27th Massachusetts Infantry - Wounded Drewry's Bluff and Petersburg

Item LTR-288

Description

3 page original Civil War soldier's letter, written in period ink and war dated.


New Bern NC
Dec 9 1862


Dear Father,

In great haste I seat myself to pen a few lines to you. The mail goes in an hour and I have very little time consequently can not say but little to you. We expect to leave here tomorrow as next day am going on another expedition probably up through Raleigh. One brigade is landing now and Banks is at Beaufort – with his division. You see we shall go with a large force and shall have some fighting to do this time. Milo and myself have sent some things to Westfield to be left at Camp Sibley and want you to go and get them as soon as you can. We have each a double “BB” gun and I have a small bundle and in it you will find some cloth for a dress, please give it to mother and put the rest of the things in my trunk and keep them for me. In Milo’s bundle you will find a book of music. Tell mother to give it to Ellen Tryon for me and tell Ellen I can not write to her now but would like her to send me a new photo of her but would like her to write as soon as she can. Tell Jule – I received her letter but can not answer now. Tell her to write also.

Father please excuse my haste and poor writing. I have had but very few minutes. Do not worry about me if you do not hear from me for two months, for we know not where we go. I will write as soon as possible. Love to mother and Lucy and accept a large share for yourself. Your affectionate son, S. F. Cooley


We have been here only three day from our other expedition and have hardly got rested but we are going to wind up this war this winter. I want to come home next fall.

My health is good.

Milo sends love to you all.