87th New York Infantry - NEW

Item LTR-12060

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 2 pages, written in period ink.


Headquarters, 87th Regiment, New York Volunteers
Camp Dodge, Alexandria, Virginia
March 5, 1862
 
Dear Brother Sarles,
 
Your letter came safely to hand, and I was pleased to hear of the addition to your family. Allow me to congratulate you and wish you much joy in the event. I was expecting to hear from Fred in regard to his acquisition. It is a time, with all of us, that are full of joy and fear. Each, at times, gaining the ascendancy. I am more than anxious daily in anticipation of the event in my own family.
 
We're now quite far in the advance on the left flank of the Army of the Potomac. The right wing has already commenced to move forward, (General Banks' Division) and we have received orders to march. We lie down not knowing at what hour we shall be called into the deadly strife. Our orders are to be ready at an hour's notice. And to take not more than we can carry on our backs, officers included. We have two days' rations cooked and ready all the time. Knapsacks packed and everything in readiness. Today, the sick are being sent to Alexandria, which portends a moment in a very few hours. The army is, generally speaking, in fine discipline. Ours, I think, is the youngest regiment on the whole line, and it is only through the anxiety of the colonel to be in active service. He, having pressed the matter at headquarters, that has numbered us with this advance. 
 
Most of the regiment here are those first called into service, and the remainder have been on this side six months. It is only a little more than three months since we left New York. We have practiced only a few times with ball cartridges. Otherwise, we are all well drilled. I hope we shall be able to give a good account of ourselves.
 
While writing, I am cut short by the news that our wing of the Army is moving. We shall no doubt soon receive orders and I have many company matters to attend to.
 
Remember me and love to the brethren at Bridge Street. It encourages me to know that I am remembered in their prayers. I need them all.
 
My health is improving, but I am not strong. With kind regards to your family. 
 
I remain yours in Christ, 
Sam Knight