13th Massachusetts Infantry - Wounded at Gettysburg & Spotsylvania

Item LTR-166

Description

2 page ALS written by Charles E. Horne of the 13th Massachusetts Infantry. He was wounded at Gettysburg on the first day of the battles and later wounded and captured at Spotsylvania Court House:

Camp 13th Massachusetts Volunteers

November 11th 1863

Dear Parents,

Our Regiment, with most of the 1st Brigade, are encamped on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad about one mile south of Warrenton Junction doing guard duty along the line. There is nothing to fear save an occasional raid from guerrillas who infest this region of the country. We left Bristoe Station, where I wrote you last about one week ago, and marched to Kelly’s Ford where we crossed the Rappahannock. We went from there direct to Brandy Station where we lay one night and nearly one day when we were ordered back here on the road. Our Regiment is scattered from Rappahannock Station to the Junction. It will be first rate for us if we can only have the job a month or so. The 1st Corps seldom gets any easy job to do. They always had a General who claimed the front. One who was proud of his men and anxious to do his part of the fighting. I don’t know much about this stick Newton that we have now, although he has the reputation of being a fighting man. The weather is really getting cold. We had a smart snow squall while on the march night before last.

I should like you to send me a couple pairs of stockings. You can do them up in a close package and send by mail. I had a letter from Harvey the other day. I sent for him to send me some gloves. He sent some but they don’t suit me at all. Thanksgiving will soon be at hand. I should like to be with you on that wonderful day next year if nothing happens. I hope to be where I can dine with whom I please. I have been placed temporarily in command of Company G. Captain Gary is Acting Field Officer. I am well and hearty. I can’t think of any more to write this morning. Please answer soon. My love to all.

Love your affectionate son,

Charles E. Horne