11th Pennsylvania Cavalry

Item LTR-10493

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages, written in period ink.


Office of Assistant Provost Marshal
Eastern Shore of Virginia
Bermuda Hundred [Virginia]

October 22, 1864

Cousin Molly,

I now take the opportunity of answering your kind letter. I received it some time since, but have not had a good opportunity of answering. So, you must excuse delays. Well, I am in my usual health again and am doing duty.

Our Regiment has seen some pretty rough times this summer and some of them got killed. We had one sight of Richmond about a month ago, a full view, but did not stay there long. They threw metal balls at us about the size of a half bushel measure. It was a very unhealthy place and I don’t care about getting in another such.

The Major has just returned last night from a visit home. Most likely you saw him. I suppose he had a gay time. I wish I could spend a while among my friends. I think I could enjoy myself pretty well. If I live another year, I will then return to the old Alleghanies, I think. And spend a short time if I don’t stay long. I think perhaps this war will be over by that time and we can live in peace and quietness once more for a while.

You say there is a detachment of men there to take up conscripts. They will no doubt have a good time. Not much to do, but I think they are needed more here where the hard fighting is to be done.

I believe I have no more news for this time. Give my compliments to all the boys and to all inquiring friends and I will close for the time. Hoping to hear from you soon. I remain your affectionate cousin.

Joseph A. Skelly