148th New York Infantry & 38th United States Colored Troops

Item LTR-6429

Description

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

Headquarters, 38th Regiment U.S.C.T.
Norfolk, VA

April 9, 1864

My Dear Miss Jennie,

I have just received your kind note and the handkerchief and of course was much pleased with both. Especially the handkerchief. I shall use it for a battle flag to strike terror into the Rebels. I owe you a thousand apologies for not writing to you before and can only plead guilty and trust to your kindness for pardon for the offence. We are stationed near here, with an office in town. The regiment is not full yet. But is getting along finely. Colonel Clapp is a man who is apt to fulfill anything which he undertakes and there is no doubt but that we will soon have our complement. I like it hugely, wouldn’t change with any officer in the 148th. And like it better every day. We have great times here. Once in a while when we go out on raids. We were on one about a week ago, up the Piankatank River. We got a few rebs and scared a great many more. Brought away about 200 contrabands, besides horses, carts, grain, etc.. there is another one in progress and will start in a day or two.

Mother is in Phelps yet? I suppose I would give anything to come home this summer and see her but I think we will be pretty busy as soon as the campaign opens.

There will be plenty of hard fighting this summer especially in this Department. General Butler rules here and makes secession sympathizes humble themselves wonderfully. There is a report here that he has been appointed Secretary of War. I hope it is so. With General Grant and General Butler at the head of the army, we shall finish it up this summer without doubt. I can tell you news for I suppose that Harvey is home by this time and can post you up on all the details.

Give my love to Mother and to your brother also.

Yours truly,

William P. Smith
Adjutant
38th U.S. Colored Troops