2025-01 Raynors Historical Collectible Auctions
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/25/2025
A Confederate Soldier’s 4pp. letter written to his parents by T. B. Burriss who on 2/1/1861, he mustered into "B" Co. South Carolina 4th Infantry. Datelined: Army of Northern Virginia Near Gordonsville, 30 April 1864, in large part, “To all of you many, many thanks for your grateful remembrance of me. Your words of advice and encouragement do me the greatest good, and I am led to the belief that our soldiers are much buoyed up when they are reminded that all is cheerful and well at home ... On Friday last Gen. Longstreet's entire army was reviewed by Gen. Lee. Citizens say that they are very surprised at the very good appearance our troops present. They expected to see us worn out and in rags, but they admit we are in better shape than Lee's men who have been so comfortably quartered all winter. We have endured so many hardships and privations that our men think that if any favors should be shown, our men ought to have them. But it is natural enough to conclude that those troops who have seen the most service and undergone the greatest difficulties will be first into the thickest of the fight. Rumor says that we will go to Chancellorsville or South Anna bridge, 40 miles N. E of Richmond. There is no indication yet that we will remain here longer than two or three days. ... These Virginians are making every preparation for the incoming crop just as if nothing was the matter. They affirm that Grant will not fight until he is advanced upon by our forces. An advance is premeditated as rail road bridge timbers are being framed at Gordonsville to span all the streams between this and the Potomac. The enemy must be very scary of Longstreet. A few days since they made a raid on Madison Court House and fearing that we were reinforcing Gen. Lee, retreated in much confusion after tarrying only 3 hours. I am told that their demonstration was in force upon Madison. All appear to think that the Yankees are becoming more dispirited than ever. ... I wanted to send my coat home but will cut it up for the men to patch their pants with. ..... Dear sister, I send you a piece of arbor vitae taken off of the Great Natural Bridge in this state. You have heard of the natural bridge? ...”
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