1 10 11 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/cdb03be83c998652e31241e87ead6cc5.pdf 066cdf0a68816524d15627b2ddeeaec6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Camp “Russell” Virginia Dec 15th 1864 Friends Jm. + Wife Your letters of the 7th inst come duly to hand a day or two since and the present opportunity I will improve in replying. I am glad to know that good health abounds and that you + yours are especially enjoying that Benign blessing. I was never better in that respect in my life and the prospect is good for me ere long to be in your midst with a whole frame and in a healthy condi- tion. The weather I have to chron- icle is not at all pleasing to the poor soldiers, snow + hail seems to be de- scending upon us without mercy and [page 2] all signs fortell a severe storm. The earth has already been covered with snow since the 9th and how dreary and desolate it is! As oft as I look away upon the snow capped mountains of this frozen clime and wade among heaps of drifted snow, I wish myself back to the sunny south where the winters cold comes not. I do really love the winters of the south, but in summer a higher latitude is highly prefer able and far more healthy Notwithstanding the cold snow the usual fatigue on the fortifications is daily carried on and now we have a very formidable line almost complete. Two forts are now in progress on the Pike, which, when completed will ren- der this an important military fort in regard to strength. After all fa- tigue duty is done the boys have the promise of furloughs, and that is quite an incentive to action. Your humble servant will stand a good [page 3] sight for one before spring if nothing happens. I hardly know what to do when I finish my present job. If I could consent to remain in the service I can get just as good a position as I want in the Qtr Mstrs Department. O.E. Stoddard was rec- omended by the Capt. for a commission and was mustered out of service under those considerations. It is at his option to accept it or not I believe. It seems to me he is very foolish if he does, when exchanged. The war is becoming more and more desperate, and must increase until it finally ends I believe. A very favorable report comes from Sherman, who seems to be having everything his own way down in Georgia Shouldn’t wonder if Savannah had gone up. Old Phil. I guess has got through for a while, but having retrieved the loss of three years battles in the old Valley, he can afford to lay [page 4] by a while. When we crossed the Potomac at Harpers Ferry four months ago, or at the commencement of the campaign. The Md. soldiers on duty there said “we would be back in a week”. We have once been back almost to the river by being flanked, but since then we have gone + stayed where we pleased. The Union Army here used to be called “Harpers Weekly” by returning to the Ferry as often, but now it has lost the complimentary title. Old Phil is the best General the 12th has ever been under. Ben Butler + Weitzel were good enough. The 6th Corps has gone to Petersburgh, or most of it as you are aware, and some of the 8th. The 19th I suppose will be left here for the present. I am delighted to know that there are a plenty of Eve’s fair daughters around to prevent a few disconsolate old bachelors from forever despairing. The loss of men for the past three years has been so great, it seems to me the balance need not want for a better half. How does Zeke, entertaining such radical views as he does, find favor in the sight of Uncle Joe? or does the favor originate from another source? Two extremes have certainly met, and I hope the collision will not prove disastrously. A very good idea of yours to put forth an effort to keep me out of mischief. Wouldn’t it be best to add to it by oftener writing? It should certainly have me indorsement. [page 1 text vertical] Where is Uncle Elijah? I never hear a word spoken about him no more than as though he were dead Give my regards to all inquiring friends, and when it is convenient just remember that I am always delighted to hear from you. With due regards to you remain as ever your esteemed friend W.H. Reynolds [page 1 text upside down] P.S. Direct to W.H. Reynolds Co “B” Ct. Veteran Battalion 1st Div. 19th AC Washington DC Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds, 12th C.V.I., December 15, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Shenandoah Valley Campaign, 1864 (August-November) Sheridan, Philip Henry, 1831-1888 Description An account of the resource William Reynolds writes to his friend James McCracken about the progress of the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, the superiority of Philip Sheridan, and the signs that the war is coming to an end. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-12-15 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/a17600aea8cd00c6e0b5546d926d5acc.pdf 05176c091c59bb793ff68ef3ee7e40e9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Virginia Camp at Blockhouse near Summit point, March 22nd, 1865 My dear Brother I improve a few moments, to write you. I trust you will excuse all neglect on my part for not writing before this time for it is not because I have forgotten you. No, I shall always remember you and feel a lively interest in your welfare. Since I left home I have had much trial + hardship + quite a sick spell but now am much better + have been improving for sometime So that now my breath is tolerable good. I am about as I was when at home. I shall never forget the very pleasant visit we had together. when I was at home last fall + you must give my love + respect to your faithful companion + my good wishes to all our friends. We are now Quartered at the Block house which we built the past winter which affords protection for 52 men with muskets. it is about 50 ft square + brick very strong + solid + is calculated to resist even the fire [page 2] of artillery. it is surrounded with a deep ditch + then has at 4 rods distance a hedgework very thick so that nothing can get through I expect that we shall remain here for some time + perhaps all summer. I hope we shall remain here for the rest of the time the War may last there is some prospect now of its coming to a close before long the enemy seem to have arrived into the last ditch + I think are about ready to succumb. The idea of a Southern Confederacy has vanished + there is nothing left but the gaudy bubble which is ready to burst. What will the Copperheads do now for material for their cause + how will they receive the chastisement over the back of Southern Chivalry. When Old Abe shall have brought the proud Southerners to their bended knees pleading to return to his bosom + when he shall have grasped the scepter anew over the whole of the United States + when he shall have brought every rebel to kiss the rod I think they have sufficient cause to hide their heads with shame when they see that government they have so proudly set at defiance rising higher + still higher among the family of nations. for me I am proud of [page 3] the part I have taken + that I can say that I never have done one act of disloyalty to the best government the world ever saw but what little I have done + what little influence I have had has been thrown in the scab for the country + our government + I can return with the proud satisfaction of knowing that I have contributed towards putting down the greatest Rebellion the world ever saw + I humbly trust I shall be permitted to return + meet you all again + see a united country once more though it may be tattered + torn by terrible War oh may our prayers for war to cease be answered + peace over men return + bless our land. But my Dear Brother I must close + I hope + pray these times will find you all well + in the enjoyment of health + happiness + I trust you will write me in answer soon + direct it to Co. B 12th CV Battalion 2nd Brigade 1st Div 19th AC Washington DC. There is nothing now here we are on the lookout for guerillas but they do not trouble us + seem to be wishing to keep at a safe distance I trust you will give me the news + keep me posted + I voted the other day for our worthy Governor Bucking ham. look out for my vote on the desk at Election I remain Your Affectionate Brother C.S. McCracken Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Charles McCracken, 12th C.V.I., March 29, 1865 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Copperhead movement Description An account of the resource Charles McCracken writes to his brother William about the end stages of the war, the prospects for reconciliation, and Northern recalcitrance. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1865-03-29 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/32b05e5c57acdf45c27af1bfb6d0daad.pdf 0d29e250ad5a37c44741d16f2c04918c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Camp at Blockhouse ^Virginia near Summit Point, March 25th, 1865 Dear Brother, I'm here a few moments to write you + trust you will excuse all neglect on my part for not writing before this time for it is not because I had forgoten you. No, I shall always remember you + feel a lively interest in your welfare since I left home I have had much trial + hardship+ quite a Sick Spell, but am now much better + have been improving for Sometime. So that now my health is tolerable good + am about as I was when at home. I Shall never forget the very pleasant visit we had together when I was at home last fall + you must give my love + respect to your faithfull companion, + my good wishes to all our friends. We are now Quartered at the Block house which we built the past winter which affords protection for 52 men with muskets. it is about 50 ft square + built very Strong + Solid, + is calculated to resist even the fire [page 2] of artillery, it is Surrounded with a Deep ditch which has a 4 rods distance a high work very thick So that nothing Can get through. I expect that we Shall remain here for Some time, + perhaps all Summer. I hope we Shall remain here for the rest of the time the war may last, there is some prospect now of its coming to a close before long the enemy Seeing it has arrived into the last ditch + I think are about ready to Succumb. The idea of a Southern Confederacy has vanished + there is nothing left but the gaudy bubble which is ready to burst. What will the Copperheads do now for material for ^their cause? + how will they receive the chastisement over the back of Southern Chivalry When Old Abr Shall have brought the proud Southrens to their bended knees pleading to remain in his bosom + when he Shall have pacified the [unclear] anew over the whole of the United States + when in short have brought every rebel to kiss the sod I think they have Sufficient cause to hide their heads with Shame when they see that government they have so proudly set at defiance rising higher + thus higher among the family of nations, for me I am proud of [page 4] the part I have taken + that I can Say that I never have done one act of disloyalty to the best government the world ever Saw, but what little I have done is what little influence I have had, has been thrown in the Scale for the Country + our government + I can return with the proud satisfaction of knowing that I have contributed toward putting down the greatest Rebellion the World ever Saw + I humbly trust I Shall be remitted to returned [unclear] all again + See a united Country once more. Though it may be tattered + torn by terrible War, oh, may our prayers for war to cease be answered + peace once more return. God bless our land. But my Dear Brother I must close + I hope + pray these lines will find you all Well + in the Enjoyment of health + happiness, + I trust you will write me in answer Soon, + direct to Co B 12th CV Battalion 2d Brigade+ 1st Div 19th AC. Washington DC . There is nothing now here, we are on the lookout for guerillas but they do not trouble us, + seem to be waiting to keep at a Safe distance. I trust you will give me the news + keep me posted as I voted the other Day for our worthy governor Bucking ham. look out for my vote on the desk at Election I remain Your Affectionate Brother C.T. McCracken Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Charles McCracken, 12th C.V.I., March 25, 1865 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1865-03-25 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 5-17 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Copperhead movement Description An account of the resource Charles McCracken writes to his brother James about his health, the safety of his camp, his anger at the Copperheads, and the imminent end of the war. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/ee87a6a1dce5cd990a4db6a026e859b5.pdf 066cdf0a68816524d15627b2ddeeaec6 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/b8812b0ece1a93f21faba31725012465.pdf 066cdf0a68816524d15627b2ddeeaec6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Camp "Russell" Virginia Dec. 15th 1864 Friends Ja. + wife Your letters of the 7th inst. came duly to hand a day or two since and the present opportunity I will improve in replying. I am glad to know that good health abounds and that your + yours are especially enjoying that benign blessing. I was never better in that respect in my life and the prospect is good for me ere long to be in your midst with a whole frame and in a healthy condi- tion. The weather I have to chron- icle is not at all pleasing to the poor soldiers now. Rain seems to be de- scending upon us without mercy and [page 2] all signs foretell a severe storm. The earth has already been covered with snow since the 9th and how dreary and desolate it is! As oft as I look away from the snow capped mountains of this frozen clime and wade among highs of drifted snow, I wish myself back to the sunny south where the winters cold comes not. I do really love the winters of the south, but in summer a higher latitude is highly prefer able and far more healthy. Notwithstanding the cold snow the usual fatigue on the fortifications is daily carried on and now we have a very formidable line almost complete. Two forts are now in progress on the Pike, which, when completed will ren- der this an imporgtant military port in regard to strength. After all fa- tigue duty is done the boys have the promise of furloughs, and that is quite an incentive to action. Your humble servant will stand a good [page 3] sight for one before spring if nothing happens. I hardly know what to do when I finish my present job. If I could consent to remain in the service I can get just as good a position as I want in the Qer Mstrs Department. O.E. Stoddard was rec- ommended by the Capt. for a commission and was mustered out of service under those considerations. It is at his option to accept it or not I believe. It seems to one he is very foolish if he does, when exchanged. The war is becoming more and more desperate, and must increase until it finally ends I believe. A very favorable reports come from Sherman, who seems to be having everything his own way down in Georgia shouldn't wonder if Savannah had gone up. Old Phil. I guess has got through for w hile, but having retrieved the loss of three years battles in the old bully, he can afford to lay [page 4] by a while. When we crossed the Potomac at Harpers Ferry four months ago, or at the commencement of the campign, the Ind. soldiers on duty there said "we would be back in a week". We have once been back almost to the river by being flanked, but since then we have gone + stayed where we pleased. The Union Army here used to be called "Harpers Weekly" by returning to the Ferry as often, but now it has lost the complimentary title. Old Phil is the best General the 12th has ever been under. Bren Britten + Weitzel were good enough. The 6th Corps has gone to Petersburgh, or most of it as you are aware, and some of the 8th. The 19th I suppose will be left here for the present. I am delighted to know that there are a plenty of Eve's fair daughters a around to prevent a few disconsolate old bachelors from forever despairing. The loss of men for the past three years, has been so great it seems to me the balance need not want for a better half. How does Zeke, entertaining such radical views as he does, find favor in the sight of Uncle Joe? or does the favor originate from another source? Two extremes have certainly met, and I hope the collision will not prove disastrously. a very good idea of yours to put forth an effort to keep me out of mischief. Wouldn't it be best to add to it by oftener writing? It should certainly have my endorsement. [page 1, written vertically on the left] When is Uncle Ely in? I never hear a word from him about him no more than as though he were dead. Give my regards to all inquiring friends, and when it is convenient just remember that I am always delighted to hear from you. With due regards to you I remain as ever your esteemed friend W. C. Reynolds [page 1, written upside down at the top] P.S. Direct to W.C. Reynolds Co "B" 12th Ct. Veteran Battalion 1st Bn 15th A.C. Washington D.C. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds, 13th C.V.I., December 15, 1864 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-12-15 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 5-15 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Sheridan, Philip Henry, 1831-1888--Military leadership. Shenandoah Valley Campaign, 1864 (August-November) Description An account of the resource William Reynolds writes to James McCracken about the weather, Sherman's successes in Georgia, and the leadership of Philip Sheridan. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/091ef8da6bb1da92597bc89d1fcd3f99.pdf a397c0735950c8d01045f91cdc6635bb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Shenandoah Valley Virginia Nov 19th 1864 Friend James Your favor mof the 10th inst is thankfully received. Was very glad to learn that previous letters have not given offence and that we are still on interceding terms. The army has fallen back to the rear of Newtown, about six miles from our former position at the Creek. Are constructing very for- midable breast works and have orders to make ourselves as comfortable as possible, so I think that the prospect is good for stopping here for the Winter, if we Gen. Early has no objection. I am in good health to this date. The Johnnies followed us to this place and for several days, we had skirmishing with them, but they finally concluded to let us alone, and at last reports they were falling back towards Lynchburg Deserters occasionally come into our lines and represent the Confederacy rather in the decline. Of course deserters will tell anything to suit themselves and the occasion so they cannot be relied upon. The date of the old organization of the 12th C.V. I believe is Dec 3rd and we, Nov. Vets, have supposed that we should all get discharged at that date, but it is rumored that they will keep every man till he has served 3 years from date of muster into U.S. service. No other Ct. Regt. has been thus treated, and we thing it is an insult to us if they manage that way. That will bring my time out about the 1st of February, 65. There are some will not get out until near April. All enlisted under the old organization to be discharged with the Regt. and many enslited in La. in May + June under those considerations and are justly entitled to their discharge. There is a good deal of noise about camp arising from the injustice of the thing. In the 26th Mass. Regt. the La. men got their discharge with the Nov. Vets. [page 2] Some of our boys were mnustered into the service the 20th of Nov. tomorrow, but it is decided that they can not get their discharge until the 3rd of Dec. the date of the Regt. If they can keep them until then, it seems to me that it is their duty to discharge all then, but they will do as they have a mind to. Soldiers are humbuged in every way and it is for that reason that I have no respect for government Officials. No one seems to know or care anything about the rights of the soldier. Nearly all the officers of the 12th are trying to get out of the show, and it is as much as they can do, to look out for their own interests. In a few days, I shall know more about it. No man would have enlisted in the 12th C.V., after the 3rd Dec. without hav- ing a guarantee that all should be discharged at the end of the organ- ization. Such treachery on tnhe part mof Gov. officials does not tell well in the matter of future enlistment. I have'nt anything of importance to communicate so I may as well close hoping to hear from you soon + often With due regards to you + wife I remain as ever your sincere friend William H Reynolds Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds 13th C.V.I., November 19, 1864 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864.11.19 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 5-14 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Recruiting and enlistment Description An account of the resource William Reynolds writes to his friend James McCracken about his regiments retreat to winter quarters, the likelihood that he will not be released from service when he had hoped, and his disillusionment with the government. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/c066dab845bf8654d62f1975f0107a89.pdf e3e5047d33b43b1e4634dc10c4fd25ae Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Georgia Camp at Savannah June 21st 1865 Dear Brother, I received your letter a few days since in reply to mine & was glad to hear of your continued good health. Your excuse for not writing sooner is a very good one. I notice you were very busy & had a good many "irons in the fire" than is right only Keep them all agoing, hammer tongs, & all the old adage of "too many irons in the fire" conveys an untruth. It seems you have taken to farming a little in connection with your shopwork. Well, I trust it a good thing for you [Page 2] aside from the farming profit it is not good to confine ourselves too much indoors but out- door exercise is highly beneficial to us. We are still here in camp. Just outside the city limits. Our camp is on a river spot& is inclined to the South, & West we have quite good water for cooking purposes & have free access to the river for bathing we have erected arbours in our Com. streets to shelter us from the burning rays of the South. Our fare is salt portk & beans & hardtack with a little coffee twice each day. We get few vegetables, which are beginning to be more plenty now if we have the money to buy them. [Page 3] As yet, we have none as the paymaster has not yet made his appearance among us but we hope to see him soon for we all would really like some funds. As yet it is a general time of health among us & we hope it will continue. Now & then we trade articles of clothing for vegetables or something for a change of eatables. I do not see as there is any argument on the part of the commissariat for any such neadment of soldiers. Certainly it is not so much depleted as to require any such stringen- cy & we are not far from base of supplies so that there is no reason for such a state of things but something is wrong [Page 4, blank] [Page 5] Continuance & we are lead to the opinion that somebody is making a "Pile" out of our rations. If I should live so at home I should think it miserable poor. If we have on an active campaign or we should expect such things but such is not the case. We are in camp or garrison & are entitled to good & wholesome food particularly in this hot climate. I am not one one of those who complains & heretofore have said nothing about our fare but now I think it time I speak a word -- Whether it does any good or not we shall no doubt have to remain in this vicinity all summer & I think we ought to get more vegetables. [Page 6] I notice the work of reconstru- ction is going on in all the different states & the people are adapting themselves to the new order of things. The Negroes are an indolent lot, as I always knew & have little or no faculty to set themselves to work to better their condition, but perhaps they will get to it after awhile. But enough about the Negro. I notice Father has another housekeeper & I trust he will mark such an arrangement as will insure her remaining with him for some time to come. I suppose his place is still encumbered with a mortgage, which he has not the ability to meet or to pay [Page 7] When I was at home, he wished me to take it, but I could not then see the propriety of my doing so. probably if it is ever to be paid one of us will have to pay it or it will pass most of the name of the family. I don’t know but I might help pay it. if the place opposite your or the Peckham place. I suppose it is, could be bought so that we could own all on both sides the road unmolested. This would give me a comfortable place with land enough such as it is. Then I should not wish to interfere with yours in any arrangement you may make, or might have made in relation [Page 8] to any, or all of the property here I speak of, but I speak of it as a thing or transaction which might transpire perhaps you might feel, of the parties who are interested, I see what might be done in the matter it would be very desireable to own all of the land on that corner. I don’t know as that place can be bought at all, it is only an idea which has occurred to me. Since I sit down to write if you please you can give me such information as you may or might possess upon inquiring but I must close & I trust then will find you all well much love to you all. Your afct Brother Chas S McCracken Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data manuscript letter Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Charles McCracken, 12th C.V.I., June 21, 1865 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Sources Operations rations (Military supplies) United States. Army--Pay, allowances, etc. Reconstruction (U.S. history, 1865-1877)--Georgia Racism United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Description An account of the resource Charles McCracken writes to his brother James about the situation of his camp outside Savannah after the war, his frustration with the rations he is receiving, and financial difficulties and opportunities back home. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1865-06-21 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/9f6779e3c1c86c24299090ad38a84225.pdf 24a54a7aad7830f2cbaaa30409cc3353 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document 1864 J 27th Camp near Carrollton La My dear Brother. I received your very excellent letter of 14th inst. yesterday on board steer Ohio Belle on which we had embarked bound up the river for some point in Rebeldom unknown to us but supposed to be Vicksburg Miss. but mans plans are often frustrated & so these ones for we had not gone more than fifteen miles up the river before the Machinery gave out. a Shaft was broken & cilinder [sic] head stove & one man in his Excitement jumped through a window & severely cut his arm. two horses were so much injured that we had to shoot them to get them out of the bay & the boat was put [Page 2] about & we steamed to our old camp again where we now are. & all seem to be engaged in visiting of their friends. & no doubt some- thing of any trip. how long we shall remain here is unknown to me as all movements are until we are called upon to pack up which has been often of late. for we have been going & never seeming to get anywhere this being the second time we have started for Up the River the weather is awful hot & we landed this morning & just got our tents up to shelter us from the blazing hot sun & are enjoying the best of a Soldier’s life. Camp-life. & should feel better if Uncle Sam would give us little better rations. Something instead of Stinking Salt Beef & hard bread but he is not so much to blame after all for its [sic] these miserable contractors [Page 3] who are robing [sic] us & making there [sic] pile off the army. I tell you Brother this war is a big thing & blockade running is a big business. Some are driving fast [sic] hordes off the profits of such business. Even our Friend Reynolds has been accused perhaps wrongfully of helping to run the blockade over to the lake while there. Well that is the way. Some help to put down the rebellion & instead of doing their duty aid the enemy. But I will not enlarge on this point for truth is mighty & will prevail. Sometime or other. & perhaps such using is their reward. I am glad that you are all well & are prospering for we need all of us prosperity. I have no doubt Shall have it if we do our duty I am very glad to hear from you & always shall be & hope you will [Page 4] continue this corespondence [sic] so well begun. Shall write as often as I can & thus relieve the monotony of the camp. I send my love to you all. & here let me say that I have my kind regards for Father notwithstanding his obstinacy. for I think it would be better for him & us if he would hear us but never mind. he no doubt will go on in the old path. it is barely possible that he is right. I was in hopes he would arrange with you to improve his land, but it seems he has not. Dear Brother I must close hoping for your health & happiness & in the meantime we will both do our duty to our country. Sometimes I trust in God to keep our powder dry relying on Him for protection & a safe return to home & friends. I Remain Your Affectionate Brother Chas. S. McCracken Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Charles McCracken, 12th C.V.I., June 27, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Corruption Blockade Operations rations (Military supplies) Description An account of the resource Charles McCracken writes to his brother James of an aborted attempt to transport north toward Vicksburg, complains about corruption and blockade running among Union contractors and soldiers, and discusses matters in Connecticut. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/14c713c32f20a8cf10c70c5a686d3107.pdf ea2695f2eeaf8e64487a1a857ac09b04 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Alexandria Louisiana May 14th, 1863 Friend James As I have a few mo- ments of leisure I will improve them in answering yours of the 15th Ult. which is before me. Was glad to hear of your continued health & also of the friends in that vicinity. As to myself my health never was better. Our Army left Brashear city on the 10th of Apr. on an expedition to Alexandria for the purpose of cutting off rebel supplies from Texas to port Hudson & Vicksburg as Maj Gen Banks had withdrawn his troops from Baton Rouge for the purpose of trying another route for the reduction of the former place. At Opelousas we staid about two weeks during which time I went back to Brashear city on business for the Company & while there put a letter [Page 2] into the office for your wife giving a few particulars of our expedition to that place. Since then we have been none the less successful on our way to Alexandria. Perhaps our present expedition has been one of the most important ones of the war. We have not only placed the rebels at Port Hudson in a starving condition but have taken immense quantities of cotton, sugar & molasses to say nothing of other confiscated articles of immense value. At Governor Moore’s, about seven miles from Alexandria we hal- ted & obtained a beautiful secesh flag which we still hold in our pos- session. The old Governor was not at home but his “n*****s” said he had “done gone to Pine Hills” to avoid being taken along with us. While here we have made a short expedition to Pine Hills to see what then was there. Saw dissolving views of the rebels & considered it not worth the while to further pur- sue them as we have followed them up [Page 3] closely ever since the battle of the Teche. We are now in camp on the banks of the Red River two miles form Alexandria in the rear and are only stopping for some rest & then we are off for Port Hudson. We are under marching orders & shall leave this afternoon or tomorrow morning without doubt. I tell you James we are a “used up” set of fellows; have made some of the longest marches known in Ancient or Modern history and in this warm climate at that. We have made from 25 to 30 miles a day & somedays 36 miles since we started. Banks is celebrated I believe for marching his troops to death as he did the 5th Conn. in Virginia. It may be that we shall take transports down the Red River, but I rather think he will shove us through on foot. You have probably seen accounts of our expedition in the papers & so I will not particularise Co. A of the 12th which was captured by the Confederates at the time our Com. B [Page 4] was taken by them on the “Teche” near Pat- tersonville have not yet been exchanged and they are at N. Orleans. Our 1st Lieut. was mortally wounded as we suppose. saw him at Franklyn as we came past on our present expedition & the rebel surgeon who had charge of him there said he could not live. have since heard the ball was extracted & he on the gain. The rebels had not time to pa- role him before we took possession of the place & all that was in it so he is free from them. Our 2nd Lieut. Allyn left us on the morning of the 13th of April very much unwell & went in to the hospital He was sick when we started & endured the march as long as he could before giving out. He was in the hospital at New Orleans the last we knew of him. Co. K. is therefore very unfortunate as we have only the Capt. in command of us, and we all dispise [sic] him except a few of his Westerly Irishmen. He is a very ignorant, intemperate fellow & cannot merit the respects of his Company. Confederate money is the only cur- rancy that would pass in Alexandria when we arrived but is now rather depre- ciating in value. It will soon “play out” But I perceive I am taxing you to [sic] hard & so I will close as you are perhaps wishing me to do so that you may go about something of more importance. Hoping to hear from you soon I remain as ever your friend W.H. Reynolds Co K 12th Regt. C.V. New Orleans La J. McCracken Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds, 12th C.V.I., May 14, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) Description An account of the resource William Reynolds writes of the march north from Brashear City, occupation of Alexandria, and members of the company who had been killed, wounded, or captured. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-05-14 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/d570de36c21a1efeed911bc0fb654e73.pdf af2b2d62a21b331b054b6429f6ce3f26 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Brashear City La July 28th, 1862 [sic, 1863] Friend James Having a few mo- meets of leisure, I will endeavor to answer your letter of the 6th inst which I received with pleasure. I was at Donaldsonville - up the Miss River - when I received your note but was then under marching orders & could not well attend to answer- ing letters. We embarked at that place on the 21st inst., left New Orleans on the 23rd & arrived at Brashear on the 25th after a short passage down the Miss. & in the Gulf. Here we found things quite different from what they were on the 9th of Apr. last when we left the place. The same desolation & ruin which fol- lows the rebel army is here manifest in the most affecting manner. Small forts & rifle pits are thrown up at various [Page 2] points along the Bayou in which are left some of the artillery spiked which they took from our troops when they captured the place & were obliged to leave on their has- ty retreat. There are two engines left here well torn to pieces & a great number of cars burned upon the track. The smoke of their incendiary deeds is yet visible & small fragments of our clothing & treasured articles scattered about the streets. The 13th Conn. Regt. is with us here & we have commenced clearing off the track & getting new timber together preparatory to laying a new track. All the bridges are destroyed from here to LaFourche crossing, where our troops were lastly defeated & driven back to the city; but when Old Dick Taylor heard of the fall of Vicksburg & Port Hudson he thought best to put off the recapture of New Orleans & be making tracks into Texas which he was not long in doing. Our Gun Boats & troops did not arrive here in time to intercept them in their hasty flight across the country & so they have gone on their way [Page 3] rejoicing. Had we not achieved great & important victories since we left here we might feel saddened at the sight & prospect before us but as it is our losses are hard- ly thought of. The road is being repaired as fast as possible & it will not be many days before the train will be here from the city - new troops will arrive - the place be built up & the comforts of life again be restored to us. We have accumu- lated a great many bords [sic] & slabs with which we have made a bit of covering for us from the rain & sunshine. The weather is “hot” - well suited for mosquitoes at night when they begin their pretty songs to us. Our nets we had to sleep under were captured with our clothing here & there is no peace to the wicked here in the night without them. Since we left here they have not troubled us, so now they bite with renewed appetites. We have received no pay since the 31st of December 1862 so we are as moneyless as we are destitute of everything else. I had a plenty of postage stamps in my knapsack but they are gone [Page 4] with the rest of my things & I hav’nt any thing to pay the postage on letters so I am obliged to get them franked. When communication is reopened to the city we shall probably get some money again & then I shall go to the city on a “spree” and get some of the necessary articles in the line of writing. Our Regt. is now quite small - not half so large as it was when we left here in April perhaps - some have died from disease - some from sounds - others have been killed & some taken prisoners but we are as determined as ever to main- tain our former reputation ain the field when called again into active service to remember our slaughtered ones, in re- cent battles & strive to vindicate the principles of American soldiers. Your brother Chas was taken prisoner at this place - paroled & sent to Ship Island with the rest of the prisoners taken around here. All the Ledyard boys in this Regt. are in usual health like myself. Port Hudson was not taken on the 5th as you heard but surrender its whole garrison on the 9th at 7 o’clock a.m. I like to hear from you all often, so please write when convenient & your letters will find an early answer. remember me to your wife - my folks & inquiring friends Yours Respectfully W.H. Reynolds Co. K. 12th CI New Orleans La Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds, 12th C.V.I., July 28, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1862-1865) United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army--Pay, allowances, etc. Description An account of the resource Reynolds writes to his friend James McCracken about the recapture of Brashear City, La. and the work of rebuilding after the Confederate retreat. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-07-28 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/88bff0098510b0b39582fba89f538151.pdf 451e0bcbecc375ee5cb10da63ed589e6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource McCracken Civil War Correspondence Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence received by James McCracken from William Reynolds and Charles McCracken, soldiers in the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource McCracken, Charles Reynolds, William Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/mccracken/">McCracken Civil War Correspondence</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Camp Parapet Carrollton Louisiana Monday P.M. July 21st, 1862c Dear Friend: Your letter of the 4th was received a few days ago by your friend, and its contents afforded me such pleasure. I have received from you and father forty postage stamps, which was a very precious gift to me and I don’t know what I should have done without them; for I have got no silver or gold money which is neces sary in order to get them out here. I was very sorry to learn that Calvin was seriously ill; as it is a very bad time for farmers to be sick at this very busy season of the year; but I hope before this letter reaches you, he will re- gain his health, and be able to be about [Page 2] his daily business, which I suppose is mowing. If he was out here he would get rid of that job as there is none of it to be done in this part. I am very happy to report myself well or nearly so at this time which I suppose will be very consoling to my mother who is always borrowing trouble about that which will be of no good to her. Am occupying the same old place as you will see by the heading of the letter but are under marching or- ders, and was in hopes when the order was first issued that we should leave in a short time, but now it looks as though we should be here for some time to come. The New Orleans papers of Sunday stated that the rebel Ram Arkansaw had come out of the Yazoo river on the morning of the 15th and whittled our fleet at Vicksburg all to pieces and then run in under cover of [Page 3] the rebel guns. The news seemed to have foundation and was generally cred ited here at camp. Consequently our Pickets received instruction to fire an alarm if they saw a light coming down the River. A light appeared and the alarm given, and we were turned out in line of battle, just for nothing at all, as we have been for a great many times since we have been in camp. We have been fooled so much in that line that it has become an old story and I think by and by we shall not be so particular about turning out to a man, as we have been. The papers of to-day say there is no truth in the report. I am sorry to say James that we have an old grey headed louse of an abolitionist for a Gen. Brig Gen Phelps and consequently our camp is full of “n*****s”. Besides those in camp, he has allowed them to take the land of [Page 4] loyal citizens just inside of our Picket & there are now from six to eight hundred I should think there supported by the government. O it is a cursed thing and I think the Gen will have to resign. All our officers are down on him & Gen Butler is death on his love for n*****s. Our Major has written to the Secretary of War and I think when he makes his re- turns the n*****s will have to leave and I hope Phelps with them. I don’t know what the old Devil is going to do, for I see he is organizing a Reg. of n*****s and they travel about in companies every day I understand they are going to be drilled with arms and I don’t know but they will be put into the Regiments that are not full. The soldiers are all death on them and on the General; so I think there will be some fun here in a few days I wouldn’t blame the Louisianans for rising upon this Brigade or any other which takes their n*****s after this style. The last account from Richmond were fa- vorable to McClellan I should think and I am very anxious to hear of its fall. Write soon to your friend Wm. H Reynolds Ja. McCracken P.M. Com. K 12th Reg. C.I. New Orleans La. I shall write to your wife and will endeavor to close in good shape Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Reynolds, 12th C.V.I., July 21, 1862 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 12th (1861-1865) United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--African Americans Racism Description An account of the resource William Reynolds writes from New Orleans to his friend James McCracken in Ledyard, Conn. He describes the camp, news and rumors, and preparing for battle and complains about local African Americans and his abolitionist general. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1862-07-21