USS William Bacon - Mortar Flotilla

Item NMC-10337

Description

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


May 19, 1862

Dear Father,

I now take time to write to you to let you know where I am. I am now on board one of the mortar boats. I am well and hope you are the same. The fleet of mortar boats are now lying off Ship Island and expect to go to Mobile to attack Fort Morgan. We left New York the 5th and I came on board of this one yesterday. She is a small schooner and carries one large mortar and 2.32 lb. guns. Her name is the William Bacon No. 7 in the first division.

No more this time.

From your affectionate son,

William H. Mabury

I suppose you will have to direct your letters to the

William Bacon No. 7
First Division
Mortar Flotilla off Ship Island

Or elsewhere Command Porter’s Flotilla