13th & 33rd New York Infantry & 1st New York Veteran Cavalry - NEW

Item LTR-12122

Description

Original Civil War letter. 2 pages written in period ink.


Camp Near Berlin, Maryland
 
Sunday, October 12, 1862
 
My Dear Wife,
 
According to promise, I hasten to write you a few lines. 
 
We arrived in Hagerstown the next day after I left home, and found the regiment had gone. We remained all night. We then hired a team and started after them about noon. I found Henry and John, got my horse, and rode until night, when I finally found the regiment, they having marched about 16 mi.
 
We are now about 6 mi from Harper's Ferry. We have heard some very heavy firing over in Dixie. Very plainly indicating that a fight is going on. We are resting today and expect to cross the river at Berlin. Some of the knowing ones say we will have a brush if Sigel and Burnside do not whip them. As the firing seems more distant, we think we have got the advantage of them.
 
I do not know that I can say anything that will interest you. I was very tired this morning, but since dinner, I feel better. When I arrived in camp, the men gave three hearty cheers for the colonel. All seemed glad to see me back. I felt sorry for the poor fellows. They looked so haggard and dirty. Some clothing has just arrived, and I hope in a few days to see them in a better condition.
 
John has been made quartermaster sergeant. His pay is $21 per month. This will help him out. He has Holloway's place.
 
A great deal of sickness has prevailed in the regiment since I left. Many of my brave fellows have gone to their long homes and there is more sickness now in my regiment than ever was before, since I have been in the service. I shall have to try and have it stopped.
 
Hoping this may find you and the children well. 
 
I remain, your affectionate husband, 
 
R.F. Taylor
Colonel
33rd Regiment, New York Volunteers
 
Did you write to Mary? Hope you did.