169th New York Infantry

Item LTR-5663

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages written in period ink.

Albany, New York
March 29th 1864

Dear Mother,

I received your and Henry’s letter today and was glad to hear that you were all well, etc. As I have not much to do today, I thought I would write a few lines and let you know that I am well. I have not much news to write. I received a letter from John and George a few days ago and one from Father. I met Doley Stocking and as I was going down to Poughkeepsie, in charge of three men, we went on the same train and had a good visit. I was gone two days out in Ulster County. There was a man shot dead here a few nights ago. There was about a dozen men tried to run the guard. They had got their bounty and were trying to get away. They were told by the sentry to halt but did not. So he fired at the first man and killed him instantly. It was very dark. We can’t tell how long we will stay here. But I think we’ll stay as long as there is any recruiting going on or any drafting.

It is a very good place. Our duty is not hard. Doley was telling me about the Bootheroyd scrape. I think it was a rich thing.

I have not any news to write so I will have to close for this time. Give my love to all the folks.

Goodbye,

Mason S. Chambers