Raynors HCA 2017-02
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
War-date Union soldier's letter, 3 1/2pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. Elias Baker, Co. G, 46th Illinois Vols., Natchez, Miss., Aug. 30, 1863, in part: "…I will tell you…what I will call a misfortune. The Co. came off picket the other morning feeling a little for fun…Elias Hackel our baker had his tent fly lying near our cook tent and some of the boys began throwing coals on it and it finally burnt it up. I was not directly engaged in the affair but was rather a abettor. It was reported to Col. Ben and we were brought to head quarters under guard until the next day when it resulted in fine of three dollars…upon each of us. I thought you might get the report of me being under arrest and thought it best to explain it to you…the Col. hold us…that the Regt. was going to be mounted, but I have seen nothing yet to verify it. I am afraid it will not be done. We passed the most rigid inspection this morning that we have yet had in the division. Gen. Crocker now commanding the division passed through the ranks by companies and scrutinized the arms, accouterments and clothing very closely. Our guns were burnished up that the reflection of the sun upon them would almost dazzle your eyes…our clothing was in the best possible condition. It was desired that all should have our boots blackened…it made a very uniform appearance…I attended church in the city today and heard a pretty good sermon but there was nothing hinted at concerning the national difficulties. I also heard some splendid music from the choir…E. D. Baker."…PLUS; an undated 2pp. 8vo., letter from Natchez, reading, in part: "…we have just finished building us a house. We made it of pine logs and plastered it with clay. We have a fine brick chimney…we will probably have to move our camp inside the breastworks after they are finished. Our paroled men [a portion of the regiment was captured at Jackson, Miss. three days after the surrender of Vicksburg] have been exchanged and have returned to the Regt…E. D. Baker." Minor dampstains, else VG
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