19 10 1130 https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/8fa4f809a82e1e49c18a4a463dfd2d6e.pdf 050d5d4b80ef51c24d69113e43371cf7 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 Fort Ellsworth Va, March 30th 1864 Dear Friends at Home, Long before you get this you will have seen Homer Sackett, and will probably have received the first installment of my diary. I do not know whether you had best read it yet or not, it is rather too recent now. However I do not mind, so you keep it quite to yourselves and don't get biassed against my body by it. Don't allow it to influence you at all. When did Homer get along? Did Aust come home with him, and how do you enjoy him, or them? He is a gay one. We are in the midst of a terrific storm, one of the worst I have met in Va. A cold rain and sleet falling in a heavy wind from the nor'west making a grand combination as the theatre bill put it that surpass most of the Storm King's late efforts in this Dept. It don't affect me much as I am under a roof, but the poor fellows out on guard or picket, have it rough. I guess we will get off to the front, either this week or next as we have been expecting marching orders for some days. Lt. Gen. Grant seems to be cleaning out the lazy Artillery from the Dept. of Washington. [page 2] The 15th N.Y. next Sunday. The 2d and 4th N.Y. Saturday and Monday the 1t C.A. is under marching orders today, and the 10th N.Y. also seems to be. Likely we will get orders tonight or tomorrow, and the away we go. When Homer Sackett went up last Monday, I was pretty sure there would be some furloughs granted to us that we might go home to vote and I think now we were pretty sure of them at that time, but the morning after he left, an order came down to Headqrs countermanding the order under which the furloughs were to be granted, so that cake is all dough and I shall not get home this year. I am a little sorry but not very much disappointed, as I never got to think seriously that I should get home, though I really hoped to. I am not doing much Co. duty now, as I was detailed by Maj. Rice to assist Col. Smith in making out some Ord. Returns and Inventories, and as they rather drag for a day or two, I am now writing for Mr. G.S. Williams in his new book "A Manual of the Constitution." Have written 6 or 10 pages of close MS for the press. Have also assisted Q.M. Sergt. Erwin in his Clothing Account and have lots of odd bits of writing to do besides. Altogether I am pretty busy, though the boys all delight in calling me "Officer's Pimp" "Play-off" and such endearing titles, but as they say it only in jest, and all treat me well I don't mind them, and have a good time besides. [page 3] There is a great deal of moving to and fro and shipping of books, and I have no doubt the Spring Campaign will open soon, and I must hope to better purpose than the last two or three. Gen. Grant goes out by here, and out west, and all around town telling no one when or where he goes. He has been out to Culpepper two or three times within a few days, and seems to be flyin' roun' at a great rate. Burnside is at Annapolis filling up his old "Ninth Corps," and it is rumored that he will cooperate with Gen Meade and Gen Foster in the reduction of Richmond. Already we feel the change at the head, and can almost see victory ahead of the oft defeated Army of the Potomac. Gen. Grant is not worshipped as Genl. McClellan was when we came out, but there is more confidence, not so much love, but more respect. I guess "U.S." will bring us around all right, and then "Hurrah for Home!" I've got a little library here that I would give several shinnies if it could be got to you before we leave. There is my "Friedrich der Grosse," "Army of the Cumberland," "Roundabout Papers," "Newcomes," "Reveries of a Bachelor," "Decameron" and "Art of Extempore Speaking" all which I dislike leaving with the Alexandrians to manure their soil withal. Mayhap I will get an opportunity to send up part at least. Where is Aunt Phebe? I have not heard a word of her this year. Give her my love and my best regards to Uncle Clark Smith. [page 4 blank] [page 5] How are you all, Lincoln men or Fremonters? I am Lincoln all over, believing him to be worthy of another trial when I hope he may have a bit of sunshine. However I abide the decision of the Baltimore Convention, like a good citizen of the Republic. You may hear even at this date some rumors of the love of the army for Little Mac. I hear citizens speak in that way. So far as I know it is all [unclear]. I don't know a man that supports him, in our brigade. How are things with you, livables I mean, wearables and eatables pretty high? We have got up well toward Richmond prices down here, but we shall live it out I reckon. However it goes rather rough with eggs at 80¢ per doz. Butter 30¢ per lb. Beef 20¢ per lb. Queer aint it? Wednesday Eve. I have just finished Cap's "Chap 1 Vol. 1" of his new book. As I am tired and have nothing in particular to say, I will bring my coarse print letter to a close pretty soon. Yesterday I saw a man who owns a claim in Vineland and he knew Mr. R.C. Smith and spoke of him but no word spoke of the "Miss Henrietta" knew no such. Neither do you or any one else, it is a phantom delusion, only believed by a few old women of both sexes. Lt. Berry spoke of it last night, spoke of it as a reality but of long, long ago. Oh! I've right fast enough. Write soon, give out my regard to the few profusely and visit Sackitt. Yours, Tub. 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 Homer Curtiss, 2nd C.H.A., March 30, 1864 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-03-30 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 6-86 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Artillery Regiment, 2nd (1863-1865) Soldiers--Books and reading United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Public opinion Operations rations (Military supplies) Description An account of the resource Homer Curtiss writes to his mother and sisters about life in camp, what he is reading, opinions about the Republican nomination and Union generals, and food prices. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/4757ad173313381e35bd6f77ddc16718.pdf 8962b9bc8f65ea34e193e3123236e33a 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 Fort Worth April 3rd 1863 Dear Our Folk I can write as well as not to day and as there is no one in the world that I like to write to except you away I go Capt. Sperry double quick. I write partly because I must as the poetaster versed and partly because I have some pictures for your album. I am going to give you a succinct biography of each of these art productions so far as I know. The ambrotype is a very good (for the country) likeness of our friend Frank Hamer. I wonder those artists will use so much brass on their types, but brass aside the picture is a pretty good one. I think it possible you may remember him from this picture. I think he had that same red check shirt of [unclear] Dutton memory but the whiskers are brown now and a ver great improvement I think. The graph was taken by Bowdoin + Lapler, 204 King St. Alex. Va. Apr. 4th 1863. The carte was picked up down near Alex. and is some Fulton brother I think. You may keep it rather as a relic of the campaign of the 19th in Alex. than as a friendly face. [page 2] I got so engrossed with the Atlantic that I could not write any more yesterday (This is Monday morn) What a capital No. the April is. I have read it nearly all, which is more than I could do by the March issue which was a mite dull. "A spasm of Sense" is bully though I think Gail wrote it. "A Failure of the North" is just what it should be, it expresses my sentiments fully and in a great deal better language than I could have used. I think the "Atlantic" sustains itself splendidly in these dark days. How I do wish the papers would copy its style. They would be more read- able. You ought to see the trash that is bought to read here in camp. I have never bought any literature more than "Martin Chuzzlewit" but that is incomparably better than 99/100ths of what is brought in. Bold highwaymen and blood + thunder are the rage. I asked one of the book boys who frequent camp why he did not bring along some thing better. Dickens, Lever or Thackery? He was a fair kind of a boy, quite decent and has been long in the business. "Why" said he "I will tell you sir. the standard literary novels like Dickens and the rest you spoke of cost more, and do not sell nearly as well as these. Rum they are better, but these blood + thunder stories are all the rage in camp. I must sell those that sell best." [page 3] I have no taste for such books, but some of the boys in the tent have read the Ledger till they really suppose S. Cobb Jr. +C are all the writers this age furnishes. Such boys as Alf G. + Gustave B. read them incessantly and I am sorry to say that Arlo + Irwin run in that way only they go in for Ballou + other Boston lights instead of the poorfellows, not quite so bad I allow. Monday eve - I have been on duty to day for the first in nearly two weeks, as it has been uniformly unpleasant for most of that period, I have lost but little, but only drill. I found it very difficult to remember my right hand from my left, as I was acting right quide a 1st sergeant it seemed rather awkward not to know my hands apart. We have jolly drills these days as Lt. Berry is home on a furlough with the boys. Lt. Marsh in the hospital and Capt. never drils us if he can help it, so we sergeants have all the drilling to do, we learn ourselves a little and rather damage the Co. I think. However the boys bear our mistakes very well, and it is some help to us. I suppose there is a great fuss up in old Conn today. I hear Tom Seymour will run in but hope not and that is all I can do about it. I hope the Lord will deliver us from Copperheads. [page 4] You know I was an ardent supporter of McClellan before I came from home, and more so after I saw him, but I am fully cured today. I have just finished the report of the "Com. on the conduct of the War" and I am now thoroughly cured of my love for the living Napoleon! I have had spasms of disgust before, but now I am cured. The same report vindicates Burnside so effectively that I love him more than ever, though I never distrusted him yet, and our dear of father Abraham, he is but very little lower than the angels. He has proved himself to be an [unclear] truly in show is no guile. I was so taken with Gen Burnside, so fascinated with him that I went right out of my qrs and bought the best picture of him that I ever saw. I send it to you hoping to meet it again. Keep Gen B's carte for the love I have borne him and give Ambrose the best place you can afford him I hope yet to be able to fight under Ambrose if so I will do my utmost commend to me Gen Burnside, God bless him! Yours very truly Homer 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 Homer Curtiss, 19th C.V.I., April 3, 1863 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-04-03 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 Soldiers--Books and reading Copperhead movement United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 19th (1862-1863) https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/96449091633451da6b5c3868496977ab.pdf faaca74787322d01441b2b0d65d7eb94 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 Fort Ellsmore Oct 7th Dear Girls, I send by Adam's Express in a box of S.N. Taylor's some trumpery that may be pleasing to a certain degree as follows Vol. 1 Kinglake's "Invasion of the Crimea". Walton's "Complete Angler". Wonthrop's "Cecil Dreeme" Morford's "Shoulder Straps". [unclear] Prayer Book 42d Pa. Vol. "Bucktails" Ambrotype Bundle Letters and papers Austin gave me the "Straps" all the others I acquired honestly enough. I'm not very Episcopalian of late hence the Prayer Book. I thought a good deal of the story of "Deeme" and of the vignettes in the "Angler" and the Invasion is splendid. Very best style [page 2] Mon morning, Cos. "B," "E," "A," + "K" have gone up to Fort Worth "F," "F," + "I" are at Fort Williams. "C," "I," + "H" at Fort Ellsworth. Cap. Hubbard is in command of Ft. Worth. Rice of of Ft. Ellsmore and Ells of Ft. William. Maj. Smith is command of the 19th. Col. Kellogg is on a Cour Martial up at Fort Albanu. The 2d Brigade Def. S. of Potomac is broken and reconstructed with Lt. Col. Louis Scheuer of 15th N.Y.A. in command, and we of the 19th with our fortifications +c. are turned over to the 1st Brigade Def. S. of Potomac. Co. Abbott of the 1st C.V.A. in command. Kellogg will take command of us as soon as he is off the court martical, and then hurrah for battalion drills and like beauties. The Co. is now running the Light Art. machines mostly. Lt. Berry puts Dan and I though on battery movements. All are green yet. No word from any where. No fighting, no change of base even. Our business flags but I guess somthing will break soon. [page 3] Mason's playing out at St. James and the detention of the Laird rams, taken in connection with the 30 per ct. discount on the loan in London does not seem to promise speedy recognition from Lord Pam tho. Nappy is ugly enough to make us trouble in Mexico, but I do not believe will. I have some faith that the evident sympathy between U. Sam + the Czar will be of great use to us in Europe. Nap backed out of the Polish business so suddenly upon leaving the rumor of alliance between U.S. + Alexander that I have great hope of his plan. I don't see the end quite, but it looks more as though there might be an end eventually than it did in June. Austin had a note from Dr. White just now. Dr. is in Washington or Alex. Wrote from Willards, but thought he might come down to Alex. last evening. I spent Monday in Washington. One of the pleasantest days of my life. Dan went [page 4] up with me and such a nice time you seldom see. I'll speak of it anon. Good day Homer 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 Homer Curtiss, 19th C.V.I., October 7, 1863 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-10-07 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 19th (1862-1863) Soldiers--Books and reading United States--Foreign relations--Great Britain United States--Foreign relations--Russia Description An account of the resource Homer Curtiss writes to his family with a list of books he is sending home, beginning artillery training, and a discussion of current events and European governments' attitudes to the war. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/6415f1bdf198fc8cf00d84cf30e34e3f.pdf f06be7320a43aa287c1bff47460e4938 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 Cornelius Gold Papers Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence between Cornelius Gold and his family, written between 1862 and 1866. The bulk of the correspondence is from Gold to his mother. There are also several pieces of correspondence to his brother and individual letters to other family members. This collection includes two letters from Romulus Loveridge, a lieutenant in the 3rd US Colored Infantry. The collection also contains a 62 page journal kept by Gold on his voyage from New York to Hong Kong and from Hong Kong to England in 1861-1862. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Gold, Cornelius, B., 1839-1921 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/gold/fa.html">Cornelius Gold Papers</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources 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. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data ALS Text Any textual data included in the document Bermuda Hundred Va. June 19, 1864 My dear Amy “My heart is inditing a good matter,” that will never appear to your waiting eyes, but since you are more than usual in my thoughts tonight I must say just a word before lying down to rest, telling you this if nothing more. I have had a whole Sunday + expect a night to come, in my own tent, an almost unheard of privilege in these days; for which I am indebted to a slight indisposition that forced me back from the Picket line this morning. I left just before day-break as to have come later had been at risk of life. Sharp shooting begins with light + ends only at dusk. It hurt my pride severely being the first time I have asked excuse from duty but it is only by avoiding the small ailments that one avoids the great in this country. “A stitch in time saves nine” you know. I shall be right side up tomorrow + really none the worse for an evening of quiet enjoyment “at home”. Sitting in front of my tent this afternoon I caught my first sight of Lieutenant General Grant. He rode past (Page 2) within a rod of me accompanied by Gen Butler, two Brigadiers + two or three orderlies himself in appearance most unpretending of all. His presence here is significant of the new phase of affairs about Richmond, a change quite palpable to us. Our duty of standing by the defenses of Bermuda Hundred has grown suddenly to one of great importance, as the nearest position to Richmond + holding the right of Grant’s Army which, if turned, would cut his communications + force him to “get out o’ this” the quickest way possible. So an attempt by Lee to break through here is watched against carefully but expected any moment. Our regiment had a slight taste of his unfriendly disposition day before yesterday. While advancing occupying a new + more advanced picket line than before, a heavy force of rebels charged on us at “double quick” + drove us back in most indecent haste to our old rifle pits. Since the affair at Drury’s Bluff on our first advance toward Richmond, the 10th corps has fought no heavy battles,+ our division done nothing sufficiently brilliant to merit public notice. But (Page 3) if debarred from a share in the grand achievements of our Potomac brothers, we glory in their spunk. Our own ranks are being rapidly thinned by the petty but incessant warfare of the Picket line. Our last day resulted in a loss of 5 killed, 16 wounded + Captain Nichols of Stamford with 17 men taken prisoners. The 7th Connecticut was posted with us + lost about the same in killed and wounded. Jay Nettleton came to see me today. He is alone now – all the Washington boys gone from the regiment. Fritz Green Hollister was killed while skirmishing before Petersburg on Wednesday last. He was a noble fellow. The 2nd Conn Heavy Artillery have started today toward Petersburg. Theodor Vaill called on me yesterday + I went with him to see my other acquaintances in his regiment. I never realized so fully the meaning of “war” before nor do I now, with any faint heartedness in view of the cause for which we fight, but I do abhor it more and more. To me there is something more terrible in the deliberate shooting of men, picking them off as one would kill a squirrel, as we (Page 4) daily and hourly witness it here, than in the wholesale carnage of a battle. I do pray earnestly that the end may come, + come quickly. I like Grant’s way of working, sharp + bloody but short and life-saving in the long run. How much under God depends on him. The Black troops are winning laurels here. Every victory gained by them over the enemy has its reflex in the conquest of our wicked northern prejudice. You have no idea of the animosity of our own white troops toward “n*****s”, but this will fast vanish under such assaults as that of the “Colored Division” on the outer works at Petersburg. They won the admiration + open praise of the soldiers fighting beside them. Their noble conduct must soon compel us, perhaps make us proud to call them “brothers in arms”. What are you doing? I dream of a sweet re-union at Gray rock, + happy mid-summer migration to our dear Washington, + wish you much joy in it all. Will the two M’s of the P.G. Club meet + give two thirds of a mournful grip over the absence of the one “hi” present in spirit? Here’s my hand to you both. Cornelius 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 Cornelius Gold, 6th C.V.I., June 19, 1864 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-06-19 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 2-35 Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 6th (1861-1865) Siege of Petersburg (Virginia : 1864-1865) Grant, Ulysses S. -- (Ulysses Simpson), -- 1822-1885 -- Public opinion Soldiers’ writings United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Sources United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Personal narratives United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--African Americans Description An account of the resource Cornelius Gold writes to his friend Amy about the previous day's combat, the dangers of the picket lines, and his opinion of Gen. Grant. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/65ce5a31de3b422f3ef4cb9cd752f770.pdf de6e3e92e33439c18685737ebbb6e8cc 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 Cornelius Gold Papers Description An account of the resource A collection of correspondence between Cornelius Gold and his family, written between 1862 and 1866. The bulk of the correspondence is from Gold to his mother. There are also several pieces of correspondence to his brother and individual letters to other family members. This collection includes two letters from Romulus Loveridge, a lieutenant in the 3rd US Colored Infantry. The collection also contains a 62 page journal kept by Gold on his voyage from New York to Hong Kong and from Hong Kong to England in 1861-1862. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Gold, Cornelius, B., 1839-1921 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://collections.conncoll.edu/gold/fa.html">Cornelius Gold Papers</a>, Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Linda Lear Center for Special Collections and Archives, Connecticut College Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War (1861-1865) -- Sources 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 Bermuda Hundred Va. June 1, 1864 My dear Mother I hasten to write you a word this morning, whic I can since none of us can tell one minute what will be the next. Our present camp is exposed to the enemies funs, and whenever the batteries open we up stakes + "put" for the trenches not far to go however. My tent is only a couple of rods in rear of there. Our warning usually comes in the shape of a shrapnel shell or round shot cleverly tossed over our heads or in our midst. Then we think its time to "scatter." Three times within the last thirty six hours our comfort has been disturbed in this way, followed by a storm of leaden rain + an hail lasting about an hour. Fortunately the casluatlies bear no proportion to the number of missiles though some are taken away each time. All the rebel guns in our front opened at 5 o'clock May 30. again between 1 + 2 P.M. yesterday + the third time about 2 o'clock this morning. Our regiment has had six men wounded, half of whom will die. One whose legs were this morning shattered by a shell has since died. The roll of Grant's artillery comes cheerily to us this morning. Yet it is terrible too, when we think of its meaning. All we have done or heard this side Richmond is but childs play in comparison with that, and in its results as it seems to me valueless. But we wait patiently and confidently the approach of our Lieutenant General. We trust it will not be long before the nation will cry out Richmond is fallen, is fallen! May God give us the victory. [page 2] I am in pretty good condition now, have had good quarters, + plenty of victuals + drink I received shelter tens enough from the camp of the 40th Massachusetts when deserted by them to make a snug little habitation double walled + all to myself. since I'm robbing no one else I enjoy it very much. In addition I secured plunder enough to furnish my home quite handsomely. it consists of a cracker box mounted on legs for a table, a cane bottom, backchair (of contraband descent), with legs 6 inches high, a wooden chair, with no back, a nice pine bench, + for a bed an excellent "stretcher" such as is used to carry wounded from the field. It is well stained with the blood of the poor fellows it was carried + was hardly dry when I brought it home. I cover it with my new rubber blanket, and so forget its painful associations. I reported the prize to our surgeon + told him I had it for a bed, to which he replied, "keep it then, by all means. I have stretchers enough." Then I have a broom brush, two small tin pails + as many quart pans, and if one could if one could only eat tin, I should cook myself up a cast number of curious dishes. As it is, my culinary department grows in variety every day, and I am learning a thing or two in frying pan practice. Shall apply for a position in your kitchen when I go home + be the most useful Biddy that every you had, only, don't set me to washing dishes. I detest that. I use Borden's Condensed Milk. Day before yesterday Mr. Mitchell bought a paper of corn starch and the colonel's cook made him a fine corn-starch pudding. What do you think of that man! But after all "our life" is not meat and drink, but I trust ever and more in "to do the will of Him who sent us." Yet I know my own life is not what it should be, + this gives me trouble. Ill health has compelled Col. Duryee to resign. His resignation was accepted two or [page 3] three days ago and I believe he starts for the north nto day. His loss is a serious misfortune to the regiment. We have no other officers at all fit to succeed him in command. Col. Meeker's knee is not yet well enough to allow him to resume active duty, + the Major retains the command for the present. This campaign is a destructive one to an officer + in unusual proportion I think, though the loss in the ranks is not slight. Will you send us a few papers of Tully powder? I know my liability to weakness + derangement in hot weather + think that after all it could be well to have in my pocket an "ounce (or less) of prevention." Others are sick occasionally + there is the no reason to expect tha even one of my short frame should be always + totally exempt. How are aunt Juliette's [unclear] + flowerbeds this summer? I can imagine her tenderly nursing hausplanting + watering Pansies + Pricks this warm June day. Grandma bring in a pictcher full green weeds "too pretty to throw away" + that yet [page 4] are too vile to grace the flower borders. Grandpa grows eloquent over strawberry stamens [unclear], will persist in hoeing even as his back aches + then walks into the house just in time to recall the distracting fact that he has lost his cane. [unclear ] is rather a doubtful individual. I hardly know whether to place him in Stockbridge in his garden or at the end of a firepole. But wherever you are + whatever doing, I can see you all this morning "as plain as day." The air is so clear + soft since the smoke and powder smell have cleared away. The living are back to the "tented field," a great cornfield sloping off to the river + dotted with green shoots. but it is hardening fast under the tread of an army + heat of the sun to a cavern of dead loam clay, here and there a "nameless grave," + new mound of earth heaped up yesterday, to day, each day, perhaps, of the week that have elapsed since we came here I saw a small force of young negroes "playing at war" on one of them yesterday morning. The grave was "Richmond" and the little black rascals would pursuit Lee in turn, while "Gen. Grant" in the form of another woolly head, "licked him." Every victory was followed by a shout of "de Union for ever." Your aff. Cornelius 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 Cornelius Gold, 6th C.V.I., June 1, 1864 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-06-01 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 2-29 Description An account of the resource Cornelius Gold writes to his mother of attacks and casualties suffered by the regiment and the situation in the camp. Subject The topic of the resource United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Casualties United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 6th (1861-1865) 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/3a5a7057631cecfdd1628edb8c8efdb6.pdf 718854fcf4114a185f827f432dd9f73f 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 Thomas Pimer Papers Description An account of the resource Correspondence of Thomas Pimer to his father while he was serving in the 21st Connecticut Infantry in the Civil War. 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 Norfolk Va. June 7th 1865. My Dear Father, Your letter of the 21st of May reached me on Tuesday last, and I was very glad indeed to learn of your good health and that your hand was nearly well again. I did not answer then as I was about to get my Discharge and did not want any more letters to come there after I had gone. I was discharged from the Service on Friday, and arrived here on Sunday, and now I am going to make efforts immediately for a situation. I have given up all thought of going to Texas, as I learned that men not used to that Climate were likely to die very suddenly, and, as I count my [page 2] life very precious just now, not only to myself but to others, I concluded that I had better remain in a more congenial Clime, and trust to luck and perseverance in getting a profitable situation nearer home. I am stoping at the house of Miss Richter, although I did not intend to intrude upon the family when I came here, but they would not listen to anything else, but that I should remain here, and therefor I remain, without any reluctance whatever, but with the greatest of pleasure. I was very glad that the discription which I gave of young Miss Maggie and her family proved satisfactory to you, and will say that I was not in the least to highly colored, but it is just as I stated, the truth and nothing but the truth. [page 3] I think that I can get a situation in the Q.M. Dept. in this city, and tomorrow I am going to see the Chief Quartermaster and make application to him for one. if I cannot get a job there then I shall seek around amongst the manufacturing houses, and can there get employment as I here they are paying good wages to good workmen. You must excuse me for not writing more this time for I am very anxious and can hardly command my thoughts this morning. I shall expect to hear from you soon. give my love to Mother and remember me to all Friends Good By Your Affect. Son Tho. K. Pimer Box 60 Norfolk Va 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 Thomas Pimer, 21st C.V.I., June 7, 1865 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1865-06-07 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 4-22 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Sources United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 21st (1862-1865) Description An account of the resource Thomas Pimer writes to his father of his imminent release from the Army, his decision not to reenlist in Texas, and his search for employment in Norfolk. https://omeka.conncoll.edu/files/original/90605c03c19f946920ab44d27179de46.pdf a05e6703038db11dbdaf201a65f50a0b 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 Thomas Pimer Papers Description An account of the resource Correspondence of Thomas Pimer to his father while he was serving in the 21st Connecticut Infantry in the Civil War. 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 Office Chief Quartermaster 24th Army Corps Richmond Va. April 30th 1865 Dear Father, Your very welcome letter was received on the 19th inst. at that time we were on the march and it was impossible for me to answer. since our arrival here the business of the Office has been so great that I have had no time to write untill the present moment. since I last wrote you, there has past many eventfull days, for the glorious cause of the Union during which time, I have traveled far, and witnessed many thrilling seens. I was on the battlefield before Petersburg, on Sunday, the 2nd inst, and on Monday, entered the City, remaining there untill noon, at which time we started for Lynchburg, a distance of ninety miles. on the second day we overtook the Enemy at Burkville, and from that point we had to fight our way through to Appomattox [page 2] Court House, at which place we arrived on Saturday night the 8th inst. the Enemy had made a stand there withe the intention of opposing our further advance. But Genl Grant proved to smart for them, and on Sunday morning Genl. Lee woke up to find his whole Army, completely surrounded, and he could do nothing but Surrender. A Flag of Truce was sent in, and Grant offered terms of surrender, which was accepted at 4 oclock that afternoon. the final surrender took place at 8 A.M. Monday the 10th inst. You are probialy posted through the Papers, of the proceedings attending the surrender, and of the strength of Lees Army, so I will not give all the details. the 24th Corps was left to settle up the business, which took untill the following Saturday. on Sunday the 16th we left for Richmond, arriving here on the 25th In Richmond at last. The thoughts of being in the very heart of this Rebel Strong hold, which has seemingly been the oppressive point of a four years war, for which there has been so many hard fought Battles in which thousands of our brave + noble [page 3] Heroes have fallen, makes my very soul tremble. That Rebel Rag which for four years has flown in disgrace oer the heads of a misguided people is now torn down, and the good old Flag, the Stars + Stripes, no floats Proudly + triumphan- tly over the Rebel Capitol. I have often wished that I could pass the remainder of my time in Richmond, and I have my wish at last, and shall remain here untill August, when I will bid farewell to the Army, and once more return to my Home a free Man. Dear Father, there is nothing gives me more pleasure, than to know that you feel confidence in me, and do not hesitate to give your free and willing consent to my getting married without knowing only by what I write, of what are the circumstances of my intended's family, of their condition in life, and their standing in Society. I feel Proud, indeed very Proud, to know that you place such perfect confidence in me, and I would not be guilty of abuseing such, for the world itself. I thank you + Mother, with all my heart for the permission granted, and for your well wishes [page 4] for my future Happiness and Prosperity, and I hope and trust there will nothing happen eather by word, deed, or action, of myself or her that is to be my wife, to cause you to relent of ever giving your consent. The family of my intended, are of that Class usually called Aristocratic Germans. they are from Leipzig, Germany, and have been in this country some twelve years. the Father is an eminent Lawyer, having practiced Law successfully in Leipzig, for over thirty years. He came to this country to practice Law, and followed it in Charleston for some time. he is now to old to practice, and lives at home with his family. he is very accomplished and highly respected by all who know Him. The Mother is a very amiable, pleasand, and industrious woman, and one who can converse on most any subject, and claims the respect of all who ^are acquainted with them. They are not Rich, neather are they Poor, but are well situated, and able to live with ease. The name of the family is Richter, and the young Ladies name [page 5] is Maggie Richter, and tis the only name I ever truly loved. The Girl is not Handsome but is very good looking, and although if she were neither, I should think just as much of her, and Love her even more. she is very well Educated Intelegent, and accomplished. and is not behind in working. she can go into the Kitchen and get up a spleanded dinner. She can do a good days washing and clean up the home, without finding any fault, then she can sit down to Knit, Sew, and darn stockings, as well as any one. on the other hand she can go into the Parlor and play the Ladies part to perfection, and one would think to see her here that she could do nothing else. You may laugh at the description I have given of her but just as I have said just so you will find her, and a woman like that is the only one for me. I will tell you what she done for me while I was there. She made me four line Bosom shirts. Knit me six pair of Stockings, and a lot of Government Clothes, which I drew were all altered over by her besides doing [page 6] all of my washing. she is in all a fine girl, and will make me a good Wife, and that is all I care for. I know you will like her, and will not say that I have been foolish in making such a choice. I am very glad that my last letter proved satisfactory, and I hope you will not be lead to think thus of my again. I am sorry that Mother is troubled so much with that humor, and I hope she is better now. give me Love to her, and my respects to all Friends. and Please excuse the writing of this letter for I have run it off instead of writing it. (I can write better if I only take time) answer soon and I remain as ever Your Loving Son Tho. K. Pimer 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 Thomas Pimer, 21st. C.V.I., April 30, 1865 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1865-04-30 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 4-20 Subject The topic of the resource United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Sources United States. Army. Connecticut Infantry Regiment, 21st (1862-1865) Appomattox Campaign, 1865 Description An account of the resource Thomas Pimer writes to his father about witnessing the fall of Petersburg and Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House. He also provides a description of his fiance.