1st Rhode Island Light Artillery - Captured at Reams' Station, VA

Item LTR-7034

Description

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


Camp at Somerset, KY
May 29th 1863

Dear Friend George,

I have almost forgotten a letter. I have answered your last letter but I think rather I will try to write you a few lines so that if I have answered it before you will have two letters. We are bothered here about every day by the Rebs. They will come across the River with a rush and then they go back again the same day. So that it keeps us in a turmoil all of the time. The other day they crossed the Cumberland River at three different places. So, of course, we have to kick up anytime they cross. Yesterday they crossed again. And our men drove them back. Then last night about eleven o’clock they crossed again. So, our men drove them back again. So, it keeps us in a turmoil all of the time. Every time that they cross, we have marching orders of the lightest style breaking down all tents and packing blankets so that we can go fight. I don’t doubt but what they will be over before night again. But never mind. We don’t have any hard fighting out here as the we shall in PA. this is nothing but fun for us. One of our boys have got a violin in the company. So, you see, we have some music, far as it is, it is much better than none. He is playing now on it. He has just been playing the girl I left behind one. I don’t know whether he feels it and I shall not confuse my feelings as a matter of course. But one of these times, will tell. How do you get along with farming much now? Have you got all through planting yet? The farmers don’t have to hoe their produce around here. We had a little shower last night so it is real pleasant, just cool enough. I be comfortable in just shirt here. Has Miss Carter commenced her school yet? Give my respects to her. Give my love to your Mother and Father. They must be patient, until I get a chance to come home for that party. Tell them I don’t know how long that will be yet.

Please write soon.

From your friend,

G. C. Spencer