66th New York Infantry

Item LTR-6764

Description

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


Camp 66th N. Y. Vols.
Near Falmouth, Va.
February 16, 1863

Dear Friend,

Your kind letter of the 4th found me enjoying camp life very much indeed. We have moved camp and our present location is a very pleasant one, situated in a beautiful fine wood. We have plenty of wood to keep us warm, but I am afraid it will not last the Brigade a great while. Pine is about the only kind of wood we have here. The soil is too much worn to produce oak or hard wood. I think you are having fine times this winter. Talk about sleigh rides and skating. We had about six inches of snow two weeks ago, but it only lasted one or two days. As regards ice, we have had some very cold nights, causing our pickets to suffer a good deal. Yet at no time has it frozen enough ice in the river to bear one’s weight.

And then about going home with the girls. This is strange talk to me. I have seen but one of the fair creatures since my joining the Army, and she was a secesh. If I ever get back to that golden state called N. Y., I shall make up for my losing the society of the young ladies and ‘slippery side walks.’ In the meantime, you keep them as happy as possible and tell them I am coming.

How do you like the election of Morgan as U. S. Senator? I am well pleased and glad that it was done so quietly. There has been a good deal of bombast at Albany this winter. I wish I could be with you and hear the lectures you speak about. I am expecting a letter from your Father every day. I am very sorry that I did not have more time to visit with him when in Washington. I received a letter from Leslie a short time ago. He seems to be enjoying himself this winter. I am in hopes the war will not last over a year longer, when we can all return to our happy homes and friends.

We are living first rate at present; get soft bread, potatoes, etc. I received a letter from home yesterday, saying they had sent me a box. I hope I will get it. Then won’t I live.

The officers of this regiment are all strangers to me excepting Dr. Reno. We have social meetings occasionally, but the most of my time is spent in reading, writing letters, and riding. I have a very good horse and take pleasure in seeing the country. There are very few sick and I have but little to do. There is a talk of consolidating old regiments. We are having splendid weather. I hope we shall move before long. Hooker is very much liked by the Army. Charley & Maggie must be having such fine times as not to find time for writing. Please write often, as it is a pleasure to receive letters in this lone camp.

Best wishes to Bellinger, with love to yourself. I am your sincere friend,
A.Van Derveer

P.S. I have been so fortunate as to have some stamps sent me. I may yet be obliged to tax your generosity, as they are not to be had in the Army.
A. Van