Civil War Correspondence & Diaries

Wounded and captured at Chancellorsville, his time spent at Libby Prison and the death of Stonewall Jackson...
539. Diary kept by Pvt. Simon Smith of the 153rd PA, 5 Oct. 1862 to 11 July 1863 (with additional entries from the 1880s). Binding missing, some pages loose. Approx. 44pp., (120 x 76mm.) kept primarily in pencil with some ink entries, cover the Civil War period. Together with a largely unused bound 1866 diary. Diary documents his travels together with his wounding and capture at Chancellorsville, time spent at Libby Prison and the death of Stonewall Jackson. In part: Ò[5 Oct.1862] wrote a letter on the fight and sixth to my wife we was mustered in the United States sirves on the tenth received ouer equipmets on the leventh... [23 Oct.] left Camp Sewerd and arived nere Campt Wagner at night... [4 Nov.] came to Washington took the steem boat...camp cauld the Sogers home... [5 Nov.] left Camp and go on the bord of the [train] cares and came a bout thirty miles to Manases Juncktion... [30 Nov.] been over the Shantilly battel field...Ò After spending the winter at Potomac Creek bridge, Ò[27 Apr.] left cap marcht 15 miles... [29 Apr.] marcht 18 miles crost the Rappadin River... [30 Apr.] marcht a bout 123 miles to Janderlersville to the battle ground met a few skurmis a long the rode... [1 May]... was uneasy and Skurmish all day slep on ouer armes all night...[2 May]...still skurmush till a bout 4 o clock the battle comenst I soon was hurt by a pese of a bomb shell so that I couldent get a long so I was taken prisner I was taken back over. the battle field and the first man I saw to know was Dr Nef and the plase ware we state all night I saw soon Thirty of ouer Regt [39 officers and men of the 153rd were captured that day]...[3 May] left and took up a line of march and came 14 miles to Sposilvania Cort House...[4 May]...kame to a bout 12 miles to a Station cauld Guiney 11 miles be low Fredricksburg... [8 May] marcht to Hanover Station...[9 May]...travild a bout 30 miles landed in Richmond a bout 10 O clock at night in the Libey Jail [10 May] receive 2 ration of brub Sauft Bred and a smaul pese of Spoek To day Stone Wall Jaxon dide... [12 May] to day Jaxon was berred we ware perold at 12 O clock at night we got 2 meals to day... [13 May] we received one small peas of bred for one days grub each man receive one hald of a lofe for over journey starded a bout 2 or 3 o clock... [14 May] verry mudey past thrue Petersburg came 16 miles and landed a bout 12 oclock got on the Boat of the Georgia... [15 May]...landed at Fortres monro... [16 May]...lanted at Anapolis...Ò The balance of SmithÕs time was spent convalescing and from what we find, he managed to avoid the carnage at Gettysburg, where his regiment suffered 23 killed and 148 wounded. The diary continues noting his return to Pennsylvania and his discharge at Harrisburg in July 1863. (Est. $1,000-1,500)

540. 62nd Ohio Diary Covering Stonewall Jackson Valley Campaign With OwnerÕs CDV. A great war-date diary written by Pvt. Thomas H. Gibbons of the 62nd Ohio Vols and kept by him from the time of his enlistment in 1861 until near the end of Stonewall JacksonÕs 1862 Valley campaign. A typical three entry per page diary, Gibbons mainly filled in the diary in pencil and covers his military service from October 1861 through June 1862, totaling nearly 50-pages, reading, in small part: [10/14/61]marched...to the Fairground...our squad consisting 30 men and Lieut. S. B. Taylor. We with the rest was considered a company forming for the 62nd Regt OVI we stayed there about two weeks when Lieut. S.B. Taylor went home and fetched some more men for our company...we elected our company officers...Capt Henry Jackson, First Lieut. S.B. Taylor, Second Lieut Joel M. Mearing...[11/15]six companies of us was ordered to Marietta where there was a fine company of the 63rd Regt OVI, the intention of the officers seemed to be consolidation of our two regiments and put Colonel Craig of the 63rd in as Colonel...[11/17]our company was supplied with muskets and accoutrements. We were then deployed so as to make a big show, one company of the 63rd was fixed out in like manner...Colonel Craig and his staff mounted on fine horses moved at the head of the column, in this manner we went through town...[1/18/62]got on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad and soon as we was all across the river we got into some old frat cars and started at 4 in the morning...we had orders from Gen. Kelley to have 3 days cooked rations in our haversacks and be ready to march...[2/13]got orders to move by railroad and as we moved out we saw the rest of General Leanders Division moving towards Bloomery Gap where they routed 6000 rebels and captured several without any loss on our side...we established Camp Kimball... [3/14]camped on the ground where General Banks engaged the rebels during his first march towards Winchester, our company was quartered in a house...[3/17]we marched 3 miles towards Winchester without any assigned reason for doing so about this time General Shields took Command of us he had 18 thousand men...[3/18]joined the rest of Shields force at Winchester the entire force was 8,000 infantry 700 cavalry and 24 pieces of artillery...we was within 3 or 4 miles of Cedar Creek we saw a dense smoke raising in front which proved to be a wooden bridge on fire, the rebs thought to deter our advance by burning the bridge, but our advance was on them before they got it completed and a right smart skirmish ensued resulting in the loss of several men on each side....[3/19]crossed the creek on a temporary bridge made out of rails and the remains of the old bridge...to the edge of Strausburg and we halted while the advance felt around a little to see if there was any graybacks in that part but it wasnÕt long until the rebs opened a masked battery on them but done no harm. Our artillery was pushed in front and we were brought up for support...that was one of our first fights...[battle of Winchester, 3/22]we received orders to march to Winchester and when we got there the skirmishing was going on during the afternoon the weather had cleared off, the result was fifty rebels killed and wounded about 25 of our men besides General Shields, he was wounded in the arm...[3/23] we got to Winchester about 2 oÕclock the cannons was then roaring at Kernstown 3 miles distant from Winchester, we were rushed forward and took up our position. On the left our position and fronting rebel AshbyÕs Cavalry the rebel cannon threw a few shell at us without doing any damage. At 3 oÕclock the infantry fight commenced and continued on till a half hour before dark. Our regiment started for the scene of action we got on the field just as the rebels were retiring. We was willing to change front but the rebs run before we got quite there...[3/24]we followed the rebels all day once was drawn in line but they run. [3/25]we still followed in pursuit...[3/26]our regiment went on a scouting expedition...[4/1]our regiment was sent on picket in front...the rebel pickets commenced to shell us but old DomeÕs Battery then scolded them...[4/17]we started on a route after [Stonewall] Jackson and drove him before us he fled and we pursued trying to surround him to make a fight but he fled to fast. We routed some of his rear guards at a burning bridge at Mount Jackson but was too late to save the bridge. We countered another party that was firing a large bridge over the Rappahannock capturing some...[5/5]General Shields and Colonel Dome [?] took up a grand position...here we was ordered to Fredericksburg and sent all of our sick to Strausburg to General Banks...[5/22]we was visited by President Lincoln, that was on Sunday I believe we drawed new caps that morning and when the President, wife and cabinet came we had a Grand Review...[5/30]we started and came through Front Royal routing the Rebels from there, a right smart skirmish ensued loosing some on both sides but our loss very light. We killed several and captured 60 prisoners...our brigade was ordered to go across towards Strausburg to reinforce the first brigade but we did not go far until we was ordered back for the first brigade had routed the rebels...[battle of Port Royal, 6/8]drawn up in line of battle for the 3 & 4 Brig. was in front of us and Jackson had attacked them and whipped them and they was retreating back that way but the rebels didnÕt follow them so our line was not disturbed that night. We all came back five miles, our regiment covering the retreat, this was the fight near Port Republic...PLUS; a war-date CDV of Gibbons in a seated pose. Gibbons began the war in the 62nd Ohio and ended it in the 67th Ohio, but not before serving at the battles of Fort Wagner, Deep Bottom and  Appomattox Court House on the day Lee surrendered his famed army. Minor splits at the binding, else VG.   (Est. $1,200-1,800)

542. Fascinating 1865 56th PA Infantry Diary. ÒPresident Lincoln was assassinatedÉ Booth was the vilian who did the actÉÓ  Fine content: ÒÉwe were very near being takin Prisoners but the 3rd Pa Cavalry saved usÉÓ Brown leather diary measures 4.25 x 6.75Ó and runs 46pp., with 28pp.of diary entries and 18pp. of notes and ledgers in the soldierÕs hand. Diary from John M. Sloan of the 56th PA Infantry, Co. D. Entries span the entirety of his four-month service, 15 March to 7 July 1865, and include reference to LincolnÕs assassination, the death of their Colonel and the hardships of the soldiersÕ long march. Excerpts: ÒMarch 15, 1865 entered the Union Army at Clarien in the way of a draftÉFr [April] 14th Morning cloudy and cold. Was examined to see if there was any that was not vaccinated. Sat 15th Threatened rain. Last night President Lincoln was assassinatedÉ 1/2 past 7 Lincoln died. Boothe [sic] was the vilian who did the act. Sun 16th Easter morning. Cold. was inspected at 8 then got a pass to go out of Camp. Went to Braddocs fieldsÉ23rd Sunday Clear and Cold. J B Smith is cooking his breakfast. I dont care whether I cook min or not John IÕll eat mine raw. on the 21st we were very near being takin Prisoners but the 3rd Pa Cavalry saved us from being capturedÉ24thÉtoday we moved or camp back along the Road. the day got quite warm. 25thÉhave no tents. the air is cold at night without any shelter over usÉ26th clear and warm. we drilled some to day. the Reb killed one of our Colonels to day and threw him in the riverÉ27thÉby the carelessness of one of the Guard, his gun went off and the ball passed through a bush at my head. the monthly inspection cam off today. had no inspection for the last two months. was to buisyÉ29thÉsome of the boys was out foraging and was fired at and no little skared; last night there was a copper head came into [camp] and was killed. they are very plenty hereÉMay 1st was awakened up at 1/2 past one to draw rations and be ready to move at a min warning. drew five days rations. an order was read to the Company from Gen Mead not to molest anything on the march as the strictest discipline was to be looked toÉ3rd started at 1/2 past 6. slept in an orchard 3 miles from Petersburg. in all directions there is fortifications. walked over a dead body that was scarcely covered. at ten entered Petersburgh. there is some splendid building in the upper part of the City. lower part is all destroyedÉ4thÉGeorge Wagner and I started out to get something more palatable than hard tack. Wagoner got afraid and turned backÉ5thÉrec a letter from Alexander. he was well. Newton was wounded in the left armÉ6thÉmarched through Manchester and RichmondÉit was very warm. quite a number of the men was sun struckÉtook dinner where Little Mack have thrown up fortificationsÉ7thÉhazy. morning stragglers is still coming in. passed Hanover Ct House the building is not larger than Penn School and the jail is still smaller and stone. the Court house is BrickÉ8thÉpassed the Spotsylvania Court house. strong work to the rightÉ11thÉI never seen as stormy a night. it blew down our tents. had to go to the woods and build large fires. there was one man and several mules struck by lightning and killedÉseveral men chilled to deathÉvery hard marching. the road is filled with Artillery. dont feel well to day. think I am taking the feverÉ15 moved one mile into a clover field. very sick to dayÉ17thÉstill very severe pain in head and backÉ22nd last night when it was thundering and raining our Bunk fell down in the wet and mudÉ23rd Beautiful morning. the troops started early to Washington to be reviewedÉ[June] 23rdÉat 10 the order was read to us that as soon as possible we was to be dischargedÉI went to hear Col McGregor and Col Wagoner make an addressÉhow to go home and how to behave when they got homeÉJuly 1st Day pleasant. was mustered out of the United States service at 3. a great many of the men got whiskey and is drunk and fighting. 2nd last night there was a full turn out. we all got candles and marched to brigade head quarters and cheered Gen Rot in PhiladelphiaÉthere was fire works. Looked beautiful at a distanceÉÓ Leather is worn, quite fine. (Est. $800-1,200)

543. ÒPresÕt Lincoln having been shot last night in the back of the head... Left home this evening for Harrisburg to attend the Funeral obsequies of PresÕt Lincoln... He looks Natural...Ó The diary of Civil War Nurse Annie BellÕs Father. Excellent diary written by the father of Annie Bell, famous Civil War nurse who cared for wounded Union soldiers at the battle of Nashville and other famous Civil War battles. Her father, who was a minister, writes the following important passages in his 1865 diary. Reads in part: March 2 Edward started this morning for Washington City to attend the inauguration of the President, March 4 Feeling uneasy about not hearing from Annie. Have not heard or got a letter from her for 3 weeks, April 3 Have heard of the evacuation of Petersburg & Richmond. Have reason Great reason to thank God who has given us the victory over those traitors who would destroy us if they could as a nation, hope and pray that it may prove not only a victory but a braking up of the whole rebel army & restoration of peace, April 8 Good news from Grant and Sheridan, have great reason to be thankful that God is blessing our brave army, and giving them the Victory over the traitors to Him be all the Glory, April 10 J.E. Beigle here - came up yesterday, she intends to teach the freedman in Tennessee Murfreesboro. Heard of Lees Surrender this morning, God be praised for his mercy to us, April 12 Great rejoicing on acct of good news from the Army every where, April 15 Have heard of the dreadful news of Prest Lincoln having been shot last night in the back of the head about 11 oclock in the theater in Washington City what sad news did not believe it at first. Possible that Secy Seward had his throat cut - that both are dead. O God do thou have mercy on us & the wretches that done it, April 16 Feel sad about the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Can hardly realize that it is true yet its but too certain that it is true, hope and pray that the guilty wretch that done the hellish deed may be arrested & suffer the severest penalties of the law with all who have had any hand in it bringing the wicked deed about, April 21 Left home this evening for Harrisburg (Pennsylvania) to attend the Funeral Obsequies of Prest Lincoln, April 24 Arrived in Harrisburg about 7 oclock A.M. got breakfast at somebodys hotel a poor one. Went up to the Capitol and got into the crowd that was trying to get into see the late great & good President Abraham Lincoln. Got through after getting a most dreadful squeezing. Saw him. He looks Natural - went through a 2nd time - Home this evening Great reason to be thankful, May 10 daughter Annie came home from Nashville, brought a colored girl called Joanna along with her - great reason to be thankful to the giver of all good for her safe return & for the many mercies & blessings he has crowded our pathway with, May 19 Dr. George E. Stubbs got here about 9 oclock P.M. from Nashville Tennessee Annies intended Husd (Husband) quite a pleasant man. Much more content about Annie, the funeral of a soldier (Richard Bell of Co. F of the 76th regiment). An excellent account of Lincolns assassination, and viewing his body at the funeral in Harrisburg.  (Est. $800-1,200)

544. ÒWhen Ellsworth Was Shot... the South in favor of Secession... Saw one of the Ellsworth Zouaves...Ó Fascinating group of 9 letters, 7 being from Walter B. Cobb, a store keeper in Derby Line, VT with two others from family members, all between Jan. 1860–Dec. 1863. On July 7, 1861, he details EllsworthÕs Zouaves and the death of Elmer Ellsworth, in part: ÒI have many acquaintances who have enlisted in the 4th Regt. The soldiers find there is no more of prose and less of poetry in camp life than they were anticipated. The soldiers appeared well in their new uniforms. I think it the best Regiment I have seen of ÔRaw VolunteersÕ. They had a splendid regimental band. What I thought lacking was experienced officers. Gen. Baxter was a very superior appearing officer. He is nearly the height of Gen. Scott. I saw one of the Ellsworth Zouaves - dressed in a red flannel jacket and blue flannel pants, red cap, and kind of gaiter boot. He said he was from near St. Johnsbury - was front of the Marshall House when Ellsworth was shot. He said Ellsworth posted a guard inside of the hotel before he went up after the secession flag, but he was met by Jackson stepping from a side doorÉRev. Mr. Lee from Stanstead (returned) from Miss... Says we have no idea of the intense feeling south in favor of Secession. All able bodied men are enrolled... often the women practice with revolvers. I conclude they think it necessary on account of keeping their slaves down.Ó The October 12, 1862 letter reads in part: ÒThe Rebel raid into Pennsylvania causes much surprise here. Baxter says he hopes they will burn the city of Philadelphia - thinking it will arouse the North.Ó The February 13, 1863 letter reads in part: ÒWe have a number of invalid soldiers in this vicinity who quickly regain their health if they can breathe the strong air of Vermont.Ó More content pertaining to Vermont life. Jackson was the owner/manager of the Marshall house in Alexandria, Va., where Ellsworth was shot and killed. Cobb also refers to the 4th Vermont Infantry which saw much action during the war. A nice archive.  (Est. $300-500)

545. Confederate letter describing prisoner executions. Two-page ALS, February 12, 1864, signed ÒHarveyÓ, to Col. A.C. Corabs, ÒNear GreenvilleÓ, with great content: ÒI was very glad to hear from one I esteem so highly. And would have written sooner but circumstances prevented me from doing so; Since I last wrote we have had quite an exciting time in this portion of our states; About the first of this month our Army (about ten or twelve thousand in number) advanced upon Newburn evidently with the intention of capturing that place but they found it - far strongly fortified and did not try to take it. We captured about three hundred prisoners. Some of them formerly belonged to our Army. Them that were indentified [sic] as such were immediately hung; The war in this portion of the States is fast-assuming a terrible form. Near every day witnesses the execution of some one. But I hope before many months shall pass away the enemy will see the insanity of his determination And will acknowledge it was our inherent and indefensible right of Self Government, and terminate a war that has already draped in mourning every household.Ó Interesting history from the last stage of the War. Includes cover and cdv of likely HenryÕs girlfriend.  (Est. $500-800)

546. Secession fever in Baltimore just three weeks after LincolnÕs election... ÒBaltimore is Union to the core...Ó Two firehouses fight over the ÒemblemÓ of treason!  Great ALS, 4pp., November 30, 1860, on ÒOffice of the Baltimore City Passenger RailwaysÓ stationery, 4p., to his father David W. Naill. Both father and son served in the House of Delegates of Frederick County, Maryland. David served in the 1840s through the 1860s; his son served in 1876 as a Republican. Written in the immediate wake of LincolnÕs election, Nail just assumed his new position as  Provost-marshal of the Fourth District of Maryland. Captain Henry C. Naill writes, in part: ÒOn Monday morning I will enter on duty proper, which I know will be more congenial to my feelings than service without pay. I have taken boarding at Mrs. HallÕs on HollidayÕs St. near the MayorÕs Office. I will be made very comfortable there from all appearances at $4 per week. My salary is $52 per month. By the introduction of Country economy I can make more by double than I have ever made. My working hours are long – but my co-workers at Gay St. who work every other day only will give me an hour or two off each day which will be a comfortable item to me...Ó He then talks of a friendÕs secret marriage and other matters before reporting that ÒThe Palmetto flag was run up at the Liberty Engine House on Tuesday but the Citizens would not stand so extreme a move, and the friends of the ÒLone StarÓ determined to haul in the secession emblem. Baltimore is Union to the core. I have seen the Palmetto cockade. It is black with a bright yellow button in the centre. They are not worn. There are Union ones also. Those are blue and some few are worn. Gov. HickÕs letter takes well here...Ó Maryland Governor Thomas H. Hicks was initially quite hostile to Lincoln firmly believing in StateÕs Rights regarding slavery. His letter voiced dismay for any imposition of Federal forces to quell riotous behavior. The writer, clearly aware of the growing danger in his city, goes on to tell his father: ÒI want you to send me your revolver... load every barrel and send the loading fixtures with it. Say nothing to the family about this. I am alone in the Office much of the time at night and feel rather defenseless...Ó He writes further on the move to hold an extra session of the Legislature as to address the banking concerns arising with commerce between the states. A fine missive. (Est. $400-600)

547. Great early Civil War letter from a Brit in Maine! Lengthy, 7pp. letter, Portland (ME), 10th October 1861 from ÒHarryÓ, an Englishman, writing to his fiancŽe in Canada. Excellent content describing how people cannot criticize government policies without risk of imprisonment and also a scathing attack on Yankee women. Includes: ÒLast night Will an I went to a party and my impression of the people here is not improve at all by meeting them again in societyÉThere actually was not good looking lady or thoroughbred looking gentleman there and for the conversationÉthe less said of it, the better. These American women are very amusing in one way; that is, their pretensions to knowledge and wit, contrasted with their actual want of education and the thinness of their minds. To hear them trying to discuss anything serious puts me in mind of school boys or girls taking of history or politics, I cannot stand Yankee women. Thank goodness we donÕt see much of them except in business, for they are frightful boresÉwith their wretched bragging about their miserable war and their petty jealousy of England. It is curious to note that the most intelligent, especially those who have been abroad, are really opposed to the war - despite their government and detest the rule of the mob, alias people, but they dare not speak out. One gentleman said to me the other day, ÔIf I were to say what I thought, they would send me to Fort LafayetteÕ. We Britishers can say what we like without dread of such fate, though tar and feathers may befall us some day.Ó A great piece! (Est. $200-400)

548. Civil War soldierÕs letter, Camp Griffin Virginia, December 21, 1861, 3pp., in pencil from M. N. Hoyt, a foot soldier from Vermont. The letter describes battles under the command of McClellan. ÒÉa Scout tride to cut of our amblents but our scout cut hem of. To of the reb started to run but they stoped. One had 9 bulets shot into him the other 3. tok 8 prisnerÉ no fear was not in my brestÉ there was on the rebels side 4 to 5 thousand. On our 3000. they fled in such hast that they left 2 canons and small arms and napsaks so meney that they cont cary it al away. We shod have gon to the fel if they hant bernt the bridge so we cont cros the lore PortimacÉÓ (Est. $100-150)

549. To a soldier in hospital. Two letters from East Windsor, CT., Mar. 15th & Mar. 30, 1863, to Union soldier William W. Green., Co.. G, 25th Regt. C.V., Gen. Banks Division, New Orleans, LouisianaÓ, w/pencil notation directing it to ÒNew Orleans, St. James HospitalÓ. The first, 3pp., from his girlfriend: ÒThe Copperheads are very venemous & active now, but they are overdoing themselves to some extent. Is it true that Gen. Banks is so much more the Slaveholders friend than Gen. Butler was? & if so, why is it?...I hear that your officers have all been sick & some of them remain soÉI suppose soldiers as well as those who wait at home, have need of all the patient, trustful virtues. The great Captain seems to make of all counsel, foolishness, but I do believe he will yet give victory to the right; but perhaps as we have so long sinned as a nation, we must also suffer long. I enclose you a few Dovers powders, which I hope you will not need, but if not yourself, someone mayÉÓ The 2nd letter, 4pp., from his sister, includes: ÒI have taken a soiled sheet upon which to write to you, for I want to send you all the paper I have... O! I do hope you are getting wellÉKeep up good courage, it is so essential to good health. We have prepared some boiled flour. You remember using it for a bowel complaint. Grate a couple of tablespoons full and make a cup of gruel using water with a little salt. Or many people eat the flour from the ball several times a day. It has often wrought cures in obstinate cases and is recommended by all PhysiciansÉ Will send tea, cough drops, tincture of rhubarb, a pair of stockings, a neck-kerchief, crackers, dried beef, cheese etc. The stockings are woolen. We were undecided whether to send them or cotton, but find it is the testimony of soldiers that woolen are better to march in, andÉeven for hot climates, they are more conducive to health. A whole cheese is sentÉWe send a little more jelly and candy. DonÕt eat too much of either. We think of many things, but as you all were ailing, we fear to send some things you would like if you were well. For instance, dried apples, but we read of deaths among soldiers from eating Ôjust a fewÕ uncooked. Some speak of sending Ôspirits of turpentineÕ. If it is sent, be very careful and use only a very small dose, say 6 drops, and that only in case of necessityÉWe have had two political lectures: Mayor Deming, Republican & Gallagher, Copperhead. Perhaps you know the peace democrats take the copper cent and cut out the head, which ladies and gentlemen wear for shawl pins, etcÉIf Seymour is elected, it is thought he will disappoint his party. I do not believe he can fulfill his promises, and if he attempts, I think Lincoln will be enough for him...Ó Great insight from home. (Est. $200-300)

We know for certain, the ONLY extant example... as it was the ONLY copy printed!

550.  [Confidential Investigation of Quincy Adams Gilmore 1864.] Collectors and especially bibliophiles fantasize about owning the truly unique and one of a kind. Sadly with imprints, there is always the possibility of finding 'yet another copy' even if only one extant copy is known. Very rarely can we claim emphatically that we have the only copy of an imprint ever made. This may be one of these cases-- and better yet, it's fully documented: an extremely rare pamphlet, Amos Beebe EATON (1806-77), Inspection Report of the Disbursing Branches of the ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES in the Military Department of the South, 27pp. 9 x 5 1/2", titled wraps signed and inscribed: "Received New York June 22d 1864 A. B. Eaton Col & A.C.G.S." and marked "Confidential" at top. According to an A.L.S. of Hardee, 1p. 9 3/4" x 8" Washington, June 20, 1864 affixed behind the title page, this is the only copy ever pressed. Hardie opens the letter complimenting Eaton on his efforts and notes that "...You may know that I think the report valuable, since I had it printed Confidentially for the eye of the Secretary [Stanton] himself, who has read it & sent it to Gen Halleck for his review. The report has not been published. You need fear no issue of Extra copies. I send you one. I had the report printed on a War dept hand press, a few pages set up at a time & struck off -- then the same type used again &c. So you can see there can be no extra copies [illeg.] retained by any body. I like the report very much..." Why in the world Hardee would have taken the trouble to have this printed once is unknown and befuddling to say the least. The blank interior flyleaf of the imprint bears an affixed copy of the original transmittal envelope from the War Dept. addressed to Eaton and franked by Inspector General James A. HARDEE: "Jas A Hardie Inspector Genl USA" with a Washington D.C. Free June 24, 1864 cancellation.
 Written by a Civil War Union Brevet Major General and West Point graduate, Eaton served as a Lieutenant in the US Army Commissariat, 1834-6 and in the Mexican American War. At the start of the Civil War in 1861, he was appointed Lt. Col., assistant commissary general. His task was to create an effective supply system for the large number of troops entering the Union Army for the war.  For his work provisioning and distributing supplies to the troops, he was promoted Brigadier General Commissary General of the subsistence bureau in Washington, D. C. He held the position of Commissary General for the entire war and for distinguished service was brevetted Major General of US Volunteers in March 1865. After the war, he remained in the Regular Army as Commissary General, until he retired in 1874.  The report, issued in response to an order of April 2, 1864 by Secretary of War Stanton, focused on the command of Major General Quincy Adams Gilmore while operating in South Carolina. Eaton concludes: "The opinion is nearly universal among officers long in the Department of the South, as well as among civilians resident there, that there has for a long time existed very bad management of the water transportation; that it has been in great excess of the actual necessities of the service; that this has arisen from the fact that General Gilmore, however brilliant as an engineer or successful as a commander, is not an economist, and that the head of the Quartermaster's Department there, to whom this matter especially belongs to control, has not managed his Department well; that the Commander of the Dept. and the head of the Quarter-master's Dept. not seeking the economical interests of the service, or if seeking, not knowing how to compass the object, lesser functionaries cannot be expected to do so with much success. To be successful over the enemy is the one item of such all-absorbing interest and importance, that it is not to be considered surprising if it should take such exclusive hold of an ambitious commander as to nearly if not quite cause matters of lesser but still of great importance be nearly ignored... It is but just to the Quartermaster's Dept. and to those officers of it who occupy its chief positions, to admit that their duties are so various and vast that there are but few men who are by grasp of mind, expert knowledge and experience fully equal to them..." Gilmore had commanded the attacks on Fort Wagner which included the black troops of the 54th MA. Sec. of War Edwin M. STANTON read the report very soon after it's singular publication, and was impressed. The group includes an A.L.S. "Edwin M. Stanton" as Sec. of War, Washington, June 28, 1864 to Eaton noting that he had "...read with great interest your report upon the several branches of the Service inspected by you under the Special order of this Department at Hilton Head. You will please accept the cordial thanks of this Department for the diligence, fidelity, and ability with which you discharged the important duties confided to you." The verso bears the transmittal envelope franked by and in Stanton's hand. Stanton's letter is accompanied by an L.S. of Asst. Adj. Gen. E D. TOWNSEND, 1p., Washington, July 18, 1864 enclosing Stanton's letter. By definition, this is truly unique history.   (Est. $800-1,000)

Cedar Mountain M.O.H. winner
describes his heroism!

551.  Superb descriptive letter written by Medal of Honor recipient First Lt. George W. Corliss, 4pp. 4to. on Headquarters Dept. of Mississippi letterhead, Vicksburg, June 28, 1866 to Maj. Gen. Samuel W. Crawford outlining his gallant conduct at the battle of Cedar Mountain facing the celebrated ÒStonewallÓ Brigade. In small part: ÒÉI am desirous of obtaining a brevet promotion for my conduct at the battle of ÔCedar MountainÕ, Va. August 9, Ô62Éduring that fearful charge of your Brigade I commanded my company (C, color company) and as the line advanced I led my company in front of the line and when my color sergeant [Alexander Avery] was killed I seized the National Colors as it fell from his hands and bore it myself-still in front of the line-until woundedÉwhen I fell on the field. I planted the staffÉin the ground and held it up unfurled until taken from me by one of my company sergeants [Luzerne A. Palmer] who advanced with it and received three woundsÉI am entitled to some recognitionÉwhich I have never before asked forÉI entered the 5th C. V. as captain May 14, 1861, served in that capacity untilÉ1863 when I resigned on account of my wound. I entered the V.R.C. April 23, 1864 andÉ[as] a 1st LieutÉI suppose there is one file against meÉfrom Col. Chapman which has no doubt had some effect in keeping me from being restored to my original rank. If Lieut. Col. Stone and major BlakeÉhad returned from that battle I should haveÉreceived all the honors their influence could bestowÉin consequence of my efforts to support Lieut. Col. StoneÉwhich IÉconsider justly belonged to him at that terrible battle that I was thus unfortunately involved in controversyÉÒ Fine. (Est. $300-500)

552. SUPERB CIVIL WAR CONTENT.
Very lengthy, 11pp., well-written correspondence from a transplanted Englishman, Edwin J. Carver, writing back home to his parents.  From Albany, June 15, 1862, detailed content describing the latest war news, predicting a capture of Richmond within two weeks; in reality, the Seven Days Retreat began two weeks after he wrote this letter. Also keen observations of Americans and upstate New York: ÒThe war seems to me to be pretty near an endÉthere may be 2 or 3 more sharp engagementsÉThe rebels had a taste of northern steel a week or 2 ago before Richmond; they did not relish it muchÉ They picked a time when a terrific storm broke over the armies to drive the left wing into the Chickahominy River and thus turn our position. The advance division under Gen. Casey numbering some 5000 men received the first shock from the RebelsÉand had to give way. But reinforcements being quickly sent up, no further retreat was made. The next day, they made the attempt again, and our armyÉwent out to meet them; the bayonet was freely used, and this the rebels could not standÉThis battle cost us some 6 or 7 thousand killed, wounded and missing. The rebels lost at least 10,000. We have prisoners from over 66 rebel regimentsÉtheir force could not have been less than 60,000 men. Fort Pillow was evacuated and our gunboats proceeded down the Mississippi to Memphis, where they found the rebel boats and engaged them; all but one were either captured or destroyed, thus opening the Mississippi from N. Orleans upward. Corinth is evacuated and BeauregardÕs army broken and gone no one knows whereÉOur folks have taken some 15,000 prisoners and immense stores of provisions, war materiel, etc. A large number of the prisoners we have taken positively refuse to be exchanged, preferring to remain North to going back again to Secessia. Within the next fortnightÉRichmond will be in our possessionÉthe rebels will retreat to that Òlast ditchÓÉWhat we will do with the subjugated rebels. We intend to keep them subjugated till they choose to come to terms, serve them as Gen. Butler does in N. OrleansÉthe states will be largely colonized by northern people, who will soon outvote the seccesionistsÉÓ   (Est. $400-500)

The Confederate GeneralÕs Signed orders for the defense of Virginia.
553. RUGGLES, Daniel. (1810-97) Confederate Brigadier General. War Date Manuscript Document Signed "Daniel Ruggles Col. Prov'l Army Comdg" in lavender pencil, 2pp., Fredericksburg, Va., May 22, 1861 being General Orders No. 13 detailing organizational assignments including an order that "...Captain's [sic] Johnson's Rifle Company now at Camp Mercer will be held in  readiness to march at one hours notice, supplied with two days rations and forty rounds of cartridges per man... The commanding officer at Camp Mercer will detail from his command...twelve men for detached service under Captain Lynch of the Navy at the Batteries on the Potomac until further orders... Col. R. Cary will see that the companies of his immediate command in the vicinity of the Potomac are provided with forty rounds of ammunition per man an in constant readiness for active service on the field... Captain Gouldens Company of 'Sparta Greggs' now at Camp Madison, will march to King George Court House and there await further orders..." Much more fine content detailing the preparations for the Confederate defense of Virginia in the months between the fall of Fort Sumter and the Battle of First Bull Run.  (Est. $300-500)

554. The country ruined by slavery. Fascinating ALS from Anna Churchill, Madison (NJ ?) to her grand-daughter Hattie Ford in Brafton Co., NH, June 2, 1861, lamenting the outbreak of the war. ÒÉeverything seemed very prosperous till the war broke out, which seems to bring plight upon almost all our Earthly prospects it seems very shocking that our country come so near being crushed by the laws of slavery.Ó  With transmittal postal-used cover, 3-cent cancelled, some loss to bottom of envelope where opened, embossed patriotic flag design. Clearly Anna knew things were only going to go from bad to worse!   (Est. $100-200)

555. Union corespondence from Francis Parker, Col. 32nd Mass, July 10, 1862, 1p., to his wife. Fascinating missive revealing some soldiersÕ views on their president. Parker writes, ÒPresident Lincoln bored us to death waiting to be received by him night before last & finally got along about 9 oÕclock by midnight. The Army is not fond of him and I have advised him to quit writing and reading letters & he promises to do so.Ó The 32nd Mass., whose nucleus became known as the Parker Battalion, was organized in November, 1861, to garrison Fort Warren, Boston Harbor. Parker enlisted on 12/2/1861 as a Major and was commissioned into Field & Staff MA 32nd Inf. He resigned a year later.  (Est. $200-300)

556. All the soldiers voted for Lincoln! ALS of Private Charles W. Personius, enlisted 8/25/1862 at Middletown, NY  into ÒGÓ Co. NY 50th Engineers, mustered out on 6/13/1865 at Fort Barry, VA. 2pp., to his brother from a ÒCamp Near the Jordan House North of Petersburg Va,Ó Oct. 25th, 1864. Personius writes on various matters noting that Òwe all voted nearly a week ago...and all voted a clean Republican Ticket straight through.Ó Fine.  (Est. $100-200)

557. ÒSaw Old Abe... Saw Mrs. Lincoln... She dresses in deep mourning.Ó Excellent 4pp. letter, Washington, D.C., July 20, 1862. From Abraham Hardy, 40th NY Infantry to Miss S. J. Clifford, light ink but very readable, in part: ÒYou will see by the date of my letter that we are in Washington city... Some think we will be sent to reinforce Pope in the Shenandoah valley while others contend we will be sent to McClellan... We are watching with intense anxiety the response of the loyal states to the Presidents call for 300,000 more troops... I saw old abe and his cabinet at the Capitol on the adjournment & I saw Mrs. Lincoln & ÔTommyÕ there to. Mrs. Lincoln was walking through the Capitol arm and arm with the Hon. John J. Crittenden. As I wrote in my other letter she dresses in deep mourning & very plainlyÓ. Hardy goes on to discuss being in a military funeral escort, discusses wounded soldiers, firing 3 rounds over a grave, and more. The ÒTommyÓ that Hardy refers to is most probably ÒTadÓ Lincoln who was always at Mrs. LincolnÕs side. Hardy also cites that Mrs. Lincoln is dressed in Òdeep mourningÓ. The President and Mrs. Lincoln had just lost their son Willie on February 20, 1862, dying of typhoid fever. Mrs. Lincoln wore mourning attire for several years after Willie died. A wonderful first-hand account. (Est. $300-$500)

558. Burning Andrew Johnson in Effigy and the southern secession question in 1860! Antebellum southern letter, 4pp., Memphis, TN., December 29, 1860. J.B. Burney to his brother on the pressing issues of secession, in part: ÒWe are having considerable excitement here on the secession question. Although there are a great many here who still pretend to think that the Union can be preserved. Gov. U.S. Brown delivered a speech at Odd Fellows Hall day before yesterday in favor of at least making an effort to preserve it. On the night of the same day the minute men & seceeders generally were addressed by Camin of Memphis and Peter B. Stark of Bolivan county, Miss. They both made very fine speeches. The citizens did Hon. Andrew Johnson the honor to burn him in effigy last week. I donÕt think I ever saw so much excitement in my life. I understand they hung him (Johnson) in effigy at the junction today - wonÕt oxford give him a lift?Ó A fine letter written shortly after the election of Lincoln, and on the cusp of Southern Secession.  (Est. $150-200)

559. Hanging traitors in the North! SoldierÕs letter signed ÒHowardÓ, Jackson, TN, March 20, 1863, to his cousin Abbie, 4pp. Ò...We are still in the same camp we were when I last wrote... As for the war, I was thinking it will last a good while unless the Government does something with those Traitors in the Northern States. I donÕt think this war will come to a close until a draft and a heavy one takes place. I for one am in favor of it. Oh thereÕs so many Southern sympathizers in the Northern States. All I wish is that I could have the disposal of them If I had they would be hung higher than Hayman...Ó   (Est. $75-100)

560. Telegrams: preparing for an army raid towards Richmond. Pair of war-date ÒUnited States Military TelegraphÓ forms, from Brevet Lt. Col. John G. Hazard to newly minted Union Gen. John C. Tidball, both December 8, 1864. Hazard inquires of the two battalions that are to report to Hazard for duty including their bringing rations and ammunition in preparation for a raid towards Richmond. The second telegram congratulates Tidball on his promotion to brevet brigadier general and advises that: ÒGenl. Humphries desires only four light twelve pounders and three inch from your commandÉÓ. Great Civil War ephemera. (Est. $200-300)

561. A Ôsure-shotÕ predicts falling in battle. A good war-date Union letter by Private Charles Gabeline, 31st OH Infantry, 2pp., Camp Dick Robinson, Dec 4, 1861, in part: ÒÉthe Ohio 31 has marching orders and we will leave in the morning for the Battle Field. We are again to try to go in Tennessee if we donÕt get whipped. From here we are again to Somerset where they are fighting nowÉthe Logan boys are anichen to get in a fight with the Rebels. We have about 75 Thoran Rebles to fight hear in KentuckyÉI am willing to try them a shot or two. I am a good shot with my Springfield rifle, butÉI may be the first that fallsÉI am willing to fight to the last.Ó PLUS a war-date CDV of Gabeline as a civilian. Quite nice.  (Est. $100-150)

563. Excellent 1864 campaign letter, October 29, 1864, 4 pp., Hammond, (NY), from Jane Williamson to her nephew, in part: ÒYou want to know how Old Abe gets along now. I will tell you of a Democrat meeting to the corners. After the meeting was out big foot or Mr. Morse proposed to give three cheers for Mac and they said it was very faint cheers. So Mr. Gregor proposed to give three cheers for old abe and they gave such hardy cheers that it made the house shake. Old Henry King went home mad and said if they put old abe in we would have 4 years more of war so you can see they think their cake is dough. I wish I could put in one thousand votes for old abe.Ó A fine Lincoln campaign letter.   (Est. $100-200)

564. MURDER THREAT LETTER! 1861 threat to kill the addressee.  2pp. missive on patriotic stationery, with postscript on both sides of a second smaller sheet, Sept. 28, 1861, [no place, but area of Washington Co., in Western PA], from John B. Smith to Robert M. Patterson, Patterson Mills, Cross Creek Township, Washington Co. PA. Includes original transmittal cvr, #U35, 3c pink, hand-delivered, no postal markings. Incredible content, threatening to kill Patterson unless he sends $500 in an envelope and threatening to burn down the entire town of Cross Creek if they send anyone to capture him! Includes: ÒAll I have to say is - if I do not receive an answer from you on or before the 10th day of October, 1861, I will then come to the conclusion that you are not a going to comply - and if you are not - why then all I have to say is for you to take care of yourself - for I commence on you, I will not have any mercy on you in any way whatever. I do not say in what way you will be taken, whether by day or by night, by fire or by poison, or by both, or by who it shall be done, or in what way or at what time - but I can tell you one thing, just so sure as God gives you breath, that sure it will be done if you do not comply with my last letter; that was to put five hundred dollars good money into a letter, put a stamp on it and write my name on it, and hand the letter to David Smith, and I will try to get it from him in some way. So now you can take your choice and if your lot is to be destroyed by not complyingÉ you need not blame me for not giving you a chance to redeem yourself, for you have been too fast - and not you alone, but there is not one of them shall escape. But I mention no names, and yours is not mentioned either if you comply. If not, it will be mentioned to your sorrow as long as you live. For I can expose you that bad that you will never get over it. Then you will know something about matters. And I will do it too, so sure as God lets me live. If you do not send, whey then, look outÉFurther, I do not care for all the men that can be sent after me, for I canÕt be taken. Further, the beauty of all is, if I was taken, every person that would say one word against me would suffer, and they would not know who done the damage. The County would be burnt up and poisoned and every other way. I can burn up Creek Township for a few dollars. Now if you mention one word that has been written to you, it will be bad for you, soÉkeep it to yourself and be safeÉÓ  (Est. $100-200)

565. President Lincoln is a great man. Wonderful letter, 2pp., from Edward Woods to his friend J.V. Neyt, Feb. 10, 1865. In full ÒDedicated to my worthy and esteemed friends, son and Mr. J.V. Neyt. In reply to the question: ÒDo you think that President Lincoln is a great man? - The son of ages shall soon rise and set upon our dust. While the name of Abraham Lincoln will stand forth on the pages of history in the boldest letter of eternal adamant. Very Respectfully Yours, Edward P. Woods Lowell, Feb 10, 1865.Ó He continues on the next page ÒP.S. If you please - paste the foregoing in your old spelling book - Wait and see what your great great grand children shall say on the matterÉE.P.M.Ó Woods eloquently and prophetically articulates LincolnÕs iconic place in history just over one month before his assassination. Would love to know if the aforementioned progeny appreciate the prediction!  (Est. $100-200)

566. ÒRespecting your faith and the ending of this bloody tragedyÉ if Mack and his peace at any price men be elected their shoulders will be burdened with a heavy load of Southern debtsÉÓ Superb, 3pp, ALS from Thomas Hickling of IllinoisÕ HenshawÕs Light Artillery to a friend expressing hope of Abraham Lincoln winning the 1864 presidential election. Although McClellan was expected to get the soldierÕs vote, Lincoln took over 90% of the vote from the fields and won the first presidential election in which soldiers could vote. ÒLoudon East TennÓ, Oct 9th 1864, in part: ÒI felt no little pleasure respecting your faith and the ending of this bloody tragedy and I believe also if you will elect Lincoln again we shall put this wicked and cruel rebellion down by next summer; and put it down in such a manner that it will not rise up againÉwhile on the other handÉif Mack and his peace at any price men be elected their shoulders will be burdened with a heavy load of Southern debtsÉthey are a set of people too lazy to work for either their own benefit or their countries, and too big cowards to come out manfully and fight for the course they seem too anxious to sustain, but as I firmly believeÉwe shall wip them out rightÉyou tell me to have faith and patience, I have more of the one than the other I wish it was settled to dayÉbut as it is many just suffer for the unjust.Ó Thomas Hickling mustered into service as a Private on 3rd December 1862 and mustered out as an Artificer on 18 July 1865. Under Captain Edward C. Henshaw, the regiment participated in the Battle of Buffington Island; skirmished at Paris, KY; and contributed to a successful resistance of the enemy at CampbellÕs Station. Light wear, else fine.      (Est. $150-250)

567. Union Infantry letter – soldiersÕ support for Lincoln in the 1864 Presidential election. 3pp. ALS from Jacob Fow of the 82nd PA Infantry, Co. F. datelined ÒCamp of 82 P.V./ Near Clear Creek, VA, November 3, 1864Ó to Emma. Fow writes from the front at Petersburg, ÒIt was all that they could do. The election is all that ingross our minds at present. Our old Col (J.F. Glenn) and Major Rees is down hear electioneering for Lincoln and JohnsonÉthey will be elected, at least the soldiers are nearly all going to vote for them. Every thing hear looks like a movement of some kind before long it may be that Sheridan expects an attack from the enemy we are ready for themÉI will send ($5.00) dollars in this letter I will send it by Major Rees. Let me know when you get it.Ó Minimal soiling, otherwise fine condition.   (Est. $150-250)

568. X-rated content letter. Union Soldier CanÕt Get ÒSkin.Ó ALS of Private Elbridge G. Pond, 2nd Mass. Heavy, 4pp., Moorehead City, NC, Feb. 24, 1864 to a friend near his hometown of Monson, MA. In part: Ò...we have had stiring [sic, spelling left intact] times since I wrote you last the rebels have attacked newbern and they have had a quite a tussel. but have be[e]n driven back they came in the side of newbern and took newport Baricks and drove the 19 vermont 700 hundred and co. D of the 2d mass heavy artillary we expect that they would atact us we had about 200 nig[g]ers at work falling logs acrost [sic] the roads and thoughing in trenchments but they uisley dept away the gunboats would [k]nock hell out of them for they can run up both sides of us we were dept in the fort for one week and slept by our loaded guns but we did not see any thing to shoot at i suppose you now as much about it as i... a squad of our men went up to newport with a small wierd gun and when they fell back was orde[r]ed to throw it in to a smal[l] creek and the next day we were sent after it we got it out of the water and got back gain safe and sound... you asked me if i got any skin i tell you the truth when i tell you i have not there is nothing to fuck but black and i would not do that...Ó In a short postscript, Pond adds that ÒI have enlisted for 3 years.Ó With transmittal envelope, stamp removed. (Est. $500-750)

569. [Carpetbaggers] ALS of A. Crain, 2pp., Amite City, LA, December 3, 1866 to his brother ÒOliver and FamilyÓ concerning business affairs in New Orleans Ò...I have just returned from New Orleans. The great fare [sic] has just come off and the City was necessarily very lively and it is now you know the business season in it. O, I found Cotton Considerably depressed, every thing in fact with rather a downward tendency. Considerable panic in the dry good market. Corn and Oats I think will still be higher. Very little Corn made in the South. Mr George and I are selling Corn white corn 56 lbs to the bushel for 1.75 and Oats for 1.00 per bu. 35 pounds to the bu. We sent to St. Louis for Western produce. It comes in Sacks you know. Wheat Bran for 2.50 per 100 pounds &c... If you were situated so that we cold Cooperate with each other in trade we could do so no doubt with advantage. But the difficulty of transportation and the cost of transportation if you could get it would consume our profits in getting articles from you to me. Rail Road transportation it seems is the dearest of all. You see we have no competition in Rail Roading in this Country. Brother about the Land I donÕt know what to write. If I was rich enough to buy it I would own it and establish a stock farm there and live here. But my purse has grown beautifully small and I donÕt see now how I could take stock. I would like to see you on that subject. I have gone to great expense in buying and improving property here. I am now in my new house and hope I shall never have to build an other house or have to move again. I have grown tired of moving and shifting about. The war has broken me up and I must husband my recourses... I do hate to see our old homestead sacrificed....Ó Partial toned fold separations, some reinforced with archival tissue, else very good.  (Est. $200-300)

570. The model soldier!! On ÒBattle of Mill SpringsÓ illustrated stationery, 2pp., ÒHeadquarters Camp falmoth penelton CO Kentucky.Ó In part: ÒÉstill wirking at the block house and I think that we will be wirking at it for some timeÉ I wish that you were here with us for we have all of the fun that we want and we have all kind of fresh meat to eat for every farmer has a bout 60 sheap and a bout the same of hogsÉ when ever we want eney thing we gow and take it and huney there is no end to it... there was a barl of molasses [from a farmer]É we beat him and we got the molassesÉ I dont now that I will tell you eney thing more about our stealingÉ wer all out of the tent the other day and one tent seat fell and burnt every thing that we hadÉÓ Heavily water stained, but certainly has character!   (Est. $80-120)

571.  A group of three (3) letters of Harrison D. Jewell of the 13 Maine Infantry who served from the fall of 1861 to early 1865. The first, a letter to his mother in pencil, 4pp. Ship Island, Miss., March 25, 1862 opens, after a month aboard a troop transport, Jewell reports that  Òit is only through the goodness and mercy of the lord that he has spared my life..." Eager to be alive and faring better on land in contrast to his looking Òlike a sharkÓ when his company, ButlerÕs Division of Maine, first docked, young Harrison begs to hear news of his family and asks to be written to often. The second letter, 4pp. Worcester, May 15, [1862] to his sibling Austin that the Òarmy is having such awful fightingÓ that he finds scant reason to ever Òhear from them alive again.Ó Recognizing that the troops would not be discharged in June, Jewell expresses his remorse of the fact that many of the men in battle would never get the chance as his Òheart aches for them but we must await and time will decide it one way or the other.Ó Also includes a third letter (partial & unsigned), 4pp., Pepperell, MA., March 8, 1863 to his sister concerning family members. The 13th Maine was sent to New Orleans for its defense in the summer of 1862. Between 1862 and 1864 the regiment participated in the capture of Point Isabel, TX. and formed part of the Red River Expedition of 1864. Usual folds, some marginal wear, else very good.  (Est. $100-150)

ÒWe all look as red as if we were drunkards but there is no chance for a private to git a dram here ...all of the officers got drunk.Ó

572. ALS, 4pp., Lexington, KY, December 7, 1862, on illustrated lettersheet picturing the great naval engagement off Fort Wright, together with postal-canceled, illustrated cover picturing a view of the Capitol. From William Walker to his parents in Minerva, OH, in part (without corrections): Ò...I was on camp gard last night. I went on yesterday at 8 o'clock and came of this morning. It rained the hole time like hell and thundered and lightened at a great rate. That was the busiest time that I have had on gard yet... We all look as red as if we were drunkards but there is no chance for a private to git a dram here. We had general review last Friday... We were the best drilled, cleanest, had the cleanest tents and cleanest Camp. Our tent was not in our company and after all of this all of the officers got drunk and had a big time over it. The agitant came out on dress parade and he was so drunk that he could not read the orders. That is the way that it went. They say that we will stay all winter here, but I do not. Now there is prisoners coming in every few days... I was down to the station the other day to load crackers and coffee and sugar and I saw some excpress boxes there. Some of them were pitched out and bursted and the dam niggers cabbaged some cans of something or other and carried them off. I think if they would put hickory hoops around the boxes and then they would not be so many lost. I guess I must bring my letter to a close. We are all well at present and I reckon you have heard that the dammed old skunk of a Captain Coats has gone home. He filched us down here and now has left us with the dam little shit of a Lieutenant Southworth to galand us around...Ó Minor dampstain at margin, quite legible, a rather forthright letter!  (Est. $250-300)

573. Join a regimental band to get better grub and not have to carry a knap-sack when drilling!  ALS by a Union soldier with the 12th Mass. (Webster's), 4pp. on patriotic letterhead bearing an red and blue image of Elmer Ellsworth, "Camp Near Muddy Branch", Oct. 11, 1861 to a friend advising him on the prospects "about Comeing [sic] out here in a Reg[iman]tal Band..." He concludes that he should do just that noting that he would "be much better Provided for than a common soldier besides enjoying twice as many Privileges you will also see a good deal of the world coming out here... Besides when you march you don't have to Carry and Knapsack the Band Draws Rations by themselves & have a good time generally Smoking etc... In case of Battle you are to Assist in the Hospital Dept. that is the new orders of Gen McClellan. You will also be provided with a sword etc. and have much Respt. Paid as if you was a Sargt..." The signature is hard to discern as it is quite ornate! The 12th Mass later suffered significant casualties at Cedar Mountain, Second Manassas, Antietam, Gettysburg, and the Wilderness. Extremely light toning, usual folds, else fine.  (Est. $200-300)

574. ALS of Pvt. Lester B. Waid, 2pp., U.S. Gunboat Baron DeKalb, January 7, 1863, to his cousin Francis Waid. Lester expresses uncertainty concerning the state of the war, describing how Vicksburg Òstill standsÓ but predicts that it will soon fall. He mentions the Emancipation Proclamation, which Lincoln had made six days prior: ÒAs to the Emancipation Proclamation, I can't hear nothing as of yet of the final result... I only live in hopes all will be well with us...Ó Waid mustered into the PA 83rd Infantry on August 26, 1861. The 83rd saw action on the Peninsula including the siege of Yorktown and later at Gaines Mill where it suffered heavy casualties. The regiment also served at Chancellorsville and at Gettysburg where it helped defend Little Round Top. The regiment was also part of Grant's 1864 Virginia offensive and joined the siege of Petersburg. Our correspondent did not make it to Petersburg – reported as missing on the first day of the Battle of Cold Harbor on June 1, 1864. His final outcome remains unknown. With original transmittal envelope. Usual folds, else very good.     (Est. $100-150)

575. A medical officer in the 98th NY on dying soldiers and upcoming campaigns. Extensive 12pp. ALS from Lt. Sylvester Willard (later Captain) of the 98th NY Infantry, Albany, December 6, 1862, with postal-canceled cover addressed to his brother in Connecticut, in part: Ò...I think I told you...of my interview with Col. Rucker the Quartermaster of Transportation...and of my posting over to General Meigs office for the same purpose...All utterly refused me transportation...Crossing the Delaware river at Philadelphia I met Mrs. Genl. Terry who came on the cars at Baltimore...by the Fortress Monroe Boat...I did not endorse the sentiments of the Vermont Colonel. I can foresee that we may, if we will, occupy Richmond in thirty days. If Banks with 50,000 men goes up the James River & Burnside with 120,000 presses forward from Fredericksburg against the broken columns of the Enemy, why may it not be so. It seems to me that such is the plan of the Campaign. My labors as Medical Examiner were great....My report was first to the Surgeon General...My examinations are known to have been rigid, yet my rejections are only 1 in 3 1/10...My article ÔMedical ExaminationsÕ is in the Medical & Surgical Reporter just received....Ó Much more, quite fine.  (Est. $100-200)

ÒEnlisted for the defense of the Stars & Stripes...Ó

576. The Union home front. Good content ALS of J. Grant, 4pp., Lancaster, Iowa, May 21, 1861 speculating on the outcome of the secession crisis. In part: "...I have about come to the conclusion that the war excitement has absorbed all your thoughts... If the men whose notes we hold are all gone to the war or are all broke... please to state that fact. If you think I have no right to expect anything more speak it right out, & let me know the worst. I want to know how you all do, how you have prospered the past year & how many of your boys have enlisted for the defense of the Stars & Stripes... We have the fullest confidence that right will triumph & that the gigantic rebellion will be crushed. We believe that the providence of God thus far affords good ground for this confidence... " Very good.    (Est. $100-200)

577. ÒWe are short of Coms & Non-Coms.Ó Obtaining provisions for his Company. Excellent 2pp. letter, August 15, 1863, New Berne, NC, from Captain William L. Kent to Sergeant Dexter R. Ladd, both of the 23rd Mass. Vols. Kent writes: ÒSergeant, Since you left here, it has occurred to me that you may find difficulty about getting the articles out here, which I authorized you to purchase in Boston for the use of my Company. I think you had best apply to Capt. McKinn, at #12 Faneuil Hall Square, for a written statement, giving permission to bring the articles out to New Berne for the use of the Company, in order to exempt them from seizure. Get transportation direct from Boston, if possible, about the time your furlough expires...You can show this letter as your authority if required... Corpl. Austin writes me that he is sick at Mason Hosp. Pemberton Sq. I wish you to call on him & see how he is & whether he will soon return. We are short of Coms & Non-Coms...Ó Together with a receipt for photographs from B.F. Evans of Norfolk, VA. The receipt is made out to the same Sergeant Ladd who received the above letter.   (Est. $80-100)

Ò...I donÕt think there is any danger of the rebs ever taking this camp... The news from GrantÕs army is glorious... The greatest lore of thecampaign is the escape of John Morgan...Ó

578. A fabulous Civil War ALS, 4pp., Camp Nelson, KY, November 30, 1863, on illustrated lettersheet picturing Gen. Franz Sigel in blue surrounded by a red frame, including posted cover with embossed eagle with 34 stars & ÒUnion.Ó From Bill Roads, Co L, 3rd batallion, 1st Regt. Heavy Artillery, to his cousin Maggie in Clifton, Greene County, OH, in part: Ò...Well Mag, since I wrote to you before we have changed our quarters to Camp Nelson six miles south of Nicholasville, Ky. I am very well satisfied with our present situation. This is the nicest country around here I ever saw except the little Maumee valley. The camp is surrounded on three sides by the steep bluffs of the Ky river and on the north side the fortifications are nearly completed. I donÕt think there is any danger of the rebs ever taking this camp and if the war news is all true I donÕt think they will ever try it. The news from GrantÕs army is glorious and Burnsides is reported all right. The greatest lore of the campaign is the escape of John Morgan from the Ohio Penitentiary. I think he must have had some good friends in the Prison or some on the outside who were allowed to communicate with him.Ó Much more content on beautiful stationery with postal-used envelope. Extraordinary.  (Est. $400-500)