5th Pennsylvania Cavalry - POW at Williamsburg Stage Road, VA

Item LTR-232

Description

3 page original Civil War soldier's letter, war dated.

Camp near Portsmouth, VA
December 8th 1863

Friend Nancy,

As there is a great many strange things in this world, you may make due allowances for receiving this familiar in the shape of a letter. But as my time seems long, and I wish to make it as short as possible, thought and reflection brought the past to view. Without much meditation, I resolved to try whether there was any virtue in my plan or not. As it seems that writing is to no avail.

Now I am sure I am not able to tell why it is I have not received an answer from you since I came to the Regiment. And you the only one from who I can get the news from reliable. I hope to hear from you soon.

We have just got settled for the winter. Of late, we have had some long and fatiguing marches. We have been on the move since the 1st of August and I hope we shall remain here for the winter.

We are living in winter quarters which we have just finished. We have seen no snow here yet. The weather is pleasant. The nights rather cold. There is nothing here to bother us as we have to go 50 miles to find a rebel; whereas, we formerly had them at our doors.

As the evening is far advanced, I must bring my letter to a close with the expectation of hearing from you soon.

My best respects to all and remain your friend,

J. B. S.

5th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company M
Camp near Portsmouth, VA

N.B. We have a Regiment of Darkey Cavalry in our Brigade, we have