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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

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24 December 1861

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury describes the weather and the food rations in camp, as well as the soldiers' contruction of log huts. He mentions the movements of troops, and expresses frustration with generals who only aim to "line their pockets," rather than win the war speedily.

GLC03523.39.03

January 17, 1862

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Writing from Little Rock, AR, Bradbury expresses his anger with Copperheads, and says that he stands "for the Union, and old Abe forever." He describes camp food and activity, including the construction of log cabins and stables, and suggests that life in camp is quite easy. He also refers to a rebel spy being caught.

GLC03523.39.04

5 May 1864

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury writes that their regiment is lacking guns and horses, and thus has little to do but drill on foot. He also notes their camp fortification efforts.

GLC03523.39.05

14 September 1864

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury writes passionately about 1864 election politics, expressing disdain for the campaigns of Gen. McClellan and Gen. Frémont, and suggesting that Lincoln is "entitled" to reelection. He also comments on Union forces capturing Mobile, AL and Atlanta, GA, and he gives the prices of food staples.

GLC03523.39.06

14 October 1864

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury writes that he has been in good health, and he gives the dimensions of the log cabins they have been constructing.

GLC03523.39.07

18 December 1864

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury writes that he is healthy, provides his weight, and complains that the war is continuing on for too long.

GLC03523.39.08

7 February 1865

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury expresses his hope for speedy peace, while noting the regiment's ongoing fortification efforts.

GLC03523.39.09

10 July 1865

Bradbury, John S., fl. 1861-1865

Autograph letter signed

Title: Dear Brother

Bradbury writes that the war is over, but that he has not yet received his discharge. Most of the letter is given to begging his brother to stop his drinking habit.

GLC03523.39.10