72nd Pennsylvania Infantry

Item LTR-594

Description

2 pages, original Civil War Union letter written in period ink and war dated.


72nd Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers

May 3rd 1864

Dear Mother,

I drop a few words to you previous to our departure on the march as a commencement of the coming campaign. We have everything packed with six days rations and under orders to move this night at half past eleven o’clock without fail. And while the midnight hour finds us on the march to death and slaughter, you will be quietly slumbering in peaceful beds, little thinking of our movements. It is now raining and the entire army I believe is to move tonight without fail. Before this reaches you, many will be laid low. And should I meet the same fate to die a true soldier for my country, I will endeavor to write soon again if possible. Our worthy colonel has now command of the regiment and the men in better spirits on that account.

Closing truly and respectfully,

Al. N. Gilmour

My love to all until the future brings forth better.