16th New York Infantry

Item LTR-9803

Description

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


General Hospital
Annapolis
Aug 15, 1862

Chas Anthony
My Dear Sir,

Your long and kind letter of the 9th inst is just received and I can imagine that there is a pretty kettle of fish and doubts as to who will be Chief Captain. I have just learned of the resignation of Captain Nevin and Captain Palmer is to be promoted and that leaves me senior Captain of the 16th. A very good position and one that leaves me satisfied with. Before our election of company officers at Gouverneur in 1861 I promised my support for the promotion of Albert and Bob, and I have done what I could for a Captaincy for Albert but he always yearned to prefer his present position. I write to thank you for your long letter and to repeat that I am both willing and anxious to do anything I can for Albert and Bob. You can recommend either of them on the two great points for military command, competency and bravery. I have seen them in all the different difficult and trying positions that young officers can be placed, and they are far beyond the average of what are termed good men. But whoever takes a position in a regiment got up in the manner of the 106th will find many difficulties to contend against. It is entirely wrong for the Gov to disregard the action of a committee appointed as you were by his own voluntary action and will and instructions as to your powers and duties and on the other hand the strong political influence of James Sherman, Nyra Parson and company. And the fact that Judd has 800 men raised and the conflicting interest of different parties will go far towards destroying the efficiency of the regiment unless the Bull is taken by the horns at once and competent military men are put at the head of it. Compare the straight forward course of the 16th (as far as the line officers are concerned). With the political squabbling of the 92nd and you have the result before you. Hoping for the best and the restoration of our country to peace I remain yours truly.

George Parker

I am able to walk around my room a little but have not been out doors for 43 days. But I shall in all probability leave here within a few days. We are having cool weather and my wounds are healing fast.


Albert who Captain Parker refers to is Albert M. Barney who became Colonel of the 142nd New York Infantry and later a Brevet Brigadier General.