1st & 2nd District of Columbia Infantry

Item LTR-8236

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 2 pages, written in period ink.


Headquarters, 1st Regiment, DC Infantry
Camp Thomas

October 7th 1861

Dear Sir,

I suppose you number me with the dead. But I am happy to inform you that I am alive and well and never enjoyed better health. Since I last saw you, I have been in Texas fighting the Indians. I have traveled a good many hundred miles since I left Dauphin County. I have also been in Mexico since and am now in Washington in the volunteer service. Having been discharged from the regular service. I should like to hear from you all and also about my two little girls. If possible, tell Cornelia to make some inquiry about them, if she hasn’t already. Know I should very much like to see you all once more. But it is impossible at the present time. I am doing very well so far as pay and treatment is concerned. I am a sergeant in Captain Digg’s Company, for which I receive $17 per month and my clothing and rations and have an opportunity of making a great deal extra at my trade. Tell Priscilla to write to me and let me know all the news. And whether she is married or not she intends to. Tell all the children that I will either send or bring them a present when I come home.

I must close for the present. But in my next, I will tell you all about my adventures in the Army up to the present time.

I remain yours,

Joseph Winegardner


Mr. Josiah Winn