2024-07 Raynors Historical Collectible Auctions
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/13/2024
A good early war-date Union volunteer's letter, 7pp. 8vo., written on "Methodist Book Concern, Cincinnati," stationery, by Pvt. John M. Godman, Co. H, 4th Ohio Vols., Cincinnati, Ohio, May 20, 1861, to his sister, reading, in very small part: "You will perceive by the heading that I'm at present in the city, came down Saturday - yesterday [?] one of my friends and myself crossed the river and visited Newport Barracks. Saw regular soldiers and warlike preparations and a great crowd. It was understood - that Col. [Robert A.] Anderson would visit the barracks, but to our disappointment he did not come. I saw him however Thursday last. He is now in the city visiting his Bro. here. I went to camp yesterday - it seems more like living in a civilized community and eating victuals prepared by gentle hands than those at camp was very pleasant - we are better situated than many companies - for our people of Marion almost daily send provisions - our camp is now a large one some twelve or thirteen thousand being quartered - and new regiments arriving daily. Our arms have arrived but not our uniforms. When we are once armed and uniformed we will make a fine appearance. The camp is a large one and set down in a valley - direct to me, care Capt. [Edwin B.] Olmstead, Comp. H, 4th Regt. - I'm not certain about enlisting for a longer service - J. M. G." Following his first term of service, Godman served the remainder of the war in the 96th Ohio and ended his service as a captain. Near fine.
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