14th New York Heavy Artillery - Chaplain

Item MED-8091

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 1 page, written in period ink.


Near Petersburg, Va.
Oct. 5th, 1864

Dear William,

You say you are going to enter the army as surgeon. Why don’t you get a contract and try that first? I should. If you get into the army and do not like the life, you can’t get out, you know. Where as you can tear up your contract when you please, or at least you are not held more than a few months at a time.

If all things go right at Albany you must not expect to be more than Assistant Surgeon for some time to come.

I repeat, I should try the contract.

In haste,
Your Affectionate Brother
T. G. Meachem