Texas Refugee

1864: William Crutcher to William Oscar Crutcher

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William Crutcher’s Gravestone

This letter was written by William Crutcher (1814-1876), a commercial merchant operating out of Vicksburg under the name “Crutcher & Co.” at the time the Civil War began. William and his wife, Emma Cora Pike (1819-1863) were married in 1835 at Nashville and by the Civil War, the couple had seven living children—some of who are mentioned in this letter; Mary Elizabeth Crutcher (1841-1873), the wife of Robert Jefferson Miller (1838-1874); Sarah (“Sallie”) Dumimon Crutcher (1854-1879); and Annie Charlotte Crutcher (1856-1949). William’s first wife died in February 1863 and he had not yet married his second wife which explains why he does not mention his wife—only “his children” or “his family.”

William lost one son early in the Confederate Service. George Charles Crutcher (1843-1861) died of disease at Manassas while a private in Co. A, 21st Mississippi Infantry.

William wrote this letter to his eldest son, William Oscar Crutcher (1838-1866) who raised his own company of men in 1861 known as the “King Cotton Guards” which eventually became identified as Co. E, 48th Mississippi Infantry. Capt. Crutcher survived the war but died shortly afterward.

From this letter we learn that William took his family from Vicksburg to San Antonio, Texas, for their safety and in hopes of finding gainful employment until the war ended.

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

Transcription

San Antonio
June 26, 1864
Sunday afternoon

My son,

Since I last wrote you, Mary received your letter of the 22nd May by Lieut. Elliott from which I learn that you were well and judge from the tone that you are pretty well satisfied with your command and situation though at the same time you do not speak very favorably of your discipline or order of your men. Now, my son, I have been greatly uneasy and solicitous about this very matter on your account for I have had much fear that you might not find such company as I would like for you to mix and mingle with for rest assured the greatest anxiety I have is about your morals and religious life, for if we are ever so successful in this war and gain our independence on the most favorable terms, if our young men on whom will depend the management both moral and political should become corrupt in morals and religion and have not a proper sense of duty to God and their country, we have not then even gained anything.

And allow me my dear boy again to admonish you to let not the influence of wicked and vicious men sway you in the least but cleave to that which is virtuous, truthful, and moral in all its tendencies. May God keep you is my prayer.

I notice that you request Mary to send you a comb which I will request her to do by first safe opportunity and will request Willie and Mary to live on or do business with. I have made up my mind to return on the other side of the Mississippi river as I have no way to make a support for my family and I go back with the hope that I may be able to invest what Confederate money I have in tobacco that I can bring over this side so I can get some coin, or if this cannot be done, I must invest in something and leave it as I cannot stay over there while my children are on this side and I must therefore come back. But I shall not get back under 5 to 8 months, or sometime next winter.

I expect to leave for Shreveport on next Wednesday and from thence to Alabama. Mr. [Robert Jefferson] Miller wishes and I expect will go with me but he has been waiting for a furlough from Maj. Giddings 1 which has not yet reached him and he is at a loss to know how to act but as he is very anxious to go with me, I think he will go and trust to be talked up. I shall have a very hot and long ride, I know, but a sense of duty to my children impels me onward.

My son, write me and the family here can read it and forward it which I hope I may receive and I enjoin upon you to write to some of the family often and keep them well advised of your situation and whereabouts.

Willie will leave this week for Loredo although I fear he is hardly able to go and I wish very much that while he is in such feeble health that I could remain with him so as to take the drudgery off of him as it is important in order to support the family to keep his wagons running. Annie wishes me to say to you that little Willie was baptized today in the church by Mr. Thompson and she sends love to you. Sallie wishes to know of you if you have a Bible with you. Write to her upon this subject and encourage her in the deep solicitude and anxiety she has for you. She certainly is a very affectionate sister and daughter and nothing she could not do or sacrifice that she would not do for her Father, brothers or sisters. And too, my son, you are blessed in a dear sister (Mary) for her heart is deeply and warmly engaged for you but really we all are for our soldier boy now fighting for our defense and protection.

You have our prayers that you may be a good and honored soldier and that God may protect you and bear you safely through and soon be able to return to the bosom of your family.

I know but little that is going on about this city and therefore has no news. The news from the other side of the [Mississippi] river is still good although General Lee has fallen back to Richmond or where the Battle of the Seven Pines were fought, but all are hopeful. It is said that Johnston has whipped Sherman but the particulars we have not gotten. All join in much love. Affectionately your Father, — William Crutcher

My kind regards to John, Alex, and Mr. J. Little and Nash when you see him. Yours, — W. C.

1 I believe this was George Henry Giddings (1823-1902), who was the brother of Charles Wesley Giddings, my g-g-grandfather’s brother-in-law.

3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery

1863: Martin Stoddard James to Edwin Metcalf

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The following letter was written by Martin Stoddard James (1841-1910), the son of John M. James (1816-1853) and Eunice Albee White (1813-1881) of Providence, Rhode Island.

I could not find an image of Martin but here is one of John M. Barker who served as Capt. of Co. D, 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery (The Horse Soldier)

20 year-old Martin was mustered into service on 20 August 1861 and commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in Co. A of the 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery. He was appointed post adjutant in January 1862 and was placed on detached service on General Terry’s staff until August 1863. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in late December 1862 and to Captain of Co. C in November 1863. A biographical sketch claims that he took part in the engagements at Pocotaligo, Morris Island, Fort Sumter, Fort Wagner, Olustee, Drury’s Bluff, Laurel Hill, Fort Burnham, and Petersburg. In the last five engagements, Co. C was the only battery present of the regiment. He is further credited with leading the dismantling of the rebel works around Richmond after the city fell. His only wound came at Laurel Hill where he received a hip wound.

A Note from the Siege of Petersburg Online: This unit is incorrectly designated as Battery C of the Third Rhode Island “Light” Artillery in the June organizational tables in the Official Records and possibly elsewhere, but there was no 3rd Regiment of Light Artillery for the state of Rhode Island.  The correct designation is Battery C of the Third Rhode Island Heavy Artillery.  It would appear from the official report of operations on October 7, 1864, linked to near the bottom of this page, that company C was acting as light artillery.  The designation used in the report is “Light Company C, 3rd Rhode Island Artillery.”

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

Transcription

Headquarters Light Battery C, 3rd Rhode Island Artillery
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
December 16th 1863

Col. E. Metcalf
Commanding 3rd Rhode Island Artillery

Sir, on the 5th inst. I reported to you by letter the loss of three of my company. I have understood that it was not received so I have made an official report to Lieut. Gorton. I have this very day succeeded in getting the Battery fully equipped. The men are all supplied with clothing. I have drawn red saddle blankets for the entire battery which will improve the appearance very much. I have had the harnesses all cleaned and oiled, new nose bags, &c. &c.

The battery is to be inspected next Saturday and I expect to make a fine appearance. I shall make application for the appointment of new non-commissioned officers soon.

I was delayed by the storm at Hilton Head until Monday night. Had I anticipated staying so long, I should have visited Fort Pulaski with Major Metcalf. I was very successful in drawing ordnance stores. Everything proved to be of an excellent quality.

I should be very happy to parade my battery for your inspection, should you visit this vicinity. I hope you will not slight Light Co. C.

With great respect, I am your obedient servant, — Martin S. James, Capt. 3rd Rhode Island Artillery, Commanding Light Co. C.

Abbott Lawrence, Daniel Webster, Oregon Question

1841: Daniel Webster to Mr. Cogswell

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Daniel Webster (LOC)

The following brief letter was penned by Daniel Webster (1782-1852)—the great American statesman and Senator from Massachusetts—in early February 1841. While officially still a senator at the time, Daniel had already been offered the first cabinet post as Secretary of State in the newly elected Whig administration of William Henry Harrison. He accepted the post at a critical time as the tensions between the United States and England had grown to a feverish pitch over the disputed boundary between the two countries in the rapidly developing Oregon Territory. Webster’s appointment had an immediate calming effect on the American population but he knew the matter could not be resolved without lengthy diplomatic negotiations. In fact it would take another five years before the Oregon Treaty set the border at the 49th parallel.

Abbot Lawrence was among the most important merchants, industrialists, and philanthropists of his day. He is credited as the founder of New England’s influential textile industry. In the later 1830s, Lawrence served as a Member of the US House of Representatives from Massachusetts where he had been a prominent leader of the Whigs and was particularly supportive of Henry Clay and his fight for internal improvements. He decided not to run for another term for Congress, citing poor health, but he remained active and influential in his party and weighed in on important issues such as the Oregon Boundary question.

In this letter, Lawrence appears to have written an article on the Boundary question that Webster must have endorsed as he supported Mr. Cogswell’s proposal to distribute the article more widely.

After President Harrison’s death and during the Tyler Administration while Webster continued as Secretary of State, a feud developed between Webster and Lawrence that would probably cost Webster the Presidential nomination of 1844.

I can’t be certain of the identity of Cogswell—the recipient of this letter, but I assume he was either an editor or possibly a state politician in Massachusetts.

Transcription

Washington
February 3, 1841

Dear Sir,

I think the distribution of Mr. Lawrence’s article, in the way proposed by you, would be very useful. I fear a good deal of trouble yet on this Boundary question.

Yours truly, — Daniel Webster

Mr. Cogswell

1st Mississippi Light Artillery

1861: Montgomery Withers Boyd to Cyrus S. Knapp

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This letter was written by Montgomery Withers Boyd (1818-1886) who offered his services as an Acting Assistant Surgeon at Warrington, Escambia county, Florida (near Pensacola). For a time he was attached to Capt. Frank Kerr’s Battery at Fort McRae, Pensacola. And then early in 1862 he was appointed “Surgeon” of the 1st Mississippi Light Artillery. Boyd was an 1843 graduate of Transylvania University Medical Department at Lexington. He traveled to California in the Gold Rush of 1849 and was enumerated at Placercille, El Dorado county in December 1850. By 1853 he had moved to Jackson, Hinds county, Mississippi.

During the siege of Vicksburg, Dr. Boyd was taken prisoner near Snyder’s Bluff and held captive as a spy. After the city was surrendered, Grant dismissed the charge but held him in exchange for two of his assistant surgeons left with the sick in Jackson, Mississippi.

After the war, Dr. Boyd went to live in Brazil for a time but eventually returned to Jackson, Mississippi, where he died in 1886.

Dr. Boys wrote the letter to Dr. Cyrus S. Knapp (1822-1873), a New York native who relocated to Jackson, Mississippi, a decade before the war to set up his dental practice.

What’s most interesting in Boyd’s letter is his proposal to recruit a band of guerrillas with equipment and tactics quite similar to what General Mosby would later propose and carry out in Virginia.

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

Anxious to strike a blow at the Yanks (Wilson’s Zouaves) encamped on Santa Rosa Island, a surprise night attack was launched on 9 October 1861 by some 1500 rebels who were ferried over on three large steamers.

Transcription

Warrington, Florida
July 9th 1861

Dr. C. S. Knapp
Jackson, Mississippi

My dear sir, you know that I received a letter a long time ago from you and feeling that in writing to a friend, I had no right to bore him with a batch of nonsense such as I will be compelled to use on the present occasion, but that something must be written either to amuse or interest. I will very frankly say that I have no materials from which to construct a passably decent letter.

Each day adds something in the ennui of camp life where nothing much is expected to be done either by ourselves or by the enemy. They are afraid to attack and we cannot get at them. They have a large force and besides are strongly entrenched, and the whole of the lower end of Santa Rosa Island is but a continuous mine of powder and ball.

Now, you see partially our condition. I am at present acting in the line of my profession and am placed with an Independent Battalion of Georgia Volunteers commanded by Major Villepeigne—one of the very best officers of the old U. S. Army and for 6 years a preceptor at West Point and a native of South Carolina.

There are some rumors of an immediate fight but there have been so many that I am loathe to put any trust in them. I have had a notion of giving up my position and going on to Richmond and get the power to raise a small company of 30 or 45 men to be mounted and armed with double barreled shotguns, a sabre, and two Navy revolvers, and to be independent of any Division, Brigade, or Regiment, and never to go into the field with more than 15 men to act as guerrillas and never to permit a sentry or picket to live his two hours out if he is in any reasonable distance of my encampment. If permitted to raise this company, I will go on the border and will bargain to kill for every 30 days, 450 men, and I will not be satisfied with any less. If I get the consent of the President to do so, I will go to Kentucky and get the finest horses that can be procured and the best men that ever mounted a horse in any one company.

Lewis Burk left for Montgomery with his grandfather on Saturday. Frank Kerr was ordered to East Bay some two weeks ago—40 miles east—and returned three days ago. He expected to fight but didn’t [and] is now attached to Col. Smith’s regiment and therefore out of the artillery service. Bob Purdom has been at my quarters for about two weeks a little sick—requiring a terrible effort to avoid typhoid fever. Has succeeded and he is now well but weak.

The Mississippians are generally well. The weather is hot. Mosquitoes abundant. Fruit & vegetables scarce &c. Paper out. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Knapp and kiss all the babies for me. Truly your friend, — M. W. Boyd

P.S. Please write soon and often.

148th Pennsylvania Infantry

1864: Henry B. Hillegass to his Lady Friend

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Henry’s Headstone in Spinnertown, Pennsylvania, with a ghost image of David Polliard who served with him in Co. K, 148th Pennsylvania Infantry

The following letter was written by Henry B. Hillegass (1840-1914) who served as a private in Co. K, 148th Pennsylvania Infantry. Henry was the son of George Hillegass (1816-1889) and Lydia Frey (1813-1842) of Lehigh county, Pennsylvania. Just prior to his enlistment in August 1862, Henry was residing in Quakertown, Bucks county, Pennsylvania.

The 148th Pennsylvania was wrapped in glory at Gettysburg where they fought in the Wheatfield on 2 July 1863.

Henry was shot in the left leg on 10 May 1864 at Po River and at the time of this letter in November of that year, he was still recuperating in a Washington D. C. Hospital. He was not officially discharged from the service until 25 June 1865.

Henry wrote the letter to his lady friend but he never refers to her by name. She was, presumably, Susanna Catharine Blanck whom he married in 1865 and with whom he had at least five children. They lived out their days in Spinnertown, Bucks county, PA, where Henry retired from his job as a cigar maker.

Transcription

Lincoln Hospital B. B.
Washington
November 9, 1864

My dear and affectionate love,

I take the present opportunity today to drop a few lines to you informing you that I am well at the present time and I hope and pray that these few lines may find you in the same state of good health and that you may enjoy yourself with pleasure wherever you are.

My dear, I inform you that I enjoy myself not very well at the present time for it is very lonesome here where I am. But I don’t expect to stay here long. I may stay a few weeks here. I expect they will transfer me to my own state and I expect to come home this winter sometimes—maybe before long. They are talking to leave them all home what wasn’t at home [for] the election.

My dear, I inform you that I expect Old Abe will be reelected again for the President for I have received the paper this morning and it gives a great account for Old Abraham Lincoln.

And my dear true love, I inform you about a little of war [news] that I have received by a letter from the army yesterday that they have had another battle again and it was stated that one third of our Corps was captured. If you have heard from Daniel M. Gersch, write to me if he is alive yet or not.

My dear, I inform you that my leg is recovering and commenced to heal again. You need not be afraid that I wouldn’t be able to walk. My legs gets so sound than ever it was. I am walking around with a cane at the present time. I hope you won’t get angry about me. I am as true to you as ever and I hope you be the same to me. We will have once the happy time which we have now sorrow if we keep our health and don’t be parted from each other. I remember you as long as I live and I hope you do the same to remember me.

It is not long anymore that I have to serve in this cruel war. The time goes fast around now. Then I hope to meet you in love if you don’t part from me. Then our heart and hand may be joined together to part not until death. And then I hope to have a long and happy life with each other.

My dear, I inform you if Edward Payne is at home, tell him that he shall come [at] once and see me if he comes out again. I expect he is at home at the present election.

— Mr. Henry B. Hillegess

28th Virginia Infantry

1862: Peachy Gilmer Breckinridge to Julia (Anthony) Breckinridge

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A pre-war image of Peachy Gilmer Breckinridge

The following letter was written by Peachy Gilmer Breckinridge (1835-1864), the son of Cary Breckinridge (1795-1866) and Emma Walker Gilmer (1807-1893) of Botetourt county, Virginia. He attended VMI 1853-55, the College of William & Mary and the University of Virginia School of Law 1857-58. He journeyed to New Mexico with the Pacific Railroad Exploring Expedition in 1858-59. At his return, he practiced law in Fincastle. He was known by his mother’s maiden name, Gilmer. 

Gilmer was a candidate on 14 Feb 1861 to represent Botetourt County in the Virginia State Convention that passed the Ordinance of Secession 17 April 1861. His platform being the most thorough for the preservation of the Union, he proposed if there must be war, to fight IN, and not OUT, of the Union. He was defeated, but “when he recognized the duty he owed to Virginia, he recruited and equipped a company for the service”. Major Breckinridge raised and equipped a company of Infantry, and was made Captain of Co. K, 28th Virginia Infantry. In re-election of the company, he was ousted April 28, 1862. He then joined the State Line, recruited a company for it and was promoted to the rank of Major, March 13, 1 863. When the State Line was disbanded, he joined his brother’s company, the Second Virginia Cavalry April 21, 1863 and served as Color Sergeant from May 1863. He was appointed Acting Captain of Company B in May 1864. He was killed in action at Kennon’s Landing on the James River May 24, 1864. His body was never recovered. 

Gilmer was married in 1860 to Julia Anthony (1832-1917), pictured below.

Julia Matilda (Anthony) Breckinridge, wife of Peachy Gilmer Breckinridge

Transcription

Addressed to Mrs. Julia M. Breckinridge, Pattonsburg, Botecourt Co., Virginia

Camp Withers [near Centreville, Fairfax county, Va.]
February 23rd 1862

My Dearest Julia,

We came to camp today and I received your letter of the 17th. I had been here some time before I got it and thought that there was nothing for me and was coming into the house to write to you when John handed me the letter. In my last letter I said I would write as soon as I returned whether I had heard from you or not.

We had  tolerably good weather on picket although it rained or rather sprinkled nearly all last night. The shelter of pine tops kept off nearly all the rain and I read till after ten by  firelight. The regiment went on a scout but soon returned. I was left behind in  command of the pickets. The road was very muddy coming back. We found our Lt. Colonel here and the Colonel is expected tonight.

I have twenty men now re-enlisted for the war. I have not taken in any for two years as some captains have. I expect several  tomorrow. The re-enlistment does not extend to commissioned officers but all of us will go in for the war. We got no furlough or bounty by it so that there is no use of our  being mustered in as privates until our re-election [as officers] is defeated. We have nearly as many re-enlisted men as any company in the regiment although we have to serve til August while the others go out soon; and when you recollect that all of mine are in for the war, while  the others have taken in a good many for only two years.

When I wrote to you about  paying the Chahoon debts, I thought there would be some cash & that the bonds might be taken in part payment, deducting the interest. I have not heard from Mr. [ ] yet. I am sorry to hear of Mrs. Pendleton’s misfortune. You ought to write to cousin Cornelia. My legs are in danger of being broken at any time, and neck too if the Yankees catch me.

Mr. Horsley who used to live, and I expect still lives, on the Peak, is in our  regiment and told me that he was a nephew of Clifford Cable. He must be the man who told me off some time ago. He belongs to a Bedford company and is a Quartermaster Sergeant of the regiment.

Lieut. Kelly got back while we were on picket. He is looking  very well. Mr. Saunders is not among the re-enlisted as I expected he would be. It is bed time and I must stop till morning. I have had a tub of water brought in to take a good wash before going to bed. We have a fine tub made of half a barrel. This was a whisky barrel but a flour barrel makes a first rate tub. Try it if you need one.

Monday. I have been all the morning taking in re-enlisted men and making off accounts for bounty, &c. We now have 22 and expect a few more today. No company has a 28, I believe. It is too late to write more. Love to Uncle & the baby. Write soon. Your dearest one, — P. G. B.

4th Wisconsin Infantry, Battle of Fort Henry

1862: William H. Morrison to Thomas Millidge

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The following letter was written by William H. Morrison (b. 1836), a native of Prince Edward Island, residing in Oconto, Wisconsin, in May 1861 when he enlisted as a private in Co. H, 4th Wisconsin Infantry.

I could not find an image of William but here is one of George Hill who served in Co. I, 4th Wisconsin Infantry. (Photo Sleuth)

Originally the Fourth Wisconsin was organized as an infantry unit at Camp Utley, Racine, WI. On July 2nd, 1861 it was mustered into service. Service areas for 1861 included Baltimore, MD, and Relay House, MD. In 1862 the regiment went to Newport News, VA where it left to join the “Army of the Gulf” in New Orleans LA. Disease took a terrible toll on the members during the trip, with several dying enroute. Traveling up the Mississippi River, the regiment saw action at Vicksburg and Baton Rouge, LA. The last service of the Fourth as an infantry unit was a “sanguinary” siege at Port Hudson, LA from May 21 to July 8, 1863. The regiment was then converted to the 4th Wisconsin Cavalry.

In early September 1863, William was discharged from the regiment as a corporal to accept a commission as Captain of Co. B, 99th U. S. Colored Troops. He was absent from his regiment late in 1864 and early 1865 suffering from chronic diarrhea and was able to obtain a certificate of disability and was discharged on 22 February 1865.

William wrote the letter to his friend, Thomas Millidge (1827-1895), a dry goods merchant in Oconto, Wisconsin.

William’s letter makes a reference to the recent Battle of Fort Henry on the Tennessee river wherein Gen. Ulysses S. Grant and Flag Officer Andrew H. Foote simultaneously attacked the Confederate fort and forced its surrender on 6 February 1862.

Transcription

Headquarters 4th Wisconsin Regt. Camp
Baltimore, Maryland
February 8, 1862

Dear friend Millidge,

Our day of judgement has come at last. Tonight about nine o’clock we received our marching orders to someplace to us unknown. There is no one knows as to where our place of destination is. All that I know about it is that we are going to leave here by water tomorrow morning precisely at nine o’clock so I am not able to write you but a few lines this time.

I suppose you have heard of the great victory gained lately and I learn that they are bound to keep the thing agoing and that is the way to do it. They have been fooling with those durn rebels long enough. But now they are doing the thing up brown. That is the way to put down this rebellion.

Thomas, I wish that I was able to write you a long letter but the want of time prevents me from doing it so I shall have to bring this to a close and allow me to sign myself your sincere friend and well wisher, — William H. Morrison

to Thomas Millidge

P. S. Remember me to all the inquiring friends and write as soon as you get this. I guess the letter will follow the regiment. Yours, — Bill

Siege of Yorktown

1862: Lemuel Mason Cox to his Mother

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An unidentified private from Manchester who might very well have served in the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry (Dave Morin Collection)

The following letter was written by Lemuel Mason Cox (1837-1914) who volunteered in Co. C, 2nd New Hampshire Infantry in May 1861 and served three years and three months before mustering out on 21 June 1864, shortly after the Battle of Cold Harbor. At the time of his enlistment, Lemuel had been boarding in Manchester, Hillsboro, New Hampshire, earning his living as a carpenter. He was described as standing 5 feet five inches tall with gray eyes and brown hair.

The 2nd New Hampshire had a long and storied career, participating in the first battle at Bull Run where they had seven men killed, until they occupied Richmond four years later. At Gettysburg, the 2nd New Hampshire entered battle with 353 soldiers. In under three hours, 47 were killed, 136 wounded and 36 men went missing; of the 24 officers, only three were not killed or wounded. Due to their high losses, the 2nd New Hampshire was assigned to guard duty at Point Lookout, Maryland, with the 5th and 12th New Hampshire Volunteer Regiments. The 2nd New Hampshire returned to battle in time for the Battle of Cold Harbor where it suffered heavy casualties of nineteen killed and 54 wounded.

Transcription

Camp Winfield Scott
Warwick Court House
April 28th 1862

Dear Mother,

I now take my pencil in hand to answer your last letter which I received day before yesterday. I should  have answered it yesterday had I been able. I was on guard night before last and was taken sick to my stomach but I stood it through till I was relieved and then went to bed. The doctor gave me two or three kinds of medicine in which I think done me a great deal of good for I am much better today. I will be all right in a day or two.

We have had much rainy weather for a week past but it has cleared off again  since I last wrote to you. We have been as near the rebels as any of the rest that have not fought. They have got their batteries in good shooting distance but if one comes up in sight to load, our sharpshooters  pick them off.

There was twelve regiments went out the other night and cleared the trees away in front of our big siege guns to let the rebs see what we had got for them in a few days. Sundays are no account in the army. Half of our company went out on picket yesterday and the rest went a building corduroy roads. I think I experience a soldier’s life now but I do it cheerfully. When I think that I volunteered my  services to my country, I am perfectly contented. I do not know what to think about the war. Sometimes I think it will end by next fall, and again I think it will last longer. If we had a Washington or a Napoleon at the head of our army, it would have ended the war before this time. I think McClellan is doing well now.

We have heard of the fight at Pittsburg Landing [Shiloh]. They lost their best General [A. S. Johnston]. I do not know who that Lieut. was that was shot. The boys are all well. Charley is the best friend I have got in the army. You say you send the Greenfield paper every week. I do not get it only once in two or three weeks. I believe I have no more to write at present. From your affectionate son, — Lem

April 28th. Afternoon. Most affectionate brother, I thought I would write a few lines to you. I am a great deal better this afternoon. It is clear and hot. I have not heard from you before for some time. The rest of the Heath boys are well. Richard come off picket yesterday. Charley, Spencer, and Frank went on. Your letters are not opened that you send to me. I do not know whether those that I send are opened or not.

It seems to me that you are having a great many cases of sickness and death. I should think Wm. Hunt had begun to preach quite young. Are you a going to stay with Jonas this summer or not? I hope you will get some  steady place. That knife I sent in Herman’s box was a small dirk knife with a German silver handle and a guard. The handle was scalloped.

I received the postage stamps that you and mother sent. Spencer is well. I should like some of Uncle Solomon’s sugar pretty well. You wanted to know what we had for grub. Well, we have our coffee and sugar dealt out to us so we have all the coffee we want and hard bread. I wish I could send you some. That is all we have had since we left Brightwood until yesterday. The boys  had some beans and today some rice and molasses. My mouth watered for them but I had not dare eat them. I must draw to a close in order to write a few lines to William. From your brother, — Lem

22nd Wisconsin Infantry, Desertion, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

1864: John R. Siperly to Peter Siperly

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I could not find an image of John but here is a cdv of William H. McIntosh who served in Co. F, 22nd Wisconsin Infantry (WHS)

The following letter was written by John R. Siperly who was enumerated in his parents household in Delavan, Walworth county, Wisconsin at the time of the 1860 US Census, as a 23 year-old carpenter. John’s parent’s, Peter and Elizabeth (“Betsy”) Siperly, had relocated to Wisconsin prior to 1850 from the area around Rhineback, Dutchess county, New York.

John enlisted in August 1862 to serve as a private in Co. D, 22nd Wisconsin Infantry—sometimes referred to as “the Abolition Regiment.” He served a total of 2 years and 10 months, mustering out in June 1865. Though John wrote his father that he thought there were many signs for a “speedy close of this war” and even of peace negotiations, the heaviest days of fighting for the 22nd Wisconsin lay ahead of them, not behind them.

In 1867, John married Mary C. Church (1848-1906), and resumed in carpentry career in Walmouth county.

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

Transcription

Addressed to Mr. Peter Siperly, Delavan, Wisconsin
Postmarked Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Fort Overall
February 4, 1864
10 o’clock at night

Mother & Father,

Well, I have been reading newspapers laying abed and killing mice tonight and the latter employment caused my mind to revert to the times I used to have at home sometimes at killing mice when the idea suggested itself to me that I had better scribble a few words for the remaining inmates of that home. Well, now it is darned late so you see I can’t say much—only to say that I am still well in the very best degree. We still have very pleasant weather though for the few last days it has been somewhat cooler and tonight looks like rain.

Important and encouraging [news] is being heard from different departments of the army—of desertions on a large scale in the rebel army; of mutinies, the most important one at Mobile; and grand victories of our forces, all of which betokens a speedy close of the war. It is a fact beyond a doubt that the majority of the men in the rebel army are fast seeing their mistake and would gladly give up if they could as many of them are doing.

A rumor is afloat now that the matter is being discussed at Richmond to the effect that if the president would extend his amnesty proclamation to the officers and leaders alike, they would lay down their arms and return to the Union. I can’t say how true this is but I don’t believe it. Neither do I care much, for rather than to see the hellish leaders of this rebellion receive one iota of pardon, or to have them escape a particle of the punishment they so justly merit, rather than that I would see this war continue five years yet. I feel perfectly willing to see all pardoned that comes within the scope of the President’s Proclamation and no further.

Tis thought some that a war with France is eminent—a thing that is not to be devoutly wished for. But if it must be, let it come. I don’t know that we will ever be better prepared than now.

Yesterday our regiment received orders to go to Nashville but has been countermanded again. Perhaps though we may go yet. I think, however, that we will soon be on the move. Tis hard telling where we will turn up next.

I hear that the weather is not as cold now in the North. I hope that is so. I sent a picture about two weeks ago. Did you get it? I hope there will be no further trouble about that money. Let me know when you get it. Good night. — John R. Siperly

2nd Louisiana Infantry, Yorktown, Virginia

1861: John Owen Lemon to his cousin Willy

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An unidentified Louisiana Infantryman
LOC

The following letter was written by John Owen Lemon (1837-1906) , a private in Co. D (“Pelican Rifles”), 2nd Louisiana Infantry—better known as “Wheat’s Tigers” or the “Louisiana Zouaves.” John enlisted on 11 May 1861 at New Orleans. He was promoted to a 2nd Corporal in June 1862 and sent to the hospital at Danville Virginia, just prior to the Battle of Malvern Hill, suffering from illness. His muster records show him as being absent much of the latter half of 1862 and 1863 yet he was promoted to 1st Corporal in November 1863. In February 1864 he reenlisted for the balance of the war. When he was paroled at war’s end, he was described as 28 years old, with grey eyes and dark hair, standing 5 feet, 4 inches tall. He gave his residence as Natchitoches, Louisiana.

In the 1860 US Census, John was enumerated in Natchitoches as the overseer on the John Pareryes plantation.

John died in Jefferson, Arkansas, in 1906. His widow, Harriett A. E. Lemon filed for a widow’s pension at that time. She may have been his third wife as it appears he married once before in 1889 to Annie Bogy and once before that in 1867 to Drucilla F. Goldman. I can’t be certain but think John was born in Fayette, Tennessee, the son of Robert Simon and Martha Simon. This seems to be confirmed by his saying, “since I left Old Tennessee” and I suspect that is also where his cousin Willy lived.

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

Transcription

Camp Magruder [Williamsburg, Va.]
September 1861

My dear cousin.

It is with great pleasure that I seat myself to write you a few lines to let you know that I am still in the land of the living, hoping when these few lines reach you, they may find you enjoying the same blessing.

I have no news to write you that will interest you. The health of this regiment is as good as one could expect. As for myself, I have not been sick since I joined the army. Willy, you have no idea how hard a time we have. We have our cooking and washing to do but we get along better than you could expect. We have a fine time. If we could have a fight once and awhile, we would be better satisfied. But we have had nothing to do since we left home but ditch and march.

We have had orders to march the other day. We started and got one quarter of a mile of the camp and the order was countermanded and we returned to camp as mad as we could be. We are the [most] anxious soldiers you ever saw in your life to have a fight. When we thought we are about to have a fight, you never heard such a fuss in your life. The regiment is in [good] spirits from one end to the other—all they want is a fight.

Willy, if the reports is true, we will be in a fight in a few days and if it is so, there is a thousandth chance for me to get killed where there is no room for me to escape. And if I fall, I could not fall in a [more] honorable cause. And if I should come out victorious, it is honorable anyhow.

Willy, I think of you often. There has not a day passed over my head since I saw you last that I haven’t thought of you. I cannot forget the early love I have for you. It stays to me no matter where I go. I have been traveling ever since I left there and your image follows me everywhere I go. But I think it is in vain and it nearly breaks my heart. I have seen a great many young ladies since I left Old Tennessee but I have not seen anyone that I have the same affection that I have for you. If you forsake me, I will wander the balance of my days an old bachelor and for the sake of the one that loves you dearer than he does his own life, give me some satisfaction. I have wrote to you time and again but received no answer but I do not blame you for I do not think you are to blame. I think somebody destroys my letters and I think I can guess who it is.

Willy, if I can’t write as a lover, write as a friend, for my heart is nearly broken. I am a poor soldier far from my parents and relations and war is but a game of chess played on a large scale. I may never see you again but one word from you would cheer me on my journey. So fare you well, my dear beloved one. I love you and it cheers me on my journey. If this cruel war will end, I will see you again.

Write as soon as you get this. No more at present but remain as ever your lover until death. Direct your letter to Williamsburg, Va., Second Regiment, Louisiana Volunteers, Company D

Do not let no one see this for my sake. To my beloved one, — John Owen Lemon