Raynors HCA 2017-02
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
A good early war-date Union minuteman's letter, 3 1/2pp. 4to., written by Sergeant James A. Bailey, Co. E, 5th Mass. (3 Months) Vols., Washington, May 5, [1861], to his family, in part: "We are copped up in this building [US Treasury Department] and cant get out [unless] we run guard…the city is under martial law and anybody out after 7 1/2 o'clock night is arrested and locked up & examined. I get rid of all small jobs which the privates have to do such as sweeping, cleaning etc. Me and a corporal have a squad of 18 men to look after. We pick out their rations, appoint men to wash dishes etc…after breakfast we joined in singing…we have two or three good singers with us…I am sitting on the front steps of this building writing this letter. On my right hand is the White House about 10 roads off. On my left is view of the whole length of Pennsylvania Avenue with the capitol at the end about a mile off. In front is the Washington Monument…there is about 1000 lbs of flour…piled on the step. From the top of this building we have a grand view of the city and country for 10 miles…we have turned out in three different uniforms, namely overcoats, grey dress coats & pants & Blue shirts & pants. The last we like best of all…we are ordered to attend Devine Worship. We shall all march together with out arms…[5 o'clock PM]…i have returned from church…it was the Episcopal a large and very handsome edifice. Almost the whole regiment attended…the choir was composed of men from the regiment…Jim…Sergt. J. A. Bailey, Co. E 5th Regm't. M. V. M…". VG
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