2005-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2005
A good war-date Union soldier's 4pp. 8vo., letter written in pencil by Pvt. Sylvester O'Dare, Co. F, 71st Penn. Vols. (1st California), Washington, March 25, 1861 to a friend concerning moping up prisoners and McClellan's conduct with his troops during battle of Winchester, reading, in part: "…we are Encamped on a hill near the City…we left Harper's Ferry on Sunday in the cars and came through Safe, our whole Division was sent back from Winchester…we number about 15,000 men. They are all here. There was more troops at Winchester than they wanted…they had a Fight near Winchester since we left. We took Several Prisoners on our march these with little Fighting. They are a poor Set of men a Great many run away and came in our lines and have themselves up. They are poor clothed and say they are tired of the war. They are surprised when they see our Army. There was about 120,000 men on the move for Winchester in 3 Different ways of the Army of the Potomac, and a great many from Western Virginia. The Army of the Potomac numbers about 250,000 men. Gen McClelland was with us. He has something kind to say to all. There is about 150,000 troops in Washington now. We belong to the 2nd Corps, Army of The Potomac…we have been in the mountains so long that we look as though we never Saw a City…we are counted a Brag Regiment by all the Generals of the army and are well liked by all. We number 1,000 Strong. The men that was taken at Balls Bluff are in Phila now they will join the Regiment…soon…". Near fine.
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