2005-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2005
A good early war-date Union officer's 4pp. 8vo., letter written in pencil by Lt. David W. Low, Co. G, 8th Mass. Vols., Baltimore, Md., July 15, 1861 to his wife concerning military activity near Fort McHenry, reading, in part: "…I have just returned from a march to Fort McHenry…I was officer of the guard…the Regt formed in line & marched to the Fort (about 5 miles off)…we were received by Major Gen. Banks & went through…battalion movements…we were not allowed inside the fort as there were so many prisoners there. On the parade ground…of the fort were mounted guns taken from Secessionists in the city about a dozen in number. The fort is strongly protected…and men are at work…making it stronger…invitations are pouring in all the time…to dine…or spend the evening. A party of us went…serenading…a couple who had shown a good many favors to some of the officers. The gentleman is about 24 the lady is 14 rather young for a married lady…she was very ladylike & accomplished…our host was the only strong Union man in the vicinity…our advance forces [are] in Virginia. McClellans command is giving the rebels particular fit. Instead of six northerners running…the tables are reversed…one northern man proved equal to 8 or 10 of the south…when the Regt returned from Fort McHenry it was closed in mass & Col. Hinks thanked the regiment for their good conduct…he said Col. banks had expressed his satisfaction at the drill & discipline of the regt…Col. Morris who is command at the fort said it was the best drilled volunteer troops he ever saw…[and] could not be excelled by any but regulars…". Low and the 8th Massachusetts remained in service until August 1, 1861 at which time they were discharged. The regiment was mustered during the war, and each time Low served as a company commander until being promoted to major near the end of the war. Also, included is a photocopy of Low in his officer's uniform and service record. Very light soiling, else very good.
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