Bell, Grove L., 1844-1863 to home friends
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08913.03 Author/Creator: Bell, Grove L., 1844-1863 Place Written: Washington, District of Columbia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : Height: 21 cm, Width: 12.9 cm Order a Copy
Month is unknown, but based on the known whereabouts of the 20th Connecticut, this letter was written on October, November, or December 28th, 1862. Printed on stationery portraying the battle of Mill Spring, Kentucky. Implores his friends to write as often as possible, as much as once a week. Has had trouble finding time to write, for they have been drilling "almost all of the time." His commanding officer is extremely tough, and he is very unpopular amongst the troops: "although he is a grand good military man he… is as wicked as he can be." His company is going to be placed in the thick of battle, with an exposed left flank. "All of the boys say I am getting fat." Had to stage all of Friday in preparation for battle, and marched into Washington yesterday. Regiment about to move into Virginia to reinforce McClellan at "Fredericks City" [Fredericksburg?], but he will stay behind to "pick up stragglers."
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