2nd Ohio Cavalry

Item LTR-6193

Description

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


Camp Stoneman
Washington DC

April 29th 1864

Dear Cousin Julia,

After a silence on my part of almost two years of dissent and hardships, permit me to write and claim pardon for being so forgetful of my kind relations.

I have attempted many times to address you but fearing you would do as I have done I could not bear the thoughts of it. The last time that I received any letters from you was when I was at Waverly. Which I believe was May 1862. Which I beg pardon for not answering. No one ever thinks more often of their friends than I do! Sorry to say any disposition naturally is in favor of living for sport. I don’t think that I have any friends except my own family. Perhaps that is the cause of my negligence.

I was at home in March. Since that time my regiment has been marching all the time (not exactly marching but traveling in big cars from one point to another. Which is much harder than to start and chase! Since leaving home, I have received two letters. One from my sister Georgia and one form my Sallie! Perhaps you don’t know who she is. It is the lady who I pay my respect to when in Quaker Bottom. They were both welcome letters. Would like very much to have on today but don’t think my wishes will be gratified. I do not know where Irving and Whit are. The last place I saw them was the Ohio and as I left Cincinnati for Annapolis MD. I chance to look out of the cars and saw Whit walking along the street. I waved my hat and told him where I was bound for and received in return his best wishes. Since that time, I have not heard from him. But sincerely hope I may hear from home soon.

My regiment is now encamped one mile from Alexandria on the Maryland side. Today we ran horse and arms and in one week appear as breastworks before Richmond. For my part I would just as leave. Stay in camp as any place else. But if we get into battle, I will not get struck in the back. I hope you will answer this and remember me as your affectionate cousin. I will write as often as convenient and wish you to do the same. Hoping this may find you enjoying the best of health. I now bid you farewell but hope not forever. Remember me to all the family.

Direct to:
Abe M. Smith
Company K, 2nd Ohio Veteran Volunteer
Cavalry Department
Washington City, DC

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