Following are two July 1861 letters written by members of Co. A, 1st Regiment Virginia Infantry (3 Months). The first letter was written by John I. McCook and the second letter was by Capt. Mountford Samuel Stokely (1836-1902), both residents of Steubenville, Jefferson county, Ohio. Mountford (or “Mont”) was an 1857 graduate of Marietta College. In 1860 he was working as a lawyer in Steubenville. John I. McCook (b. 1843) was the son of Brigadier General George Wythe McCook (1821-1877), an attorney in Steubenville just prior to the Civil War.
These letters were written a month after the Battle of Philippi in which the Federal forces under General Kelley had routed the Confederates in the first land battle of the war.
Letter 1
Addressed to Mrs. William R. Lloyd, Steubenville, Ohio
[Editor’s note: This letter was written by John I. McCook]
Philippi [Virginia] July 1st 1861
To our friends and the public generally:
Being compelled by stern necessity to board ourselves and finding sutlery impossible to obtain the necessaries much less the luxuries of life in this uncivilized and benighted corner of the world, and placing implicit confidence in the generosity of our friends, therefore, unanimously
Resolved. That our pitiable condition should excite the sympathies of all good people everywhere.
Resolved. That Flitch and short cake will do for fifty or sixty meals but as articles of steady diet, won’t do so well.
Resolved. That coffee is not fit to drink without sugar and sugar is not good to eat without coffee.
Resolved. That it is a shame that strawberry and blackberry season should pass away without our enjoying any of its fruits.
Resolved. That although we are soldiers, we have not quite forgotten how to eat fresh fruit and vegetables.
Resolved. That as our friends know better than we do what would be most agreeable to us, we leave the whole matter to them, merely giving them in addition to the above hints.
Can Fruits & Vegetables—All kinds Coffee—Cummin’s browned & ground—lots
Extras (not on the Bill of Fare) Tobacco (meanest quality smoking) for Orth Segars—Tobies for company
Can’t think if anything else at present. Put your heads together and see if you can’t. Small favors thankfully received. Large ones in proportion. Would ask for more but modesty forbids.
Address to Capt. M. S. Stokely, care of Thos. Singleton, Grafton, Virginia
Additional
P. S. — Latest from the seat of war. 1 coffee pot 1 frying pan 1 tin sauce pan 4 tin plates 4 tin cups 4 knives and forks 4 tin spoons (large)
P. S. S. — Still later
A large amount of postage stamps. Won’t write unless you send them. Reason why. Can’t get them here. 1 Barlow knife.
Signed, John I. McCook, Mont. S. Stokely, G. H. Orth (his mark)
Very latest—More tobacco for Orth
Letter 2
[Editor’s note: This letter was written by Mountford S. Stokely]
Camp near Philippi July 4, 1861
My dear sister,
Your most welcome letter has been received some days ago and should have been answered before this. I have taken my pencil and paper with a secession atlas—a trophy of Philippi—and stolen away from camp up into a pleasant grove to reply now. This is our glorious Fourth of July and as for me, I wish no better way of celebrating it, or rather, of enjoying than by writing to you. How strange it us that for the last eight Fourths of July I have been absent from home, making nine years since I spent one in Steubenville. Perhaps the last two were spent the most pleasant of any. This one would have excelled them all if only you and our Lieutenant’s sisters could have come out and spent it with us.
When I received your letter on Saturday speaking about your visiting us, I became very anxious to have you do so and walked out into the country two miles to find a place where you could be pleasantly kept over night. I found a neat farm house where they said they would be glad to have you stay. You write as if you were in Grafton but we are 16 miles from there. Still we do have one hack with real springs to it running daily between there and here. Besides, I could have gone over to Grafton for you with the greatest of pleasure. Indeed, I was on the point of getting a pass for you and five or six others from General Morris and writing for you all to come and spend the 4th of July with us, when our Col. [Henry B.] Hubbard told me we would likely march before then. Still I did not like to give it up and went to find the wagon master who has charge of all our transportation, and with whom I have managed to make good friends. He told me confidentially—for all our movements are kept secret—that he had orders to have teams ready to move the entire brigade in 24 hours. This made me think we really were going and I reluctantly gave up the idea of the visit. How very pleasant it might have been for here we are now this bright day without any more symptoms of moving than there was a week ago, and you all might have been here as well as not.
Yesterday, tis true, we had quite another alarm. Volley after volley was heard at one end of the camp and of course we were soon all under arms, 5000. The ammunition distributed, muskets loaded & bayonets fixed, ready for the onslaught, but nobody came. T’was only practicing firing of two or three companies that made all the hubbub.
I suppose you begin to think we have nothing but constant alarms, but this is the only one since writing to you last.
Col. Robert McCook of Cincinnati passed through here the other day with his Dutch regiment. He is the only American in it and I guess he wishes he was out. He has encamped six miles off. The fires of his camp can be seen at night above the treetops although nothing else.
John McCook, our Lieutenant, was put on McClellan’s staff as assistant quartermaster which he might have held for three years at a good salary. I was just beginning to say “How lucky the McCooks all are,” when back John came to our company, having resigned his quartermastership in disgust.
I was not at all surprised at your letter as well as the papers noticing the great difference in the commands of the regular and of the volunteer officers at the Battle of Vienna. The volunteer General Order to “Rally for Ohio” was as characteristic as McCook’s to “Rally to the Reserve.” There is indeed the greatest difference in even the tones. In vain do the volunteer officers attempt to imitate the West Point sounds, “They can’t do it.” It sounds like the parrot and everyone detects it at once.
We have been very unfortunate in the loss of Col. [Benjamin Franklin] Kelley and still more so in the election of our Lieut. Colonel. Of course I voted with my eyes blindfolded for I never heard of the man and voted for him only because there was but two candidates. One was a captain in our regiment whom I knew to be a fool and this man [Henry Baldwin] Hubbard. I had never seen and thought it would be better to take the chances of a stranger. Our choice was, however, quite unfortunate. I find since he has come out that he is entirely ignorant of even the words of command, and the only recommendation I can discover he ever had is that he was a captain of a fire company either in Wheeling or Wellsburg. And indeed belongs to that class of men. If they have none better in all Western Virginia, I think they had better import from other states. I would rather be under Capt. Webster or John H. Trainer. None of our officers have the least confidences in his knowledge or rather ignorance of all military tactics and each one of us will try to take care of ourselves and company if we get into an engagement, There is perhaps one remedy I thought of yesterday. That ism as Col. Kelley has been promoted to General of a brigade, to elect another Colonel which will take the authority out of the Lieutenant Colonel’s hands, you know.
I suppose that we did not receive our tents till last week. Till then the men and officers of the 1st Virginia Regiment had to sleep wherever they could get, most of them lying in huts built of boughs of the trees. So long as the weather was good, it did well enough. But 24 hours rain one day made all the boys sick and they swore they would stand it no longer. Our tents came that night or else there would have been a regular stampede, like that of Sickles Brigade in New York. The tents and pleasant weather have made the boys quite well again and cheerful.
I intend paying you a visit as soon as there is no prospect of an engagement. I have been writing here on a big rock in the woods undisturbed for two hours and must go down into camp to see how they are keeping the Fourth. Give my love to all, both little Monty and Willie. Tell Willie I will bring him the hobby horse Grandpa promised. Perhaps you have see McCook’s letter. We were troubled so much by our friends asking what they should send that we gave play to any imaginations. Your affectionate brother, — M. S. Stokely
Following are five Civil War letters by Josiah S. Bevington (1844-1885) who enlisted at the age of 18 in August 1862 to serve as a private in Co. A, 102nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry (OVI). He mustered out with his company at war’s end. Josiah was the son of Reason W. Bevington (1817-1887) and Ruth A. Coil (1818-1893). After his service, Josiah married Catharine A. Mumaw in October 1866 and lived in Berlin, Holmes county, Ohio. Josiah was killed in a railroad accident at west Freedom, Ohio in January 1885 when he was 40 years old.
Letter 1
Addressed to Jacob Durstine, Esq., Frease’s Store, Stark county, Ohio
Decatur [Alabama] June 25th 1864
Jacob Dustine, Esq.,
Worthy sir, your letter of April 10th just came to hand last eve and as it has been so long delayed, I will answer immediately and in part make up for the season of silence. However, if I had received it sooner, I should have answered sooner but as it is, it must remain. The reason for the delay in my receiving it was because of its being directed to the regiment and they have been moving about considerable and their mail did not reach them, But as it happened, our regimental mail came to the P.O. at this place andone of the boys looked over it to see if there were any for us and found mine. Otherwise I would not have received it for some time longer. But to something important interesting.
Gen. R[obert] S[eaman] Granger has been relieved from command of Nashville and assigned to command of the “District of Northern Alabama” including the garrisons on the railroad from Nashville to Decatur, Huntsville, and Stevenson, and all troops on the Tennessee River up to Stevenson. Our Brigade is scattered along the river guarding points of crossing and our regiment is stationed in the river near Stevenson with headquarters at Bellefonte. However, the Battalion is divided into two parts and Co. A is among those who are at a place named Carpenter’s Ferry. Captain Huston is now our Major and our former 1st Lieutenant John Castor will be our Captain. This will be the act to suit most of our company for he is an officer and man and worthy of men such as Co. A can present. Though untried, they are efficient and willing for anything we may be called to perform.
I am sorry that such a heavy guard was required to keep us on the cars when we passed through Wooster as it may tend to lower us in the estimation of our friends, However, we will trust to their just judgement and respecfully inform them that we are still in the Cumberland Dept and in the fair old state of Alabama, and on the bank of the lovely Tennessee with no prospect of being obliged to go to Richmond as we think U. S. Grant and George Meade have men brave enough to do the deed required in their Department. We are needed here if tis but to guard ground that others have fought over.
Since commencing this, I received letters from the company and the boys inform me they are well and enjoy themselves in the best possible manner. However, not so well as this time last summer. We were then at Clarksville but since that time we have seen no such place and I presume will not again ere our term of enlistment has expired.
I will give you an idea of our position in Alabama. We have Headquarters at Decatur, which town (if so it may be called) is situated on the south bank of the Tennessee river and on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad and one and one-half miles from the junction of the above named and Nashville, Huntsville, and Stevenson Railroad. The town has been a nice one but is now sadly torn sand demoralized, there being but one family of white citizens in the place. As a military point, ’tis a strong and important one and garrisoned by about 4,000 infantry, some artillery, and a considerable amount of cavalry. Our Brigade of Cavalry is now on their way to this place.
Our Headquarters are in a most splendid brick mansion and we may be content though tis a lonely town on account of no business but military. We may have nicer ere long—at least tis thought so. I return my thanks for your well wishes and trust you may fare as well accordingly as I have done some some time. Tis true, I have been lucky so far, but how long it may continue, I know not. I am willing to submit to orders, be what they may and calle me where they may. For that I am a soldier.
The regiment [9th Ohio Cavalry] to which Russel Graham and Franklin Shallenberger belong is stationed here and I now see them almost daily. They are in good health and spirits. I saw and talked to them this morn and they told me to tender their respects to all who may accept from soldiers. All they can do is this—’tis the duty of all their friends to accept and remember them. They informed me there was some of Mr.Bendure’s (of Wayne county) boys in that regiment. One named William. No doubt you know them. They too are in good health. I think I shall endeavor to see them when at leisure.
Since my last letter to you, things have assumed a much better aspect in so far as our armies are concerned and I trust the time is not far distant when war shall have ceased and peace returned to our Nation. What joy such an occurrence would bring. T’would be almost inexpressible. But now since “Abraham and Andrew” are on the track for the White House, support them for “Abe” is tried and true, and Andy is none the Rebel though in a Rebel state.
But tis time for dinner and I must close or I will not get this in the mail today. I am still in good health and pleased to know that yourself and family are well but since tis so long since you have written, perhaps disease has overtaken you. I am glad to hear that the boys are willing to do something for their country for if they cannot come to the Army and practice shooting for themselves, they will educate and prepare for teaching the “young ideas how to shoot.” I this morning received a “programme” of a concert that was announced as pending, but I presume tis over ere this time. Just ask yourself how you would liked to have been there providing you had been in my circumstances for the same length of time and you can form of a faint idea of how I should like to have attended.
I will endeavor to answer Rachel’s note and enclose it in this. Should she not yet be with you, please send it to her and oblige. I must now close. Please answer soon and direct, “Headquarters Dist. Northern Alabama”, Decatur, Alabama” Tender my respects to friends and accept the same for yourself and family. Very respectfully your friend, — J. S. Bevington
Letter 2
Decatur, [Alabama] July 31st, 1864
Jacob Durstine, Esq.
Kind Sir, your letter of the 10th just came to hand almost three weeks ago but for varied unaccountable reasons I have delayed answering. But tis no use to talk of that more for I doubt not you at once conclude that you know the reason and that it is nothing short of neglect. If so, I admit that you are right for almost anyone can find time to write a letter if they really desire to do so. But trusting you will pardon my long delay, I will cease apologies and excuses and endeavor to write of something more interesting.
The letter enclosed for Russel Graham I was unable to get to him as his regiment [9th Ohio Cavalry] was taken with Maj. Gen. Rousseau on the celebrated raid across Dixie. I will send it to the regiment and I presume he will get it. If you wish to write him and have not his address, I think I can give it to you so that he will receive any letter that you may send. Direct to Co. C, 9th O. V. C. via Decatur, Alabama. By directing to the company and regiment by way of some point at which you know the regiment to have been, a letter will reach almost any regiment in our army. When last I saw Russel and Frank, they were in good health and they informed me they liked the cavalry service very well. I did not see Beidler’s boys as I thought I would. I am sorry that I did not as the Boys tell me they looked almost like their Aunt Mary and if they were as bold as she, they would make first class soldiers. And what is more, they might have been pleased to see an Old Associate of so near a relative as their “Aunt Mollie B.”
Just now there is every appearance of a heavy rain in a short time and as I am seated by the open window, a beautiful breeze gently fans me so that tis very pleasant when compared with the usual temperature of the atmosphere here. Thunder is rolling very loudly and the clouds are growing darker so I presume we will have a cooling shower in a very few moments. ‘Tis somewhat warmer in this country than in Ohio but there has been plenty of rain here during the entire summer. There is all kinds of fruit in this country in abundance, and the citizens say their crops were never better. The country between here and Nashville is covered with most beautiful corn and cotton and a short distance from our lines at this place there can be almost anything eatable procured. But as citizens dare not come in and we dare not go out, their produce does us but little good. The only way we have of procuring vegetables is to go to the picket lines and trade our rations of sugar and coffee and sometimes beans and rice to a few citizens who bring produce there daily. This is an uncertain way and restricted very much as regulations do not permit trade with an enemy. But an old soldier that does not know how to work the “regulations” and fool his officers will never fare well in the U. S. Service in Dixie.
Peaches are almost ripe and blackberries are all [ ]. Down at Bellefonte the country is full of produce and the 102nd fares well. Oh well, the 102nd OVI don’t care if we don’t fight so we have a good country to stop in while we are doing duty. One more year.
There is but little transpiring around here just at present. Squads of Rebels hover near our lines but not in sufficient numbers to fight. Our scouts sent out daily meet some still but they will not stand. However, a few days ago a Scout consisting of several hundred infantry, two pieces of artillery, and some cavalry met with a Rebel force ten miles out and had considerable of a fightm they say, but I could not see any of the results but one man was killed of the 18th Michigan infantry and some of the 17th New York Volunteers and 32nd Wisconsin.
The force at this place consists of about four thousand infantry and two regiments of cavalry, Also three batteries, Our Brigade is still stationed on the river and I doubt not will remain there for some time to come. Our regiment [is] at Bellefonte. I see some of the Boys frequently as they bring deserters and prisoners up, A heartier set of men I am sure you never saw—just dark enough to shun the “Tan” and to be of good color and they are sound on Abe & Andy.
There is scarce any sickness in our regiment, I am told, and ’tis true though remarkable. Co. A has never discharged a man nor has there been more than one death in the company for over one year. We received six recruits ands I presume now have 93 men for duty. The Brass Band of our regiment is grown to be a splendid one and they are now getting silver instruments throughout. If possible, I intend to visit the company in a short time and I think I will enjoy it for the company seems like home to a soldier—at least I enjoy myself well when with it.
‘Tis almost two years for us in the service and we expect to remain the full extent of our enlistment. I have an idea that volunteer veterans will have the pleasure and profits of their enlistment, but t’will take their three years to see it.
I am pleased to know that the concert proved so interesting and I presume the young folks enjoyed themselves, at least I trust I may be permitted to have the same opportunities at some time, and if I do not enjoy them, t’will be my own fault as it is theirs if they do not enjoy themselves. Your Sabbath School and Singing Society are both no doubt pleasant and interesting and I trust they will be successful in doing much good. I presume the “New Book” will suffer if there is any good music in it and I doubt not your Female employee will be one of the most vigorous in the attack and perhaps the most victories in the conflict.
Oh! Rachel is a gay girl, to use the soldier style. I doubt not Rach is just as happy without a “Beau” as with one for she is well off as any. Some have lovers in the army but then they are so demoralized and some have them at home, but they are so cowardly. So they are of little consequence. The best way will be for them to wait until the soldiers return and then choose from the party entire. (If they can do so.) I am not enjoying the harvest so well as two years ago but am doing the best I can. Am still in the office and enjoying good heath. It has been raining for some time and still continues. ‘Tis almost dark and I must close. Franklin’s respects are accepted and in return my own are tendered to all. Mrs. Durstine, please inform me of the name of the new member of your family. Write soon as convenient. Your friend as ever, — J. S. Bevington
Letter 3
Headquarters District Northern Alabama Decatur September 19, 1864
Mr. Jack Durstine,
Kind sir, after a long silence I again attempt to communicate to you in some manner something in answer to your last letter. I would have answered sooner had circumstances permitted but Gen. Wheeler with his forces is a circumstance that is very apt to prevent communication where he takes a stand and I presume you are aware that we of this District have been troubled considerable of late by the operations of Wheeler & Roddy upon our line of railroad. However, we are content to know that in their operations they lost their noted chieftain John Morgan and by the mistake committed in their coming so far to the our rear and from their main army Atlanta fell into our possession and upon the whole I think they made but little in their raid. True, they caused us some trouble and reduced our rations for a time, but all the injury they done is already repaired and trains come regularly as usual. We were entirely without communication of any kind at this place for several days and as the troops were near all taken from here to go in pursuit of the Rebels, we were left in a pretty peculiar situation. Squads of Rebs would come up and threaten our pickets and then there would be an alarm. At one time they got in rear of our cavalry videttes and cut off the reserve. Several instances of their threats I might mention but they are not worth speaking of. We have any amount of “Johnnies” in this part of Alabama.
The 102nd [Ohio] Regiment was again called to participate in the march after Wheeler but although there was not such hard marching as we had last fall, it was a much longer raid. Our regiment was on the train constantly for two weeks—except one day—and were moved along the road to such points as were threatened. At one point they came up with the enemy and attacked them but as the cavalry did not come up, they were ordered to retire. Co. A had the honor of being the advance company, they being the skirmishers had a slight chance for a short time and fired several rounds, but did no execution that is known of, but had they been allowed to use their discretion Old Wheeler would have become acquainted with the 102nd O. V. I. or they would have been badly cut ip. There was two old regiments just from the front with ours and they praised our Boys awfully for the will they manifested to try the “Johnnies.” As it was afterward ascertained that had the Brigade engaged the enemy, the cavalry would have been there for their support but at the time it was uncertain and without it, our infantry could have done but little.
Wheeler has succeeded in crossing the Tennessee River and it is thought is now operating with “Forrest.” “Roddy” still hovers near our lines but his proximity is not considered dangerous with the present strength of our garrison. Our regiment is now here temporarily and will leave next week for their forever position on the Tennessee River. There is a great amount of sickness among the Boys at present, the principal disease being ague. Sergt. [John] Longenecker is at Athens in hospital with chills and fever, but I am informed he is getting some better. This is a bad country for chills but I have never had any yet. However, the exposure of our regiment accounts for the sickness now in it.
I am still at the old position and know not when I will be relieved nor do I care. Our time is now under one year and the days will pass rapidly until at last our time of enlistment will leave expired. I presume there will be some “gay times” when that time shall come if 3 years volunteers are welcomed back as warmly as 3 months troops are in proportion.
Well, Atlanta has at last fallen and it is proven that the Confederate army can be driven from their strongest positions and can be forced to lay down their arms if we only continue to press them. ‘Tis sheer folly for any one to suppose that the South cannot be conquered for was it not that they are encouraged by the Copperhead Party in the North, they would soon succumb to Federal power and return to their allegiance gladly with or without their slaves. But so long as it remains undecided whether the Peace party shall or shall not rule, so long will they hold out in arms against us.
The Presidential election will decide this matter is a great degree. However, their desperation may impel them to hold out for some time after though Lincoln be elected. But if all goes well, I think Rebellion South & Treason North will receive their doom ‘ere long, and I trust that it may be so. The vote of the army will be unanimous for “Lincoln & Johnson” while he who votes for McClellan on the Peace platform will be hissed and laughed at in this division of the army. A man who is so blind to his own interest and so lost to a sense of duty to country and subject for the Brave Boys that have already fallen in defense of the Union and for the foundation of Freedom as to vote for such measures as the Democrats propose is a fit subject for the ranks of the Democracy and should incur their penalty after death—viz: Damnation forever.
One feature in the movement of the people North at present I oppose and ever will. It is this. Troops are called for to reinforce our armies and instead of men coming voluntarily as they should, every act is resorted to to clear those liable to duty in the army from this call. To this end, recruiting agents are sent here to the South to fill the quotas of states, counties and towns in the North. Refugees from the Southern armies are recruited. Negroes are recruited, and anything that will exempt one man is taken. The duty of a good citizen is to fight for his country when she requires it and if he loves his country and her privileges, he will not barter away the sacred duty of defending her in her dark hour. Therefore I think and say that she who will see that sacred privilege bartered in this manner, and Negroes go as substitutes for white men, and still claim to be loyal and sacrificing is a traitor of deepest dye. I am in favor of Negro troops, but I want them accredited to the General Government and not to states or individuals. Again I ask, is it just, is it showing respect to old soldiers who are serving their three years for $100 bounty to place beside them in the ranks a hireling recruit when so many such enter the service for mere love of the [ ]?
I am sorry to know that such is the case in my own county and town but I look forward to a time when the war will have ceased and I trust that those who are guilty of that which I have stated may receive their punishment. Perhaps you may think me rough, but I speak the sentiments of those with who I am entirely acquainted and if I am too strong for anyone to stand it, they can just inform me. I am willing to serve this term and then, if necessary, another one. But God forbid that ever I should stoop to barter away my birthright—the only thing I have, the privilege of serving my country. I give this freely. Please give to any just as freely who may wish to know the sentiments of an untoried soldier. Please answer soon. Yours very truly, — J. S. Bevington
Letter 4
Huntsville, Alabama
arch 26th 1865
Mr. Jacob Durstine,
Friend, deeming it a duty to write to one who has ever treated me as have yourself and family done, I have determined to assume to the pen a few moments this very pleasant Sabbath eve for the purpose of thanking you for your kind hospitality during my visit to your family while home on furlough as to assure you that I have not forgotten your friends and never shall though obliged to remain far distant by the stern necessity which today separates many very dear friends and render many hearthstones desolate.
I am once more in Dixie and enjoying myself as best I can. Was almost five days on the way, and very much fatigued ere I arrived but I am entirely over it now and feel well as could be desired. Have not visited the regiment since my return but think I shall this week. Am informed the boys are all in good health and good spirits. Hoping that the Spring campaign will almost close the ball.
Several of Co. A have received furloughs among whom is Mr. Oliver Kilgore who [you] will doubtless see at home ere this will have reached you. I understand that Sergt. Longenecker is at home also. Trust he will this time enjoy his furlough. Doubtless our prisoners will be exchanged soon and given furlough. If so, then you will have a considerable number of Co. A among you.
Col. Given is again with the regiment but will assume command of the Brigade soon with Headquarters at this place. The whole of the regiment is now at Decatur with very little prospect of removing soon.
There is some talk of moving our Headquarters to Decatur but I hope they will remain here as we have a splendid building for an office and good apartments for other purposes. The General has his family now in the City and I think perhaps will do nothing more than establish a branch office at Decatur.
We have very pleasant weather here now and all vegetation looks beautiful. Trees are in full bloom and grass springing up rapidly.
The 4th Army Corps has gone from here—it is supposed to guard Bull’s Gap east of Knoxville. Therefore, I did not see the boys of the 19th OVI but have written to Joseph Ash and intend writing to some others.
I presume the concert at the Bethel by the singing choir will soon come off. Am sorry I cannot be there. Trust they will have a fine time and be successful in their endeavors to please the public. I would have been very glad to have seen Prof. Aches but then we cannot always be gratified in our wishes and must be content.
No doubt the friends at home are beginning to think of a probable termination of this fratricidal conflict at an early day—as Sherman is making such rapid progress in the Carolinas and Grant holding Lee secure in Richmond only to come Vicksburg on him. There is some movement on the topic in this department but as the base of operations is so far from us, doubtless you know as much of it as we do. However, I think it will be a Cavalry expedition into Alabama and Mississippi perhaps in direction of Mobile.
But it is growing late and I will close for the present hoping to hear from you soon as convenient. My respects to all your family and yourself. Respectfully your friend, — J. S. Bevington
Letter 5
Huntsville [Alabama] May 16, 1865
Esteemed sir,
Yours of the 2nd received the 9th inst. and read with pleasure, but I a, sorry that I am again compelled to beg apology for delay. However, think you will accept my poor excuse knowing as you do that the war is over—or—as the boys say, “School’s out” and we intend coming home soon and would suggest that huge preparations be made to receive us.
Well, you of course know by this time where I am and what I am doing, what my sentiments are the manner in which I express them. But I venture to aver that you don’t know what a job it is for me to write a letter with the perspiration dropping from my brow and the gnats keeping me brushing them away almost constantly. But I must stop this or I will detract from the favorable description I have already given of Huntsville. But I must in justice to myself and you assure you that it is some warmer here than is really desirable but as the war is over and Jeff Davis none up, I have concluded to endure a few more days and then—oh! some man will want harvest hands but unless the powers that he can be persuaded that our services are indispensable to a gathering of the grain and in consequence muster us out of the service, I fear their wants wil not be supplied.
But enough of this ridiculous. It appears that our country has at last emerged from the troubled waters of civil strife and are purified by the immersion—however, allow to remark here that you must not infer that I admit the divinity of immersion as the only source whereby the unclean are cleansed—and now stand for to the astonished world to vindicate the doctrines that man is capable of self government and to promulgate the sentence of treason and traitors in the overthrow of rebellion and execution of instigators and perpetrators of the foulest deeds that ever disgraced the history of a civilized nation. Although many have fallen and among them the lamented President by the hand of an assassin, yet we can be thankful that our nation stands today as it does—the cynosure of a civilized world and commanding the respect of all. Monarchies tremble and anarchy vanishes before the irresistible course of Republican freedom. And I trust that the time may hasten when all the nations of Earth will see the inestimable benefits of th freedom which we enjoy and cast from their Ruler’s brows the crown and diadem and cease their hereditary system of government, exchanging therefor the election—choosing from the plebeian class such men as Andrew Johnson who gives leniency to the deluded, but death to the premeditated conspirator against freedom.
Everything is moving favorably as could be desired in this district. Rebs coming daily to surrender. Near all in Col. Johnson surrendered his command to Col. Given last Thursday the 11st. inst. Col. Warren and Patterson have surrendered at Decatur and Gen. Roddy will surrender his command tomorrow or Thursday. All will have capitulated by Saturday.
The 102nd [OVI] still at Decatur. All OK. You have doubtless read of that terrible catastrophe on the Mississippi river [see Sultana Disaster] wherein so many of our regiment were drowned. It is awful to contemplate. Co. A lost 11 men and the entire regiment near 100.
Headquarters District of Northern Alabama are still in good order and all things lovely. But it is very late and I must close hoping to receive a reply at your earliest convenience. Respects to your family and all who may acceptaccept from your friend, — J. S. Bevington
The following letter was written by George O. Wheeler (1844-1922) of Locust Grove township, Jefferson county, Iowa, a native of Waitsfield, Vermont), who enlisted on 22 December 1863 in Co. G, 5th Iowa Infantry. He was transferred with the veterans to Co. I, 5th Iowa Cavalry when the two regiments were consolidated in the fall of 1864 and mustered out of the regiment in August 1865 at Nashville.
George died 18 March 1922 at Des Moines, Iowa.
First Squad of Co. E, 5th Iowa Cavalry. The verso has an inscription from George Wolf, a member of the company. called. 1864 (Iowa Civil War Images)
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Camp of the 5th Iowa Cavalry Near Nashville, Tennessee [November 1864]
Friend Steven,
It has been quite a while since I wrote to you. We left this place for Louisville the 27th of October. There we drew horses and started back and arrived here last week. We were 13 days on the march, nine of which were very rainy & I was very wet most of the time with plenty of mud spattered over my clothes to make it agreeable. On arriving in camp, I found eleven letters & twenty-six newspapers in the mail line & as a matter of course opened the letters first. I was a little surprised to see yours & Mrs. Stevens’ as I did not hardly expect you would have time to write but the letters were all the more welcome & I was glad to hear from you.
Since my last letter to you, my health has improved & I am once more well. I was weighed while in Louisville & weighed 140 lbs.
We are camped three miles from the city on the railroad leading to Huntsville, Alabama. We are to draw new arms in the morn and will have the saber, Spencer carbine, and no revolvers. The carbine is a seven shooter & I do not want to be troubled with a revolver. After all I have seen of the service, I am not yet sick of it & I would have enlisted in the Navy ere this & informed Mother of my intention of so doing but she begged me not to so hard that I have concluded to wait a while and make her a visit before so doing & explain the matter to her. Then perhaps she will feel better on the subject.
Tell Mr. Martin that I feel a little ashamed of myself for not paying him before I left home last spring but I did not think of it, but will not forget to send it as soon as I am paid which will not be long. It is true it is not much but I always believe in doing as I promise. And besides, a person who has to work for a living wants what is their own. If I could borrow it, I would send it in this letter but the Boys have all spent their money. It is impossible to borrow.
Last eve as we were marching through the streets of Nashville on our way to camp, I heard a person enquiring for Old Co. G, 5th Infantry. On looking around I discovered Wildrous Boll. I stopped & shook hands with him & noticed that he was not looking very well. On enquiring the cause, he informed me that he had been wounded not long since. I was ordered forward and was obliged to leave him with only a few words. I told him I would see him again & I will. Where I stopped the street was very narrow and so crowded that there was barely room to allow of two marching through & my stopping caused all of the column in the rear to wait & the surly Captain ordered me forward. I intend to get a pass & go to the city & hunt him up as I want to see him & apologize for leaving him so abruptly. I would not have done so if not forced to.
Your buying a horse and paying $160 for him and having him killed so soon is rather rough but such things will happen & I trust it is all for the best. In regard to investing my money, I will send some more soon & you may invest it in which way you think best. If I were up there, I could find a way to invest it. As it is, I am not posted & do not know where to invest it so it will pay. Use your own judgement & I will be satisfied & will pay you for your trouble & be very much obliged in the bargain.
I have written a long letter & hoping to hear from you soon, will close. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, –Geo. O. Wheeler
Thomas Hannah, Jr. (1835-1865) was born 11 February 1835 in or near Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He was the first child of Thomas and Jane Hannah. There were 3 brothers and 1 sister. Thomas emigrated from Canada to Massillion, Ohio when he was quite young. He married Elizabeth Marshall in 1855 and shortly after their marriage moved to Belvidere, Illinois to join the Hannah family, who now resided there. The Hannah’s were farmers. In 1862, Thomas became a naturalized U. S. citizen. Thomas and Elizabeth’s first child died in infancy. Their second son Jesse was born in 1860, followed in 1862 by Thomas. This same year, Thomas joined the army for three years and was mustered out in 1865. From 26 January 1863 to 30 July 1864, he served as Ward Master at Adams Hospital in Memphis. He was wounded at Spanish Fort in 1865 and died October 22, 1865.
Thomas wrote these letters to 32 year-old Margaret Meseroll (1833-1934), a native of New Brunswick, Canada, with whom he became acquainted while working at the Adams Hospital in Memphis. “Maggie” served for two years and six months at Adams General Hospital No. 2 and Gayoso Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, as a regular ‘Commissioned nurse,” hired by Mary Livermore under the auspices of the US Sanitary Commission. In her later years, Maggie recalled with horror the treatment of maimed soldiers carried into the hospital from the Sultana steamboat disaster. Maggie was married in 1866 to Sanford E. Hayes. She died in 1934 at the age of 101.
Thomas’ letters from Memphis were transcribed by his great, great grandson, Michael Bryan Fiske, and have been posted here: Civil War Letters from Memphis.
Dear loved friend Maggie. With feelings of the most profound respect and love I take my pen to let you know of my whereabouts. I am in camp 5 miles in the rear of the city. Am sitting flat on the ground with my back against a tree and with portfolio on my knee. Am trying to write a letter to you whom I respect and hold in grateful remembrance. I am very sorry now that I did not stay all day with you when I was in Memphis as the boat did not leave until the next morning but I did not know at that time at what moment we might start. I assure you, dear Maggie, my greatest pleasure would have been have spent every leisure moment with you for I had much that I wanted to say to you. But in my great hurry, I could think of nothing.
After leaving you, I came across an old friend and we went to Madame Vinson’s and had the oysters, and it recalled to my mind the happy evening I spent there with you and Mary. And oh! how I wished that you were there then. I should indeed enjoyed my dish of oysters much better.
Well, dear Maggie, I spent the day cursing the boat and everything connected with it and wishing I had only stayed with you whose company I could enjoy. As soon as it was dark, I lay down and allowed my thoughts and mind to go far back into the past and to dwell upon all that was pleasing in happy days gone by (I then thought of what you had told me concerning Aunt Lizzey’s wedding and as I pondered it over in my mind and thought of the great injury and wrong she had drove you—you who are alone with none to shield and protect you in this cold, deceitful world—I felt the utmost contempt for her, the old wretch. Dear Maggie, I do most heartily sympathize with you. I imagine how bad you must have felt to have been accused of being a bad woman—you whom I think so kind and good who cared so much for me when I was sick and longed for the sympathy of a dear sister which you, loved friend, bestowed upon me. And if it were a man instead of woman who had made such false and damnable charges, I should have resented it and taken it up for you.
But never mind, dear Maggie. There is a time coming when all wrongs shall be redressed and offenders punished. You have warm, true-hearted friends who will live and remember you and whose friendship and confidence cannot be shaken by every wind that blows. As for me, dear Maggie, I hope to see the time when you will be provided of, find a good, kind husband—one who will love you as you are worthy to be loved. Yes, dear friend, I hope shortly to see you happy in your own home surrounded by plenty with none who dare to molest or try to injure you. I imagine then that your mind would be relieved of many cares and anxieties that now press hard upon you.
You may think that perhaps I am feeling too much interested in your welfare. I acknowledge I feel a deep interest in you and my greatest delight would be to see you happy and surrounded by comforts.
We made a quick trip from Memphis to Vicksburg. Our boat was the first one in port. They run with such a heavy head of steam [that] everything trembled. Many were afraid of blowing up. As for myself, I had but little choice of or by what means I was sent out of the world for I think if I am to be spared through the war, no power on earth can destroy me. We made the trip in 28 hours. We landed at this place to give them a chance to clean the boat when we expected to reembark for New Orleans. We lay on the levy for two days, then received orders to unload all our stuff and prepare for a march across the country to Selma. At length, all was unloaded. We were ordered into camp and yesterday we came out here which is a very pleasant spot in the woods where we can hear the sweet singing of birds such as the crows and frogs. The former warble their notes the whole day long. the latter keep it up all night. You can imagine how sweet the music must be.
This morning I killed a possum and our nigger cook will feast upon it tonight. The weather is warm and pleasant with the soft gentle breezes blowing from the south. I enjoy such weather, much better than the cold piercing winter just spent in Tennessee. Can’t tell how long we will stay here. Perhaps ere this reaches you, we may be on the war path again and hard after our traitorous foe. May lay here for a long time. But come what may, I will try and acquit myself like a man and a soldier and be worthy the friendship of those I love and respect. Remember me in love and respect. Remember me in love to Mollie and all friends, My respects to Norton and Keeler of my company. Write to me very often. Write to me very soon and believe me your friend, — Thomas Hannah
Letter 2
Camped in the Mud in a Sinking Condition Near New Orleans, Louisiana
My loved friend,
As Amost Norton is writing to the hospital [Adams Hospital, Memphis], I embrace the opportunity with pleasure to send a few lines along to you, my dear friend. I wrote to you from Vicksburg giving you all the particulars up to that time.
We landed at this place the 22nd. It has rained ever since and no prospect of it stopping yet. We are camped on a low, flat plowed field that is now deluged with water. You have heard of the Louisiana low lands? Well here we are sitting in the mud with alligators, lizards, turtles, and other reptiles crawling around while the frogs are singing all round even in our beds and I am expecting every moment to see some monster of the deep poke up his head to pull me under.
This morning Norton and myself and three others thought we would lay in our beds as it was raining. We lay there till the water came in around us two inches deep. We then turned out in the storm. I looked around for some high spot to fly to for refuge but could see nothing but water. We then started for the woods, cut brush and trees to lay upon and keep us up. Norton asked me what you would think could you see us. I told him you would feel worse than we did ourselves. I know you would, dear Maggie. I am glad our friends cannot realize what we have to endure.
We do not expect to remain here long but expect soon to be out on the ocean sailing—the sooner the better. I was in hopes we would be paid at Vicksburg but am disappointed once more.
I have nothing more but mud to write about. I will bring my letter to a close by wishing to be remembered in love to Mollie and my friends at the Adams [Hospital]. Tell them to simply address their letters to the company and regiment for we are changing round so much we don’t know half the time to what army we belong. Tell Keeler of my company to hurry back to the regiment for I miss the rations he supplied me with when here. Hoping soon to hear from you, I hasten to subscribe myself your friends, — Thomas Hannah
to Miss Margaritte Meseroll, Gayoso Hospital, Memphis, Tenn.
This letter was written by Thomas H. Guinnip (1839-1873) who was 22 years year old when he enlisted on 18 May 1861 at Addison to serve two years as private in Co. E, 34th New York Infantry. He mustered out with the company on 30 June 1863, at Albany, N. Y. He was sick and absent from the regiment most of the fall of 1862 and detailed in the discharge office at Washington D. C. in January 1863.
The 34th New York Infantry mustered into the U. S. service at Albany June 15, 1861, for two years. It left the state for Washington on July 3; was quartered at Kalorama heights until July 28, when it moved to Seneca mills and was there assigned to Gen. Stone’s brigade. The regiment moved to Edwards ferry on Oct. 21, to Poolesville, Md., Oct. 23, and there established Camp McClellan, which was occupied until Feb. 24, 1862, when orders were received to move to Harper’s Ferry.
Thomas was the son of Parley Guinnip (18xx-1857) and Eliza M. Smith (1816-1876) of Addison, Steuben county, New York.
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
U. S. General Hospital December 11, 1862
My dear Mother, Brother & Sisters,
I take great pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of your very kind letters which come to hand this beautiful Thursday morning; also which was perused over & over with the deepest interest & with the greatest pleasure. My health is quite good at present and I am in very good sprits. Alonzo Curtis has just left for Parole Camp (which is two miles distant from here). He arrived here last night from home and came here to see me today. He looks tough and hearty. He says that he feels well (with the exception of a swollen face which was caused by taking cold and settling in his right cheek, and which is quite painful to him). Samuel Kimball left here last Monday bound for home. Perhaps is at home before this time. You can see Sam and he will tell you all about how I am getting along & what I am about, &c.
Then Amelia! you are attending dancing school this winter and doubtless you anticipate great pleasure of becoming a good & easy dancer. I think that your school is slimly represented in the shape of male attendance. As you state that there is double the number of girls to that of the boys, without doubt the young ladies have to escort one another home. From the fact that there is such a great deficiency of young men left at home, that the girls have to look out for A No. 1, and court their own shadows, &c.
For a few days past the weather here has been quite cold & tedious (I doubt much if you have at the North experienced any colder or more disagreeable weather than we have experienced here for five or six days), for the past three days the weather has been quite mild, and today it appears like spring.
Girls! I suppose that you are looking forth in the future at the expected moment when the elements (or in other words water) of the beautiful Canisteo River shall become congealed. Then without doubt, you will enjoy yourselves to a pretty good advantage skating and maneuvering on the ice. May your expected pleasures & future [ ] be crowded with every earthly felicity. and with a great deal of success.
Horatio, I will send (as soon as I get my pay) some money to buy you a pair of skates. How did my skates come to be destroyed! they was good & whole when I saw them last. Horatio, Ma says you call her a damn fool, a thing and a Devil, &c. I consider it my duty as a senior brother to give you some advice (which I have already done) and I hope that you will profit by the same, for youg people know but little of the world, and how they can act with the best advantage. It grieves me to address you upon a subject so painful, but your disobedience and wild, reckless conduct towards your Mother (your only parent here on earth) compels me to do so. Your unworthy conduct towards your mother has been a source of much vexation and anxiety to her. You are rude and unfeeling to a certain extent. You have forfeited the confidence and respect that you once had for your dear mother. Is it possible that you do not regard her admonitions; one, who is your best friend; and bestows upon you so many facilities and granted you so many privileges. I little thought that you would ever repay her with such ingratitude and wicked acts in which you have so frequently been guilty of. I do hope that you wil try and be a better boy. Ask your mother’s forgiveness & repent for the wrong doings which you have been guilty of. Be more penitent in the future for it will afford you an opportunity to make amens and retrieve the past. Having left the paternal roof myself and gone away to fight the battles of my country, of course it is my duty to entice & persuade you to do right. I think it incumbent upon me to give you a little advice, such as I am confident of giving from my own observation and experience. The advice I have already given you and I hope that you will abide by the same for it will be for your own interest. Do not think hard of me for the advice which I have given you, or the reproval for it is for your own and personal good, and you will find it out so. I know that I have never set a very good and wise example to you, but now I repeat for the same, so do not follow my example but likewise repent yourself and do better hereafter. The next time that I hear from home, I am in hope to hear that you are a good boy. So may it be.
I have not received my pay yet but when I do. I will send ma some money as soon as possible. I was thinking I wrote and told you that William Hance was dead, at least I meant to, for I heard of it before you did. I received a letter from friend Dan Hollis today. It was a good letter. He said that he has the horse . And Mat told him that he must make it all right with me. Of course it is all right as far as I am concerned. I think he paid well for the use of the horse, according to Horatio’s tell.
I am very glad to learn you have such an excellent school. I was not at all surprised to hear that Rev. Judson made a good teacher for I always supposed he would make an excellent teacher. It is my desire to& greatest wish that you (I mean Horatio and the girls) should attend the school and be studious and attentive to your studies. Then when you get older, you will never repent it. A person can never study too much, or get too good an education.
Really, I think Addison is doing a big business in the line of matrimony. I should think all the young ladies of Addison would go half crazy at the very thought or idea of honest Byron’s committing matrimony, for I understand that the girls were all after him, and what were not after him in love were after him with broom sticks and mob sticks. Yes, Byron will make an interesting husband. I wonder if he is well matched for a companion. If they are well matched, they will fetch a larger price in marketm for good animals fetch a god price now in the city. But enough of htis nonsense. I hope that Byron’s matrimonial experience will be frequented with every earthly blessing and I congratulate him in his good success of his late marriage. But for all, I do think he was lucky in getting someone to have him, for he has been trying for a great while to get married and has at last made it out. Really, they must be an interesting couple, don’t you all think so?
We have just received the following dispatch from the telegraph that Gen. Burnside has just burnt Fredericksburg. For my part, I am glad of it. They might have surrendered the city to Burnside and it would have been saved. Our army has again advanced and thus far seems to meet with complete success and I hope we shall have no more retrograde movements for the sooner the rebellion is put down, so much the better it will be for the country. It makes no odds how the rebellion is ended if it is only done in due and proper season. For the present, I cannot indulge you with an epitome of certain facts concerning the army, &c. but will postpone them to some future time. I hope that you will not let anyone see this letter. Burn it up as soon as it is read. Now Horatio & girls, when you receive this letter, please sit down and answer it. Do not wait for your Ma to write for you know that she does not write much and consequently it is quite a task for her to write. Remember me to all enquiring friends, hoping this may find you all in the enjoyment of health, happiness and prosperity. I subscribe myself your affectionate, but unfortunate son and brother, — T H. Guinnip
I could not find an image of Joseph but here is one of Absalom E. Dillingham of Co. B, 8th Georgia Infantry. (Georgia Confederate Images)
The following letter was written by Joseph Oliver Davis (1841-1891) of Chatham county, Georgia, who enlisted in Co. B (“Oglethorpe Light Infantry”), 8th Georgia Volunteer Infantry in August 1861. Muster Rolls inform us that he was elected to sergeant on the 23rd April 1864, some five weeks after this letter was written from a hospital in Liberty, Virginia. He appears to have returned to his regiment in time for the spring campaign of 1864 because he was admitted to the Jackson Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, on 9 May with a slight Minié ball wound to his left hand received on 6 May 1864 in the Wilderness. He was later wounded severely by a Minié ball to his right arm and right side on 30 September 1864 in the Battle of Chaffin’s Farm. He was said to be among the 139 enlisted men left in the 8th Georgia who surrendered at Appomattox on 9 April 1865.
Joseph was the son of John Edward Davis (1805-1883) and Elizabeth Amanda Schaffer (1819-1854) of Savannah, Chatham county, Georgia. In 1877, long after the war, Joseph married Elmira Isabel Futch. The couple lie side by side in Taylors Creek Cemetery in Liberty county, Georgia. The inscription on his headstone states: “We Miss Thee From Our Home Dear Father, We Miss The From Thy Place, A Shadow O’er of Life Is Cast, We Miss The Sunshine Of Thy Face, We Miss Thy Kind & Willing Hand, Thy Fond & Earnest Care, Our Home Is Dark Without Thee, We Miss Thee Everywhere. In Memoriam, Joseph O. Davis, Born March 30, 1841, Died Sept. 26, 1891. A Kind Husband, A Devoted Father, A True Friend & A Useful & Respected Citizen. Death Claimed Him And Our Hearts Are Sad.”
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Liberty [Virginia] March 15th 1864
My dear Cousin,
Your very interesting letter of 24th February was welcomed by me yesterday which I hasten to answer though there is no news whatever to write you. I am at a hospital at this place on account of chills which seem to bother me a great deal and I know they can’t kill anybody so I will let them rip. I heard that Mr. Champion had gone in since with the Chatham Artillery and had already gone to Florida with them. 1 How do they like it down there—though I suppose it is very pleasant there in the winter. I have heard from Henry but once since he was unfortunate enough to fall into the hands of the Yanks, but I hope he is doing well as the refugees tell me that most of the citizens in Knoxville are loyal to the South. I have made up my mind never to take a prisoner as long as I have a gun and bayonet in my hands.
I am very glad to hear that Cousin Georgia has recovered and hope the rest are all well. I suppose there was great excitement about the money in Savannah as there was in these parts, some refusing to take notes of any size but it suited us very well for if I wanted to buy anything and they would not chance the bills, I took what I wanted and kept the money though I thought it my duty to do so for it was the money that the C. S. paid us for service.
I think the spring campaign will open in a month or so and then I will draw a furlough on a plantation but as I don’t want to leave right away, would prefer a furlough. Have you made up your mind to be a farmer or have you given up the idea. I shall bring this foolishness to a close as it is bed time. With love to all, I am affectionately your cousin, — Joseph Davis
1 The Chatham Light Artillery was formed in Savannah in the spring of 1862. In March 1864, the unit joined Colquitt’s Brigade to go to Florida to counter the Union invasion there and they played a prominent role in the Battle of Olustee on 20 February 1864.
The following letter was written by John W. Snyder (1838-1926) of Hiltown township, Bucks county, Pennsylvania. John wrote the letter from New Bern North Carolina, while serving in Co. K, 174th Pennsylvania Militia. After it was organized in November 1862, the regiment saw service at Suffolk until late December when they traveled to New Bern, as described in this letter.
Clearly, John found himself disillusioned with his tour of duty, perceiving a transformation in the war’s purpose from a struggle to preserve the Union to a campaign aimed at the liberation of enslaved individuals.
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Newbern [North Carolina] January 12, 1863
Dear Miss,
I take this present opportunity to inform you that I am well and hope these few lines may find you the same and I received your letter the 27th of December and I was glad to hear once more from you.
I inform you that we moved from Suffolk to Newbern, North Carolina. We left Suffolk the 31st of December and got to Newbern the 3rd of January, but thank fortune that we hadn’t to march much. We took the cars at Suffolk to Norfolk and there we took the boat to Morehead City and there we took the cars again to Newbern and there we had to march between two and three miles to where we encamped. And the next day we put up our tents and how long we can stay here, I don’t know. Some say we are to move again but where to, I don’t know. But I hope we needn’t move for I don’t like to move too far at a time.
I was very sick the time we moved while I was on the boat, but that was nothing. They nearly all got sick on the boat and it was all the better for us for those that was not sick on the boat got sick since and they won’t be over it as soon as we were.
I ain’t got much to write this time but if I be at home, I could talk a good bit with you and would like to talk wit you but I hope and trust that we may get together and talk all what ew can’t write. If I ever get to Old Hilltown, I will tell those cowards that they should go and fight for these niggers for this is a nigger war and nothing else for we are the niggers here and the niggers are free. I didn’t think so much of it until I passed through Newbern when the niggers said there they go fighting for us now.
I must bring my letter to a close for I am on guard today and I have to be at my post pretty soon. Excuse my scribbling for it is a poor place to write in the army. Remember mr and write soon and direct your letters to Newbern, North Carolina. So much from your affectionate true love, — John W. Snyder
John W. Snyder. Co. K, 174th Regt. Penn. Militia Col. John Nyce, commanding Newbern, N. C.
The following letter was written by James Morrow (1820-1865) of South Carolina, a graduate of Philadelphia Medical College and a young physician with an extensive background in natural history and agriculture. In 1853, Secretary of State Edward Everett appointed him to serve as agriculturist with the U.S. expedition to Japan led by Commodore Matthew C. Perry. The objective of the expedition was to open diplomatic and commercial relations with Japan, despite that island nation’s strong tradition of cultural isolation. Besides armed vessels to intimidate the Japanese, the U.S. government also loaded supply ships with samples of American products, and enlisted Dr. Morrow to gather samples of Japanese plants for scientific study and for propagation at a new greenhouse on the grounds of the U. S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. To read more on this expedition and the role played by Dr. Morrow, see Oqui Adair: First Chinese Resident of South Carolina, Part 1.
Dr. Morrow wrote the letter to his stepfather and plantation owner, James Baxter Bull (1790-1855), and his mother Sarah Dunn (1794-1857) of Willington, Abbeville District, South Carolina. His father, David Morrow, was an Irish immigrant who came to the US in 1818 from County Down, Ireland.
The doctor’s letter addresses several topics, but particularly emphasizes the prevailing political concerns of the moment, including the apprehension among citizens regarding the Legislature’s consideration of the annexation of the “neck” to the City of Charleston. Additionally, he mentions the criticism directed at the State Bank.
It should be noted that Dr. Morrow’s surname was spelled Morrah in the 1850 Census record and the gravestones of several of his relatives in the Willington Cemetery bear the name “Morrah” as well.
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Charleston, South Carolina December 15th 1849
Dear Pa & Mother,
Your kind & welcome letter of the 11th inst. came safe to hand in good time & I felt truly thankful to hear once more from my dear parents & that they were well. And I feel thankful to be able to tell my kind parents that my health is still very good.
We have had two days of pretty cold weather this week. It is now quite cool & growing colder. The health of the city is as it usually is in winter; some colds and croups among children but very little among grown up people. Even in the hospital & alms house there is very little acute disease. Nearly all of the cases are chronic that may happen any time of the year.
There have been more strangers in the city during the fair and circus than I have seen here before. Now nearly all have left & many planters & their families have gone to their plantations for the winter so that the city is unusually still & quiet & will probably be so for the balance of the winter.
The citizens of the city and neck have been & are still a little anxious about the proposed annexation by the Legislature now in session of the neck to the city. The citizens of the neck are generally opposed to annexation because they fear that their taxes might be increased while the citizens of the city are anxious that the neck should be annexed because the neck citizens have all the advantages of the city without paying anything for them & because they refuse to improve their streets & yet they tax heavily all drays, omnibuses, &c. which draw over them so that a double tax has to be paid by all who keep these conveyances. Many more reasons are given & all good ones we believe, particularly the one with reference to the bad order kept by the patrol in the neck, while the city would introduce the regular police & night watch. It seems strange that the two should ever have been separated & strange that after separation they should not have been reunited long ago.
A certain citizen here and in other parts of the State have been attempting to destroy the State Bank, whether intentionally or not. They got our Senator from Abbeville appointed foreman of the Committee to look into the state of the affairs of the bank. The committee made things out as bad as they could and still they were better than they had been represented to be so that the Legislature concluded to maintain the honor of the state & let the bank remain unaltered. They postponed indefinitely the Bill to destroy it. Do not think I have been discussing & studying politics for I have said nothing about them & belong to no party & intend to belong to none but I have been listening learning all I could when it came in the way.
Cotton is selling more briskly now than when I wrote to Pa last. It sells now from 10 to 10.75 for good cotton & the prospect is rather on the side that it will keep up for a few weeks at least. Maybe Pa knows that this is always uncertain.
Give my love to my dear Mother & tell her that I have had one patient but he did not stay sick long. Please Pa, tell me if Dr. Anderson expects to come soon to Charleston soon. Mrs. Fell has had an application for his operating room for some kind of office—an eye operating office, I think, & is anxious to make some arrangement with him about it. Please write to me often. Adieu, dear Pa & Mother & believe me your affectionate son, — Jas. Morrow
To Mr. John B. Bull
P. S. I sent Pa & Mother’s kind love to Uncle John’s family. I wrote to Cousin Mary.
The following letter was written by William Henry Koch (1836-1915) of Millersburg, Holmes county, Ohio, while serving in Co. G, 16th Regiment Ohio (3 months, 1861). He served as a corporal in the company from 22 April 1861 to 18 August 1861.
William wrote the letter to Howard Battin (1826-1882), a railroad conductor, who also kept a boarding house in Millersburg, Holmes county, Ohio. William was the son of John E. Koch (1801-1881) and Maria S. Neely (1807-1896).
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Philippi [Virginia] 2nd July 1861
Mr. H. Battin,
Dear Sir, I have thought for some time of writing you but have failed to do it until now and shall try and let you know about how we look and feel. We are, as you will see, still at Philipi. Have been here almost four weeks. We look rather rough for Boys not being used to this kind of life, and fare about the same—not so well as at home. But this we cannot expect in the life we are now leading. Our commissary department being rather badly conducted, we very often fall short of provisions. Then you may see the Boys making for the country on the hunt of something to eat pretty generally returning loaded. If you had seen Chapman Wiggins and myself coming into camp last Saturday with chickens, milk, pies and a little of everthing good to eat, I think you would have smiled.
We are camped with Co. E of Springfield and K of Dresden as guard over the bridge crossing Valley RIver. The balance of the force here, amounting to about six thousand strong, are camped on the hill above the town on the road leading from Grafton to this place and are well fixed for the enemy but we have no fear of the enemy disturbing us until we do them—and then but little, as they have proven themselves to be better trained to fast running than we are—at least do so at the time of the attack here. 1
We were ordered to prepare to march over a eek ago but the order being countermanded did not get to move. The Boys felt as though they were going to have some fun, all thinking we were going to attack a party of secessionists located at or near Laurel Hill about twelve miles from this place.
The balance of our regiment are at Cheat River on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad about 22 miles from Grafton and about 15 from this place. We have been in hopes we would soon be united but have now given up all hopes of seeing the other until we get ready to leave for home which we think will be about four weeks if not sooner.
As this is one of the days we are short provision, I with some others are going to the country to lay in some provision for our mess and expect rather a rough time as we were last night blessed with quite a heavy rain which will leave the road in rather bad condition for walking. I shall have to close with regards to Mrs. Battin. Hoping to hear from you soon, I remain, yours obediently, — W. H. Koch
1 William refers to the battle (skirmish) that took place in and around Philippi, Virginia (now West Virginia) on June 3, 1861, which resulted in a Union victory and marked a significant moment in the early stages of McClellan’s military career. The largely untrained Confederate forces skedaddled from the battlefield with minimal opposition, and the Union forces mockingly dubbed the conflict the “Philippi Races.“
This illustration depicts the Battle of Philippi. Image Source: The Memorial War Book, 1894.
This letter was written by Eliza (Atkinson) Battin (1834-1871), the 1st wife of Asa Howard Battin (1829-1896) of Wellsville, Ohio. She wrote the letter to her brother-in-law, Howard Battin (1826-1882), a railroad conductor, who also kept a boarding house in Millersburg, Holmes county, Ohio.
According to an obituary, Eliza’s husband was born on a farm one mile west of Hanover, Columbiana County, Ohio, March 16, 1829. His boyhood and youth were spent upon a farm in the vicinity of his birthplace, and his early education was obtained in the district school. Later he attended a private school under the auspices of the Quaker church, of which both his parents and grandparents were members. He was studious and ambitious, and, at the age of eighteen years, he became employed as a teacher. The next five years he taught in the district schools of Columbiana County, and during that time he took up and pursued the study of law. He was admitted to the bar at New Lisbon in May, 1853, and in April, 1854, he began the practice of his chosen profession at Salem, Columbiana County. In December, 1858, he removed to Wellsville, where he opened an office and practiced law for ten years, with the exception of the time he spent in the army during the Civil War. He enlisted April 19, 1861, shortly after the rebellion began, as Captain of Company K, Third Regiment, Ohio Volunteers. He returned home from the field about May 1, 1862, broken in health. His one year’s service was chiefly performed in West Virginia and Kentucky.
Most of Eliza’s letter was devoted to copying one from her husband who wrote her from Clarksburg, Virginia, in early July 1861 where the 3rd Ohio Volunteers were encamped. She rewrote portions of her husband’s letter because his duties as captain left him little time to write to anyone other than his wife.
Your letter received in due time & kindly welcomed. I always enjoy getting letters from my friends very much but I cannot say I like to write letters though since Battin has been away, I write one most every day & this is the third one for today. He does not have time to write to his friends now so I try to do so for him. I do not hear from him often now. They have to send their letters about 28 miles to mail them. I received a letter from him yesterday that I will copy for you. It was written July 2nd and mailed July 4th.
He says, “After leaving the camp at which I last wrote you, we proceeded a distance of five miles upon Sunday last, and encamped in a meadow on a hill where we remained until 10 a.m. this morning when we started for this place. My company was detailed as a rear guard for the baggage wagons, and of course we jogged along as the wagons did—sometimes fast and sometimes slow, but most of the way slow.
We arrived here at six p.m. having traveled a distance of 14 miles, & again encamped in a meadow on a hillside. It is rather a pleasant place & the water is better than we have had for some time. About half the Boys were sick yesterday from eating too much fresh beef, but since this tramp today they seem lively & feel pretty well. I came in for a share of it & could eat no breakfast but after going about 4 miles, Adam went out on a scouting expedition and returned with two tins of buttermilk & a piece of pone which eat better than anything I have had lately. I feel quite well this evening and can stand another day’s tramp tomorrow if called on, and I suppose we will go on toward south.
As I wrote you before, the secessionists have gone on ahead of us. We now hear of them 30 miles from here. There are but few secessionists around where we have been. All along the road we have met with enthusiastic receptions, and the people wish us God speed.
We have no idea where we are going to but our course thus far has been almost southeast. Get a large map of Virginia and find Barbour county & you will find where we are now. Give my love to all my friends and tell them that I have not time to write to them & attend to my Boys here, and they require my attention first. Address me at Clarksburg, Virginia, Co. K, 2rd Regt. Ohio Volunteers.”
I am tired writing & have scratched this down in a hurry. Do not know whether you can read it or not. We are well. Gertie looks better than she did when you saw her last. I think we will go to Hanover next Tuesday and stay a few days. I do not expect to go to Millersburg until winter. I shall be more lonely then & I will wait until then to do my visiting.
My love to Hellen. Tell her not to work herself sick fixing up. If you had lived near, I would have gone and helped her. I know it will be hard work to get everything straightened after being packed away for so long. Write soon. Yours &c. — Eliza
Spared & Shared 23 