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to true and devoted friend (J. Morse)
January 31, 1864
Siscoe, C., fl. 1861-1864
On Wednesday morning he learned that Sister Margot was dead. There are five men currently sick. He saw his folks recently. Morse's father has a cough.
GLC02170.39
to Miss Catherine (Kitty)
17 July 1864
Morse, Justus, fl. 1861-1864
He tells her she is welcome to have his money as long as he has any. He heard an acquaintance of his died.
GLC02170.51
to Miss (Kitty)
18 August 1864
He writes that if it had been his fate to fall on the battlefield he would have been ready to die. But her letters always kept him going and made him stronger. He told his father he wants him to put in some wheat.
GLC02170.55
to My Own Dear Mother
November 30, 1862
Hughes, Mary, fl. 1862
Death of their son Allie in a fire.
GLC02166.111
to Miss Sue Johnston
circa 17 July 1864
Johnston, Witter H., fl. 1861-1864
They have regular meetings now and they are well attended. He saw Charlie and Elliot there. St. Graves' wife is ill. He heard the Rebels had over a hundred killed on July 8th.
GLC02167.25
to Respected Miss (Kitty)
22 March 1862
She worries that because she has not heard from him in a while he might be lying dead in the battlefield. He tells her not to entertain such silly thoughts. He thinks he might be home in a few months time.
GLC02170.04
to Kitty
5 November 1862
He was sorry to hear of her cousin's death. There was a snow storm recently. He can't afford to send her another picture right now.
GLC02170.17
to C.S. Siscoe (Kitty)
February 5, 1864
He was sorry to hear about his sister's death. He heard that Henry Reagers reenlisted, but he doesn't expect to reenlist himself. He will try to come home for a little bit soon.
GLC02170.40
to J Morse
7 March 1864
Sciscoe, C., fl. 1861-1864
She saw Henry Rogers and he was in good health. Uncle John Boruff died a couple weeks ago. Aunt Sallie is going to have a dinner next Thursday and he ought to be there. 2 years ago he was expecting to be in battle.
GLC02170.42
to Catherine (Kitty)
circa 1861-1865
He believe the men had a small fight out in coal water and 2 were killed and four wounded. The area where they are now is beautiful.
GLC02170.63
to Mary Hughes
November 5, 1862
Hughes, Alfred, fl. 1862-1864
Death of a young man named Cooper; verses for a song written after the death of a man named Rutherford; apologies for such a sad and gloomy letter.
GLC02166.107
13 November 1864
They heard Lincoln carried every state but three. Elliot's uncle is sick. One of his fellow soldiers died. They will have monthly inspection on Monday.
GLC02167.37
to unknown
1861-1866
There was a funeral for one of the men. There has been a lot of sickness in the company. There has been nearly a funeral every day.
GLC02167.42
to Miss Dora Johnston
27 May 1866
He describes his day, first stopping at the Falls for over four hours, then meeting, Mr. Kellog's in Jackson. He is sorry he did not see Hattie. Cousin Theodore died.
GLC02167.48
to Daniel Kestor
6 August 1864
Mays, Wesley, fl. 1862
A notice of the death of a friend.who died on the battlefield.
GLC02169.06
[In Memorium of Mary Jane Aldridge]
circa 1909
In memorium of Mary Jane Aldridge, printed. Includes a biographical sketch by her sister focusing on her humanitarian work and work with womens' groups.
GLC02167.62
to Mrs. Tueneer
February 12, 1923
Rangland, Anna, fl. 1923
She offers his condolences on the passing of her brother. She discusses Mollie's strength and character.
GLC02167.60
3 October 1861
He meant to go home today but when he got up it was raining so he decided not to. Last night Ellens's death was alluded to on the stage.
GLC02167.02
A List of Officers, Massachusetts Line of the Army of the U. States
after 1783
Pages 1 and 2 comprise "A List of Officers, Massachusetts Line of the Army of the U. States Jany. 1. 1781." Dozens of names are listed, broken down by rank. Page 2 also contains a chart of seven "General Officers killed in battle," including names...
GLC02437.00868
to William Knox
February 13, 1779
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Explains why he has not written recently, citing "a very bad arrangement between me & the post Master." Expresses relief that he and William agree regarding an unspecified matter and a Mr. Hichborne (most sources say "Hichborn"). Refers to the...
GLC02437.00750
List of continental officers killed, captured, wounded, and missing in the actions of the 16 &18 August 1780
29 August 1780
Shaw, Samuel, 1754-1794
Entirely in Shaw's hand, including the signatures of O. H. Williams and Horatio Gates. Lists names of Continental officers who have been killed, captured, wounded and missing.
GLC02437.00836
3 July 1778
Relates that the British are moving toward Sandy Hook, New Jersey. Reports the details of the Battle of Monmouth, mentioning Generals Charles Lee and George Washington. Writes, "The Corps of Artillery have their full proportion of the Glory of the...
GLC02437.00714
to Henry Knox
February 14, 1781
Updates Knox on what has been happening in the Massachusetts Legislature and mentions the issue of soldier's pay. Continues with the majority of the letter, describing the events of the suicide of a young gentleman.
GLC02437.00892
5 August 1781
Written at camp near Dobbs Ferry by Brigadier General Knox to his brother William Knox. References William's letter of 25 July 1781. Says he wrote last week and hopes he has received the letter as the post office has been unreliable. It seems that...
GLC02437.01120
to Mrs. Howe
2 October 1781
Informs a bereaved wife of her husband's death on the James River on 20 September 1781 from a stomach ailment. Discusses the circumstances of his death and burial, offers condolence, and mentions who will gather and transport his belongings. The...
GLC02437.01206
to Martha Cook
5 August 1865
Brunt, William, fl. 1863-1865
Brunt has just returned from Iowa with two of his children, Dora and David. Dora, who is sixteen, has just been married to an Englishman. Writes that "while I was gone to Iowa Olive let passion instead of virtue rule her & became inconstant to me -...
GLC07006.13
"In Memorian."
October 1864
Meigs, L.R., fl. 1864
Poem composed in memory of her brother.
GLC07059.59
to Josephine Waud re: experiences with Army of the Potomac; Chancellorsville
20 September 1865
Waud, Alfred R., fl. 1862-1865
A long letter to his sister concerning his experiences in the Army of the Potomac. "We fought for three days against Lee and 50,000, and owning to the stupidity of our General 'Fighting Joe Hooker' lost the Battle and between 30,000 and 40,000." He...
GLC07066
Prisoners
27 October 1777 circa
List of prisoners and ordnance taken by the Northern army in the course of the campaign up to and including Burgoyne's surrender. Counts 5,740 prisoners plus General Burgoyne and 12 members of his staff, including six members of parliament. Lists...
GLC07115.02
Letters 1st Cal. Regt. re: camp life; southerners; McClellan; slavery [decimalized]
1861-1877
Neafie, Theodore F., fl. 1861-1877
Collection of 60 ALS by Foot Soldier, in first Ca. Regiment. "It is turned into a war to put money in political pockets and to free the niggers;" Lincoln: "His mind is not able to comprehend the simple game of checkers let alone the war like game...
GLC07164
to Friend Fen
12 March 1864
McCollough, William A., fl. 1964
William writes that his life is very dull. The only excitement comes when they're on picket. They occasionally exchange shots with the Rebels and this results in 4 or 5 getting killed.
GLC07205.015
to My Dear Sister
12 June 1861
Potter, Lal H., fl. 1861
He writes that he was remarkably fortunate to have gotten the position he did with his regiment. He goes on to desribe the battle of Bull Run. The real horrors of war were realized. They lost 5 men and 15 were wounded. Written at Fort Monroe
GLC07205.022
to Father
Your Affectionate Son, fl. 1861
He recently heard that General Berry was killed.
GLC07205.023
to Mother
18 August 1861
He finds Eastern Virginia, where the principle slave market lies, very boring since most people have left upon hearing that an army was approaching. He describes a battle in which one hundred men were wounded and killed. They were greatly outnumbered...
GLC07205.032
to Sister Sophia
4 April 1862
Albert, fl. 1861-1864
He describes the dead from the Battle of Bull Run. The bodies are spread out in deplorable condition and in many cases their bones are thrown carelessly over the ground. He also talks abotu the gorilla bands
GLC07205.041
to Annie S. Brown
15 July 1863
Bradling, William, fl. 1863
Written on a receipt-roll for soldier rations. He writes that on the morning of the eleventh they charged on Fort Wagner and lost 400 men in 5 minutes. Her cousin John R. Muney was wounded.
GLC07205.042
17 April 1862
Gen. Abercrombie received his brigade the other day and marched very poorly. The boys call him Old Crabree Abercrombie. He is glad his sister is attending school. The other day they arrested a man on suspicion of being a spy and subsequently hung him...
GLC07205.058
11 March 1862
There was one night where he stayed in an old widow's house. The widow was upset about the death of her dog. He talks of one day returning to school to become a better speller and writer.
GLC07205.059
to Mrs. Harriet H. Leonard on the death of her infant
Berry, Nellie M., fl. 1861-1877
"Dearest before, Thou Hast Suffered/More Than We Can Think or Tell..."
GLC07205.075
11 August 1862
He describes the last battle he particpated in. There were many wounded and killed. They fought in a cornfield and in the woods. He is glad Massachusetts has raised so many volunteers.
GLC07205.092
Execution of Captain Wirz, the keeper of Andersonville Prison
1865
Brady, Mathew B., 1823-1896
Red mount. Printed by Taylor & Huntington. With list of views on verso.
GLC07220
to Aaron D. Stevens
2 December 1859
Brown, John, 1800-1859
Written on the day Brown was hanged from Charlestown Prison, Virginia, present day West Virginia. Writes in full, "He that is slow to anger; is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit, that he, that taketh a city" Solomon."; with...
GLC07230.01
to his brother Henry
2 August 1858
Stevens, Aaron D., 1831-1860
Elaborates on abolitionist efforts in Kansas. Justifies violence citing the number of slaves who are "murdird" each year. Continues that war is just when in self defense and liberty must be absolute, quoting Patrick Henry: "Give me liberty or give me...
GLC07231.09
February 23, 1860
Ponders his sentence and the prospect of death. Hopes for mercy so that he may continue to live, but is doubtful and accepts death calmly. Discusses spiritualism. Written from Charlestown jail.
GLC07231.12
13 March 1860
Bids his brother farewell, with knowledge of his upcoming death. Encourages Henry to explore spiritiualism and to live rightly: "as you love yourself as you love man as you love woman, as you love god, work with your head heart and hands for the...
GLC07231.13
Last will and testament
February 4, 1820
Fayette County (Ky.)
Cotton, Will. DS: Fayette Co., Ky. 4 February 1820. Last will and testament, including dispersal of his slaves. 12 p.
GLC07237.05
6 October 1819
Ewing, Samuel. DS: Fayette Co., Ky. 6 October 1819. Last will and testament, including dispersal of his slaves. 4 p.
GLC07237.07
27 May 1777
Gerry, Elbridge, 1744-1814
Written by Gerry, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, as a Continental Congressman from Massachusetts to an unknown recipient, but probably an army officer in Massachusetts. Begins letter with financial information. Hopes a vigorous...
GLC07273
[Oval photograph of Andrew Fuller Tomes]
1861
Inscription on verso reads "Andrew Fuller Tomes as he went to war - Company 9 Beecher Company. 13th Reg. 1861."
GLC07304.02
[Signed carte de visite of Ulysses S. Grant]
April 1865
Gutekunst, Frederick, 1831-1917
Signed photograph of Grant as Lt. General, taken by Frederick Gutekunst. Standing portrait of General Grant with his left hand in his vest, taken in the spring of 1865. Grant is wearing a black mourning band on his left arm in remembrance of Abraham...
GLC07338
to Jefferson Davis
18 September 1862
Lee, Robert E., 1807-1870
Charles Marshall's (1830-1902) copy containing the substance of a letter from Robert E. Lee to Jefferson Davis regarding battle of Antietam. Writer inferred from handwriting. Recounts major events of the battle and states that at the end of the...
GLC07362
[Crowd in front of Lincoln's Springfield home after funeral]
4 May 1865
Image of Lincoln's funeral train and Springfield townspeople posed in front of the late President's home, following his burial at Oak Ridge Cemetery on May 4. The home is draped in mourning and decorated with evergreens. Some members of the crowd are...
GLC07418
Our Fallen Heroes [Woodcut print]
Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865
Large sheet consisting of colored woodcuts, intended for hanging, depicting Lincoln and deceased Union officers Elmer Ellsworth, E.D. Baker, J. McCook, Mitchill, Andrew H. Foote, J. Sedgwick, Lyon, Mansfield, Kearney, J.F. Reynolds, McPherson and...
GLC07456
to his parents, sister and [brother-in-law]
January 30, 1863
Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917
Writes that he has received his mother's likeness and will treasure it. Asks that Darius write as soon as he is well enough to do so. General Rosecrans has prohibited picket fires at night, so they have to make a big pile of coals and sleep beside...
GLC07460.012
February 4, 1863
Wheeler writes that he was very happy to receive the box they sent him. His regiment marched to Gallatin to fight Morgan. Writes that the new camp is far better than any they have seen since Chicago and far exceeds their camp in Tunnel, Tennessee....
GLC07460.013
to his parents and sister
February 21, 1863
The whole regiment has been healthier since they left Tunnel, Tennessee where many from Wheeler's regiment died. Wheeler has heard rumor that Vicksburg was taken from the Rebels. Some of the men are trying to publish the truth about Captain Warner...
GLC07460.015
to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister
February 23, 1863
He reports that John Fetterly has died of small pox. Writes that Fetterly was unable to march, so he was transferred to the pest house where he died. Wheeler informs his family that he will be on the march and may not be able to write for ten or...
GLC07460.017
to his sister Martha
17 April 1863
Writes that he would like to hire Welly (his nephew Wellington Spohn) at five cents a day to help with the harvest. Reports that rebels are camped nearby and that he is anxious toget rid of them. Discusses the feeling of brotherhood amongst the...
GLC07460.024
5 May 1863
Writes that furloughs have begun and three men will be allowed to go from each company. His brigade will be kept in Gallatan for the time being, as Gallatan is a very important position to keep. Writes that there will soon be a fight at...
GLC07460.027
22 May 1863
Tells his family not to worry if they don't hear from him soon, as he is preparing to march and will not be able to write for a while. Reports that the rebs have moved but it is not exactly known where to. He comments on the poor quality of farming...
GLC07460.030
11 October 1863
Reports that General Ward is back in Murfreesboro. Writes that he has sent his ambrotype with the letter (not included) and has framed his mother's likeness, commenting that he is always proud to show it off. Wheeler mentions that he has bought an...
GLC07460.054
5 November 1863
Writes that he has just returned from performing the funeral services and burial of George H. Gould. Gould, who shared a tent with Wheeler, had been sick since June from diahrrea, and was transferred to the regimental hospital in August where he...
GLC07460.059
to his sister and family
December 11, 1863
Reports that one of the soldiers, [Zod] Howe, almost died from small pox and another man is thought to have come down with it. Remarks that the men in camp seem very nonchalant about the small pox outbreak. He writes that the hospital building and...
GLC07460.064
December 24, 1863
Thanks his family for the gift of "goodies" he received for Christmas and hopes that he will be able to share Christmas with them after the war is over. Writes that he is very proud of his nephew Welly (Wellington Spohn) and expects to receive a...
GLC07460.066
to his brother-in-law, parents and sister
31 May 1864
Written on the battle field near Dallas, Georgia. He explains that he is unsure of what effect the army has had on the war being in Georgia but hopes that it is good. Writes that they have had all the rations they can eat and keep several days worth...
GLC07460.077
16 May 1864- 2 June 1864
Written at Camp of the Illinois 105th. States that he is in good health although he is worried about the casualties the Union army is sustaining. Writes that he is glad his mother worries less even though her feelings are natural. Part of the...
GLC07460.078
14 June 1864
Written at the Camp of the 105th Illinois regiment. He explains that they are still in the same camp as the last time he wrote. Writes that the Union artillery ha been shelling the rebels for two or three days but the effect of the shelling is not...
GLC07460.081
18 June 1864
Written at Camp of the 105th Illinois regiment. He is glad that everyone is doing well and states that he is as well. Writes that he is unsure of exactly where the army is as they have marched on such a "crooked course" through Georgia. Reports that...
GLC07460.082
24 June 1864
Written at the Camp of the 105th Illinois regiment. He is unharmed and doing well. His corps, the 20th, has been joined by the 23rd Corps. Others have told him the corps are only a few miles from Marietta, Georgia. Reports that both armies are...
GLC07460.083
5 July 1864 - 6 July 1864
Written at the Camp of the 105th Illinois regiment. States that he is in good health and that his division is near the 23rd Corps. The 1st and 2nd divisions of his Corps is on the front lines where the Confederates are making a stand near Marietta...
GLC07460.085
21 July 1864
He writes that his regiment played an important role in the Battle of Atlanta. They marched to within two miles of Atlanta, 22 July, 1864, Georgia and formed two lines of battle in an open valley on the hill to their front. The pickets kept up a...
GLC07460.088
to his parents, brother-in-law and sister
30 July 1864
He write that he is now on the right wing not far from the Atlanta, Georgia railroad. Reports that during the night as they were moving they were attacked by Confederates who were severely "whipped for their tenacity that they may stick to Atlanta."...
GLC07460.091
5 August 1864
The items he requested from home were brought to him by the colonel. Some of the items, the cheese and butter, will start to melt soon due to the hot weather. He was sent up to the right-center of the line and his corps. relieved some of the 14th...
GLC07460.092
to his brother-in-law Davis and all at home
15 August 1864
He write that he is well but he cannot say so for other members of the regiment as they have just recently learned that Chas Tubbs has died. The report is that he died of the bloody flux [dysentery]. Details some of the other casualties received by...
GLC07460.093
August 25, 1864
Writes that the weather is very nice even though the country is filled with rebel shoulders. He thinks it would be a nice place to visit if the inhabitants "were what they ought to be." He has received a hat from his sister Martha and some tobacco...
GLC07460.095
to his parents, brother-in-law, and sister
December 30, 1864 - January 4, 1865
Writes about those who have died during the past year and the sacrifice they made for their country. General William T. Sherman reviewed the 20th Corps. today. General Ulysses Grant was supposed to review the men as well but he failed to show up. A...
GLC07460.110
March 29, 1865
Writes that he is very grateful for everyone at home for caring about him and worrying about his safety while he is at war. He feels bad for them because the letters they receive from him take so long to arrive so they are usually "in the dark" about...
GLC07460.117
4 April 1865
Writes that it takes a long time for the letters to arrive at camp and to be sent out. Thinks that General William T. Sherman is unwilling to give up his line of communication. He does not think the army could survive in North Carolina in the summer...
GLC07460.118
to Mrs. Showbergh [?]
15 December 1864
Smith, Gerrit, 1797-1874
Recipient's name is illegible. Gives his condolences for her husband, Henry R. Showbergh's [?] death.
GLC07483.22
to J.A. Spencer
19 July 1868
Expresses his thanks for Spencer's condolences on the death of his child.
GLC07483.25
Herald extra President Lincoln assassinated
15 April 1865
Announces the death of President Lincoln and assassination attempt of Secretary Seward. Dated from Chicago, but the newspaper printing the small hand-bill is unknown. Has remnants of a doily around the borders.
GLC02364
to Colonel
Hunt, Henry Jackson, 1819-1889
A pencil note written at a later date suggests this letter was written to Colonel Henry Knox Craig. Mentions the army's demoralization and questions the power of the Confederates. Writes, "As to the Army, I regret to say that the general feeling...
GLC02382.015
to Henry Jackson Hunt
22 July 1876
Wetmore, William, 1749-1830
Possibly served under Hunt during the Civil War. Thanks Hunt for letters of introduction he used while traveling the world. Mentions Colonel Talbot, Lieutenant Colonel Peel, and Earl Stanhope, who assisted him greatly while he stayed in London....
GLC02382.110
[Field return, artillery park, Army of the Potomac]
25 September 1864
Shaffer, Calvin, fl. 1863-1865
Written near Petersburg. Captain Shaffer lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve...
GLC02382.149
26 December 1799
North, William, 1755-1836
Appears to be a retained draft. Written by North as Adjutant General of the Provisional Army with the rank of brigadier general (a position he held 1798-1800) to an unknown recipient. Says if "you are too full, ask Mrs. Duane for a pail of butter."...
GLC02341
to George Wanton Ellery
6 August 1806
Ellery, William, 1727-1820
Written to his son at Captain Barney's School in Wickford, Rhode Island. Would be glad to know if George wishes to be at the "commencement in Cambridge." If so, he should be "here on the 18th of this month, for commencement is on the 27th." Has been...
GLC02300.26
February 7, 1865
Worth, Margaret, 1828-?
Signed "M. S. Worth." Discusses General Scott's charge, possibly referring to an advance during the Mexican American War which involved General Winfield Scott and her father General William Jenkins Worth. Remarks "I remember how fully it was my...
GLC02382.099
13 November 1886
Bringer, L., fl. 1886
Mentions an article Hunt wrote for Century Magazine (possibly on the Battle of Gettysburg). Congratulates Hunt on his son Henry's bravery for participating in the Greely expedition. Mentions the death of a recent acquaintance, who caught dysentery...
GLC02382.111
4 September 1864
Written in camp near Petersburg. Lists officers and soldiers present for duty. Lists casualties: 2 enlisted men killed & 4 wounded, all from the 14th Battery Mass. Artillery. Cites guns, artillery, and other supplies. Lists numbers of horses...
GLC02382.141
18 September 1864
Written near Petersburg. Captain Shaffer lists officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve ammunition.
GLC02382.147
to Christian Miller
14 September 1827
Willett, Marinus, 1740-1830
Reports on the impending death of his brother and continues with a discourse on the subject. Discusses his belief in everlasting life for those who believe in the divine redeemer. Written in Cedar Grove neighborhood.
GLC02338
circa 10 November 1883
Porter, Fitz-John, 1822-1901
Laments the death of his friend Randolph. Encourages Hunt to befriend John Alexander Logan in the Senate. Mentions [Lord's?] pamphlet and Slocum (possibly General Henry Warner Slocum). Refers to a letter written by Ulysses S. Grant, which...
GLC02382.078
2 October 1864
GLC02382.151
9 October 1864
GLC02382.152
Mayo, Ezekiel R., 1834-?
Written near City Point, Virginia. Captain Mayo lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve...
GLC02382.163
7 December 1864
GLC02382.167
[Field return, artillery reserve, Army of the Potomac]
8 January 1865
Created near City Point. Captain Mayo lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve ammunition.
GLC02382.173
January 15, 1865
State inferred from contents. Possibly created near City Point. Captain Mayo lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies. At the bottom of the page, lists...
GLC02382.174
February 26, 1865
Captain Shaffer lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve ammunition.
GLC02382.181
19 March 1865
Captain Mayo lists numbers of officers and other enlisted men present for duty. Indicates casualties, guns, horses, etc. for several companies and batteries. At the bottom of the page, lists amounts of reserve ammunition. Docket notes that this...
GLC02382.192
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