Raynors HCA 2018-10
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/20/2018
Union soldier's letter, 4pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. Altus H. Jewel [WIA Fredericksburg, Va., May 3, 1863], Co. E, 77th New York Vols., White Oak Church, Va., Feb. 10, 1863, in part: "…we had orders from Gen. Neal…to move camp but Colonel French could not find any better situation…so they have concluded to not move…the mud does not look like spring…it keeps just about as deep as ever. It is a common thing to look out and see one or more wagons stuck some of them empty at that…[Pvt. Lorin] Marshal Toms. Harris' boy died of a fever last knight. He had not been sick but a day or two…someone wanted to know who it was that died last knight in Co. G…he never looked like a very tough fellow…he will be buried today…the procession is formed. The music takes the lead with the snares of their drums muffled. The chaplain and hospital steward or commander of the company next, then…eight men with their arms at reverse…the corpse is generally buried without any box with their clothes on rolled up in a blanket…with their shoes on. They are carried on stretchers such as is used on the battlefield…they are made the same as a cot…with pieces on the sides run out for handles. The band plays while coming to the grave the death march…it moves off very slow. When the corpse is lowered into the grave the chaplain usually speaks to the procession [and] reads a portion of the scriptures…then there is three volleys fired over the grave and procession moves off [with] the band playing a lively tune. What would you think…to attend such a funeral…you would think that it was the most solemn thing you ever witnessed…you spoke about the Army of the Potomac a going to be disbanded. That is not so…I suppose that they are going to split it up for part of it has been shipped already…where are destiny is I cant tell. Colonel French is trying to get us to Washington to do provost duty…from your brother of the Army of the Potomac and McClellan should be its commander, Altus H. Jewel." The original patriotic cover depicting a portrait of General McClellan is also included. Below the general's portrait the motto, reads: "In Him We Place Our Trust." With fully detailed transcription. Minor soiling, else VG 2 pieces)
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