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to Mama

One letter addressed to Anna Petty Benson from T. Wade Benson dated December 1, 1942. Pertains to finances and listening to radio programs.

GLC09954.049

to Mamma

One letter addressed to Anna Petty Benson from Eris B. Benson dated December 21, 1942. Pertains to writing letters with family members.

GLC09954.068

to Mamma

One letter addressed to Anna Petty Benson from Eris B. Benson dated December 31, 1942. Pertains to daily life while stationed at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. Mentions health, receiving letters and the weather.

GLC09954.075

[Photograph of LeRoi S. Williams]

Photograph of LeRoi S. Williams in his pilot's uniform with a helmot and goggles on. He is looking off to the left pensively. The photograph is mounted on cardboard in a cardboard frame. At the bottom of the frame is printed "Tuskegee Inst. Ala."...

GLC09587.416

to son and daughter

He writes of how the soldiers have been stealing his horses. A friend gave birth to a new baby.

GLC05733.02

to Peter

A letter written by John Hoar to Peter expressing his appreciation for a gift that Peter gave Hoar eleven years ago and Hoar's subsequent feeling that Peter should recieve the framed letter signed by George Washington. This letter makes mention of an...

GLC06433.03

to Mrs. Edward H. Odgen

GLC06559.161

to Mrs. Edward Odgen

Year not visible.

GLC06559.167

to Mrs. Edward Odgen

Year not visible.

GLC06559.168

to Mrs. Edward Odgen

Year not visible.

GLC06559.169

to Bruce Elmore

They have heard that Willard is quite sick, so Bruce's father is going to Washington to see him. Tom will be seeing Bruce soon.

GLC06588.115

to Libbie Elmore

He says Willard is gaining strength and he is helping him to walk. He describes the hospital ward.

GLC06588.118

to Libbie Elmore

The terms Sherman and Johnston agreed upon have not been ratified by the authorities at Washington. He hopes there will be no more fighting but he doesn't have the faith in the new president that he did in Lincoln.

GLC06588.205

to Libbie Elmore

General Sherman has ordered the army to march to Richmond and to continue toward Washington they think by the middle of May. He lists some promotions in the regiment. Written near Raleigh, North Carolina

GLC06588.207

to Bruce Elmore

Libbie has heard they are coming to Washington and read that all or part of Sherman's army had reached their destination. She prays he won't be sent to Texas to fight guerillas. She is busily prearing her garden for corn and potatoes.

GLC06588.210

to Bruce Elmore

The author has read in the paper that Bruce to have a grand review. He wishes he could have seen Bruce in Washington and hopes he will be mustered out soon.

GLC06588.213

to Libbie Elmore

They came to Washington where a grand welcome awaited them. Unfortunately only those soldiers whose time is up will be mustered out by October and those that are in the hospital. As for him, no one knows.

GLC06588.214

to Bruce Elmore

Libbie is concerned that he has been on so many long, tedious marches. She wishes the government would consider the fact that he enlisted long before October 1st, but if this is not the case, she encourages him to get a furlough.

GLC06588.215

to Libbie Elmore

The latest news is that Kirby Smith surrendered the whole force in Texas, which means he could be home in a month or two. Many men are being transferred to their home state or taking furloughs.

GLC06588.216

to Libbie Elmore

He is still trying to when exactly he'll be mustered out. He lists the promotions in the regiment. With regard to Gen. Sherman, he has nothing but respect and believes his actions were justifiable.

GLC06588.217

to Libbie Elmore

They have not been paid. He is anxious to get home to do the haying this year but knows it will be impossible. He says she must do the best she can without him.

GLC06588.218

to Libbie Elmore

Bruce writes that he is a little unwell. He looks forward to seeing his children and talks about when he may get discharged again. He tells her if she can sell the farm for a 1000, to just let it go and not to lose the sale again.

GLC06588.221

to Libbie Elmore

He advises her on what to plant and asks after her pigs, calves and sheep. They say if you pay 6 dollars you can take your gun home with you. He mentions the copperheads.

GLC06588.223

to Libbie Elmore

They are currently stationed as a reserve force. There is a rumor they could move closer to Washington. He describes the current area as "desolate." Written at Upton Hill

GLC06588.238

to Libbie Elmore

Rumor has it they will eeither be going to Fredricksburg or Washington next. Nine of their regiment are currently in the hospital.

GLC06588.251

William Crans

GLC06627.01.01

William Crans

GLC06627.01.03

William Crans

GLC06627.01.13

William Crans

GLC06627.01.15

William Crans

GLC06627.01.16

Envelope

The envelope has a image of Jefferson davis running away with the caption "Jeff Davis instead of taking Washington, takes to his heels."

GLC06627.03.004

Envelope

The envelope has a image of shield with Liberty and Union across it. The caption reads ""The Unity of the Government which consitiutes you one people, is the main pillar in the Edifice of your real Independence." Geo. Washington."

GLC06627.03.025

Envelope

The envelope has a image of George Washington's house at Mount Vernon.

GLC06627.03.026

Envelope

The envelope has a image of the Capitol House. The caption reads "Capitol at Washington"

GLC06627.03.038

Envelope

The envelope has a image of 2 rats, looking at a piece of cheese labeled Washington in a trap. The caption reads "1st Rat - Don't that morsel look tempting Davis shall we take it? Davis Rat - I guess we had better wait a while I don't like those...

GLC06627.03.042

Envelope

The envelope has a image of seven ships in a circle, within that circle it Harper's Ferry, and Rats leaving the ships to go to Harper's Ferry. the ships are labled Norfolk, Pensacola, Manassas Gap., Mississippi, Savannah, Charleston, and Washington...

GLC06627.03.066

Envelope

The envelope has 2 images in the upper left hand corner there is a image of George Washington with a caption that reads "Corner Stone of the Federal Union." In the upper right hand corner there is a image of an enslaved person, with a caption of...

GLC06627.03.092

Envelope

The envelope has a image of astatue of George Washington.

GLC06627.03.097

Envelope

The envelope has a portrait of George Washington. The caption reads "A Southern Man with Union principals."

GLC06627.03.100

Envelope

The envelope has a image of George Washington. The caption is a poem about Washington.

GLC06627.03.116

Envelope

The envelope has a image of two dogs with the names Scott and Jeff on their collars. The Jeff dog is telling the Scott dog "Why don't you take it" refering to a bone with labeled Washington.

GLC06627.03.124

[Diary]

Small daily diary. Diary entries with almanac pages at the beginning and cash account pages at the end.
He describes the weather in most entries and gives tidbits about the progress of the war. He mentions captures and the taking of prisoners...

GLC06738.09

Special order no. 34

Re: instructions for Col. Chandler to procede with all hast and deliver the dispatches in his care to Washington.

GLC06979.01

Commission of Chandler to the rank of Major

Commission of Chandler to the rank of Major of the 5th infantry

GLC06979.03

Special orders no. 34

A report of soldiers held prisioner by the confederate troops, that have been exchanged for prisoners held by the US Army. Only one exchange which is D. T. Chandler for A. J. Bradford.

GLC06979.04

[Orders to Report]

Orders Chandler to report to Provost Marshal's office prepared to go to Washington

GLC06979.08

to Benetta

GLC00379.159.31

Is Davis a traitor, or, Was secession a constitutional right previous to the war of 1861?

Written by Albert Taylor Bledsoe, a former Northerner and friend of Davis. First edition published by Innes & Co. Signed twice by Davis (inside of front cover and on page 61); initialed by his wife Varina Davis. Part of his library. "Reserved copy -...

GLC00432

[General Richard Taylor]

Black & white portrait of Confederate General Richard Taylor. Enlarged directly from the original negative by Brady in the Meserve Collection.

GLC00444.02

Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War

First edition copy of Melville's only book of poetry dedicated to the 300,000 men who died for the Union cause during the Civil War. Printed by Harper Brothers, Publishers, New York. Embossed with stamp of Wm. Young, Bookseller and Stationer, Troy...

GLC00465

Colored convalescent soldiers resting after a march, at Aiken's Landing, James River, Va.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 2608. Published by E & H.T. Anthony, & Co. American and Foreign Stereoscopic Emporium, 501 Broadway, New York.

GLC00561.01

Maj-Gen. A. E. Burnside and members of his staff at his Headquarters, near Richmond, Va.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. Portrait of Major General Ambrose Everett Burnside and two members of his staff. No. 2434. Published by E & H.T. Anthony, & Co. American and Foreign Stereoscopic...

GLC00561.06

Gen. Mead's headquarters at Gettysburg.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 2396. These are the original views taken by "Brady," the government artist, during 1861-1865.

GLC00561.07

Gen. Sharman's wagon train, near Savannah, Ga.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 3547. Published by E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. American and Foreign Stereoscopic Emporium, 591 Broadway, New York.

GLC00561.08

Lulu Falls, on the top of Lookout Mountain, Tenn.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 3652. Published by E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. American and Foreign Stereoscopic Emporium, 591 Broadway, New York.

GLC00561.09

Masked Battery and obstruction in the James river, Fort Darling, near Richmond, Va.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 3349. Published by E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. American and Foreign Stereoscopic Emporium, 591 Broadway, New York.

GLC00561.10

Garrison of Fort Wagner on parade.

Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 3605. These are the original views taken by "Brady," the government artist, during 1861-1865.

GLC00561.11

Michigan and Pennsylvania Relief Association.

(titles continues) Ladies ministering to the wounded and sick soldiers. Stereocard from the War Views series, a photographic history of the War for the Union. No. 2488. These are the original views taken by "Brady," the government artist, during 1861...

GLC00561.12

Crusade in Europe

Inscribed to Brigadier General Frank Caffey (Commander of the 34th Infantry) on a facsimile of D-Day message. "Outstanding soldier in two World Wars, with best wishes and lasting regard to him and his wife, Louise, from their devoted friend."...

GLC00601

to Parents

The great battle has not come yet. Hooker's army is close by and can reinforce them while they prepare.Their men on picket have picked up some deserters from the Rebels. The sergeant is a drunk whom no one takes seriously.

GLC00653.03.01

to Parents

He writes that the country ground is full of "wandering guerillas."Some of their wounded were shot going from here to Belle Plains, a distance of seven miles. The wounded will be sent away soon and they will get more men.

GLC00653.03.02

to Parents

There was a heavy battle on the 19th. The Rebels surprised them. General Sheridan was involved. They managed to capture a whole ten acres and more guns then they knew what to do with. He found a horse the day of the fight worth about $150 but does...

GLC00653.03.03

to wife and family

He says he lost his knapsack one night with all his clothes and and his blanket but that is nothing compared to his life which was spared. He has not seen Charles since the battle and fears he may have been taken prisoner. All their officers were...

GLC00653.04.01

to my dear Mother

He describes the battle in which the enemy opened fire, killing a horse and wounding one man. That man had his leg shot off and if he had not landed where he did, the author would have received the same wound. On Saturday and Sunday, the enemy...

GLC00653.04.02

to my dearest Liz

He describes a battle in which they pushed the rebels back a mile and a half, but suffered severe losses. He makes a short list of casualties. The rebels want to save Atlanta but there are many changes in command making things difficult. Atlanta is...

GLC00653.05.01

to my dearest Liz

There have been several short battles but they have always come out the victor so far. Things look good on both sides, though the Rebels have cut their railroad in the rear. They have not yet been able to completely surround Atlanta. He discusses...

GLC00653.05.02

to Mother

He is on his way way home. He describes the journey so far. They are lucky the government aren't trying to keep them in service after the war, as they could have done. If they did, they would be breaking their trust. Letter written near Louisville...

GLC00653.11.01

to Sister

He continues to talk of the possibility of having to remain in service. He reiterates that he is tired of the service. Includes general orders No. 146, dated September 30, 1862 which says "no officer will hereafter be relieved of his command and sent...

GLC00653.11.02

to Father

The night before they left Savannah there was a fire, caused by incendiaries. Along the road between there and Savannah he describes it as the poorest he's seen. He hopes his father received the watch and money he sent.

GLC00653.11.04

to Mother

The letter discusses that the third and fourth division of their corps broke up camp and crossed the river to Hutchinson Island. Bad times ensued for the third division. 300 mules were drowned and the wagons overflowed.

GLC00653.11.05

to Father

He requests several items. He notes that there is construction going on around him.

GLC00653.11.06

to Sister

Even though Savannah is still in the hands of the Rebels, they recently gained a landing place for supplies and he think it will only be a matter of time. He gives a summary of the march from Rome. 21 miles outside of Savannah, they got into a...

GLC00653.11.07

to Mother

He notes the arrival of the paymaster. He is critical of the fact that they are dependent upon a railroad in the hands of the Rebels.

GLC00653.11.08

to Sister Ellen

He describes the town of Rome as an interesting place. The town is mainly filled with the sick and wounded now. Apparently General Sherman told General Corse to "make his men comfortable if it took every house in Rome."

GLC00653.11.09

to Sister Mary

They camped near Jonesboro and then they went up to Eastpoint. They are now camped inside rebel fortifications. During this time, they had been without shelter but for a single rubber blanket. He tells a story of how Sherman manages to fool Hood. The...

GLC00653.11.10

to Mother

Atlanta is now in their possession. He describes the operation. Letter was written near Lovejoy, Georgia.

GLC00653.11.11

to Mother

They are now in reserve but are constantly getting shot at. General Dodge got struck in the head by a musket. A deserter came in the other day giving them information about Hood.

GLC00653.11.12

to Sister Mary

He reports all the fun they had for the past 9 days. They've had picnics and seen fireworks for the Fourth of July. But now they are back at work building an advanced entrenchment.

GLC00653.11.13

to Father

Last Thursday they managed to push back the rebel skirmishers but after two hours they were forced back to their original position. He heard that Clearland has Typhoid fever and he will visit him. They expect to get paid soon.

GLC00653.11.14

to Sister

The Rebels are well fortified from the base to the summit of the mountain and they have been skirmishing all the time. Hooker advanced. Written at Big Shanty Camp.

GLC00653.11.15

to Sister Mary

The fourth division suffered in the skirmishes. The rebels ended up retreating again. They picked up some prisoners but were unable to make an advance. Around the 9th, they camped near Marietta.

GLC00653.11.16

to Sister Mary

They were able to gain all the ground desired from the recent skirmishes. Even though they have used their artillery on the present camp they have not done much damage. Their accommodations are a little better now. Letter was written near Atlanta...

GLC00653.11.17

to Sister Ellen

They have been on the march through Dalton and Resaca. Fighting took place left and center. They skirmished until Kingston and then marched to Dallas.

GLC00653.11.18

to Father

He has been sick lately and even had to be taken away in an ambulance. He is feeling better however. They had a battle recently in which 10,000 volunteers came to help them. Yesterday there was heavy skirmishing.

GLC00653.11.19

to Mother

He just returned from a three day march. They marched through the dark and the rain and encountered fallen logs. He requests butter and dried apples. Pages missing.

GLC00653.11.20

to Mother

In the letter, Laurens W. Wolcott describes how they got across Bear River to meet the enemy where they immediately began fighting. The enemy rescued some of their prisoners. The next day they marched back and camped near a mountain.

GLC00653.11.21

to Mother

Letter is completely faded.

GLC00653.11.22

to Mother

In the letter, Laurens W. Wolcott talks about the new clothes he has purchased and received from the army. He bought new shirts and received a new blanket.

GLC00653.11.23

to Sister

In the letter, Laurens W. Wolcott talks about mutual friends and acquaintances. He is glad Robert did not enlist because he would not have liked a soldier's life all. He also notes that the chaplain returned. Letter written in Camp Montgomery.

GLC00653.11.24

to Father

Laurens W Wolcott writes that the 42nd regiment passed by and he got to see people he hadn't seen in a while. One of four gunboats was captured in battle. Afterwards more than half the company was sick but they are feeling better now. The weather has...

GLC00653.11.25

to Sister

Yesterday there was skirmishing among the pickets. They also received strict orders not to cross the lines of their division except on business. The weather has been pleasant.

GLC00653.11.26

to Sister

Laurens W. Wolcott is writing from the hospital where he has been ill with fever. Now, however, he is doing much better but will stay a little longer before resuming hard duty.

GLC00653.11.27

to Mother

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that they got on a steamer bound for St. Louis where he met a friend who entrusted a package with him. Letter written at Benton Barracks (also know as Camp Benton).

GLC00653.11.28

to Sister

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that on Thursday night they were taken out of their tents to go to Stewartsville. They were expected to have a major skirmish there, but nothing happened. Letter written at Benton Barracks (also know as Camp Benton).

GLC00653.11.29

to Brother

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that there are some people who say they have defective arms, but he thinks their weapons are very well-made. He says they have been living on 2 meals per days and he has enjoyed good health. He writes that they marched at...

GLC00653.11.30

to Mother

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that he wants his father to send him newspapers like the Independent. He mentions that the weather has been pleasant, and that more troops keep arriving.

GLC00653.11.31

to Sister

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that the weather has been warm and apples are growing. Lately, he has been learning how to cook. He writes that they are camped in a pleasant place. Letter written in Camp Montgomery.

GLC00653.11.32

to Father

Laurens W. Wolcott writes that there is less sickness than at any other time among the company. General "Oglesbee" visited the hospital, and Doctor Humphrey was appointed assistant surgeon. Wolcott's mother urged him to get a discharge, but he is not...

GLC00653.11.33

Shiloh National Park

Photograph of Shiloh National Park. Inscription on the back reads: "View showing superintendant's lodge and park of Shiloh cemetary. Also 200 cannon hereafter to be placed on Shiloh National Park, May 13th, 1897." Lt. Laurens Wolcott is standing at...

GLC00653.11.34

Calling Card for Laurens Wolcott

GLC00653.11.35