Raynors HCA 2017-12
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/7/2017
A great early war-date Southern student's letter, 2pp. 8vo., written by Josie Kidder, Philadelphia, [Pa.], Apr. 22, 1861, to her college student brother Edward Kidder. Edward was one of the few Southerners who did not leave Harvard College following the outbreak of the Civil War, reading, in part: "In these troublous times it is rather difficult to compose one's mind to write but I am so anxious to hear from you that I feel like making the effort…isn't it awful the condition of our country? I ma worried almost to death. If Auntie's family were only all…North I should not feel half so badly…I am nearly distracted. The city here is just one scene of excitement and confusion. For several days past troops have been passing here en route for Baltimore and Washington. Chestnut Street is completely thronged with eager, expect and excited citizens waiting and watching for they hardly know what…Sunday there were a thousand women at work in the Girard House…making clothes for the volunteers. It was not one bit like Sunday, troops arriving and departing, companies of volunteers and recruits, drilling in the squares all day. Baggage wagons going backwards and forwards and people all ages, stations, throughout the streets to find out the news. It is rumored that Philadelphia is to be attacked shortly…I am anxious to get home. One must feel unsafe any where at such a time…particularly away from home…Uncle James left the city on Wednesday…I could not bear to see them go home without me…do you think Georgie will go to the war? Dear darling Georgie. Just imagine him fighting against Pa and Will…oh it makes my blood run cold…I hope it will not be necessary for either of them to go. Good-night…lovingly, Joe." VG
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