February 23rd, 2012
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2012
A great pair of war-date Union soldier's Autograph Battle Letters Signed by Jonathan B. Holmes, totaling 5pp., written just days after one of the war's most epic battles, in part: [Bivouac, Jan. 5th, 1863]…I thank god and once more safe through the fire. The combat was terrible and our Regt. lost heavy…Give my love to the family…[Camp 6th Ohio Infantry, near Murfreesboro, March 3, 1863, with cover,]...I was in Nashville...Ladies few and (pardon me) homely. The Southern beauties had all gone south. Our advance was a spectacle to behold. We marched nearly all the way in line of battle. Our skirmishers thrown out and engaged nearly all the way. Our first fight was on Wednesday 31st of this. You have heard all about. My company 'B' lost 'Killed and wounded' just one half our number (including the Capt. wounded - since died) before ten oclock that morning. McCook had been driven back the encouraged enemy were desperate and fought fearfully. The center gave back by a change of front but lost no ground. After midnight our brigade was sent tot he rear after having been on the front line all day. This was New Years eve...If your 'Northern Butternut' knew the earnestness manifested by the army, and could be made to feel some national pride this war might be ended in less than five years....Have heard heavy firing all morning, it may mean war..." Fine condition
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.