57th & 61st New York Infantry - Captured at Gettysburg

Item LTR-9977

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages, written in period ink. (Mentions the mine explosion)


Before Petersburg
August 3rd 1864

Dear Mother,

I received your letter of July 25th and was very glad to hear from you. I am well at present and hope this will find you the same.

Since my last, we have had stirring times here or at least the rebels got stirred up a good deal by the springing of a mine under one of their principal forts one morning last week before breakfast. But as I was there to see it. As the 2nd Corps was sent to the north bank of the James River to draw the attention of the rebels in that direction, so that the move could be executed more easily and just returned in time for the ball. While we were over the river, I and two others were detailed by an order from the Corps Headquarters for duty in the ambulance train. So here I am with a prospect of not more fighting for this campaign, at least.

You say that father has stopped work on the house on account of the high price of lumber and nails. Which by the tone of your letter, I should judge that you don’t, but I think myself that it would not be advisable to build now either. Would I hire a house for the high price of living would make it almost impossible for you to get along and make both ends meet. I would stay with Valney, even if I did have to put up with some inconvenience. For you know hot it is and how hard it would be to get along if he had to hire help to do housework. You may think this strong advice from me. But believe me, it will be for the best. Or I would not give it, you may be sure.

I can’t think of a thing more to write at present. So goodbye.

Be careful and direct your letter,

Emory Carey
Ambulance Train
1st Division, 2nd Corps
Washington, DC