Raynors HCA 2018-03
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/15/2018
A distraught ex-Union soldier's wife writes to Confederate General John C. Breckinridge pleading for her husband's release. The wife of discharged Union Private Tennessee James Adams (1835-1924) Co. M, 8th Tenn. Cavalry. He was discharged for disability in August 1864, applied for a pension in 1887 and is now buried in Mountain Home National Cemetery, Johnson City, Tennessee. His wife, Jane Adams, writes on Nov. 14, 1864, "Hd. Qrs. Cav. Brig." [crossed out] therefore place unknown, addressed "Lt. Gen. Breckinridge", in part: "My husband was captured last night by some soldiers belonging to the 59th Tenn. Cav. At the time of the capture he was making his way to Knoxville to avoid, as he thought, conscription. He knew nothing when he left home of your recent proclamation giving protection to all citizens who would remain at home…he is perfectly willing to swear allegiance to the Confederate Government and to remain at home as a quite, peaceable citizen. My husband (Tennessee Adams) [8th Tenn. (Union) Cavalry] is a resident of Washington Co., near Jonesboro. He at one time belonged to the Federal army, but has been discharged and had with him when captured his discharge and a certificate of disability…when captured he was driving a covered [?] wagon, the divers having become frightened had deserted his train and myself and children were left in the wagon…my husband [?] he would take us out of danger…I am a poor woman with five little children depending on their father for support. If you will release my husband and send him home to me…with good blessing in the future…Jane Adams." A bit light with minor spotting, else VG
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