2021-10 Raynors HCA Live
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/15/2021
A great war-date letter, 4pp. 4to., written by Corp. James C. Smith, Co. A, 28th Pennsylvania Vols., "Camp at Dumphries, Va., Feb. 24, 1863", to Sarah, reading, in part: "-the breast pin which is in the package is not of nay value - it is a Relic of this campaign and [was] found at Harpers Ferry whilst we were on the advance. I know you will not refuse to accept it of one who has your image constantly before him. It has been constantly carried through this campaign - and is therefore a little the worse for wear, but once cleaned up - it will look pretty well - if you fell inclined to wear it why do so and if I should never return home - from this wicked Rebellion I want you to keep it in memory of one who loves you - I forgot to give you a description of the camp - and the town of Dumphries - after wading 4 miles of Virginia mud, knee deep, I met with a very warm reception from all my comrades - had given up all hopes of seeing me - am now amongst my same old comrades. We have very comfortable quarters built of logs and mud with a canvas roof - the town of Dumphries is a very ancient place. It is the second oldest settlement in Virginia - about a hundred yards from camp is a burial ground - the inhabitants have used it many years past. There are also some graves of some British soldiers in it - and some of the Revolutionaries who fought for the freedom of this country. In another part of the grave yard are several 'Indian Graves' - one was 6 feet 72 inches - he took the premium which was an 'Old Rusty Knife.' The Court House is where Patrick Henry made his great speech - the large bell on the top of the Court House - is nearly all silver [and] tolled for Gen. Washington at his burial, so you see that it is quite a remarkable place - James C. Smith." Negligible stain, else VG.
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