1st New York Infantry - Battle Report

Item LTR-314

Description

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

1st Regiment New York Volunteers

December 15, 1862

Captain Wilson
A.A.A.G. General Birney
Commanding, Brigade

Captain,

I have the honor to report that with the Brigade, my Regiment crossed the Rappahannock River about noon on the 13th last and proceeded by the right flank, fourth in line south along the River. Having advanced half a mile I was ordered by General Birney to halt and form a line in support of a battery I was passing. At this time heavy infantry firing came from an open field to my front and left and shells fell rapidly around. In about 10 minutes Lieutenant Briscoe, aide to General Birney, ordered me to advance into the field above and I did so. And by General Birney’s orders, formed a line in the rear of the 37th New York who were posted on the bow of a slight crescent and supporting Randolph’s Battery placed upon it. The enemy now attempted to take the latter but were repulsed with losses.

By General Birney’s orders I changed position three times to support probable contingencies. All the time exposed to heavy shelling. About 5 minutes later I was ordered to relieve the 5th Michigan placed in advance of the Battery. I took up a new line. Upon the left of the Brigade and obligingly facing a somewhat exposed plain, the night passed quietly. I lost but 7 men of my command. A list of whom we appended.

Respectfully,

Your obedient servant,

J. Fred Pierson
Colonel
1st New York Volunteers






John F. Pierson - 1st New York Infantry
Commanded the Regiment and was Brevetted to Brigadier General
Wounded - Glendale, VA
Wounded - Chancellorsville, VA
Captured - Bristol Station, VA
Prisoner of War at Libby Prison