1st New York Light Artillery - Battery "I"

Item LTR-9647

Description

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


Camp Wainwright
March 16th 1863

Dear Sister,

Yours of the sixth I received yesterday morning and last evening I received Fred’s of the ninth and yours of the tenth. So you see I had plenty news from home yesterday. I should have answered one last night but we went up and brought the guns back. And made so much bustle and commotion that I thought I should not do much and as you say this will have to answer for these two that I received.

We have had orders to turn in two guns and they are getting ready to take them to City Point this morning. I shouldn’t be at all surprised if we had to move out of this place before long. I think the indications are pretty favorable. But let it come I am ready. Now while I think of it, I want some cotton socks sent. Send me two pairs by mail. Leave one end open and they won’t change but a little postage. It is getting so very hot. I can’t wear these thick socks that I bought from home and they are the only ones I have. I haven’t worn the best pair yet. And if you send me some, I will sell them or send them home first, as you think best. I think I can get $1.50 for mine. And send me a fine tooth comb. I will enclose another picture of Corporal George Panrite.

If you receive anything that you think worth paying you may make it. As I sent a register to Father yesterday. And if it is as good as before, I think it will pay for itself. I think Father is doing alright. And I guess if all of his boys should leave him, he would first rush things. I think by the time the sugaring season is through, he will be bushed.

The Sutlers have all been ordered to City Point and everything of the kind may were sent. So I think the prospects are pretty firm. If we should move, you must not expect to hear from me quite as often as you have. But I will write as often as once a week at least. The Lieutenant told me this morning that he had heard about his box and that he thought it would be here in a few days. I have got my old boots fixed. So they will last a little while yet. Well I will close, hoping to hear from you soon.

I remain your Brother,

Erastus