97th Ohio Infantry - Wounded at Kennesaw Mountain, GA

Item LTR-6489

Description

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


Camped near Nashville
December 21, 1862

Dear Father and Mother in-Law,

I take this opportunity to inform you that I am well at present and hope that these few lines will find you enjoying the same blessing at the hand of God. I have not much to write nor have I much time on weekdays. We have to drill every day except Sabbath. We have had two little fights since we came here. In the first, the 97th [OH] lost one man, in the second the 57th Indiana lost one but we drove them back two miles. We have preaching every Sabbath since we got here. Some might think that I ought to stay at home but I followed the dictates of conscience and think I done my duty. At the same time, it was hard to part with loved ones at home. I would like to see my wife and children but I must wait till the time rolls around. I want you to remember me in your prayers that I may be kept from the evils that surround me for I feel the need of the protection of heaven. We have seen hard times and our ranks show it. Though we are comfortable situated now. Joseph Rollston is in the hospital yet, T Karr is dead, he died on the 13th. Alexander Mcown is here, he came after him but was too late. He was dead and buried before he got here. T. Cunningham is dead. He died in Lebanon, KY. J Watt does not stand it very well, he looks bad. There is but few that stand it better than I do. It is not the stoutest that stand it the best. I had not much to write so I will close hoping to see home in due time and will bid you good bye for this time.

James Reed


Jane never said whether she got my dress coat or not. Does Dunlap ever say anything about me? If he minds his pap it is bed time and we have orders to have three day’s rations in our haversacks. My candle is done.

James Reed