Gass factory to the Cemetery and back and any quantity of siege pieces—the greatest amount ever known in any one army in the world. When all our siege guns open, something must fall. I think the enemy have as many men as we have, but I think our artillery is much superior to theirs. I think the fight will commence about Wednesday or Thursday. No telling how long it will last. Probably a week, no telling. I will write you when it commences if I possibly can.
I suppose you notice quite a change in my letters—that is, in my spelling. I am getting so that I can scarcely write a letter anymore. You may rest assured George Lauman will not be present at his sister’s marriage. I like the [soldier’s] life very much [but] I do not know how I will like the battles. We are encamped on the same ground that Gen. Washington’s forces were encamped. The other day they discovered an old magazine that is supposed to have been used by Gen. Washington in the Revolution. It is in a dilapidated condition but this will be a different battle than the one Gen. Washington fought. Gen. Marcy of Gen. McClellan’s staff says that it will be one of the greatest battles ever known to the world.
Our camp is in beautiful one situated on high land and sandy. Gen. McClellan’s headquarters are about 200 yards from my tent to the right of the brigade. I expect you have seen a map of the country ere this in some of the newspapers. He keeps up a continued firing (almost) during day and night on our left. We have captured a good many prisoners since we are stationary on our left.
This letter will be mailed by a reporter of Forney’s [War] Press (who is in our camp) either in Washington or Philadelphia. 1 He leaves tomorrow. It is now ten minutes after—long after—my bed time and I am getting sleepy. So I bid you goodbye. Write soon—always letters like your last. Those few words were of more consolation to me that I have had since I have been in the army. Give my respects to Minnie and all the rest, but do not show them this letter. Goodbye. Write often.
Ever your loving brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
P. S. There is very heavy musketry firing on our left. It has stopped already. Probably only an alarm of the pickets.
1Forney’s War Press was a newspaper dedicated to carrying Civil War news. Issues were published weekly in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and contained engravings, news from war correspondents, casualty reports, poetry, and humor. War Press was published by John W. Forney, who was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1817. His career in publishing began as an apprentice at the Lancaster Journal. In time he became the Journal’s owner and editor. He was Clerk of the United States House of Representatives 1851-1856 and 1860-1861, and Secretary of the United States Senate 1861-1868. Each issue contained eight pages. The masthead of the newspaper was an ornate illustration containing an eagle, warship, cannon, and soldier’s in battle.
Letter 2
Camp Winfield Scott Near Yorktown April 24th 1862
Dear Sister,
Your letter of the 21st inst. has just been received by me making nearly four full days for it to reach me so you can imagine the time it takes. It ought never to take more than two days and a half for a letter to reach me from Philadelphia. One thing in your letter rather surprised me. It is this—that you sent me that bundle of papers. I did not recognize the handwriting to be yours. I took it for David Benson’s writing, and on the strength of it, I wrote him quite a letter thanking him very kindly for his trouble and that I hoped that if the trouble was not too great that he would continue sending me papers as frequently as convenient. Quite a mistake, was it not? Well just consider that I say the same to you.
You will not be able to send me papers daily (rather Mr. Hand) on account of our mails being so very irregular. I would sometimes receive six or eight papers all in one mail. We manage to get the New York Herald two or three days after it is published. I have just read the Herald of the 22nd inst. Just this minute I hear the news boy crying out New York Herald of the 23rd. We get them from Fortress Monroe. I have just read some little of the Herald of the 23rd inst. but throw it to one side and resume my letter writing to you.
Will you be kind enough to tell Mr. Hand that I appreciate his kindness and am exceedingly obliged to him for putting himself to so much trouble, but if he did send me the papers daily that I would not receive half of them as they—the post master—take no plains in regard to papers.
Dear sister, you want to know all the news. Nothing of any consequence has occurred since I wrote you the last letter in which I gave you all the news. I consistently could with the exception on the 22nd inst. [when] the rebels discovered one of our working parties at work in the wood and they let all their batteries know of it and they all opened fire upon it at once. And such a noise you never did hear not I hope never will. Fortunately no one was hurt. We did not reply, therefore they could not keep up the firing.
I cannot give you any idea of their fortifications as we are not allowed to go to the front. We bring prisoners in daily. They look very seedy indeed. All that I have seen wore the home spun and had very little of that. But I tell you one thing, don’t you believe all the newspaper reports about their living. They live just as well as we do, if not better.
My company with fifteen others from or brigade have gone out as a working party for the night. As I am provost marshal of the regiment, I am not allowed to go with it for fear I would be needed at camp. We had a very pleasant duty on Easter. We had any quantities of eggs. Our living generally is very much better than it was three weeks ago. We have everything with the exception of bread. That we cannot get at all times unless we bake it and that is worse than none at all.
I was not aware that Charley had resigned his position as [ ]. I think if Chris does resign, he will not be able to get a position as an officer anywhere else at present.
I think the fighting will commence perhaps ere this letter reaches you and probably not for ten days or two weeks. I thought last night that I would leave this letter open until this morning. This morning at reveille the Captain and company returned. He told me that there were five thousand men at work last night for the purpose of getting ready. The Regulars threw up the first parallel in front of the enemy. They were not fired at all.
This morning I heard a cry of fire. I jumped up and found that my neighbor’s tent (Capt. Davis’) was on fire and one of the Lieutenants slept through the whole of it without being the least disturbed by the flame. Lt. Parker who was in the tent was taken out without being injured. He leaves for Washington this morning. He has the typhoid fever. Several of the officers of the brigade have to return to Washington on account of sickness.
Dear sister, I want you to send me your vignette in the next letter you write. Dear [sister], do not forget me when you retire at night. Remember me in your prayers. I think is is time to close as the mail will close in twenty minutes. Give my love to all. Your loving brother. Write soon. — G. W. Eckert
Letter 3
Camp near Sharpsburg [Maryland] October 24, 1862
Your letter of the 16th was received on the 20th making four days that it took to come. I hope this one will not be so long on the road. I would have answered your letter on receipt of it had not our regiment been detailed for picket duty on the Potomac. I suppose you hear all sorts of stories about the pickets firing across the Potomac. There is nothing of the kind done here because the enemy do not make their appearance in day time. At night we have all the camp fires put out so that they cannot tell the exact position of our pickets. They only way they can find out our true position will be for them to advance in daytime in force enough to drive us from the bank of the river and that I do not think will be done by the Rebels as it would be apt to bring on a general engagement that I don’t think the enemy wants at this point of the river. As soon as we have rain enough to raise the river, I think we will leave for parts unknown to your brother.
I see by the press of the North that they (the people) insists on Gen. McClellan making an advance movement. I tell you, if they make him advance before he is ready, we will be whipped although I do not think that there is such a word as whipped to the army commanded by McClellan. If they will only give him more time, he will bring things all right. For instance, our Division have not had a stitch of clothing issued to them and it would be almost an impossibility for men to be out these nights without the proper kind of clothing suitable to the weather.
You must by my request fight for McClellan and no other man. Hooker is a good fighting general but lacks in the mind. He cannot plan adn carry out his plans. Everybody is getting away from the field on some fancy duty or else gets sick and gets a sick leave. I am not one of the kind that will ask to leave the field, but never-the-less, if you ever get a chance to say yes in regard to getting me on fancy duty, do so without the slightest hesitation on your part. I would like mighty well to spend the coming fall and winter in some civilized portion of the states (as we call them). It is not every [one] who has the influence to bring to bear at Washington so as to enable them to go to the states on fancy duties, but I think with very little exertion on the part of Father or Henry, I would be enabled to visit the states this winter. I am bound to see home this winter providing the army go into winter quarters. I have Father’s promise for that. Nearly all my letters heretofore have been mailed in Philadelphia by friends.
I am very sorry that the weather is so bad as I do not think Minnie will enjoy her visit if she is still with you. Give her my kind regards. What rank does Jim Miltimore display on his uniform? When I was home last Christmas, he wore the rank of a Major. Has he promoted himself since? Poor Jim, I don’t blame him. He is not as ignorant as some persons take him—especially about military affairs. He never can join the Regular Army unless he enlists as a private first. You can tell him that if he speaks of the Regular Service. I was aware of Captain Terrill’s death but not that his remains had been buried at our church. What in God’s world will his wife do for a living? Tell Aunt May that I would be pleased to hear from her and will accept of the Evangelist whenever she can send it. It is now near Tattoo and I will have to receive my roll call.
Give my loveto all at home—especially Mother. It is very cold at nights, especially when we are on picket. Remember me in your prayers. Goodbye. Write soon. Ever your loving brother, — G. B. Eckert
Rebecca A. Eckert, Reading, Pa.
P. S. Write with black ink.
Letter 4
Camp Blank, 8 miles from Fredericksburg November 19th 1862
Dear Sister,
We are within 8 miles of Fredericksburg—the place where we landed when we sailed from Newport News. We marched over nearly the same ground that we did whenwe marched for Bull Run battle. I have but 10 minutes to write this letter as the mail is waiting. I have made some severe marches in my life time but none to compare with our late ones. I am at present very sore. My limbs pain me very much. We just got into camp. Have been marching all day in a heavy rain storm. I think the rainy season is setting in.
I cannot write you a long letter—only to let you know where we are and that I am still alive. We left Warrenton on the 17th inst. and now we are near Fredericksburg. I must close and take my wet boots off. Write soon. Your affectionate brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
Letter 5
Camp near Fredericksburg, Virginia December 3d, 1862
Dear Sister,
Yours of the 26th inst. was received a few days ago with postage stamps enclosed. I received it while on picket. I was very glad to get it for the purpose of having something to read although it was not at all lengthy. It is the first time any of the Regulars have been on picket since we left Sharpsburg. We would not have been ordered on picket had not some volunteer cavalry made fools of themselves and allowed themselves to be captured about two miles in our rear. There were two squadrons of “I am [ ]” the 5th Penna. Cavalry on picket, and they were surprised by a regiment of Rebel cavalry and captured, leaving only one man to tell the tale. He escaped after being captured and as a matter of course the Regulars had to be put on that duty in order to prevent any more such raids.
Before I forget it, where is Hiester Jones—at home or in the field? Is Phil <uhlenburg still at Fort Hamilton or has he left for the South? Some officers do not think a great deal of his work, between you and me.
Yesterday the 2nd, I went over to Capt. [paper torn] Battery. I saw the Capt. Silvis and Leasure. They are all very well. They are about seven miles from our camp near Fredericksburg. I saw Green & Capt. Smith today. They are all well.
Go to my trunk. You will find one pair of 2nd Lt.’s shoulder straps—the same that you sent me while on the Island. Take them and have one bar put in each end of each in order to make them 1st Lieutenant’s straps and then send them to me by mail. Do that as quick as possible. The bar must be made of the same Bullion as the strap.
Did you receive $5 which I sent you to buy some tamps with? You will have to excuse this writing as I am writingalmost in the dark. Give my love to all who inquire after me and write as usual, frequently. Does Father ever speak of my love for the Holidays? I think I have said enough about it. It now remains in his hands. If he does not speak of it, will you please urge it?
I am your loving brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
Letter 6
Camp near Fredericksburg, Va. December 18th 1862
Dear Sister,
I received your last letter “I have forgotten the date” while lying on the ground awaiting our turn to cross the river. I received the shoulder straps in the same letter. I have them on at present. They are too good to wear in the field. I received the postage stamps and dictionary two days before.
Of course you have heard all about the defeat of our Army for a defeat, I am sorry to say, it was—and a bad one at that. In your last letter you say how nice it would be for me to remain in the field until the war is over. Now that is all nonsense and I will not do it. I am coming home this winter, let it cost what it will, and you are the last one I would expect to say that I should remain in the field. It makes little difference to me what they all say, I am coming home this winter. The army will do no more fighting this winter. If it does, it will be whipped worse than ever. I think we will go into winter quarters this winter either here or nearer Washington.
Our troops behaved shamefully in the city. They actually broke open houses and destroyed everything from a pin up to costly pianos, took axes and cut the keys off. Oh! it was shameful. Dear sister, I want you to use your influence in regard to my leave. I wrote to Father yesterday giving him a full detail of the battle and the defeat of our troops. I remain ever your loving brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
Letter 7
Camp near Fredericksburg, Va. December 30th 1862
Go to my trunk, take from it papers of Camp & Garrison Equipage pertaining to recruiting service. For part of the 1st quarter of 1862 and send them to me by mail. They are my vouchers. I think you will find them marked retained. They are in a bundle with other papers. Send no other papers but be careful and don’t lose them or I will get into difficulty wit hthe Government. Your affectionate brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
Miss Rebecca Eckert, Reading, Pa.
P. S. Go to Jacob Knalb [and] find out whether he received my subscription for Journal which I sent some time ago. — G. B. E.
Letter 8
Camp near Fredericksburg, Va. January 29th 1863
My dear Sister,
You would have heard from me much sooner but circumstances placed me in a different position than they did, I will tell you but you are not to say one word to Father or Mother. During our great trip in which we were stuck in the mud and have not yet extricated all the articles of war left in the mud two weeks ago, I was taken very sick on the road with chills and fever which you know is anything but pleasant in the most comfortable quarters. I will give you some idea of the trip [but] I must stop for the present as my rheumatism is very bad in my right arm and I cannot write.
I will try it again as I feel very well [now]. We struck camp on the 21st inst. at 9 o’clock in the morning and marched about three miles when we run into a column of troops which caused us to halt. They, I have learned since, were on the wrong road. We went into bivouac. The day was very raw. At night, about 7 o’clock, it began to rain and it came down in torrents all night. We had no tents—nothing but one blanket. The men had their knapsacks. The officers, as I said before, had but one blanket—all they could carry. It rained so fast that we could not keep our fires going so we all got together and slept the best we could. Strange to say, I did sleep until I was awakened by a small stream of water running under my body. Of course, we were all saturated with water.
The next morning, The General was sounded and son afterward the advance. We made our cup of coffee and marched off, not all of us, as Lt. Watson’s Battery was sunk into the mud so that he had to double his teams to get one piece out which delayed him nearly 12 hours. Well we kept on marching until about 12 o’clock at noon when we halted and were not able to go any further all all the artillery & pontoons were stick in the mud and we could not get them out, still raining, when we again went into bivouac. It was time as I was completely exhausted. That night I thought I would die on account of the pain in my bones. Thank the Lord it ended with a chill and fever. I suffered terrible with fever for three days while in bivouac [and] came back to camp in an ambulance. Had a chance to see the road. I saw dozens of times sixteen horses on one light piece of artillery adn it was all they could do was to draw.
After taking about one bushel of medicine, I finally got better and am now quite well with the exception of rheumatism which I never expect to get rid of. Our army during the march had no less than 20,000 stragglers and those that did keep together were completely demoralized. Old officers say it was worse than a defeat twice over. It is reported that Gen. Lee sent word to Gen. Burnside that he would give him a thousand men to help to put the pontoons down if we could only do it, because he wanted us to cross. I would not give three cents for the army at present. There is great indignation in the army about the dismissal of Gen. Fitz John Porter, one of our best generals. Oh what will become of us. I am afraid we are lost forever. I hope not. Write soon. Goodbye. Your affectionate brother, — Geo. B. Eckert
This post war image was included with the Eckert letters. Presumably the man sitting among the children was George B. Eckert.
I could not find an image of McKee here is a watercolor of Pvt. Samuel M. Greer who served in Co. D, 131st Pennsylvania Infantry (Photo Sleuth)
The following letters were written by James Bennett McKee (1835-1908), the son of George C. McKee (1806-1888) and Mary A. C. Bennett (18xx-1871) of Watsontown, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania. He wrote the letters to his sister, Mary C. McKee (1845-1923) while serving as a private in Co. B, 131st Pennsylvania Infantry—a nine-month’s regiment. James mustered into the service on 8 August 1862 and mustered out of the service on 23 May 1863.
The 131st Pennsylvania was attached to the 2nd Brigade, 3rd Division, 5th Army Corps in the Army of the Potomac. They arrived too late to participate in the Battle of Antietam but they fought at Fredericksburg and at Chancellorsville. At Fredericksburg, they suffered 177 casualties in just an hour and a half during an aggressive assault on Marye’s Heights.
Letter 1
Camp near Fredericksburg January 1, 1863
Dear Sister,
It is with pleasure that I seat myself to pen a few lines to you to let you know that I am well, hoping that this may find you all the same. Your letter was received on Monday and was glad to hear that you were all well. It has been almost five months since I left home but the time has passed very quickly although soldiering is hard business.
I have received no box yet and have given up all hopes of getting it so I will have to spend my New Years without a roast. There has several boxes come for the regiment but they were expressed from home. Josie Moore received one this morning valued at nine dollars which cost but two which makes me think that [John H.] Cooner might have brought mine through for five that father gave him for the expense on it if he had tried.
I suppose that Bub has got able to go out sleigh riding by this time. It is rather singular about him but I think that if he knew the reports he would not want them to follow him home, but there is one thing that I don’t want you to do and that is not to get yourself into trouble about him.
You said that you hoped that I might be sick if we would have to go into another battle. I think that is very wrong in you for which would be the worse of the two.
I would have liked to have been at the wedding to have seen Solomon but I suppose that he done his nicest. You said that you did not think much of my mess mates Dentler and [William] Stitzel are rather bad, but there is not a quieter boy in the whole company than Ellis Irwin. But I do know that there are enough that are worse.
We were all very sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Hutchison and pity the boys very much. Rob[ert] has gone home. I hope that he may have time to recruit up before he will have to come back for he has not looked as well for a few days as he might.
The reason that i did not write sooner after the battle is that I was about worn out and as the rest was writing, I thought you would find out through them that I was still among the living. I judge from the way that you speak of the singing that you do not attend. The tick[ ] must be fancy and I would judge the tend and alto was also.
The company are out on review but I am not along. I told Captain [David Bly] that I wanted to write so he excused me. The boys are all well except Volintine Truckenmiller. He has been sick for a few days but is some better this morning.
As I have given you all the news that I know, I will close hoping this may find you all well and enjoying yourselves. Give my love to the family and all enquiring friends and relatives. From your brother, — Jas
Letter 2
Camp near Falmouth, Virginia February 24th 1863
Dear Sister,
Your letter of January 28th came to hand last evening which was gladly received as I thought you had forgotten me altogether. I am well at present and enjoying myself as usual. We have had very stormy weather for the last week and the snow is nearly a foot deep here at the present time so you may judge for yourself whether we have a pleasant time or not.
You want to know what has become of Ben [Troup]. He is still with the living but gets sick sometimes as well as the rest of us. Dan C. flourishes finely and is liked by all the company for he is lively.
As for Ambrose [Lamm], I think that he gets along very well but he is sick a good part of his time. But I like him better than when he was at home. He said the reason that he gave Annie up was because the people had begun to take it in earnest and he thought that it was time to stop.
As for getting a furlough, I suppose that I might get one, but then the trouble of getting it would cost as much labor as I would have pleasure by getting it. You are mistaken about the Alie Jinn being one of the prisoners at Murfreesboro. It was his brother for Alie is in our company. I was to see the boys last evening. They were all well and enjoying the snow as well as can be expected under present circumstances.
I will now close as news is scarce and I want to write to Jane and send it with this. Give my love to all enquiring friends and acquaintances—especially your friend Solomon. Your brother, — Jas
[to} Mary C. McKee
P. S. You can have the pleasure of knowing that Aunt’s box reached me before your letter and that I am living on the things that were in it.
Letter 3
Camp near Falmouth February 28th 1863
Dear Sister,
As I received your letter a few days ago and, having some leisure time, I thought I would divert my thoughts in writing to you. I am well and hope this may find you the same. We have had very stormy weather this weeks and it looks is if it would not be much better for some time to come. I hope that you may succeed in catching John if you try for I do not think that you would prefer any of the boys that I mess with now although they are very fine fellows. As Cooner is not much better yet, I hope that he will be before we get home if ever we do for he will have to open his saloon if Tommy has to close his. I think that Wash will soon get through if he attends so regular but I would pity him if the draft should happen to catch him as his wedding is coming so near.
The regiment appear to have plenty of work to do now. They are on picket almost every week which is not very pleasant this stormy weather. There is a picture shop here now so that I will try and send my picture home before long and if I had knew that the Captain would have got home, I would have sent it with him. Heckie and the Watsontown boys are all well and send their best respects to you and the rest of the family. I have not answered the preacher’s letter yet but think that I will next week if nothing happens. I think whoever told you that we do not care anything for one another was very much mistaken for they all appear ot be kind enough to me yet and some of them more so that [when] we were at home.
As for the Emeline that you spoke of, you will have to be plainer for I do not know that I have one. But one thing is sure and that is I do not receive many letters but what comes from home. But I am beginning to think that there will be no need of me bringing a beau home with me for you as long as you have Solomon. So handy, I will now have to close as I am on guard and my relief goes on at one o’clock and my time is nearly up. Give my love to all enquiring friends and acquaintances, saving a good portion for yourself. I am as ever your brother, — James
He signed his name “Lenerd Aldman,” but muster rolls of Co. B, 7th North Carolina Infantry record the name of the author of this letter (variously) as Pvt. Leonard Allman, Allmon, Almond, or Almon (1826-1864). Leonard was born in Gaston county, North Carolina, and following his capture on 14 July 1863 at the Battle of Williamsport, he was confined at the Old Capital Prison in Washington City and then transferred to Point Lookout, Maryland, where he died at the age of 38 on 8 March 1864. He was married to Mary “Caroline” Linker (1823-1910) in 1856 in Cabarrus county, North Carolina.
A deeper dive into Leonard’s ancestry reveals that he was the son of Richard Almon (1783-1860) and Nancy Allen (1790-1860). Caroline’s parents were David Linker (1795-1850) and Nancy Shore (1803-1850) of Cabarrus county. Leonard and Caroline had at least two children—Caleb (b. 1858) and Nancy (b. 1860).
Leonard’s letter was written a couple of weeks after the battle of Fredericksburg. In that fight, Brig. Gen. James H. Lane’s Brigade was on Lt. Gen. Stonewall Jackson’s left, some two miles southeast of the town, and the 7th NC Regiment was on Brig. Gen. Lane’s left, about two hundred yards distant from the railroad and about the same distance in front of the right of Brig. Gen. William D. Pender’s North Carolina brigade. A short distance beyond the railroad there was a ridge that extended some distance to the right, and was lost in the common level of the surrounding plain. This ridge was occupied by a battalion of artillery, thirteen guns, under Maj. Braxton, with instructions to play on the enemy’s infantry without replying to his artillery. Before the fight began the 7th NC Regiment, Lt. Col. Junius L. Hill commanding, was advanced to the railroad to ensure the safety of the guns. A fog hung over the field and concealed the enemy’s movements until well under way. About 9 o’clock a.m. a line of battle advanced from under cover of the river bank and was driven back by the fire of the artillery in front. By way of retaliation, several Federal batteries opened on Maj. Braxton’s guns, and also did the 7th NC Regiment serious injury, driving in its skirmishers, ten (1) of them having been injured by one shell. The enemy’s skirmishers then advanced and endangered the gunners, and on this fact being reported to Lt. Col. Hill by one of their officers, he promptly advanced our regiment and drove them off. Meantime, the artillery left the field, and to save his men, Lt. Col. Hill ordered the regiment into the railroad cut near by, where it remained about two hours, during which time there was a lull in the storm.
In forming his line of battle, Maj. Gen. A. P. Hill had left an open space of several hundred yards, extending from Brig. Gen. Lane’s right to Brig. Gen. James J. Archer’s (TX) left. By noon the fog of the early morning had cleared away, and the keen-sighted Yankees were not long in detecting this opening, against which they sent a cloud of skirmishers and directed a powerful artillery fire. The 7th NC Regiment now left the railroad cut and resumed its former position on the left of the brigade. In a short while the enemy advanced in great force to the crest of the hill beyond the railroad, several stands of colors being visible in front of the 7th NC Regiment, but their troops were not sufficiently exposed to invite its fire. Remaining stationary for a short time, they retired, then advanced a second time and remained stationary as before, apparently hesitating to risk the result; and presently the entire column moved by the left flank behind the ridge and massed on the fatal opening. Turning Brig. Gen. Lane’s right and Brig. Gen. Archer’s left, they entered the woods to the rear and momentarily endangered the Confederate center. The 7th NC Regiment remained in line until the regiments on its right gave way, when it also fell back in good order to Brig. Gen. William D. Pender’s (NC) line, under a heavy artillery fire. From there it was immediately ordered to the right of the brigade, where it rendered good service in helping to drive the enemy back and aiding to re-establish the line. The writer, from personal observation, bears testimony to the gallant and heroic resistance made by the 37th and 28th NC Regiments to overwhelming numbers, as they entered the opening and turned the positions held by these regiments. The repulse of the enemy was complete, his loss frightful, and he made no further assault on this part of the line. In the 7th NC Regiment eleven (11) men were killed and eighty-one (81) wounded. Among the latter, Capt. John McLeod Turner, of Company F, was shot through the body and sustained a serious lung injury, and Capt. John G. Knox, of Company A, was quite seriously wounded. Lt. Solomon Furr, of Company B, was also wounded.
After the Federal army recrossed the river the Confederates went into winter quarters along the Rappahannock River. Brig. Gen. James H. Lane’s (NC) Brigade encamped near Moss Neck. Army supplies had to be hauled in wagons from Guinea Station, a distance of nine miles. Heavy details were sent daily to help corduroy the miry roads, and this, in connection with the ordinary camp duties and constantly maintaining a long picket line, kept the 7th NC Regiment busy during the bleak winter months.
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Camp near Fredericksburg, Va. January 3rd 1863
Dear wife,
I seat myself this morning to drop you a few lines to inform you that I am well and also hope that these few lines may reach and find you well. I am happy to state to you that I received your kind letter which was write on the 26th yesterday evening and was truly glad to hear that you was well and in good spirits.
Dear wife, I can inform you that the times are very dull at this time but still a great deal better than some time since we get plenty to eat at this time. I can also inform you that there is not much news agoing about the war at this time. Things seem to be more still than they have been for some time and I hope that the first thing we know, they will send us home [ ].
You stated in your letter that you wanted me to write to you and let you know something about Caleb Linker. I can inform you that I do not know anything about him though he must be [with]in about two or three miles from here for we passed the regiment the day before the fight but I did not get to see him. But some of our boys did see him. I can also inform you that I received them things that you sent with Jack Bost to me. I also received a pair of socks and gloves for Linker but he isn’t with us at this time and I do not know how he is to get them.
You stated in your letter that I ought to been at home this Christmas and New Years. I should like to have been there but there is no chance. But I hope that if I live till another Christmas I may be at home enjoying myself around my fireside and home.
Dear wife, I can inform you that I have no chance to get any stamps or envelopes and paper and I want you to send some in your next letter if you please. I must close these few lines by asking you to write as soon as you get this letter. I remain your true husband till death, Write soon. — L. Aldman
To C. Aldman
Tell Jim Breans that I can’t come home now but for him to come and fetch his bottle of liquor and Old Turner and I’ll show him more ducks than he can put in his barn and then we will have a right spree for you know that we can’t have half a spree in Concord. Write soon. Lenerd Aldman
Direct to Richmond, Virginia, in care of Company B, 7th Regt. North Carolina State Troops
Joseph Spang (1839-1927), a brick maker and the son of Jeremiah Spang and Catherine Fricker of Pottstown, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania lived to be 88 years old, but in his entire life we can be certain that he never forgot the 13th of December 1862 on the heights above Fredericksburg. He was quick to enlist when the war began, offering his services in Co. C of the 4th Pennsylvania Regiment. Later, in September 1861, he mustered into Co. A of the 53rd Pennsylvania Volunteers and was awarded the stripes of a corporal.
[Note: This letter is from the private collection of Keith Fleckner and was offered for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Falmouth, Virginia December 18th 1862
Dear Parents & Brother,
Yours of the 1st arrived here and found me in good health. You said you thought Fredericksburg would be taken by the time your letter reached me. It was taken the next day but at a terrible loss of life. On the 11th the bombardment of the city commenced. The cannonading was awful at night. The city was on fire in six places. The pontoon bridge was not laid at dark. The enemy shot at the men from the houses and cellars. That night the bridge was finished but it cost 300 men to lay the bridge.
We crossed next morning the 12th. When we reached the other side, our regiment was thrown out as skirmishers. We skirmished with the enemy til dark when we were relieved. Next morning, the 13th, we maneuvered around the streets til all was ready, the enemy pouring shell into us all the time. French’s Division engaged the enemy first. We next. I cannot tell you the truth of that awful fight. The conflict was terrible. Our regiment was the furthest in advance of any of our troops. We sheltered ourselves behind some houses and were only 50 yards from the enemy’s rifle pits. Our men were cut down like grass while the enemy could not be touched. All we could see of them was their guns and sometimes a head.
The fight lasted all day. At dark we came back to town. Our regiment stood three hours with fixed bayonets and not a man had a cartridge. I expected every minute the enemy would charge on us but we stood there [and] no one came to relieve us. At dark the lines fell back and we were [finally] relieved. 1
We recrossed the river on the 15th. Our dead lay thick on the field. The enemy’s loss is nothing to ours. On the 17th I was detailed to go along with a flag of truce to help bury our dead. The rebs had guards around us while we were burying. We buried 700 and did not get half done. Our dead were stripped of everything that was good. Some were naked. Not one man had a pair of shoes on.
They say we can never whip them. I learned that their loss was light to what ours was. They say, “What are you going to do with Burnside now? We hadthe advantage of you here. This shows what Burnside is. McClellan would never have took them up in this style.” This is the way they talk. They say McClellan is the best general we ever had and I say so too. We have been whipped badly here. You will see in the papers our loss. [ ] will give a correct list in the paper. We have 15 men in our company yet. None of our company were killed, all wounded. I was not touched—only by a splinter that flew from the house when a ball passed through. We are discouraged and hope this war will soon be over. Sigel has come up with his horses. I will now close. I am near froze the reason my writing is so bad.
My Love to you all. From your son and brother, — Joseph Spang
I send some pictures that I got in Fredericksburg. Don’t lose them. Keep all I send home safe and my memorandum, take care of for me.
1 According to Bates’ History of Pennsylvania Volunteers, “ Early on the morning of Saturday the 13th, under a dense fog the regiment marched into the city and halted for an hour under fire of rebel artillery. The fight was opened at the front near Marye’s Heights by French’s Division, which was repulsed. Soon after, the Third Brigade led by the 53rd moved amidst a shower of deadly missiles by the right flank, up St. Charles street and formed in line of battle along the edge of the town. The rebel infantry, but a few hundred yards in front, was protected by a stonewall along a sunken road while immediately above, the hilltops were bristling with cannon. At the word of command, Colonel Brooke at the head of his regiment led the charge under a storm of shot and shell that swept the ranks with terrible effect. But undismayed they closed up and pressed steadily on till they reached a position within one hundred and fifty yards of the enemy’s line which was held, despite every effort to dislodge them, even after their ammunition was spent. At evening, when the battle was over and the day was lost, what remained of the regiment retired silently from its position and returned to the city.”
The following letters were written by William “Nelson” Smith (1843-1867), the son of Sullivan Smith (1807-1891) and Laura Cheney Smith (1812-1900) of North Orange, Orange county, Massachusetts. William was a 20-year-old mechanic when he enlisted as a private on 4 August 1862. Three weeks later he was mustered into Co. H, 36th Massachusetts Infantry. He was promoted to corporal and transferred to Co. C sometime prior to his being wounded on 6 May 1864 at the Battle of the Wilderness in the opening stages of Grant’s Overland Campaign. Pension records inform us that he received a bullet wound to the hip, disabling him and resulting in his discharge on 23 December 1864. Smith never married, and died less than three years later.
Corp. William Nelson Smith, Co. H, 36th Mass.
There were nearly 50 war-date letters written by William N. Smith, 36th Massachusetts Infantry in the original collection. Of the war-date letters, 34 were written from the field and approximately 13 were written between May and October 1864 while Smith was in the hospital recuperating from a wound received at the Battle of the Wilderness on 6 May 1864. Most letters addressed to his sister Maria Smith (1839-1912) as well as to his parents Sullivan and Laura Smith. Letters include references to the Battles of Fredericksburg, the fall of Vicksburg, and other skirmishes and events, but primarily reflect the daily activities and challenges of a soldier’s life. Unfortunately the collection has been broken up and one collector was able to send me six of them for transcription.
Over the years I have transcribed many letters by members of the 36th Massachusetts. If you are interested in reading more letters from this regiment, see:
On board the steamship Merrimac September 6th 1862
Dear sister,
I will again write a few lines to say for I have seen something since I wrote the other letter. I put that in charge of the Captain and he has got it yet as we have not stopped yet—not as quick as I expected—but I will write a little more and then you will have the more to read.
Well, I have seen a little of the slave plantations down here on the bank of the Potomac in Virginia. We can see a little if we are on the boat. We can see the cornfields and the nigger huts—some of them.
I have seen where the Merrimack and the Monitor had their fight but have not seen any fighting yet myself. We expect to get to Alexandria this afternoon about three o’clock and whether we shall go to Washington or not, I don’t know. We are passing ships of every description now and the Boys are telling them to show their colors and they do so.
I would like to be there with you about ten minutes and I could tell you more in that time than you ever heard in your life. I don’t know but you think that I am telling great stories but I will prove it to you when I get home. I just saw a fish jump out of water that would reach from North Orange to Athol, now that is a fact (don’t you believe it). I tell you it is a splendid sight to travel up this river. The shore is green and everything looks thriving (but the nigger huts).
I will write again before I can tell you where to direct your letters. I must stop now for I want to see the wonders of the Potomac. Goodbye for now. your brother, — Nelson
Letter 2
Falmouth, Virginia November 21, [1862]
Dear Father,
I have just received some mail—one from you dated the 9th, and one from Moses. He was at Cambridge, Massachusetts, yet. That money $1 you sent was all right. I think that the mail comes all right, only it takes some time for it to get here as we are on the move so can start. James states that you had got hose boots ready for me when I wanted them. My boots stand it very well but this rainy weather and marching so much, they are rather small, but I will wait a while before I send for them for I think that there will be a chance to send them by and by. So you need not send them until you hear more from me.
I was glad to get that money for I have not out and I want to buy some little things occasionally. Edmund let me have a little so I got along well but he has got about out now and finally all of the Boys are getting short. The talk is that we are going to be paid off before long but that is all other’s stories.
The Rebs hold Fredericksburg yet. We have got back to camp from picket all right but it rained like the devil all the time and it is muddy as thunder. When we leave Virginia, we shall carry it all off on our boots if this weather continues. We are within about 50 miles from Richmond but I guess we shall fight some before we get there. We have marched 60 miles within five days without resting—pretty good job that was.
You thought the Democrats was going to raise Ned but I guess it will come out all right in the end. I hain’t but little time and I can’t write much more now. When you write, send me a little black pepper and I don’t care if you send a little more money for I guess it will come all right and if I get paid, I can send it home. I want to pay Edmund and I shan’t have much left. Everything is high and costs some to buy a little here.
Those mittens that you sent with Mr. Hill’s box has not come yet and I don’t know when it will, but it has not been very cold yet and I have got along well. We had a little snow once but it did not last long.
William L. Howe has not got his commission yet and I don’t know as he will for he has been ordered into the ranks. Well I must close and going ot get my supper. I have got a little beef steak and pork to cook and I will have a good supper. We are all well. Good night. Your son, — Wm. N. Smith
Letter 3
Addressed to Mrs. Laura C. Smith, North Orange, Massachusetts
Falmouth, Virginia December 27th 1862
Kind folks at home,
Again I take my pencil to say a few words to you. I received a letter from you of the date December 21st (No. 4) yesterday. I am favored now quite often by your kind letters. I think that I get all that you send me, at least I have since you began to number them. The last which I received, No. 4, I found $1 come to open the letter which Sylvester and Chandler sent me. I was very glad to get it although I had money plenty as I have sold my watch. you probably had not got the letter which I wrote giving you news of it. I have written several letters since I disposed of it and in one I sent $5 and told you of giving Henry five dollars as he wanted some money and we thought that would save sending it both ways and his father could let you have $5 to offset it. Have you received it off Caleb Maya yet?
I also received that diary you sent which was just the thing I wanted as it is much more handy than my old book. And you need not send any more money until I need some more for I have got between $8 and $9 now and that will last me a good while as there is not much that we can buy here now. And another thing, we don’t need much for we are drawing good rations and enough of them such as Hard Tack 9as we call it), beef, pork, beans, rice, sugar, coffee, a little molasses, condensed vegetable (that being several kinds of vegetable cut fine and mixed and pressed together) and once in a while a few potatoes, and once we have drawn onions.
I guess that I had something for supper at Christmas that you did not have. Well i happened to get a little corn meal and then I went to the butcher and got a little suit [suet] and cut it up fine and mixed it with my meal and made a little bag and put in the mixture and put the bag into a kettle and boiled it about two hours, took it out and found it to be one of the best boiled suet puddings. And while that was cooking, I made a soup of beef, pork, and hard tack that would surpass the best chicken that you ever saw. And all this with my tea. Don’t you think I had a Bully supper?
That box has not got along yet but I think it will before long as there was a lot of boxes came to this regiment a few days ago. My boots stand it well and so I am not in suffering condition for my new ones yet. I guess if you have not sent that vest, you need not now for I think that we shan’t have much more cold weather down here this winter. It is not cold enough here sow so that it freezes any nights excepting once in a while for a day or two. It is pretty cold but it don’t last long.
As for our army here, it is as near as I can find out moving off somewhere but where, I can’t tell. The small batteries have all gone and left the heavy ones to keep the rebs [on] the right side of the river, but we can’t tell much what is going on. we hear all kinds of stories and we believe what we have a mind to. One thing we do know, we got defeated in our battle the other day. Sorry to say it, but that was a failure and can’t be helped. And now they will try some other way, I think, than ordering the men to face the mouth of the cannon as they did this time.
The news from the South is very good but I think this war will have to be settled by some other way than by the use of gun powder and cold steel.
I received a letter from Charles T. Sanger today. Was glad to hear from him, of heir good health, &c. I owe them three letters down there and I will answer them as soon as I have time somehow. We use all our time in doing our chores besides our other duties which we are obliged to do. You had thought I wasn’t very well by Henry. You said that I was a little lame just then but I am generally very well. I can eat like a hog and have gained eight pounds within a month.
Tell Chandler he had better keep out of the ditches this cold weather. Ever one of your family, — Nelson
Letter 4
Middleburg, Kentucky May 13, 1863
Father & Mother, Sister & Brothers,
How do you all do? As for myself, I am enjoying as good health as ever in my life. Since we have been out in these “diggings,” I have felt first rate as have the other boys. Somehow the climate in old “Kentucky State” agree with we New England boys nobly.
Well, I believe that I have written several times since we have been here, but I have not written since we have had such a time here in regard to the cheering “victories” which have been reported gained by our gallant, heroic, and patriotic boys that are sacrificing themselves for the preservation of that “Star Spangled Banner” which has been so shamefully and disgracefully trampled upon by those traitorous and infernal beings. Ah yes, the time is coming and not far distant neither I trust, when that flag of “secessionism” is going to fall and forever be trodden in the dust. I have always felt confident that sometime sooner or later, that flag must fall, to be forever fallen and yet I think so.
The news from our armies at all points comes in every day more encouraging than the day previous. In the first place, the news from Gen. Hooker which was looked upon with much interest by the boys here who once belonged to the Army of the Potomac and were once in the same place on the same bloody battlefield where now a most terrific conflict is raging, it cannot be imagined with what anxiety we wait to hear the final result. At times our knees tremble for fear he may suffer the same fate as the preceding one who was obliged to turn back. But I think this time the rebs will have to make calculations on a “retreat” themselves—and a pretty difficult path it seems to me they have got to move back onto. But we will wait and see how they get away. They are pretty slippery “Chaps” I reckon.
Well the next, which is still of more importance, is that the Confederate Capitol—that infernal, inhuman den of secessionism is captured by our fighting ones and that the Stars & Stripes now is afloat over it. This we had telegraphed officially to us and therefore have sufficient reasons for believing it to be so. But the papers don’t talk that it is taken [so] we hardly know what to think about it. But I will tell you what a time we had the night we had the order read to us. Such a cheering I don’t believe ever was offered by a corresponding number before. The news reached us about dark and the bugle sounded and we were instantly called together and the cheering order read to us. As soon as the last word was uttered by the Colonel who read the order to us, hurrahing commenced and caps were hurled in the air. And of all the noise made by human voices, this excelled everything ever witnessed by we green boys before. Candles were lighted and placed on the tops of the tents all over camp and I tell you, it was a most splendid sight imaginable.
After about an hour, the candles we took in our hands and marched all over camp, beating time with the music which played the famous airs—Yankee Doodle, Dixie, Star Spangled Banner, and others. At last we marched to our headquarters where we were favored with speeches &c which were very interesting. After about two or three hours amusement of this kind, we retired to our tents feeling that we had had a pretty good time “anyhow,” [even] if this news did, or did not, prove to be true.
I received a letter from Chandler last night with a quill, some tea, &c., and one also from B. W. Magor, and one from Daniel Harrington so I was pretty well favored with news last night. Benjamin told the particulars about Marcus being taken prisoner. I presume you have heard all about it. You said you did not know as I had got that writing paper that you sent. I received 24 sheets a number of weeks ago, but I use considerable now-a-days. I had rather be writing than doing anything else.
So I will close for now. From your son and brother, Corporal William Nelson Smith, Co. H, 36th Massachusetts Volunteers, Burnside’s Department, via Cincinnati, Ohio.
Letter 5
Near Liberty, Kentucky May 24th 1863
Kind friends at home,
As you will see by the above, we are again on the move for somewhere. Night before last we had orders to be ready to move at daylight in the morning, and to have two days cooked rations, but we did not start until about 2 o’clock p.m. and marched about nine or ten miles to this place where we had orders to halt and make ourselves comfortable for the night. We should start again early in the morning.
As soon as the regiment stacked arms, our company was ordered to go out on picket. Well there was some grumbling for after marching five or six hours in a very cloud of dust and it being pretty warm, the boys thought it rather tough that they should not have the privilege of laying down and rest themselves a little as the march was to be resumed at an early hour in the morning. But for soldiers to grumble, it does no good. Somebody must be on the lookout and we could do it as well as anybody. But as it happened, the pickets were not thrown out but about a mile and so we did not have to march a great distance. Henry and myself were with the reserve so we had the opportunity of laying down under our blankets unmolested till morning with the exception of being waked from our slumbers once in the night as an old man came along—tight as a basket of chips—and wanted to pass, but could not as our orders were not to let anyone pass and so we had to keep him and he made considerable noise over it. But the sentinel shook him up a little and then he remained quiet with us till morning when he was released and went away feeling somewhat demoralized, but not quite so tight as when he first joined us.
Well, as we expected to renew our march early this morning, we crawled out from under our blankets about 4 o’clock and made us some coffee and indulged in a breakfast of hot coffee and hard tack which satisfied very well, as that is all soldiers may ell expect when they are on the move. Finally, that is about all the rations we have seen since we have been in this state except some fresh beef and that I eat but a very little of for I think it not very good for us here this hot weather. One mess of beans we have had which went pretty good. When in Virginia we had two rations of beans a week. I think perhaps we shall draw better rations if we get where we are liable to stop a while.
Well where we are bound, I don’t know but it is my opinion that we are making our way down towards Tennessee to help Gen. Rosecrans. But still we may not. We intend to keep the rebs out of his state at any rate, and are getting down nearer the state line where we can hold them easier. Old Morgan is an old fox. I don’t know but he may get around us and make another raid in here but we will give him a try. He has tried it several times but don’t seem to have very good success. Our Fighting Wolford is looking after him with his cavalry.
Maria, I received your letter day before yesterday, No. 40. I see that you had either set the number along as I have not got the others between 36 and 40 but I concluded that you thought that you would call it No. 40 as you had called several letters the same numbers. I finally made up my mind that I had got all of your letters. I see that you had been presented with a birthday present pretty good. Write the particulars about it. Has Chandler got rid of those “job’s comforters” yet? I hope that he has. I have not had a single one yet since I left home. My health has been as good as ever it was when at home. I receive all your letters with tea, I tell you. The herb goes very good these days when we have been on the march.
We don’t march today. The order has been countermanded. We expect to start again tomorrow. We are within 30 miles of Columbia. Shall probably go there before we stop to camp and perhaps much further. I will write again in a few days. You may keep writing the same as usual for the mail follows us right along. Affectionately your son & brother, — Wm. N. Smith
3.30 o’clock p.m. Well, a few lines more to let you know that the mail has just got along and I received a letter from you at home containing $2.25. It came all correct and wasn’t on the way but four days. The mail comes through very quick, I think, it being so far—some 1200 miles. Does it seem that we are so far apart? It does not to me. I had got 50 cents left. I was glad that the money came for I don’t want to get all out. I know that I am spending some money now-a-days but I have not been quite as bad as some of the boys. Some have spent three times as much but I don’t intend to get rid of my money at too great a disadvantage. What I buy is butter and biscuit, but I shan’t buy much more butter as it is getting to be so warm weather. I have just bought me a dozen biscuits and paid ten cents—not very high. They are pretty good. Butter we have to buy off our sutler who keeps along with us [and] furnishes the boys with butter, chese, &c. I don’t know how the boys would get along if he wasn’t with us. It would come rather tough for some of them. Butter is 50 cents per pound. Cheese 30 cents, and other things in the same proportion. The biscuit we get of the citizens. I suppose that the “Niggers” do the cooking. Every house, there are more or less of the blacks.
You need not send any more money now. We are in hopes that we shall be paid off before long if we get where we can stop awhile.
Henry received a letter from J. E. Ward stating that Marcus had been paroled and talked of coming home for a while. I read the letter. She did not very encouraging about war news. I know it looks a little dusty just now, but what if it does? Never mind. I guess that we can wind up this thing sometime. I think that the rebs are slowly playing out. We boys—Henry, Edmund, and myself—had a letter from Harrison and Harris. They are at Stanford doing guard duty there. How long they will remain there, they don’t know. I hope they will come up with us before long. It seems rather lonely in our tent.
Capt. Henry has been out an patrol duty today with a squad of men to pick up soldiers that have strayed away from this regiment. He has brought eleven men in and reported with them to headquarters where they will be tried before a court martial. We move at 5 in the morning. — Nelson
Letter 6
On Board Steamer Meteor June 11th 1863
Sister Maria,
I expect to have an opportunity to mail a letter tonight so I will just write a line to let you know where we are and where we expect to go. Well, I believe that I sent a letter to father when we stopped at Seymour. We left there at dark the same night that I put the letter in the office there last Monday. Well, we changed cars there and got on the direct road from St. Louis to Cincinnati and traveled about 60 miles to Sandoval where we came on the Illinois Central Railroad and came to Cairo where we got aboard this steamer and are now gliding down the Mississippi river at a good rate. I suppose that we are bound for Vicksburg but don’t know but without doubt there is where we are going.
It has been reported that our folks had captured Vicksburg but that ain’t so. They are fighting there now and just passed a boat and we stopped beside them and they said that they were fighting there yet there. I guess that when the 36th [Massachusetts] gets there, they will run the same as usual. There never has been but one place that the rebs have held their ground when the 36th made their appearance.
Well, we are having a tip top ride down this river, I tell you. But yesterday we was fired at by our troops because we did not stop to report. The first shot was a blank but we did not stop and so they sent a ball humming across our heads. The captain of the boat thought it about time to stop then.
I have a good deal that I would like to write but can’t now. I will tell the particulars some other time. We passed Island No. 10 this forenoon. There, you know, we had a big fight, and—just now—we passed Fort Pillow [and] expect to get to Memphis this evening. It is 400 miles from Memphis to Vicksburg so you see that we have got quite a little ride yet ahead.
When we was coming through Illinois, U tell you, we seen a most splendid country. You can’t imagine the fields of grain. I will tell you all about the Western States when I get back to old New England. I have had considerable to attend to on this move. We have changed cars so often as I had the care of the Brigade Headquarters baggage, but I believe I have kept it all along all right yet.
Our regiment was paid off a few days ago but I wasn’t with the regiment so I did not get my money till yesterday when I got in with the regiment and the captain drew my pay and so he handed it to me. You see I was on the baggage train but now I am on the same boat with the regiment. We got $26. I guess that I will put in $5 with this letter and send it along, not run the risk. I will write again in a few days. Your brother, — Nelson
The last mail we have got was last Saturday. Don’t know when we shall be any more. On one side of the river is the Arkansas shore and the other side is Tennessee where we are now.
Letter 7
Near Jackson, Mississippi July 12th 1863
Now it has ceased with any occasional roar (like thunder) which speaks to us from these 20-pounders that the rebs are working a little, now we have overtaken them and are holding our ground until we get ready to take them.
The letter which this I shall send with I have had no chance to send and so now I will just drop a few every chance I have till I have a chance to send this and then send you a kind of a diary of a few days. I said in the other that we might have a fight the next day but we did not for the rebs run and so we had no chance to fight.
Day before yesterday in the afternoon, our troops got here and found the rebs. Instead of the 1st Corps being on the reserve, they have been put in front and have had some very hard skirmishing. As soon as our troops reached here, they were formed in line of battle and marched slowly along. Our Brigade was in the mess and so for the first time the 36th [Massachusetts] was in front and moving towards the enemy. Two companies from the 36th were thrown out as skirmishers and they fought like lions. Two men from one company was killed and 13 wounded but they stood their ground and kept firing until relieved. Our Brigade was in front 48 hours and then relieved. They fell back this morning and pretty tired, I guess, but have had no permanent fight—only skirmishing merely to hold their position. We ain’t quite ready to fight them yet. This morning they had very heavy cannonading but mostly from the rebs. But now only once in a while a gun is fired.
I was not with the regiment and so I had none of the sport. I should have liked to have been with the Boys but I had to stay back with the baggage. I have no desire to be in a fight but I wanted to be with the rest of the Boys. I won’t try to write any more now. The report us that we are ordered back and are going to Pennsylvania.
[July] 13th. Nothing of interest today. We are making preparations for a fight and it will come off probably before long. Grant has just brought in 30,000 fresh troops and when we get ready, then we will pitch in. Harrison is sick in the hospital about a mile and a half from here. I heard from [him] this morning. He was a little better. I think that he will get well in a few days. Our Captain and Lieutenant Howe are left back sick. We have not heard from them for several days so now our company is commanded by two lieutenants from other companies in the regiment. I will stop till tomorrow.
[July] 15th. Nothing news today on the battlefield. Light skirmishing is kept up but no solid fight yet has taken place. Our Brigade has again gone to the front and will be relieved tomorrow morning. One man from Co. K was wounded today from Captain Smith’s company. In one of your letters you wanted to know what company James Smith was [in]. It is Co. K. Capt, Smith is quite sick. I have not heard from him today. I don’t know the trouble. Harrison is sick with a fever [and] has been pretty sick. I heard from him today and he was some better. I am in hopes that he will get along by and by. He was very sick a few days. He is one mile from me. I intended to see him today but I cannot leave. Please to let his folks know that he is sick for that is his wish that he asked of me. I will write in a few days again. I expect that I can send this letter this evening. Today we have heard that Lieutenant Howe is not living. J. E. Hills has ben back with him and today he came up with us giving us the sad news. Our Boys will miss him very much but we must be contented with whatever our lot may be. God only knows.
I hardly know what to say of our condition here just now. Many are sick or at least pretty well worn out but after all the Boys stand it like tigers, I tell you. They are having rather rough times. When they lay in front, they have to lay flat on their backs to keep away from the numerous shot and shell that is constantly passing over them. Mother, I am a lucky boy to be where I am. I need not say anything about. I think that before many months, we shall be away from this State.
What news from all parts we get is good. I think that the war is going well at the present time. Ic believe that we have got Old Johnston this time. Time will tell.
Today our mail came in—the first for several days. I received two letters from you at home and a paper with an envelope and two sheets of paper. This is one of the sheets. I have writing paper yet but I thought that would use this. The last letter was mailed the 30th of June so I suppose that there is more on the way now.
Father said that he heard that I had to take care of the Colonel’s horse. I do not have nothing to do with his horse at all. I have his baggage to see to when we move, and pitch and strike his tents. That is my duty. When we lay in camp, I have to keep the ground swept around the tents, &c. That is all I have to do. I tell you, it is much more easy that in the company but how long I may stay, I can’t tell for if I should do anything that did not suit, I should go back to my company pretty quick I tell you, for that is the way with the old Colonel. I have got a sore on my finger. It has been mighty painful too, I reckon, but the doctor ripped it open yesterday and today it fels pretty well. It will be all right in a few days.
I won’t write anymore now for you can’t read half what I have written but never mind. Guess at what you can’t read. Truly your son, — Wm. N. Smith
Port Hudson is ours!
Letter 8
Knoxville, Tennessee March 20, 1864
My dear Father,
Perhaps I will write a few lines to you and send along to give you a little idea of what is going on here. You observe by the above that we are again in Knoxville. I will tell you how this happened. It may be as unexpected to you as it was to us.
Last Wednesday evening we had orders to move forward to Bull’s Gap from Morristown. When they were folding the order, another order came from the War Department for the 9th Corps to report to Annapolis, Maryland, so we at once started for this place. Reached here yesterday a.m. expecting to be paid off here, then march to Louden and there take the cars, but as yet we don’t know when, how, nor where we shall go. The report is that we are to march over the mountains. Whether we do or not, time will tell.
I have a strong hope that we shall yet go by the way of Chattanooga. I don’t know but we may yet be called back up Morristown way. They say our troops have fallen back 15 or 20 miles from there. It would be about our luck to have to go back again. I don’t suppose they can do much without the Old 9th [Corps] to go ahead with the work. I don’t know but the mail has gone today but I will carry this over to Headquarters.
I have been thinking about sending for you to get a pair of boots made. If we come up that way, then I guess that I can get them if already made. At any rate, I guess that you had better get some made. And if it happens so I can’t get them, you can wear them. I don’t think you will do better than to get C. Lord to make me another pair. His [boots] do good service. My old ones are about played out now, we have tramped about so much. I believe these are No. 8. They are about right for me. I will tell you just what I want. I want a pair of heavy calf double sole and tap, with the souls of round head nails and heavy toe and heel irons—that is, some that won’t scrapr off on the first march. The others he made me was just what I wanted excepting one thing. That is he put in too large nails. They are liable to crack the sole. You said that he did not have any round head nails so he put in them. Edmund’s cracked off but mine lasted till now. I want the round heads because they are smaller and won’t crack the soul.
Well, they say it is decided that we have got to march over the mountains. They are drawing more rations preparatory for the march. Well, we are good for it. They talk that Old Morgan has been cutting the railroad between here and Chattanooga. I wish the old Devil was hung. That is pretty rough.
Caleb Harris is very sick. I have been to see him this a.m. I hardly know what the trouble is with him. The nurse thinks it is quick consumption. I fear he never will get over it but still he may. He looks very bad indeed.
I’ll not write any more now as it is past time now to send in the mail, but I’ll see if I can send it. Henry, Edmund, and myself are well. Affectionately your son, — Wm. N. Smith
Letter 9
Summit House Hospital Philadelphia, Pennsylvania May 25th 1864
My dear sister,
Wednesday after supper. As I sit out here under a nice old shade tree and look [at] passersby’s and the horse cars which are running now about every 15 minutes, and so thinks I, I guess I will write a line to you as I don’t get any letters for some reason. I have not received any letter from home since we left Catlett Station there on the railroad. But I think that they will get along one of these days. I wrote to you last Friday and to Ellen Johnson and yesterday I received an answer to Ellen’s, but have not from any of you yet. I guess I will get one tomorrow.
Well, I am getting along pretty well but I am having these Job’s Comforters [piles] a little too numerous. But I guess they will do me good.
Well now, as far as my furlough, I imagine that if nothing happens I shall get one sometime. The doctor took our names yesterday morning for furloughs but when they will get along I don’t know. They say that it will take more than a week yet. Well if I get any, I shall, and if I can’t, all right. I can stand it here.
It is most sundown and I can’t write much more now. I am well and you need not feel discontented in my situation here for this is a good hospital and I have all I need. Ever your brother, — Nelson
Summit House Hospital, Ward 5, Philadelphia, Pa.
Letter 10
Satterlee Hospital, Ward Z West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania September 4th 1864
My dear Mother,
This is a rainy morning—ain’t this news? At any rate it is with us. It has not rained for so long that I had almost forgotten what rain was.
I suppose that you want to know how I am these days. Well I am all right. Am as well as I ever was and my wound is all well. Has been healed nearly two weeks and I have forgotten how to limp so now whenever I go to the regiment, you need not think that I went before I was able.
Maria is at Northfield I expect by what she wrote in her last letter that she was going the next day. I am glad she has gone for I think that it will be better for her health than [ ing] is she don’t have to work too hard. There must be considerable to do when they have so many work folks.
Well, I must not forget to mention the good news. Of course you know all about it, but the capture of Atlanta is worthy of much joy on our part. The particulars have not yet received but it needs no doubt for this morning we have an official dispatch dated at Atlanta that the Union troops were in the city and Hood’s army cut in two. This is next to the fall of Richmond but one thing we want now, that is more men, and that now, and the Rebellion is crushed. Mobile is trembling and perhaps ere this has experienced a sad fate like htose strong forts that have fallen before that impregnable David Farragut.
There is once in a while a Hospital bummer that talks the same as any Copperhead. The other day I was talking with one of these fellows (a Democrat—Peace Democrat) and says he, Gen. Lee has got Gen. Grant just where he wants him—just where he can’t move. Yes, say I, he did not move and take the Weldon Railroad the other day, did he? That’s nothing, says he. Well, says I, Sherman says he is drawn from his supplies 200 miles and now got where he can’t do anything. Ah! says I, why don’t Hood annihilate Sherman’s army now when he is so far from home and have things a little more satisfactory [and] not be so harassed all the time by Sherman’s advancing men, and being so troubled with the solid shot and shell from his terrible guns. He did not say. Said I, hold your tongue, you will see what they will do. If I felt as you so, I would desert and go into the rebel lines and not stay here in an army that is fighting my friends. I was a little rathy. We will see what they will do if we send them a few more men.
The Chicago Convention was such a Copperhead scrape that I’ll not speak of it. The platform is terrible. [remainder of letter missing]
The following images were sold with the original archive of letters. They are all images of William Nelson Smith, I believe.
Description from collection: A group of four unidentified images, believed to be William N. Smith: sixth plate tintype seated portrait of Smith in uniform with lightly blue tinted sleeve chevrons indicating rank of corporal. U.S. Civil War Soldier Records and Profiles indicate that Smith was promoted to the rank of corporal, date unrecorded. -Ninth plate Ambrotype of Smith holding a violin or fiddle. -Ninth pate ruby Ambrotype of Smith in civilian clothing. Sixteenth plate loose tintype of Smith in uniform.
I could not find an image of Charles but here is one of Harvey Woodward who was the same age and also served in the 9th New Hampshire Infantry. (Dave Morin Collection)
The following letters were written by Charles H. Dunning (1841-1865) of Milford, Hillsborough county, New Hampshire. Charles was born in Nashua, the son of Thomas Dunning and Mary Hutchinson. His letters do not speak of his parents so it is assumed that they were both dead. The 1850 and 1860 census records enumerate him in the household of his Uncle Benjamin F. Hutchinson (1814-1900) who was married to Eliza Richardson (1816-1901) of Milford. It was to his Uncle Benjamin and his cousin Mary Elizabeth Hutchinson (1846-1873) that he addressed these letters, mentioning one or twice his grandmother Azubah Tarbell Hutchinson (1780-1863) who lived with Benjamin’s family.
Charles wrote all four of these letters from hospitals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, while serving in Co. F, 9th New Hampshire Infantry. He enlisted on 15 August 1862 and was mustered out on 16 March 1863, discharged for disability. After returning home, Charles lived less than two years. His death on 6 January 1865 was attributed to consumption.
The two hospitals from which the letters were written were Turner’s Lane Hospital and Mower General Hospital in Chestnut Hill (suburb of Philadelphia), the latter not opening until January 1863.
Letter 1
Addressed to Miss Mary Hutchinson, Milford, New Hampshire
[Turner’s Lane Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa.] Sunday, December 21st 1862
Dear Mary,
Your letter was received last Wednesday and I was of course glad to hear from you. My loneliness has been some better while I remain indoors, just as it was at home when I was not at work. But I presume it will come on again as bad as ever for I commenced work yesterday in the dining room. The Steward wanted a hand and I wanted exercise and it is too cold to go out much so I accepted his proposal to help him a while. My work is assisting to set the tables and waiter at meal times. I have plenty of exercise now. I get up at six and work pretty hard till 10. Then rest an hour, then dinner occupies my time till 2 and supper from 4 till 7. I don’t know how long I shall stay. The Steward wants me to be detailed for a year but I fear that in a few days I shall be too lame to be very spry as a waiter.
After trying six times, I made out to see Dr. [Edward Swift] Dunster. He told me be would examine me today but I have but little faith in his doing it. It takes a great while to get anything done here unless he has some influential friends to push the matter. There are men here who are utterly disabled and always will be and have been trying for months to get a discharge but there is no sign of their getting one at present.
I notice that Congress has passed a bill for facilitating the discharge of disabled men in the hospitals and I hope it will be carried into effect very soon.
The man from Rhode Island who was trying to get his discharge that I wrote you about some time ago has got it and gone home. I think money did it. He was the soundest man in the ward when he went away.
I am very anxious to hear from the New Hampshire Regiment and from Charles R. since the Battle [of Fredericksburg]. Please send me a paper containing the list of killed and wounded if you can. The papers here contain only the names of Pennsylvanians. Several of the wounded have been sent to this hospital. They say is is the most terrible battle of the war so far and it amounted to nothing. There must be a screw loose somewhere. I think it is at Washington.
I have not heard from Henry, Pierce, or Charles for a long time. Mary, tell Mrs. Turner for me that no engagement nor anything that could be construed to that effect had ever passed between Miss Lovejoy and myself. Our acquaintance and conversation has never even approached that matter. I am very sorry if she has given anyone reason to believe to the contrary. I never intended to certainly. If she has told this untruth our acquaintance is most assuredly at an end. Love to Grandma and all the rest. From Charles
Monday morning. The surgeons had a surgical operation to perform yesterday so there were no inspection or examinations made. I shall keep trying until I get an examination of it till next July.
The boat is which David and his regiment were embarked was compelled to put into this fort for repairs. They came in last Monday. I read of their arrival in the morning’s paper Wednesday and went down to see if I could get aboard and see David and Mr. Hussall, but the boat was out in the stream about half a mile and I could get no one to row me out so I had to give it up. I don’t know whether they are here now or not. I shall go down and see tomorrow if nothing happens to prevent. — Charles
Letter 2
[Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania] Evening of January 11th 1863
Dear Mary,
I have been reading the papers all day and have neglected to write til now and the gas light is so dim that I cannot see planly so I think I shall write but a short letter this time. Last Sunday when I wrote, it was snowing but it did not continue long and we have had a week of splendid weather with one quite cold day. Now it is warm and pleasant as April or May. This is an exceedingly open winter thus far here and I presume it is in New Hampshire.
I was much pleased with Emri’s letter and will answer it very soon—as soon as I can hunt up something to write about that will interest him. Uncle Benjamin says Aunt Eliza wants me to write something to be read at the Soldier’s Aid Meeting. I am sure I would if I knew anything in the world what to write. If there is anything that you would like to know, I would like very much to tell it if I could. But I am sure I cannot sit down and write what I happen to think of what I see andhear around me in a manner that would be interesting, still less instructive to you. If you can give me an idea of what you want to know, I might have some foundation to start upon.
I am getting along about as usual with a fair prospect as far as I can see of remaining here during the war. I spoke to the Steward about detailing me here and he says that now no men can be detailed so as to receive extra pay. At the commencement of the war they did som but now the orders are that all soldiers shall be sent to their commands as soon as they are able and that citizens shall be employed about the hospital. He said they preferred soldiers to citizens and kept those that they liked who were able to work and covered up the breach by calling them patients. So if I stay, I can only get $13 per month, board and clothes, or $16.50 and clothe myself. I do not know but this is the best place I could find during the winter months. If I could go home in the spring, I would be contented to stay but I suppose I shall not have the privilege of exercising my own choice in any way.
David and his regiment have gone. They are ordered to report to Gen. Dix at Ft. Monroe. I did not see Mr. Hassall. He was out every time I was there. It comes nearer home than ever to hear of the death of Jim Murphy & Brooks. I cannot make it seem that they are dead. It may not be our Jim Murphy. It is a very common name among the Irish. If you have not heard in any other way except seeing the name in the paper, I shall still hope it is not him.
I have not shown the Spirit Pictures to many of the soldiers for the reason that it would expose me to a great deal of ridicule for nothing. The pictures are to me no test whatever and if I show anything to a shot tic [?]. I want is to be a test. In the first place, the pictures are very imperfect. If you had told me the pictures were those of yourself and Emri or anyone else, I should think I could see a resemblance and if I had ever seen Dr. G’s children, I should not be able to tell whether they looked like them or not. Show me a picture that I can recognize of someone in the spirit world and I should have some courage to exhibit it for I could swear that I knew the picture to be perfect, But to show them this picture that doesn’t look like anybody in particular, but does look like anybody you please and say that somebody says it is a picture of somebody that I never saw nor heard of, why I think the skeptic “couldn’t see it in that light.” But would see in me a spooney and I think I should be one.
This would be a very easy matter to humbug in and charging $7 for a picture that don’t cost 7 cents looks very much like it. But whether genuine or not, I wouldn’t give much for a picture of any friend if I was compelled to write the name under it in order to know who it was.
I heard from Henry by the way of another friends at the same camp yesterday. He expected to get a job for the winter building the barracks for the new camp. I heard from Charles about two weeks ago but nothing from Pierce for a long time. David said he would write to me as soon as he arrived at his destination. I write a great many letters for the soldiers who re disabled or never learned to write for there are many of the latter class among the soldiers. I wrote one today that was a task for me. It was a love letter for a soldier who can neither read nor write. He would not tell me what to write but said I knew better than he did. I suppose he thought from the number of letters I write that I was posted in the business. I didn’t know whether to lay on pretty thick or not so. I took a medium ground. I have had the privilege of reading several of this sort and shall probably read the answer to this last one. I have made out a pretty long letter but have not said much after all. I am not in a writing mood tonight at all. From Charles
Do you have to pay for my letters that are franked?
Letter 3
Addressed to Miss Mary E. Hutchinson, Milford, New Hampshire
Chestnut Hill [Philadelphia] February 12th [1863]
Dear Cousin,
Your letter written last Friday came to me today. The one you wrote and misdirected is in the post office in the city I think as I see by the paper that there is one advertised for me. I have no means of getting it unless someone goes down and I do not suppose they will at present for money is scarce among the boys.
I wrote home last Tuesday when we were having very conflicting stories in regard to our discharges. Since then I have learned something more definite. Last week a Dr. Cuyler came from Washington with instructions to this effect. Any man is able to perform any kind of duty about the hospital or will be fit for duty in six months, will be kept in the hospital and not discharged. Those who are utterly disabled will be discharged and if there are any doubts, they will go against the patient. Those who happened to have their Description Lists here at the time of the other examination will be discharged for their papers were made out and sent to the General’s office to be signed before the new orders came. All others are to be rexamined by the board upon the new basis.
I was examined and pronounced by the first board for a discharge, but while waiting for my Descriptive List, the new orders came. So I may consider my hopes of getting home a flat although I have not passed the second examination. The board are now at work and will be at this ward this week, the Dr. says, and I shall do my prettiest to get a discharge, bt the probabilities are all against my getting it.
I don’t know but I may as well tell you what a “Descriptive List” is. It is a document giving a description of the soldier (to prevent mistakes and deceptions) and having an account of pay, clothing, &c. which he has received. You see a patient must have one of these when discharged to prove his identity and to ascertain the amount of pay due him. When a man enlists, three of these are made out, One is left with the state Adjutant General, one sent to the Adjutant General at Washington, and the other kept by the Captain of the Company in which he enlists. It is a surgeon’s duty to have a Descriptive List of every patient under his charge, but in the one horse way things were conducted at Turner’s Lane, mine with many others were not sent for. There is a bare (but very small) probability that I shall succeed in getting one at the next examination and I will write as soon as I can the result of it. I see by the paper that Burnside’s old Corps, now Smith’s, has embarked for Ft. Monroe. Our regiment is in that Corps. So if I or Henry go to the regiment, we shall have a good time getting there. David is down there (I suppose) and perhaps Pierce will see him. Goodbye for a while. — Charles
I received a letter from Henry this week. He was expecting another job building a hospital.
It don’t make much difference how you direct if the post master only makes out that the letters is to go to Army Hospital at Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia.
I haven’t laid any plans for the future yet. I am in a quandary to decide whether to volunteer for guard duty here or apply to go to the regiment. Which had I better do?
Letter 4
Addressed to Benjamin F. Hutchinson, Esq, Milford, New Hampshire
Chestnut Hill February 19th [1863]
Uncle Benjamin,
The letter from home came this forenoon. I was of course glad to hear from you. I am sorry grandmother is sick but hope she will be better very soon. I have wished many times that I had not written so surely that I was coming home yet I was almost as sure as though I had my discharge in my hands, and it was only by chance that the new orders came just at that time. I have thought just as Dr. Dearborn says that I was really discharged. In fact, all that was wanting was the form. I spoke to the Dr. this morning about that very thing and asked him why it was necessary for me to have another examination when others, examined at the same time and under the same rules were discharged. But just at that time, Dr. Cuyler came from Washington to inspect the hospita and found that men were being discharged who would soon be well and fit for service. He therefore repealed the decision of the board so far as he could, but those that had already gone in to be signed (and those were the ones that has Descriptove Lists) were too far along to be repealed. He said that now the board had instructions so that their decision will be final. They will not be at the ward till sometime next week.
I confess I have a little more hope of getting home since his examination for I know I can never do duty in the field and shall try hard to convince them of the fact. I should like exceedingly to have you come out here but I do not know as you can do anything to help along my discharge. At the other hospital you might for the Surgeon in charge had everything his own way and could discharge men when he pleased. Here all depends upon the decision of the board and I do not suppose you could influence them much. However, I have thought over a great many things that I should do if I get home but don’t know as I should undertake any of them, What had you thought of? Or had I better wait till I get there before I engage in anything?
I have plenty of the publications of the Tract Society to read but they do not get read much. Besides these, I get hold of a novel once in a while and have the daily paper. It does not take long to devour a book and I spend most of the time in trying to invent some way to kill time faster. I ought to be a proficient Euchre player for I play a good deal every day. We have a good band and I go into the corridor and listen to them a while every day.
Henry took pity on my want of money and sent me a dollar which I received today. I mean to go down town and spend a part of it tomorrow and visit a new acquaintance I have made since I came here. It is a gentleman acquaintance. To be sure, I should like a little more money but can get along without unless you have plenty to spare. I have not seen anyone that I ever saw before in the city. The Hutchinson Family [Singers] have been here several weeks and Mr. Currier lectured here last Sunday but I could not see them.
No snow yet. Tell H___ to write a Kind of a love letter for one of the boys every week and always read the answers for the fellow cannot read, of course. I stuff my ears with cotton. Goodbye for the present. C. H. D.
The following letter was written by Rinaldo Hood (1840-1892) on behalf of himself and his younger brother Edgerton F. Hood (1842-1903) who served together in Co. E, 2nd Vermont Infantry. They were the sons of Jonathan Hood (1807-1887) and Persis Folsom (1811-1876) of Chelsea, Orange county, Vermont. A third son, Marcellus F. Hood had also served with them but he was discharged for disability in mid-September 1862.
Rinaldo enlisted as a private and was promoted to corporal before he was wounded on 12 May 1864 at Spotsylvania Court House and was mustered out on 18 October 1864. Edgerton was also wounded on the same date as Rinaldo but mustered out three weeks earlier than his brother.
To read a similar letter written by another soldier in the same company on the same day, see—Philo Emery, 15 December 1862.
[Note: The following letter is from the personal collection of Greg Herr and was made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Camp on the Rappahannock [Monday] December 15, 1862
Dear Sister,
I received yours of November 13th and another of December 3rd some time ago but it has been almost impossible to write. We have been on the move almost every day since we left Hagerstown. We stopped three weeks at Aquia Creek but could not get any stamps at that time so could not write. The third we went on picket (our regiment) and our division moved here. We stayed 7 days and when we arrived our Brigade had been paid and the paymaster had gone back so we missed getting any pay for this time. My hopes are good yet for it will come some time if ever.
We crossed the river last Friday [12th], went to the front Saturday [13th], stayed there all day. Our company had five wounded—none dangerous. The same one that was wounded at Savage Station on M[arcellus]’s right was wounded on mine and the second one on my left, but it was not my time so I was spared. The regiment lost killed and wounded 100. We were relieved from supporting a battery this morning. We lay on the bank of the river. The front line is half a mile from here. The firing has been kept up most of the time since last Thursday morning until this morning. There has been but a few guns fired today. What the result is, we do not know yet but hope it will prove for the best.
The men haven’t as much confidence in Burnside as in McClellan. This battle will make a great difference in their opinion if he is successful. It has been very cold for a week past and the snow has been two and a half inches deep. The ground has froze nights and thawed day times. It is very muddy in the afternoon. It is warmer today. We expect to see Richmond in a few days if we don’t miss of it (as I think we shall). I know but a little of the war news for it is seldom we get any papers.
Ed’s and my health is very good. I have but a little caugh. Oh, that hair I forgot the last time I wrote, Much love to all. From E. and R. Hood
The 1862 Diary of James Hamilton Mills, 11th Pennsylvania Reserves
James Hamilton Mills just before the Civil War
The following account of the Peninsula Campaign and Battle of Fredericksburg comes from the 1862 diary of James Hamilton Mills (1837-1904) who was a native of new Lisbon, Ohio. He was working in “mercantile and mechanical pursuits” until the Civil War when he enlisted as a private on 27 April 1861 in Co. G (“The Independent Blues”), 11th Pennsylvania Reserves (40th Pennsylvania Infantry). With his regiment he participated in twenty seven general engagements of the Army of the Potomac, and for “gallant conduct on the field” he was promoted to corporal, first sergeant, first lieutenant and captain and for “heroic conduct in the Battle of the Wilderness and Bethesda Church” he was commissioned brevet-major and brevet-lieutenant colonel. He was mustered out of service at Pittsburg on June 13, 1864.
Mills’ 1862 diary is among several diaries of his that are housed at the Montana State Library. It has been digitized recently but apparently never before transcribed and published. I have not shown the images of the diary pages since these can be viewed on line at James H. Mills diary, 1862.
The 1862 Diary of James H. Mills, Co. G, 40th Pennsylvania Infantry
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Thursday, April 10, 1862—Weather bright and pleasant today. Went to Alexandria, tramped around town nearly all day. The 1st Brigade left on the cars yesterday and today for Manassas.
Friday 11—Was up at 3 a.m. [with] orders to march overland to Manassas. Passed through Fairfax Court House and camped within 3 miles of Centreville. Weather pleasant and men somewhat fatigued.
Saturday 12—Broke up camp at6 a.m. and reached Manassas at 2.30 p.m. Entrenchments at Centreville numerous but not formidable. Manassas a humbug. McClellan could have taken it in 3 hours.
Sunday, April 13, 1862—Up early in the morning and off to the battle field five miles. There is no advantage of ground—it being a beautiful undulating country full of woods. Many of the corpses were lying out exposed to the sun.
Monday 14—Moved camp to a fine location about 200 yards distant, fitted up our little quarters right comfortably and are making preparations to stay comfortable if we stay at all. Weather hot.
Tuesday 15—On picket about a mile and a half south of camp. Very rainy in the morning but got fair and warm by noon. [ ] Armstrong makes the company to [illegible].
Wednesday, April 16, 1862—Got into camp at 9 a.m. fatigued and sleepy, Gen. Meade had the audacity to order us out on Brigade Drill. I was excused and I wrote to Lizzie. Weather getting the Spring fever.
Thursday 17—1st Brigade marched to Bristow. Election for Major. Candidates Porter and Johns. Johns majority 124. Dress Parade at 6 p.m. Orders at 10 to be ready to leave at 4 a.m.
Friday 18—Left camp at 6.30 a.m. and marching on the A&O [Orange & Alexandria] Railroad tracks, reached Catlett’s Station about 2 p.m. Camped in a large meadow. Wood distant, Water scarce and bad.
Saturday, April 19, 1862—Weather unpleasant. Rainy and cold. Had turkey for dinner which I had roasted at a neighboring farmhouse. Regiment was paid today for January & February.
Sunday 20—Weather very bad. Laid in bed nearly all day. Expressed $40 to Jo Cline. Wrote to L. Townsen and Lizzie.
Monday 21—[Still at Catlett’s Station] Weather still outrageously bad. Went to Dr. Edmonds and had a warm berth at the fireside. The Dr. and Lady are evidently full blood secesh.
Tuesday, April 22, 1862—Stayed at the Dr’s over night and returned to camp in the morning. Went on guard at the camp at 9 a.m. Had to keep guard all night. Day fair.
Wednesday 23—Another nice day. Boys engaged in cleaning up their guns and playing “penny poke” on the sunny side of the straw stack.
Thursday 24—Company detailed as guard at Catlett’s Station. A boy was killed a few feet from me by a locomotive. Commenced to rain in the evening. Slept in a car with lots of hay.
Friday, April 25, 1862—Very wet. Left camp and took up quarters at Mr. Stone’s. Had two good meals with the inevitable corn cake and bacon. Returned to camp in the evening.
Saturday 26—Detailed as Judge Advocate on Regimental Court Martial. Rather a troublesome position. The 1st Brigade marched in the direction of Fredericksburg at 1 o’clock.
Sunday 27—Mail carrier brought the 1st mail we have had for ten days. Wrote to Lizzie, Hanna and Cunningham’s. Also a letter to the “star of the evening.” Received letters from Lizzie, Hanna, G. S. M. , W. T. J., The first fair day we have had for a week.
Monday, April 28, 1862—Left camp at Catlett’s and marched about nine miles in the direction of Fredericksburg. The roads are very bad so far. We hitched our horse in a little wagon of the sutler’s and hauled all our baggage. Had a good sleep with the ground for a bed and the sky for a tent.
Tuesday 29—Struck tents at 5.30 a.m. and marched 23 miles by 3.30 p.m. Camped in a pine wood northeast of Falmouth, Stafford county, Va. Men stood it pretty well. Co. G has now 14 men on the sick list. Weather cool and pleasant.
Wednesday 30—Set in wet in the forenoon, Was mustered for pay in the afternoon. The country around Fredericksburg is beautiful. Peach trees in full bloom, apple blossoms bursting, and forest trees putting on their verdure.
MAY 1862
Thursday, May 1, 1862—Weather variable. Had a pass to visit Falmouth. Country in the vicinity rather picturesque. Undertook to be commissary for officers’ mess. Corp. Robert Hunter discharged for disability.
Friday 2—Took a ride on the pursuit of eatables and after returning, plunged into the second volume of The Count of Monte Christo—a fascinating work. Weather fair and pleasant.
Saturday 3—Felt rather dilatory and lay in my tent nearly all day reading. The mail for the 11th [Pa. Reserves] came in about 10 p.m. Lots of letters. Boys gay and happy. Had two from Lizzie. All right.
Sunday, May 4, 1862—Company detailed for patrol duty. Found it a very lazy business. 3rd Brigade arrived in the afternoon. The second pontoon bridge was laid to Fredericksburg today. News that Yorktown is being evacuated.
Monday 5—Court Martial met. Tried Joshua L. McCreary. Weather pleasant. News of the evacuation conformed. McClellan in full pursuit.
Tuesday 6—Court Martial adjourned until tomorrow. Weather still pleasant. Dr. Fulton left for Washington with the mail.
Wednesday, May 7, 1862—Court Martial met and tried the four remaining cases in Co. A. Evidence contradictory. Hot in daytime. Cool at night.
[May 8 through May 13, 1862—no entries]
Wednesday 14—Rained all day. Went on picket in the evening.
Thursday 15—Rained all day.
Friday, May 16, 1862—Weather fair. Received letters from Will & Lizzie Jackson. The camp getting more beautiful every day. The leaves are all out.
Saturday 17—Weather very warm. 2nd Brigade reviewed and inspected today by Gen. McCall. Expressed much satisfaction at the condition of the rms of Co. G.
Sunday 18—Pleasant. Wrote to Lizzie and sent to Philp and Solomons, Washington, for Artemus Ward’s book. Men ordered to each have two pair shoes & socks.
Monday, May 19, 1862—Reviewed and inspected by Gen. Van Rensselaer & staff. Co. G again complimented on its arms. Weather pleasant. Dress Parade every evening at 6.30 o’clock.
Tuesday 20—Detailed as officer of the guard. Capt. [Evans R.] Brady [of Co. I], Officer of the Day. Had orders to come down to the regiment and we did it. Commenced raining in the evening.
Wednesday 21—Cool and damp in the morning. Faired up at 9 a.m. Received a letter from Labana Townsen. McClellan is at White House [on Pamunkey River] ten miles from Richmond. Will we get there too?
Thursday, May 22, 1862—Very warm. Read “The Loves of Byron,” which is also warm. [Jacob] Colver, [Johnson] Brown, Samuel T. Stewart sent to City Hospital at Washington.
Friday 23—Took a ride this afternoon to Shield’s Division. Went to the railroad bridge, from there to Gen. McDowell’s Headquarters and saw King’s Division reviewed. Afterwards our own was reviewed. Letter from Lizzie & Ans.
Saturday 24—Nothing going on. Gen. Banks was attacked at Front Royal and defeated. Had to return our wedge tent to Quartermaster.
Sunday, May 25, 1862—Received Artemus Ward’s work and read it through. Dress Parade in the evening with leggings on. The regiment looks far better.
Monday 26—Received orders to move our camp on account of sickness. Struck tents and went to another camp but before pitching, got marching orders. Left at 1 p.m. and marched down opposite Fredericksburg and camped.
Tuesday 27—Are located in a very pleasant place near the railroad, half a mile from the river and Fredericksburg. Camp in an open field, dry and gravelly which I think will improve the sanitary condition of the regiment. Warm, warm. Some anxiety for the safety of Banks’ army.
Wednesday, May 28, 1862—Opposite Fredericksburg. Dress Parade & Company Drill.
Thursday 29—Colver, Brown, and Stewart sent to Washington hospital.
Friday 30—Very warm Took a run around the country. King’s Division left to join Shields. No troops here now but the Pennsylvania Reserve.
Saturday, May 31, 1862—Wet and disagreeable last night. Commenced boarding at the sutler’s at $3 per week. Received letters from R. Cunningham & Lizzie. Severe battle at Richmond.
JUNE 1862
Sunday, June 1—Very wet all day. Read “A Strange Story” by Sir E. Bulwer Lytton.
Monday 2—Weather pleasant all day. On camp guard today. 60 men on guard. Received word of the fight at Richmond on Saturday. Commenced reading Jack Hinton [the Guardsman].
Tuesday, June 3, 1862—Opposite Fredericksburg. Warm as usual. Camp off camp guard at 9 a.m. Severe storm of wind and rain at 4 p.m., immediately after we were detailed for picket duty three miles down the river road. Reached the place at dark.
Wednesday 5—Horrible. What a rain last night and all day incessantly. Not even a bush for shelter. Woke this morning with my head in a puddle of water. River very high, Took off all four of the bridges.
Thursday 5—Slept this morning until Guard Mounting. Air raw and occasional showers all day. Wrote to W. J. Jackson. Orders for no passes & roll call five times a day.
Friday, June 6, 1862—Letter from Lizzie. Weather rather disagreeable.
Saturday 7—Wet and disagreeable. A rumor is prevalent in camp that we are to be sent to McClellan at Richmond.
Sunday 8—Had orders to strike tents at 9 p.m. and be ready to march to the transport lying down the river. Slept on the ground all night. Weather fair. A heavy dew.
Monday, June 9, 1862—Left camp at noon and marched 6 miles down the river to the landing. The 1st Brigade & the 4th Regiment went on board today. Weather fair. Bivouacked for the night.
Tuesday 10—Woke up this morning to find it raining. The 3rd and 1st went on board in the forenoon. Nine companies of the 11th [Pennsylvania. Reserves], Gen. McCall’s staff and body guard, went on board the John [ ] at dark.
Wednesday 11—Weighed anchor at daylight and run down to Chesapeake Bay by dark. Anchored until 12 o’clock and then steamed round to the mouth of York River by daylight. Fair.
Thursday, June 12, 1862—Ran past Yorktown at 6 a.m. and arrived at White House on the Pamunky at 12 M, Encamped for the night one mile from the landing. 1st Brigade gone to Richmond.
Friday 13—Left White House at 9 a.m. and marched two miles past Dispatch Station. Guerrilla party came in our rear, chased back the baggage train, and did considerable damage.
Saturday 14—1st Brigade gone back in pursuit of the guerrillas. Gen. Meade and our baggage arrived safe. Had a visit from B. H. Scott of the 103rd. Weather oppressively hot.
Sunday, June 15, 1862—Wrote to Lizzie & Hanna. Very hot and sultry in the forenoon but a thunderstorm in the evening made overcoat comfortable.
Monday 16—Weather still cool from the storm. Formed in line to be reviewed by Gen. McClellan but he did not arrive.
Tuesday 17—Pleasant. Heavy firing in direction of Fort Darling. Formed again for review but disappointed. Grub scarce today. Orders to leave at 6 a.m.
Wednesday, June 18, 1862—Marched about 8 miles up the Chickahominy and encamped. Rebels in plain view across the bottom. Artillery firing continually. Wrote to G. S. Mills.
Thursday 19—Smith’s Division had a skirmish yesterday evening a short distance from our camp. Townsend and Elder from 62nd called to see us. Battalion on skirmish drill 3 p.m.
Friday 20—Rebels throw up two new batteries with heavy guns. They have been shelling our camp all day. I was detailed today with 25 men to report to Maj. Lyman for Provost Guard duty.
[No entries from June 21 through 26, 1862]
Thursday, June 26, 1862—No firing in the forenoon. Baggage all ordered to be sent to Gen. Headquarters. The rebels attacked our right in force.
Friday 27—Three regiments fought the rebels yesterday five hours and held them in check. Today the battle of Gaines’ Hill [Mill] fought.
Saturday 28—Commenced to fall back from our works in front of Richmond. Another fight today by Smith or Hooker. Whipped the rebels.
Sunday, June 29, 1862—Stampede in the morning among the teams. All the army moving towards City Point hastily but in good order. The 11th [Penn.] Regiment annihilated.
Monday 30—Porter’s Corps took the wrong road. The rebels attacked our rear. Guards repulsed with heavy loss. The Battle of Turtle Island fought. Our forces held their ground against overwhelming number. Gen’s McCall and Meade wounded. A.A.G. Biddle killed.
JULY 1862
Tuesday, July 1—At City Point Landing. A hard fight about 1.5 miles up the river. Gen. Magruder taken prisoner. The army steadily retreating toward Harrison’s Landing.
Wednesday 2—Set in very rainy during the night. The Reserve fell back last night toward Harrison’s Landing. The roads almost impassable. Enormous stores destroyed that could not be removed.
Thursday, July 3, 1862—Gen. Shields Division arrived yesterday. The rebels threw shells into our camp today but the whole party were taken prisoners. Our army is again on the advance.
Friday 4—The army is again in order. Our advance is back four miles. The troops are all in good spirits and will fight better than ever. The Penn. Reserve Corps only musters 3000 men. Our regiment 170 in all.
Saturday 5—The weather has been fair for the last day and the roads are getting in better order. Wrote to Lizzie…
Sunday, July 6, 1862 [At Westover on the James river]. Nothing of importance. The army is entrenched—a line almost ten miles long. Had a chase for Col. Harvey of the 7th Regt. Hot. Hotter. Hottest.
Monday 7—Received a letter from Lizzie M. Jackson, I believe the losses in killed and wounded on both sides during the late battles will reach 80,000 men.
Tuesday 8—Had a letter from H. S. R. Weather exceedingly hot and sultry. Sent a box of clothing to G. W. Hoffetot, Pittsburgh…
Wednesday, July 9, 1862—Relieved from duty with Provost Marshall and reported to Capt. Porter for duty. Tom Taylor started home with the Colonel, Lt. Colonel, and adjutants’ horses. Horse to Quartermaster.
Thursday 10—Very warm. A heavy shower in afternoon. Visited 103rd Regiment and also 25th. Thomas Cochran, 2nd Lt. Heard Lt. Col. Jackson was at home.
Friday 11—Nothing…
Saturday, July 12, 1862—Nothing important except a review by President Lincoln & Gen. McClellan. Very hot. This place is a perfect Tophet [Hell].
Sunday 13—On fatigue duty. Repairing corduroy bridge across the swamps. Worked in mud knee deep all day.
Monday 14—Moved camp about two miles down the river. Good camp. Sunk wells. Water tolerable. Received a letter from Dr. Kuhn in regard to Capt, Speer. Answered.
Tuesday, July 15, 1862—Went to Gen. McClellan’s Headquarters to procure a pass for Dr. Kuhn. Was placed in command of the fragments of Companies F, G, H, I & K. Wrote to J. P. Davis, Crestline. Terrific storm in the evening.
Wednesday 16—Issuing clothing to the men. Wrote to Lizzie. Had a strange dream last night. Received an order to remove camp and to permanent guard duty ay hospital camp. Another storm.
Thursday 17—Marched through the med to the old Harrison house [Berkeley Plantation] and commenced policing the ground preparatory to pitching camp. Had a letter from Lizzie.
Friday, July 18, 1862—Finished policing and having received new Sibley tents, we pitched them in three streets forming a splendid camp. Weather very warm.
Saturday 19—Nothing of special interest occurring. Men have to do duty every other day. Hard work to get men enough at that.
Sunday 20—Received in the evening a little crumpled note from Capt. [James P.] Speer. He went down on the Louisiana wounded in the shoulder and thigh [on June 27th]. Thank God he is safe.
Monday, July 21, 1862—Mistake yesterday. I got alongside the Flag of Truce boats and saw several of our company on parole wounded. They are on their way east in good spirits. Wrote to Will Jackson.
Tuesday 22—Sutler here has his tent up and selling tremendously. Maj. Ball paid Co. B today for four months. Weather very hot. Flies bite clear through our clothes. Commenced to board at sutler’s.
Wednesday 23—Paymaster paid Cos. A, C, and D for two months this afternoon. He is the slowest man in the world. The boys are cursing him all around. Had a good view from the signal station this evening.
Thursday, July 24, 1862—Nothing of particular interest occurring. There has been a review of troops by Division for several days in the rear of our camp, It is said reinforcements are arriving every night.
Friday 25—Paymaster paid off Cos. E, F. G, H, I, and K this afternoon for two months. Payrolls have to be made over again for May and June. Received a letter from & wrote to Hanna, S. R.
Saturday 26—Nothing of special importance. Commenced to make out payrolls for Cos. F, G, H. I. & K. Find it a very difficult job.
Sunday, July 27, 1862—Had letter from Lizzie. Thomas A. Cochran & James Chambers on a visit from Headquarters. Went with them in afternoon to 62nd Regt. Saw Tom Anderson & Joe Moorehead of Jefferson county. Capt. Townsend commanding Co. G Sergt.
Monday 28—Find I missed it in leaving yesterday. The paymaster says the rolls must be finished today or we will not get paid. Worked until 12 o’clock last night and finished them all this evening. Letter from G. S. Mills.
Tuesday 29—Paymaster Ball paid off the regiment today. Received for March, April, May and June $445.00. Went with Archie Stewart to the Morgan in the evening. The flies are dreadful, biting through one’s clothes and crazing the horses.
Wednesday, July 30, 1862—The rebs made a raid on one of our transports last night. Burned the schooner and made the captain prisoner. Also captured a number of cattle. Received letters from W. T. Jackson and Lizzie. Letter from Zimmerman.
Thursday 31—Sent to G. W. Hoffstot $300 by Adams Express. Our gunboats now concentrating at the picket line. The siege train is also in position on ythe bank of the river. Something is evidently expected. Probably an attack looked for.
AUGUST 1862
Friday, August 1—Sure enough, the rebs give us “hark” from the other side of the river at 2 o’clock last night. Our batteries and gunboats soon made them skedaddle. 20 Union men killed and wounded. Two regiments crossed this afternoon and burned the buildings along the rebel shore. Wrote to G. S. M. and Mrs. Boyles.
Saturday, August 2, 1862—Nothing important today. REceived a letter from Rev. Kuhn in regard to some boxes. On guard at hospital.
Sunday 3—Sent $5 to Editor of Philadelphia Enquirer for subscription to be sent to G. S. Mills…
Monday 4—[No entry].
Tuesday, August 5, 1862—Several transports passed up the river last night loaded with rebel prisoners. It is hoped now that our boys in Richmond will be exchanged. Burnside has gone to Gen. Pope’s army.
Wednesday 6—11th [Penn. Reserve] Regiment returned from Richmond 329 privates. No officers yet. Boys look hard on show. The shirts and drawers were distributed and were gladly received. The enemy were expected but did not come. Bought blouse for $10.
Thursday 7—On guard today. Regiment ordered back to division delayed on account of having no tents. Very warm. News of the extra 300,000 to be drasfted is regarded as a good thing by the soldiers of the army. Name sent in for recruiting officer.
Friday, August 8, 1862—This is by far the hottest day we have had this summer. 13 men died in the General Hospital, mainly from the excessive heat. Not gone to the division yet. Tried to sell “Bill” to A. S. or 3rd Regt.
Saturday 9—Requisition made and clothing drawn for returned prisoners. Muskets also drawn but the men manifest disposition not to take them. An important movement on the [ ].
Sunday 10—Regiment formed in line and an explanation made by Capt. Porter. Men took the arms, marched to the Division and back. Sold Bill to Asst. Surgeon Orr, 3rd Regt. P. R. C. for $90 at 90 days.
Monday, August 11, 1862—Appointed acting adjutant. Had orders and moved to the Division camp in the morning. Left one hundred men in camp for a hospital ward. At 3 p.m., turned wagons over to division quartermaster and marched down to the mail landing to go on board transports. Destination unknown.
Tuesday 12—Went on board a ferry and was taken out to the steamer Belvidere at 1 a.m. 3 a.m. under weigh. 10 a.m. off Fortress Monroe. 5 p.m. a thunder storm, rough sea and sick quarter master. The most beautiful sunset I ever saw. 11 p.m. anchored near mouth of the Potomac.
Wednesday 13—Anchored off Aquia Creek at 9 a.m. Was ferried ashore. In the afternoon, left Aquia for Fredericksburg on the cars at dark. Arrived at the station at 9 p.m. Regiment slept in the open field. Wrote to Will Jackson.
Thursday, August 14, 1862—Camped on the hill in Sibley tents lately occupied by Gen. Burnside’s troops. A very pleasant, healthy location. Plenty of camp pedlers. A prospect of getting home on recruiting service,
Friday 15—Nothing important transpiring today. The weather here is cool and much pleasanter than on the Peninsula. Received orders to go home recruiting.
Saturday 16—Lieut. Sloan undertook to get transportation and failed. We are all considerably bored at getting heat as they are all poking fun at us. We will make it yet, or break something.
Sunday, August 17, 1862—Very cold last night. Went to Gen. Burnside’s Headquarters and got transportation. Arrived at Aquia Creek at 1 p.m. and got to Washington at 8 p.m. Stopped at Mrs. Forbes. The officers of the 11th [Pa. REserves] Regiment are at Brown’s Hotel.
Monday 18—…Left Washington at 5 p.m. and arrived at Baltimore at 7… Reached Harrisburg at 5 a.m.
Tuesday 19—Had our business arranged with Capt. Dodge. Sloan goes home and I am detailed here at Camp Curtin. Thousands of troops are arriving and leaving Camp Curtin daily. Very dusty and disagreeable.
Wednesday, August 20, 1863—Was arrested by Provost Guard before I was out of bed. Provost Marshall apologized but I [ ]. Reported at Camp Curtin for duty. Assigned to most wretched quarters, alive with vermin and disgustingly filthy.
Thursday 21—We are not allowed to leave camp. But several Reserve Officers run the blockade and go to town on spite of Provost guards. Board at the May House. Good fare, Very warm and dusty.
Friday 22—Much surprised this morning to receive a visit from D. W. Hoffstot. He won’t enlist. Was in town all day. Had sergeant paid off. A fine rain in the evening. Recruiting officer is god fellow.
Saturday, August 23, 1862—…Last day of volunteering for new regiments.
Sunday 24—Stayed in camp nearly all day. Don’t know what to make of the new captain. Got up a petition to Gov. Curtin which we will put through if pressure is not taken off.
Monday 25—All tight, Captain ain’t so bad as we thought—only afraid of Capt. Dodge. Slept at May House last night. Much better than camp.
Tuesday, August 26, 1862—Roads getting very dusty again. Nothing of special import today. There is fighting going on along the Rappahannock.
Wednesday 27—Sick today. Was detailed for duty. Not excused….
Thursday 28—Went down town and from there in the evening over to Independence Island to the picnic…
Friday, August 29, 1862—Feel pretty well played out today. So used for a spree. A heavy fight reported at Bull Run or Groveton. Wrote to Col. Jacksonm sent by Capt. R___.
Saturday 30—Left Harrisburg with Capt. Sands adn Lt. Cochran with 100 men to report at Ft. Ellsworth, Alexandria. Stopped over night at Baltimore. Went to Continental House O. K. Slept at Soldier’s Rest. Dry.
Sunday 31—Left Baltimore at 9 and arrived at Washington at 10, then to Alexandria by boat and on to Fort Ellsworth where we delivered the recruits. Came back to Washington and Lt. Cochran and I went over to Cunningham’s.
[No entries between 1 September through 6 December 1862]
DECEMBER 1862
Sunday, December 7, 1862—Arrived at regiment quartered at Brooks Station, Fredericksburg and Aquia Creek Railroad. Very cold. Wrote to Lizzie & N___. Slept in Col. Jackson’s tent. Received a letter from Hattie, Lizzie, Hanna, R. G. A.
Monday 8—Started at daylight and marched across the country about 8 miles and camped in a cedar thicket. Passed a couple of huts containing the most destitute, miserable looking creatures I have ever witnessed.
Tuesday, December 9, 1862—Laid in camp all day. There is snow on the ground and the nights are cold. Wrote to Adjt. Powell and Hanna. Rumor of a move soon. I think we will cross the river.
Wednesday 10—Orders to leave tonight at 11.30 o’clock. Three days grub, 60 rounds cartridges. Wrote to Hattie McIntryre. Weather fair and moderating slightly.
Thursday 11—Started at 12 midnight and reached the landing at 4 a.m. Our Brigade is guarding the pontoon corps who are laying two bridges a mile below Fredericksburg. The town is being burned down. Very heavy cannonading. Franklin’s Corps commenced crossing at sunset. No resistance but a little skirmishing.
Fredericksburg, night of the 11th, by Alfred R. Waud. Library of Congress.
Friday, December 12, 1862—Crossed the river before noon and bivouacked in an open field near stone house. No fighting of any consequence today. Large numbers of troops are crossing over. Weather fair. Cold at night.
Saturday 13—Were ordered to prepare for immediate action at 6 a.m. and taken to the left. Supported batteries until 2 p.m. Then ordered forward. Advanced half a mile. Drove the rebs and were driven. Regiment suffered terribly at the railroad.
Sunday 14—The Division is laying in reserve today, being badly used up on yesterday. Co. G lost 20 men out of 25 in action and the regiment lost 212 out of 390 in action. Weather pleasant. No fighting today.
After the 11th Regiment was pushed down the ridge, Lt. Daniel Coder (11th Pa. Reserves, Co. E) wrote, “Never did I look back for support with more anxiety than on that fatal day; for on seeing a single line advance I had anticipated the result. We lost color bearer after color bearer, I know not how many. I picked up the colors at three different times myself. The flag staff was shot off and the flag perforated in nineteen different places by rebel bullets.” One of the flag bearers was Pvt. James Fritz of Co. E. Capt. Daniel S. Porter (11th Pa. Reserves, Co. B) made a similar comment. “Our division charged in the face of rebel batteries and rifle pits, drove the enemy from them and gained the hill; but no support came to our assistance, and we were driven back.” He later added, “The boys fought like heroes. They were too brave. I have little heart left, brave comrades have fallen without gain. We were butchered like so many animals.” Just above the railroad track, Pvt. James H. Trimble was shot in the chest and killed. Captain Porter wrote to Trimble’s father, “The saddest part of my task as Captain was to see my brave boys fall and next to it was to convey the sad intelligence to bereaved friends.”[Source: Shock Troops for the Union: The Pennsylvania Reserves at the Battle of Fredericksburg, by Bill Weidner (2023)
Monday, December 15, 1862—No fighting of consequence today. Brilliant Northern Light last night. A Flag of Truce was granted for one hour to bury our dead. No more of the company found.
Northern Lights dance over the battlefield at Fredericksburg on 14-15 December 1862
Tuesday 16—The entire army was withdrawn across the river quietly last night. The night was rainy and favorable. Rebs made their appearance in the morning. Camped on the hill.
Wednesday 17—Lay all day in camp. Whiskey rations were issued last night and the Division was gloriously drunk. Capt. [James P.] Speer left for Washington. Cold.
Thursday, December 18, 1862—Col. Jackson and I visited the hospitals of our Division. Nearly all gone to Washington. On returning found the Division had left. Followed up and camped about two miles from White Oak Church.
Friday 19—Marched to within two miles of Belle Plain in the afternoon and camped. Very cold. Col. Anderson got a few blessings for running us through brush and over the hills uselessly.
Saturday 20—Moved about a hundred yards and camped in what is probably winter quarters. Good location. Brigade inspection. Went on picket in the evening.
Sunday, December 21, 1862—Rather pleasant for the time of year. Only three companies on post. The rest on reserve. Was relieved at sundown. This is my 25th Birthday.
Monday 22—Weather moderate. Boys all busy putting up winter quarters. Received a note from Hanna and one from Lizzie.
Tuesday 23—Weather very fine for the season. More like spring than winter. Getting along very well except that we get very poor fare from McCandless & Co.
Wednesday, December 24, 1862—Had A. K. Vantine appointed sergeant from December 1st. Took a tramp over the hills to Cockpit Point Landing. Fine view. Get no letters or papers. Very lonesome.
Thursday 25—Christmas. Oh, how dry. But I am well today and last Christmas I was [sick and] at the point of death [at Camp Pierpont, Virginia]. Am I thankful enough for the blessing? I fear not…
The following letter was written by Sgt. Mander Alvan Maynard (1841-1913) of Co. F, 7th Rhode Island Infantry. He mustered into the regiment on 6 September 1862 and transferred into the new organization on 21 October 1864.
He was the youngest son of Moses William Maynard (1805-1894) and Martha Barnes Brigham (1809-1882) of Worcester, Massachusetts. During the winter of 1861-62 he taught school in Burrillville. The regimental history claims he was with the regiment in the Battle of Fredericksburg but contracted typhoid fever in January 1863 and was sent to hospitals at Baltimore and Portsmouth before rejoining his regiment at Lexington, Kentucky in November 1863. [This letter suggests he was still with the regiment in early March 1863, however.] He mustered out of the regiment in June 1865. In 1866 he married Sarah J. Anthony.
In the 1860 US Census, 18 year-old Mander was enumerated in his parents’ household in Ward 8 of Worcester, Massachusetts. Besides his parents, there was 26 year-old Adda and 23 year-old Malcom, both mentioned in this letter.
I promised you a long letter on this sheet of paper and you shall have it now or as soon as I can finish it. It may take more than one day but I will try to answer the questions in your former letters as fully as possible.
Malcom concludes that Albert M. Smith [of Smithfield, R. I.] is the man I helped off of the battlefield. No sir. He was 2nd Sergeant but got scared before we got to the field and left and instead of his belt &c. being shot off, two men in the company say they helped him take them off. He was not wounded in the least but played it and got discharged. Capt. [Lyman M.] Bennett found out what the matter was and reduced him to the ranks. The person I helped off was William H. Russell 1 and he laid beside me when he was struck by a piece of shell.
The things sent by Lieutenant Hall, I never got. He only came as far as Washington, was taken sick, and discharged. Capt. Goodell sent to him once but when the man called, he [Hall] was so drunk that he knew nothing of the package. Mother writes about sending a box. Don’t ever do so again. While you are waiting for an answer is time enough for a box to come through. You know as well as I how long we shall stay anywhere and whenever the Express Co. will take a box, send it along. You ask what I want. I want three or four handkerchiefs and no more extra clothes to pack around his summer. Butter is always welcome. If you send cake or pies, put them away from all liquids or moisture. If you could send me a pint of good brandy, it is the best thing for the chronic diarrhea of which so many die here. Send me three or four quires commercial note paper and one bunch envelopes to mail. Also a couple of good black pencils. Don’t send any more tea as I have enough to last me two months. A pound of crust sugar would be acceptable. I have the little pail and will try to keep it till I come home.
How is the old flag? Please send me Aaron’s address once more and I will try to write to him. As to my sending a box home by Express, they are all examined and besides, the agent of the Express Co. is sometimes 6 miles off so you need not expect a box from me without someone here is coming on part way at least for if expressed at Washington or beyond, it would not be opened.
I do not think I get all the papers you send but that is not strange for many do not get all their letters and I think I do. That N. O. Delta you spoke of I have not received. We left Falmouth for here Monday, February 9th, and arrived here Wednesday the 11th [aboard the steamer Georgia].
You write that you had a snow storm February 22nd. It snowed and rained here both the 21st and 22nd. Mother writes of my hardships and privations. I do not know as I have been really disappointed since I come out here except in one thing [and] that is our officers. And since Capt. Bennett has left, I can’t find much fault anyway.
As to food, clothing, marches and camps, they are as good as I expected. We do not often have any poor food and if there is any, we manage to get something else. Since I have begun to get better, we lave lived pretty well. We have had our regular meals here; for breakfast—coffee, potatoes and cold meat or beefstake. The latter we have half the time and it is good and enter. For dinner we generally have soup, boiled dish or beans. We have had beans and corn once, cold water or gruel for dinner. For supper, tea and sometimes apple sauce. We have had fresh bread ever since we came here. Last night we had a real milk toast made of this preserved milk in cans. It was very good. We also buy fresh oysters out of the shell for 25 cents per quart and I eat them raw, fried, and stewed. We get eggs at 40 cents per dozen and I boil them myself. Apples 3 for 5 cents—pretty good ones. Oranges 5 cents apiece. Cheese 30 cents per lb. Butter 40 to 50 cents.
My health is improving fast. In pleasant weather I walk out and as the hospital is close to the river (the James), I can see two or three gunboats, 1 monitor, and the wreck of the [USS]Cumberland. They keep a light on her tops nights to prevent other vessels from running into her. Yesterday I walked up to the Negro quarters where we buy our things twice—once in the a.m. and once in the p.m. Tis most as far as Chestnut Street [in Worcester, Mass.]
As to care, I have had as good as any here. I found friends here as I do most everywhere and what anyone has had, I have. So you need not worry about me.
Capt. William Howard Joyce, Co. F, 7th R. I.
Father asks, “Do things here look like home.” No! There are no roads. They drive in one place till they can’t any longer and then drive one side. There is not a fence anywhere within ten miles of where the Army has been and no slatted walls. All the fences they ever had in Virginia were the regular Virginia rail fence and fancy hedges cut down and all burned and let the Army camp a few days near a thick wood and when they leave it, will be thinned out. When we left Falmouth, we had to go two miles for wood and take half green pine then. The teams drew it for us.
He also asks, “Do you like the service as well as you expected?” Yes, nearly. I expected officers who were men too but as a general thing, they are drunk or cross. Our present Capt. [William Howard] Joyce is an Irishman and when not drunk, he is a kind-hearted, good-natured fellow and looks out for our wants. [end of letter is missing]
1 William H. Russell of Dartmouth. Massachusetts, was a private in Co. C. F, 7th Rhode Island Infantry. He was wounded in the Battle of Fredericksburg and transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps on 12 September 1863. He mustered out of the service in June 1865.
Mander A. Maynard stands at far right in this post war image of veterans.
Spared & Shared 23 