64th United States Colored Troops - Freedman's General Hospital - Surgeon

Item MED-10039

Description

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


Freedman’s General Hospital
Vicksburg, Mississippi

December 14th 1864

My dear sisters,

I have to inform you that I received the socks you sent me and I believe have received and are receiving all the newspapers you have sent me, as well as the public documents. You also inform me that the bonds and money reached you in safety.

Please inform Dr. Carter that I will comply with his request as soon as I have spare time and feel well enough to give him a few items of interest from the Department.

I do not feel much like writing. But felt it to be my duty to give you the reason why. On last Saturday, I was riding out on my horse, which is very wild in consequence of being young, well fed, and but seldom used. When passing the corner of the hospital building, in capering about, he slipped and fell on his right side with my right foot under his right shoulder, which sprained my ankle and rendered the limb unfit for use since. And is likely to be for some time to come. I feel thankful that no bones were broken. It is very much swollen. So much so that I cannot get anything on my foot but my sock. It is not quite so sore today as it was yesterday. Though the swelling is extending up the leg. I think in about a week, I shall be able to use it a little at least. I am now attending to my business, though I have to go on crutches for the first time in my life.

The weather is quite cold. We have one of the cold snaps for which this country is distinguished. In a day or two it will be as warm as spring again.

Since I have been in the public, I have not been sick much so that I have not particular reason to complain for an accident like this to trouble me for a week or two. I don’t want you to feel uneasy about me. Spend all your sympathy on Felicitous for I feel that I can take care of myself.

Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,

T. J. Wright