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Mixter, Calvin Symmes, 1832-? [Civil War diary of Calvin S. Mixter]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06583.02 Author/Creator: Mixter, Calvin Symmes, 1832-? Place Written: Various Places Type: Diary Date: 1863 Pagination: 1 v. : 413 p. : Height: 12.5 cm, Width: 8 cm Order a Copy

Signed diary including printed almanac and eclipse calendar in the opening pages. Mixter, a member of the 22nd Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, begins his 1863 diary as his corps returns to Stafford County, Virginia, from a reconnaissance to Ellis Ford, Virginia. Writes from various location throughout 1863. Includes various military details, mentioning that General Joseph Hooker superseded General Ambrose Burnside 26 January 1863 as commander of the Army of the Potomac. Frequently mentions writing letters to his wife and children. In March, discusses his application for a commission. Discusses the officer selection for the 54th Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers, and states that he hopes to obtain the adjutant position for the 14th Regiment, also an African American regiment. On 27 March, reports that Confederates are evacuating Richmond and Fredericksburg, Virginia. Records that President Abraham Lincoln reviewed his corps 7 April. Relates daily events, including several illnesses he attributes to drinking well water. Records the anniversary of his marriage 17 August and his birthday 27 August (states that he is 31 years old). Completes an application for a commission to lead United States Colored Troops 7 September. Attends the execution of a deserter 18 September. Reports seeing a procession of African American Odd Fellows on 9 October. The end of this diary includes account ledgers and other notes. Bound in original leather with a front clasp. Blank diary was printed by D. B. Brooks and Brothers, Salem Massachusetts.

Mixter, Calvin Symmes, 1832-?
Brooks, David Brainard, 1824-1884
Burnside, Ambrose Everett, 1824-1881
Hooker, Joseph, 1814-1879
Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865

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