Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit S., 1835-1885 to Mary B. Van Valkenburgh
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00686.14 Author/Creator: Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit S., 1835-1885 Place Written: Johnson's Island, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: January 26, 1865 Pagination: 1 p. ; 31.7 x 19.7 cm. Order a Copy
Writes as a prisoner of war in Ohio to his mother. References his mother's letter of 11 January 1865. Says the other letters mentioned in the 11 January letter never reached him. Declares that "It is a source of sorrow to me, that I am opposed in principle to the balance of our family - but I am honest in my belief - act in strict accordance therewith - and hope & believe, that if I am wrong, I will be forgiven." Reports that letters from other family members have been sharp and that "most of the letters I have had from the north, seem to be written under the impression that I am either a fool - or that I have followed the course I have, for the fun of this thing & must be getting sick of it." Goes on to further justify his decision to remain with the Confederacy. Is upset that no one thinks he acted "honestly." Signed "G.S. Van Valkenburgh."
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