2005-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2005
Newly Minted Union Recruits Experience Camp Life A 4pp. 8vo. letter written in ink by Sergeant Martin V. Miller [Camp Yates, Springfield, IL., April 23, 1861], to his sister concerning life in camp for newly minted Union recruits, reading, in part: "...we arrived just after sun-up & proceeded immediately to the camp & were soon enrolled in the "Lincoln Guards" of Atlanta [Illinois]. I was detailed about noon with five others to the Quarter Master's Department where I still am…my business is to assist in receiving & giving out camping utensils & blankets. There is about 200 men in camp…500 left last night for Cairo. Companies are arriving daily…drilling tires ones legs a little, but it only lasts an hour…I have not drilled but once being on duty at the department. We are camped at the Fair Ground about half a mile west of the City. I have not been to town yet, & have not had my likeness taken & I shall not receive my uniform for a week…we have a three gallon sheet iron kettle, two sheet iron pans, three tin pie plates or pans, six tin cups, seven spoons, & one knife, are allowed one mess consisting of six men. Tell Cal he had better come. Uncle Sam has a good many more boys that 'Old Scissors'…". Some spotting, else very good.
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