Gorsuch, Joseph B., ?-1864 to Joseph Curtis and his wife, Mary Gorsuch Curtis
Order a pdf of this item here.
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00653.09.06 Author/Creator: Gorsuch, Joseph B., ?-1864 Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: February 12, 1863 Pagination: 3 p. : Height: 24.8 cm, Width: 19.6 cm Order a Copy
Written in camp near Vicksburg, Mississippi (possibly in Louisiana). Gorsuch, Captain of the 83rd Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, informs his aunt and uncle "I write to you quite frequently, and hear from you but rarely." Transmits a box of things he does not want or need, such as white shirts, a gown, books, and Confederate breast plates. Of the breast plates, he writes "They are worn inside of the vest, and I think are a pretty good sign of a coward... If my flesh is too tender for bullets and shells, then I had better quit soldiering." Predicts that the Curtis's could use the plates, however, if their place of residence in Hamilton, Ohio, is invaded. Believes that him and other troops camped near Vicksburg "are playing a perfect sham. For what purpose I can not tell, probably to keep the rebel force here while we attempt something feasible at another point." Relates he has been detailed as a member of a General Court Martial at General John Alexander McClernand's headquarters. Comments on the good health of his company. Signed as "Benson," a nickname Gorsuch frequently used when corresponding with his uncle.
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.