8th New York Militia - National Guard

Item LTR-10362

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 4 pages, written in period ink.


Camp Dix
Yorktown, Virginia

August 12th 1862

My Dear Mother,

I have time to spare so I thought I would write you a letter. Though this letter will be written in a hurry and will hardly be legible.

I have just left a fire where I have been trying out some fat to use as butter.

I have been on the sick list now for two days. But Dr. Smith (my chum) is bringing me around so in a few days I will again be able to “Soldier a Musket.”

Oh! How hot is it here. The thermometer stood to 135 degrees. I nearly die with the heat. It is sickening. Hundreds of our men and I think before we leave here some will be (to use a vulgar term among us soldiers) planted six feet under ground in the Sacred Soil of Virginia. There are now seven files (fourteen men) sick in my company, two files (four men) who are dangerously sick. We have to drill two hours in the hot burning sun every day and nearly every day some poor unfortunate creature falls from the ranks. But I have never been sick since I left New York and it shows what a strong constitution Providence has endowed me with. The sickness I have now is only an opening of my bowels from imbibing too strongly in peaches and apples, pears, plums, etc..

I wrote a letter to Dear Lottie and directed it at New Castle. I also received a letter from brother Andrew, which I answered accordingly.

How does the Chamberlains take this drafting? I think that either Henry or John will have to go. I hope not for they would never be able to stand the hardships incident to camp life. Gilman of course is exempt. Please write me upon this subject.

If you have not sent my box, you need not. Only send me some money as I need some very much.

How does the Manson’s get along? Give my respects to all and especially to Isabella and also to the Arthur and Lila Brown and dear little Allie. How is the baby?

Please remember your affectionate son,

Corporal N. Gano Dunn
Company K
8th Regiment
New York State Militia
Yorktown