9th New York Infantry - Hawkins' Zouaves

Item LTR-508

Description

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

Pleasant Valley
Near Harpers Ferry, Maryland

October 9th 1862

My Dear Father,

I received your welcome letter of the 5th. I was very glad to hear from you and to hear that you are well. I am very well and in good spirits. We are 5 miles from Harpers Ferry in Pleasant Valley under the Maryland Heights. The weather is warm and pleasant out here. The regiment is in good health. Colonel Hawkins commands the 3rd Division of the 9th Army Corps. Lieutenant Colonel E. A. Kimball commands the regiment. There is no prospect of a battle as yet as far as I can see. I got a letter from George a few days ago. He is at Baltimore in the 135th Regiment New York Volunteers, Company K, he is doing first rate and send his love to you. Stephen is in this regiment in my company. He is writing a letter to you now. He don’t forget you. I am surprised to hear that William Henry has enlisted, as I didn’t think that he would go off though. Most of our married boys are going home on furlough. If you see any of Company D’s boys, ask them if they know me and they tell you how I am getting along. Mrs. Jones and all the folks in the city are well. Caroline is doing as well as could be expected. We have written to Uncle Cornelius and Sammy but haven’t got an answer yet. Steve says Uncle Sammy is very poor yet in health. I hope you will continue in good health. I will soon return again if spared from sickness and harm.

Direct your letters name, Company D, 9th Regiment New York Volunteers, Hawkins’ Zouaves, Major General Burnside’s’ 9th Army Corps, that will be sufficient.

From your Son,

Samuel Areson

[artwork drawing]

Give my regard to Mr. and Mrs. Digman. Tell them I am doing very well in the Army and that I will be home in a few months. Let me know if you have heard from Joe McDaniel lately.

Sam