Blair, D.F., fl. 1864 to his sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08470.02 Author/Creator: Blair, D.F., fl. 1864 Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 December 1864 Pagination: 4 p. ; 20.3 x 25 cm. Order a Copy
Written on board the U.S.S. Mohican, possibly near Wilmington, North Carolina. Discusses the Mohican's participation with Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter's North Atlantic Blockading Squadron at the close of the Battle of Fort Fisher (24 and 25 December). Recalls being the closest wooden vessel to the Fort, and exclaims that survival of the vessel and crew is a miracle. Writes "I fell quite thankfull to the Rebs for not taking better aim..." Possibly referring to General Benjamin Franklin Butler, writes "if Old Butler had had the Spark of a Louse I think he would have got the Fort his Skirmishers got in the Fort got one Flag & some prisoners but not being properly supported had to fall back... as we get the land force we shall in all probility have another trial of it..." Mentions an Uncle John W.
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