17 September 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Apologizes for his last letter and the impact it had on his sister (referring to a letter regarding Miss Ettie). He writes that he wrote it on an impulse and wants to forget about the whole situation. He is on the eve of battle and he is willing to forgive all that have offended him. He has not heard from his brother Marshall, but thinks he is probably in Marietta, Georgia. Ward complains about the hard time they have had marching and skirmishing with the lack of rain. Ward also writes that he is part of the 'barefoot squad" which affords him the luxury of riding a horse. He mentions his…

GLC02232.22

25 September 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Writes from the line of battle before Chattanooga. Reports that he has survived the Battle of Chickahominy with just a slight wound to the chest. He spent two days in the hospital and rejoined his command on 22 September. Ward writes that the enemy is still in Chattanooga and he predicts that there will be another battle soon. Reports that his messmate and friend, Lieutenant Webber, was killed in the field. Writes that his consolidated company went into the fight with 40 men and lost 10 (one killed, eight wounded, and one missing). Ward writes that they've had a difficult four weeks with…

GLC02232.23

6 October 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Written from the line of battle before Chattanooga. He writes that he's been in the same position for the last fifteen days. They opened on the enemy last night but he doesn't know if they are still shelling this morning, as he is too far away to hear. Ward reports to his sister that he's heard from their brother Marshall who has come down with dysentery and has lost a lot of weight. Writes that Marshall is anxious to get back but Edward is afraid he'll return before he is well. Discusses his affections for Miss Mollie. Requests that he be sent some undershirts, drawers, No. 8 boots,…

GLC02232.24

12 October 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Written from the line of battle before Chattanooga. Writes that he has heard from his brother Marshall who is slowly recovering from dysentery. Discusses communicating with Miss Mollie and Miss Tillie and other mutual friends. Writes that he has been promoted to Senior Second Lieutenant and his company has elected Ben Thurman to replace him as Junior Second Lieutenant. He mentions to his sister that he received a letter from his friend Page's father. Page has been missing and is believed to have been taken prisoner. Writes that someone named "P" will be getting out soon. Requests that…

GLC02232.25

31 October 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Refers to "P" from the previous letter and writes that he is likely to go to Marietta to see Marshall (their brother, Samuel Marshall Ward). He writes that he has fallen "powerfully in love" with Miss Mollie. Discusses leaving the battle line before Chattanooga and marching up the railroad. They are presently located about 12 miles from Lauden and 40 miles from Knoxville. Complains of the cold weather, lack of food, and shelter but reassures his sister that the boys are still in fine spirits. Tells his sister that he has forwarded all the letters he's received from home to his brother…

GLC02232.26

8 December 1863

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Written from camp near Dalton, Georgia. Writes that he has been in poor spirits lately, especially since he was unable to see "P & M" ("M" refers to his brother Marshall). Desperately wants his sisters to visit him in Marietta, as he can get a few days off to see them. Updates his sister on their brother Marshall who has been living with a Mrs. Cook in Marietta. Provides a detailed description of fighting during the Battle of Missionary Ridge in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He expresses to his sister that he is thankful to God that his life has been spared once again. Mentions that a…

GLC02232.27

January 26, 1864

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Tells his sister that George (possibly a friend) has taken Ward's daguerrotype of her and has asked to keep it. He requests a picture of his sister. Writes that he is afraid he won't get his furlough.

GLC02232.28

February 8, 1864

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864

Autograph letter signed

Title: to his sister

Written from camp near Dalton, Georgia. He writes that he's tempted to give up writing frequently to his sister because she seldom receives all the letters he sends. He expresses to his sister how even the most mundane details of her life are of interest to him. Inquires about the gossip regarding him and his love life. Comments that there are many Memphis ladies marrying rebels. Informs his sister that he's been appointed Judge Advocate of a court martial that is trying two men for staying past their furlough. Reports on the news that his regiment will be returning to Cheetham's…

GLC02232.29