21st Massachusetts Infantry - Wounded at Spotsylvania

Item LTR-7104

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 6 pages written in period ink.

Camp Nelson, Kentucky
September 13th 1861

Dear Sister,

After waiting and watching the mail for several days, (with the patience of Job), have at length got a letter from you. Let me thank you for it and at the same time expect more of the same sent soon to come.

Now what if I should tell you that the 21st was under marching orders. Well it is. Though we may not go. Burnside said when he left this place for East Tennessee, that the 21st might remain here as long as they behaved themselves. There is no mistake but what we have behaved ourselves first rate.

There has been some misunderstanding somewhere. Our regiment is under General Fry who commands this post. General Boyle commands the forces left in Kentucky. Said General Boyle has issued an order for the 21st to go to the front. (East Tennessee). General Fry who commands this post says we shall remain here till we get an order from General Burnside to leave. Understand that General Boyle command what forces that remain in Kentucky.

I don’t suppose Boyle had any right to order the 21st away without an order from Burnside. General Fry has telegraphed to Burnside to see about it. You see we are between a Fry and a Boyle (fry boil). Guess the 21st will get thoroughly cooked before we get out of it. Don’t you? You have doubtless heard this about General Burnside’s grand exploits in East Tennessee, his capture of Knoxville and Cumberland Gap, etc. For my part I had much rather go to the front than stay here. I hope we shall go and join Burnside. You know I hate to stay in one place long.

I can imagine about the good time Father and Grandpa had visiting Sam. I guess Sam was glad enough to see them. No doubt but what Sam will get a furlough. If he comes home, tell him not to drink too much cider or eat too many apples.

You said Father wished to know if I drew pay for my rations while at home last fall. I did not draw pay for my rations. Only those who have regular furloughs can draw ration money. If I had remained in Camp Parole, the government would have supplied me with rations till I was exchanged. I left Camp Parole on my own responsibility. Therefore, I had to furnish my own grub.

I drew all my back pay when I returned to my regiment, every cent of it. My pay ran along just the as though I was in the regiment. Sergeant Foster just came into my tent and said orders just came for the 21st to march at six o’clock tomorrow morning. Now 5 cheers and a tiger for Tennessee. I would like to visit Tennessee first rate. Hurrah for the Union.

The 21st again after the rebels. My health is excellent this season. I am tough as a grizzly bear. I am good for a 200 mile march anyhow. The weather here remains extremely hot and dry. Haven’t had any rain for a long time. It will be awful dusty marching tomorrow. What a pity we couldn’t have a little shower tonight just enough to lay the dust. I must bring this epistle to a close now. Asking you to write again as soon as convenient. You can direct your next to this place and it will be sent on to the regiment.

From your affectionate brother,

W. H. White

Direct
William H. White
Company H, 21st Massachusetts Volunteers
Hickman Bridge, Kentucky

Love to all.