The Civil War Letters
Southeast Virginia
June 29 to August 3, 1863
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The Civil War LettersSoutheast VirginiaJune 29 to August 3, 1863 |
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June 29th, 1863. Near Whitehouse, VA
They have been out behind Richmond doing damage to the Rebels. A good account of the action is given. Letter written with a poor pencil.
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June 30th, 1863. White House, VA
He looks forward to the next year passing. He has tried several times to get a furlough but has had no luck. He still does not think that camp is a good place for her to come and visit. This is not because he loves her any less.
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July 11th, 1863. Yorktown, VA
He has been in the saddle "day and night" and has suffered from the heat and being kept busy. He has been able to take hard fare which is hard tack and strong pork.
There has been good news in the papers that Gen. Meade has whipped Gen. Lee and that Vicksburg has surrendered to Gen. Grant which he hopes is true.
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July 18th, 1863. Bowers Hill, VA
He is between Portsmouth and Suffolk. No more Union men are at Suffolk. He hopes for a little rest here after being knocked about rather rough. They are busy making camp and it is very hot. Brother William is OK.
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July 23rd, 1863. Bowers Hill, VA
He asks her not to send a box as it would spoil.
He looks forward to being with her and will not enlist again having learned a lesson that will last him a lifetime.
He wants to know if any of his home staying friends have been drafted and if Cousin Thomas will pay $300.00 or go to war.
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August 3rd, 1863. Bowers Hill, VA
They have been on a raid in North Carolina and have captured Rebel Soldiers, horses, wagons and a lot of hams, chickens, preserves, whisky, wine and "everything else that was eatable".
It has been very hot and you could cook a piece of ham in the sun in five minutes. If it does not get cooler he will melt away and all that will be left of him will be a small grease spot.
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