34th Massachusetts Infantry - Twice Wounded

Item LTR-6011

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 4 pages written in period ink.


Pittsfield (MA)
Sept 6, 1861

Maj Brown

Dear Sir,

I have had a conversation with [Charles] Welden this morning in reference to getting a lieutenancy in Col Lee’s Regiment. He tells me that it will in a great measure depend on the number of men I can raise for the regiment. He says if I can get 40 men, he will guarantee a 1st lieutenant position. I am very anxious to go with Lee’s Regiment and believing your influence would be of great benefit to me.

I have ventured to apply to you to assist me in obtaining a 1st lieutenant’s position. How can this be accomplished if it could at all & what must I do for it & what qualifications must I possess? I have a very good knowledge of the Manual of Arms & something of company army movements etc. If it should be necessary for me to raise 40 men or any other number, could I not rely on your assistance in helping me get the first lieutenancy and also in raising some men among your people? Brother tells me there are quite a number who would go with him if he goes. I am very anxious to go. I am willing to do all I can to assist in forming the regiment.

I think I could get some men here, but there are already 3 recruiting officers in operation. I could do something also at South Adams. I think I understand that there is a company forming under Deen at South Adams. Perhaps we could unite in raising a company. I have reason to think that Brother would try to dissuade you from assisting me if he knew of my application, as he don’t push me to go. You can do as you like about speaking to him of my letter. It would be better for him to assist me now, for I am not going to stay at home when the Country needs men. An early answer will oblige.

Yours truly,
A. Potter