8th Pennsylvania Cavalry - Killed at Trevillian Station

Item LTR-9407

Description

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


Camp Stoneman
Near Washington, DC

May 6th 1864

Friend Annie,

Annie, I addressed you one before since I came to this camp. But I have been thinking since that I directed to Plummers’Creek instead of Barbers Mill.

I learn through Adam Leids that this is your post office.

Annie, you will think me a fool or insane for addressing you the second time without an answer to the first. But I thought if you had not received my first, you will receive this one. And if you knew how much good it does a soldier to write and receive letters while in the Army. I am quite sure you would have no objections to correspond with a soldier if not intimately acquainted with him.

I have not been well since I wrote you last. I was sick with the measles about two weeks but my health is good as sever again and am doing duty once more.

There is not much news in camp now. But we expect to hear startling news from soon. We have our arms and equipment awaiting out horses. It is likely we will stay here yet for some time. Please give my kind regards to your sister and parents. Excuse the bad writing and spelling and write soon. I remain truly your friend.

C. R. Smith
8th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company G
Camp Stoneman
Near Washington, DC