{"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026view=compact","prev":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=2\u0026view=compact","next":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=4\u0026view=compact","last":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=17\u0026view=compact"},"meta":{"pages":{"current_page":3,"next_page":4,"prev_page":2,"total_pages":17,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":20,"total_count":167,"first_page?":false,"last_page?":false}},"data":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Excuse, 1863","breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02","parent_ssim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864","VMI Documents, written excuses, 1863"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02"],"title_filing_ssi":"Excuse","title_ssm":["Excuse"],"title_tesim":["Excuse"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Excuse, 1863"],"text":["Excuse, 1863","Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864","VMI Documents, written excuses, 1863","Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","English","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]","When I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Surgeon V. M. I."],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864","VMI Documents, written excuses, 1863"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864","VMI Documents, written excuses, 1863"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1863"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1863 May 12"],"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"component_level_isim":[2],"sort_isi":16,"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864"],"creator_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"persname_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917"],"names_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869"],"language_ssim":["English"],"date_range_isim":[1863],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eReport of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully submitted,\u003cbr\u003e\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTo Surgeon V. M. I.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]","When I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Surgeon V. M. I."],"_nest_path_":"/components#1/components#3","timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_612.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00027.xml","title_ssm":["Morgan Family Civil War papers"],"title_tesim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1864"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1864"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862/1864"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864"],"text":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864","MS.0356","/repositories/3/resources/612","Currituck County (N.C.)","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","During the Civil War, the family of Joseph B. and Annie Lamb Morgan resided in Currituck County, North Carolina. One of the Morgan sons, Patrick H. (1844-1917), was a cadet at VMI from 1862-1864. During his cadetship, he took part in the Battle of New Market on May 15, 1864. After the War, Patrick studied law, but did not practice. He then engaged in business and was a state senator in the North Carolina legislature. He was subsequently a district supervisor of the United States Life Saving Service (now the United States Coast Guard). Patrick died on August 27, 1917 in Shawboro, North Carolina.","Forestville N. C.\nJuly 2d 1862","Friend Pat\nI was in Currituck a few days ago and saw your father. He gave me a letter to bring out for you which I have this day mailed to you. He requested me to write to you and tell you where to write to him at so that he could get it.  If you would write to him and enclose it to me at Murfreesboro NC I will endeavor to get it to him. Say to Col. Shaw and Mr. Woods sons that if they will do the same I will try to forward their letters on for them. I hear that Pat Grandy was killed at Richmond. Poor fellow I am sorry for him he was a brave little fellow. Write soon as I shall be in Murfreesboro in about six day.","Yours very Respectfully\n[D. W. ?]","Abram Riddicks Farm.  Hertford Co. NC","Dear Pat\nI have just come through the lines and have with me a letter for you which I will mail at Weldon.  Write to me immediately on the reception of this and I may be able to carry it through to your father on my return.  Tom Hampkins and myself are going to Raleigh with a lunatic.  Then I am going to Greensboro Lincolnton and Charlotte.  Bill [Dozier] is married to Miss Barnard.  Mr. Wigginton is dear and there is much sickness in Currituck.  The Yankees are carrying on high in E. City [Elizabeth City]. [They] have nearly driven all the citizens away [from] E. City now and then killing one.  They murdered George Fearing last Thursday.  They have destroyed the Salt works on the banks \u0026 c \u0026 c.  Excuse this bad writing.  I am in a hurry and have a miserable pen.  Give my regards Will Shaw and Mr. Wood.  Tell them both their familys are well.  I was at Dr. Woods a few days ago.  Write and direct your letter to my care Weldon","Yours in friendship\nW. H. [Cowell]","Pat I broke open your leeter to put this in is the cause of it looking so ragged about the envelope","Camp Galtin Murfreesboro\nNC March the 12 64","Your letter of the 26 of Feb came to hand on yesterday and found me well except weakness. I have just returned from Camden. I had a sick furlough and it happened in a good time the confederates went down just behind me and placed their pickets at [Shingle] Landing. You may depend that I had a gay time we had a party at Mr. J. Ambros Doziers we danced nearly all night. I danced the first set with Cousin Arch [?] the second with Maggie Fanshaw. Mr. Ambrose Dozier also danced we had three members of the church on the floor at once. I went to see Shaw. I stopped at by yur house a day or two they were all well I believe. I went to see my [?] twice while I was in there and found her as lovely as ever. She is as perfect as an angel and as precious as a diamond. I went to school with her both times walked with her alone to the academy and spoke of the pst present and future. Jessy Williams has gone in on furlough this morning.  I wrote to Mattie and sent your enclosed to the [?].  Marcus [Tavells] was in on furlough the same time that I was he came out with me we had fine times together. Try to get a leave of absence and come and see me.  Mattie sends her respects to you and says she would be pleased to see you if you will write me when you think you can get one I will manage to get one the same time and we will go in together. I have not time to write much more as I have to mke out requistitions for rations for the men this evening. Our company are all in Camden except 8 and they are without shoes consequently they nor myself have but little duty to perform. We manage to draw rations enough for ourselves and cook and eat.","If I have accused you wrongfully I beg your pardon. You spoke of my flirting with my intended much sooner would I destroy my own life. What deceive my first and only love and the best girl that ever graced the side of a gentleman do not speak of it again you will me tremble to think of such vile thing. You speak of being low spirited you must cheer up and if you will do you duty I think you will be able to accomplish all you wish for I have made Mat promise to use her influence in your behalf and you know she can be of much use to you. I had a letter from a young lady in Petersburg yesterday she thinks I am a flirt little does she think that I am engaged but I will not deceive her any longer for I respect her very highly. I will ask to be excused and to be her friend in the future and not a lover. Our Regt. will start over the river tomorrow morning. I have had the men that are with me belonging to our Company excused from this march they seem to be very much pleased at it.  We will have the whole camp to oursleves. I wish you were with me so that we could lay in our bunk and talk of our sweethearts. I hope the time is not far distant when we will be able to go where we please then we can visit our sweethearts and not be looking for the infernal yankees to come and capture us. I also had a leter from brother Isaac he is well and in Petersburg. I believe all of our friends and relatives are well. Write soon and tell Wood to write to me. Give my respects to all of my inquiring friends if any and reserve a greater portion for yourself.","Your cousin\nJno B. Wiginton","Indian Ridge\nCurrituck County, Jany 28/63","My Dear Son-\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you. The last one I think was dated the 16 of November last. We heard from you by Albert, who got safely home, but destroyed all the letters he brought off with him for fear of falling into the hands of enemies. He reported you\ntolerably well- but gives a horrid description of your fare, \u0026 seems very glad to get home even under the circumstances.","Your Uncle James has again been driven from his home by the shelling of his premises, and together with his family is now residing with us. Albert is going to school to Mr. Lowe, who now has a very large school. Since I last wrote you we have the distressing intelligence of the death\nof your Uncle [Geo?]. He was killed at Fredericksburg. His family is in great distress. They are making arrangements for moving back to Currituck \u0026 will reside with William [D___], who was recently married to Miss[A_nett] Barnard. Your Ma is in deep distress in consequence of her brother's death. She takes it very hard indeed. Otherwise we are getting along about as we have been for the last eighteen months.","The enemy occasionally makes raids upon us \u0026 plunder \u0026 destroy our property. A few weeks ago they came over to Indian Town \u0026 burned all the buildings on Dr. Marchant's place, opposite where he used to live, together with the academy, \u0026 plundered several citizens, taking horses, carts, [__groes], salt \u0026 c. They have since removed from Shiloh \u0026 have made their headquarters at E. City.  One of their officers, a Capt. Sanders was killed in the street the night of the 5th inst.","The Diphtheria has been very prevalent this winter. I believe I wrote you of the death of two of Mr. Baxter's children. Now I have to inform you of the death of [Suda] Shaw of the same horrible disease. It was a heart rending scene to witness the distress of the family. I deeply sympathize with the bereaved parents, but for [Suda], we know she is better off. She is beyond the reach of harm, safe in her Heavenly Father's arms. Jodie has been strongly threatened with the same disease, if indeed he has not had it in a modified form. All of us have had sore throats \u0026 your Ma has been doctoring for diphtheria. All are however better now, Lillie \u0026 Ida going to school \u0026 Jodie playing about the house as lively as ever. He has grown very much since you saw him, \u0026 talks quite plain. You would hardly know him. from home and hoping soon to hear from you. You cannot imagine how anxious we are to hear from you, or surely you would write much oftener than you do. What can be the matter? Is it that you do not write, or does your letters miscarry? I know not the cause, but whatever it may be should be very glad if it could be remedied. I know not how to direct you more than I have.","There are so many changes. I received one letter from Mr. Lassiter from Mr. [Boro]. Since then I learn he has sold out \u0026 removed, so you must seek for information \u0026 opportunities, \u0026 neglect no possible chance of letting us hear from you. I have committed you unto Him that is able to keep you, and I forget not my prayers morning \u0026 night to beseech Him to take care of you, to preserve \u0026 keep you from all evil \u0026 harm, and restore you again to the bosom of the family, if it can accord with His blessed will. All send their love.","Your Father. Jos. B. Morgan","Feby 13 [1863]","We have just heard that the guerillas had attacked the enemy in Pasquotank killing [Tim.] Cox \u0026 probably some others. We hear that the Capt. commanding in E. City [Elizabeth City] has ordered all the people white \u0026 black to report to him, \u0026 it is said he intends to compel them to take up arms. The whole country is in a perfect ferment. The people are growing desperate \u0026 the inhuman conduct of our enemies seems to be driving every man capable of bearing arms into the bushes or into the army. How long such a state of things is to exist the Lord only can determine.","My health is very bad just now. I am suffering among other things with sore throat, \u0026 have been for some time past.  The rest of the family are well.","I should be so glad to hear from you. Not one word yet since Albert left have we heard from you. Mrs. Shaw gets letters from Willie \u0026 Julian \u0026 I should suppose yours could come in the same way. Send them to Col. Shaw \u0026 he will forward them if you will request him to do so I am sure. Your Ma sends her love \u0026 says she would like to write, but you must not think because she does not, she has forgotten you. Other causes prevents. I have hastily penned these few lines this morning having just heard of an opportunity for sending a letter out. Your Uncle James is still with us \u0026 talks of coming out soon.","Your Father. Jos. B. Morgan","Currituck County\nJany. 3d 1864","My Dear Son-\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you \u0026 we are beginning to feel very anxious to hear from you. I wrote you a short time since giving a short statement of our troubles \u0026 the devastations \u0026 excitement produced by a Brigade of negro troops under Gen. Wild passing through our county. But it is utterly impossible for me to give you anything like a correct idea of the state of things in our midst.","I have just returned home from Fortress Monroe. The citizens of our county held a meeting \u0026 appointed Dr. Cowell, A. J. Lowe, B. L. Dey, B. M. Baxter \u0026 myself a committee to proceed to Old Point, the Headquarters of Gen. Butler, who is in command of the Department of Va. \u0026 N. C., for the purpose of ascertaining what was required of the peaceful inhabitants to secure their property from destruction \u0026 their dwellings from the flames. We left home last Sunday \u0026 passed through their lines by way of Deep Creek. Col. DeForest in command at North West treated us very courteously \u0026 and gave us a passport to Gen. Getty's headquarters, which is some three miles back of Portsmouth. We had a very pleasant interview with Gen. Getty, who seems to be a perfect gentleman, and who kindly facilitated our business by giving us a passport and transportation to Gen. Butler's Headquarters.","Tuesday morning at 8 o'clock we took the boat for Old Point, where we arrived about ten A.M. We obtained an interview with Gen. Butler about three o'clock P. M. He received us very respectfully \u0026 treated us very courteously, and after hearing our statement conversed with us some half an hour or more very pleasantly. He said nothing was required of us only to remain peaceful and use our influence to put down guerrillaing \u0026 blockade running; that being accomplished we should not be further molested by his troops; that he did not include us in his general order no. 49, nor did he consider us within his lines.","We returned home \u0026 reported the result of our interview with Gen. Butler. We had hardly got home when a squad was sent out to enroll the inhabitants of Camden \u0026 Currituck. We are inclined to believe, however, they are recalled \u0026 we may be allowed a short respite.","Your Ma has been quite ill but is now fast recovering. Jodie is suffering from croup very much. All the rest are tolerable well. I am not very well but hope am improving. Everything is excitement \u0026 suspense \u0026 God only knows how we are to get along. All is gloom \u0026 doubt around us, but God governs in the affairs of men \u0026 will bring all things right in the end. You Ma is trying to get some shirts ready for you, and whenever we can procure anything for you will send by the first opportunity. Some of my friends talk of going to Richmond \u0026 if they do I shall try to send my horse  by them with instructions to sell him \u0026 send you the money. It may come when you do not need it \u0026 if so take care of it for future use. You must be economical \u0026 make the best use you can of both time \u0026 money. Should they bring him out, I shall instruct them to\nsell him and have the money insured \u0026 sent by express to you.","All send their love \u0026 best wishes, and I pray that a kind Providence may preserve and protect you my dear son.\nYour Father. J. B. M.","P.S. Since writing the enclosed your two letters of the 13th and 27th of Decr. have come to hand. We are glad to learn you are so well after your exposure \u0026 hope you will not suffer any very serious consequences. All are well at present \u0026 send their love. Those gentlemen I spoke of coming out have returned. They sold my horse for $600 \u0026 I trust you have recd. the money. J.B. M.","Indian Ridge\nMay 16th 1864","My Dear Son-\nI embrace the opportunity this morning, as Mr. Forbs is just going out, to write you a few lines, to let you know we have had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 26th of April, that we were all well, \u0026 made still more happy on hearing glorious news from Va. The N. York Herald admits that Grant has been terribly whipped \u0026 driven back with the loss of only 41.000 including 7 Major Gens. \u0026 some 15 Brigadiers. We have rumors that the Yanks have also been badly worsted near Petersburg \u0026 driven back with considerable loss. Also various other rumors of the capture of the \"Beast\" \u0026 c \u0026 c. which if true you have no doubt heard ere this, as you can learn the truth much earlier than we can. Should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day. I think there can scarcely be a doubt of the truth of Grant's disaster. I did not see the statement myself, but Mr. Hilliard Baxter told me he had read it in last Thursday's Herald \u0026 you may be sure his loss is much greater than the Herald would admit. The Yanks have been making frequent raids among us for the last three weeks, one a week at least. Saturday night they carried off one of my mules, but I was fortunate enough to recover him on Sunday.","I am glad to learn you were pleased with your things. The boots \u0026 gloves I expected would be full large, but it was the best I could do, \u0026 your cloth, how does it suit you? It was nearest the color that could be got. We have felt a great deal of anxiety about you of late, fearing that the Yankees would get so near, you would have to take the field again [see note below], but if Grant is driven back we should feel much easier on that account. I forgot to say that our joy at the good news was somewhat allayed by a report that the brave \u0026 noble Gen. Longstreet was badly wounded, Pickett \u0026 Jenkins \u0026 some others killed. I trust the reports may not be true, but should it prove true, God will raise up others to fill their places. He will not suffer our enemies to succeed in this unjust, cruel \u0026 unholy war.","I said we were all well. Jodie has slight chills \u0026 fevers, caused perhaps by the [days?] of The Measles--he says he wants to see Bro. Pat mighty bad. He has been keeping you some apples but has been compelled to eat them, to keep them from rotting. The children all send their love. Mr. Low \u0026 family request me to send their respects. Mrs. Shaw \u0026 family are well.","Give my respects to Willie, Jule \u0026 all your friends. Write often. May a kind Providence continue to watch over you \u0026 protect you my dear son. Your Father. J. B. M.","Indian Ridge\nOct 31st 1864","My Dear Son-\nAfter so long a time I find an opportunity of sending you a few lines from home, as I know you are very anxious to hear from us all. Your note from Riddick's Ferry was received, though not until we heard from you through your friend from [K/Hitt___?] \u0026 who also delivered me a package of smoking tobacco, which was very acceptable, \u0026 for which accept\nmy thanks.","We have had a good long respite from the Raiders, not having been troubled with any since you left. They have passed on the Indian Town Road once since, but none came up our road. There is no news at all. Everything seems to be at a stand. We are still having the most delightful weather. It is so dry we can scarcely get water to use. I have never seen so dry a season. Mr. Lowe and myself have just finished making syrup. We have made about 70 gals., enough to serve us the next year plentifully. I am again without any help at all. Mr. Sawyer \u0026 his wife left the week you went away. I do not know how I shall manage to house my crop as there is no laborers to be had.","A few days after you left I saw the order postponing the commencement of your school until the 10th of Novr., and ordering the cadets to report for temporary duty at Camp Lee. I suppose you are still there, though according to the order will soon leave for school. I shall therefore leave the direction of my letter to the friend who will take it out after he can ascertain your whereabouts.","We are all in as good health as usual. I am still very much troubled with rheumatism in my arm, which bothers me very much. You must write me every opportunity, tell me how you are getting on, \u0026 how you have disposed of your money, and do not forget to have the discrepancy in your account corrected. And above all things else my Dear Son do not\nforget, nor neglect, your duties to your Heavenly Father; let not your young \u0026 gay companions lead you astray, nor tempt you to neglect your religious duties, and may our Heavenly Father keep you as in the hollow of his hand, shield \u0026 protect you from all danger \u0026 harm, and restore you to us again in His own good time.","I forgot to tell you the result of our meeting. It closed on Sunday after you left, and on Monday seventeen were baptized \u0026 added to the church, among them our neighbor Mr. John Fanshaw.","Your Ma, Archie, \u0026 the children all send their love. Frank is on a visit to Mayock \u0026 will write you soon. Write him often. Mrs. Shaw \u0026 family are all well. Tell Willie he must write me sometimes. Give him my respects \u0026 tell him not to forget his good resolutions \u0026 to never stop until he has obtained the pearl of great price. God bless \u0026 protect you my dear\nson is the constant prayer of our father.\nJ. B. M.","Ida sends you some money, $2.00.","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from morning drill on April 15 [1863]","It was a very rainy and disagreeable morning, and my shoews being very inferior, also having a cold, I thought it very imprudent for me to go, as it would make me worse.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Overcoat on Post after taps. April 23 [1863]","It was a very chilly night and I felt very uncomfortable without an overcoat and as I was unwell I thought it very imprudent to be without it.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Visiting on the 8th of May [1863]","I had just come out of the hospital and could not find any of my books in my room, they had been misplaced during my absence, some of my roommates told me that some one in No. 34 had borrowed them.  I went in to get them, and while doing so, I was reported.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]","When I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Surgeon V. M. I.","This collection consists of Morgan Family correspondence (12 items) during the Civil War. Included are eight letters (dated 1862-1864) to Cadet Patrick H. Morgan. Those from his father (dated 1863-1864), Joseph B. Morgan, contain news of Civil War civilian and home life in Currituck County, North Carolina. Specific topics include enemy raids for food and supplies, diphtheria, an uncle's death in battle, and the hardships of war. Other letters are from family friends and cousin John B. Wiginton.","Also included are Cadet Morgan's written excuses (four items) to the VMI Commandant for various infractions for the period of April to May 1863.","Written from Forestville, North Carolina. Letter regards mail from James B. Morgan and the death of Pat Grandy.","Written from Hertford County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news.","Written from \"Camp Galtin Murfreesboro.\" Letter regards personal and family news.","Written from Currituck County, North Carolina. Letter regards wartime civilian life, the death of an uncle in battle at Fredericksburg, Virginia, and enemy raids.","Letter regards enemy treatment of civilians and family news. Letter also mentions \"Willie\" who is William Brenton Shaw, VMI Class of 1865.","Written from Currituck County, North Carolina. The letter includes a detailed account of the journey of a  committee of citizens to appeal to Union General Butler to \"secure their property from destruction.\"","Written from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and discusses rumors of a major Confederate victory, stating \"should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day.\"","Written from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and cautions son against neglecting his \"religious duties.\"","Written excuses by Cadet Patrick Morgan submitted to the VMI Commandant. These were explanations given by cadets after breaking a regulation.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morgan family","Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Shaw, William B. (William Brenton), 1843-1908","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864"],"collection_ssim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862/1864"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0356","/repositories/3/resources/612"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0356","/repositories/3/resources/612"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"geogname_ssm":["Currituck County (N.C.)"],"geogname_ssim":["Currituck County (N.C.)"],"places_ssim":["Currituck County (N.C.)"],"creator_ssm":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Morgan family"],"creator_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Morgan family"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Shaw, William B. (William Brenton), 1843-1908"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_famname_ssim":["Morgan family"],"creators_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Shaw, William B. (William Brenton), 1843-1908","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morgan family"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["12 items"],"extent_tesim":["12 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eDuring the Civil War, the family of Joseph B. and Annie Lamb Morgan resided in Currituck County, North Carolina. One of the Morgan sons, Patrick H. (1844-1917), was a cadet at VMI from 1862-1864. During his cadetship, he took part in the Battle of New Market on May 15, 1864. After the War, Patrick studied law, but did not practice. He then engaged in business and was a state senator in the North Carolina legislature. He was subsequently a district supervisor of the United States Life Saving Service (now the United States Coast Guard). Patrick died on August 27, 1917 in Shawboro, North Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["During the Civil War, the family of Joseph B. and Annie Lamb Morgan resided in Currituck County, North Carolina. One of the Morgan sons, Patrick H. (1844-1917), was a cadet at VMI from 1862-1864. During his cadetship, he took part in the Battle of New Market on May 15, 1864. After the War, Patrick studied law, but did not practice. He then engaged in business and was a state senator in the North Carolina legislature. He was subsequently a district supervisor of the United States Life Saving Service (now the United States Coast Guard). Patrick died on August 27, 1917 in Shawboro, North Carolina."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eForestville N. C.\u003cbr\u003e\nJuly 2d 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFriend Pat\u003cbr\u003e\nI was in Currituck a few days ago and saw your father. He gave me a letter to bring out for you which I have this day mailed to you. He requested me to write to you and tell you where to write to him at so that he could get it.  If you would write to him and enclose it to me at Murfreesboro NC I will endeavor to get it to him. Say to Col. Shaw and Mr. Woods sons that if they will do the same I will try to forward their letters on for them. I hear that Pat Grandy was killed at Richmond. Poor fellow I am sorry for him he was a brave little fellow. Write soon as I shall be in Murfreesboro in about six day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYours very Respectfully\u003cbr\u003e\n[D. W. ?]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAbram Riddicks Farm.  Hertford Co. NC\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pat\u003cbr\u003e\nI have just come through the lines and have with me a letter for you which I will mail at Weldon.  Write to me immediately on the reception of this and I may be able to carry it through to your father on my return.  Tom Hampkins and myself are going to Raleigh with a lunatic.  Then I am going to Greensboro Lincolnton and Charlotte.  Bill [Dozier] is married to Miss Barnard.  Mr. Wigginton is dear and there is much sickness in Currituck.  The Yankees are carrying on high in E. City [Elizabeth City]. [They] have nearly driven all the citizens away [from] E. City now and then killing one.  They murdered George Fearing last Thursday.  They have destroyed the Salt works on the banks \u0026amp; c \u0026amp; c.  Excuse this bad writing.  I am in a hurry and have a miserable pen.  Give my regards Will Shaw and Mr. Wood.  Tell them both their familys are well.  I was at Dr. Woods a few days ago.  Write and direct your letter to my care Weldon\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYours in friendship\u003cbr\u003e\nW. H. [Cowell]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePat I broke open your leeter to put this in is the cause of it looking so ragged about the envelope\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Galtin Murfreesboro\u003cbr\u003e\nNC March the 12 64\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour letter of the 26 of Feb came to hand on yesterday and found me well except weakness. I have just returned from Camden. I had a sick furlough and it happened in a good time the confederates went down just behind me and placed their pickets at [Shingle] Landing. You may depend that I had a gay time we had a party at Mr. J. Ambros Doziers we danced nearly all night. I danced the first set with Cousin Arch [?] the second with Maggie Fanshaw. Mr. Ambrose Dozier also danced we had three members of the church on the floor at once. I went to see Shaw. I stopped at by yur house a day or two they were all well I believe. I went to see my [?] twice while I was in there and found her as lovely as ever. She is as perfect as an angel and as precious as a diamond. I went to school with her both times walked with her alone to the academy and spoke of the pst present and future. Jessy Williams has gone in on furlough this morning.  I wrote to Mattie and sent your enclosed to the [?].  Marcus [Tavells] was in on furlough the same time that I was he came out with me we had fine times together. Try to get a leave of absence and come and see me.  Mattie sends her respects to you and says she would be pleased to see you if you will write me when you think you can get one I will manage to get one the same time and we will go in together. I have not time to write much more as I have to mke out requistitions for rations for the men this evening. Our company are all in Camden except 8 and they are without shoes consequently they nor myself have but little duty to perform. We manage to draw rations enough for ourselves and cook and eat.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf I have accused you wrongfully I beg your pardon. You spoke of my flirting with my intended much sooner would I destroy my own life. What deceive my first and only love and the best girl that ever graced the side of a gentleman do not speak of it again you will me tremble to think of such vile thing. You speak of being low spirited you must cheer up and if you will do you duty I think you will be able to accomplish all you wish for I have made Mat promise to use her influence in your behalf and you know she can be of much use to you. I had a letter from a young lady in Petersburg yesterday she thinks I am a flirt little does she think that I am engaged but I will not deceive her any longer for I respect her very highly. I will ask to be excused and to be her friend in the future and not a lover. Our Regt. will start over the river tomorrow morning. I have had the men that are with me belonging to our Company excused from this march they seem to be very much pleased at it.  We will have the whole camp to oursleves. I wish you were with me so that we could lay in our bunk and talk of our sweethearts. I hope the time is not far distant when we will be able to go where we please then we can visit our sweethearts and not be looking for the infernal yankees to come and capture us. I also had a leter from brother Isaac he is well and in Petersburg. I believe all of our friends and relatives are well. Write soon and tell Wood to write to me. Give my respects to all of my inquiring friends if any and reserve a greater portion for yourself.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nJno B. Wiginton\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIndian Ridge\u003cbr\u003e\nCurrituck County, Jany 28/63\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son-\u003cbr\u003e\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you. The last one I think was dated the 16 of November last. We heard from you by Albert, who got safely home, but destroyed all the letters he brought off with him for fear of falling into the hands of enemies. He reported you\ntolerably well- but gives a horrid description of your fare, \u0026amp; seems very glad to get home even under the circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour Uncle James has again been driven from his home by the shelling of his premises, and together with his family is now residing with us. Albert is going to school to Mr. Lowe, who now has a very large school. Since I last wrote you we have the distressing intelligence of the death\nof your Uncle [Geo?]. He was killed at Fredericksburg. His family is in great distress. They are making arrangements for moving back to Currituck \u0026amp; will reside with William [D___], who was recently married to Miss[A_nett] Barnard. Your Ma is in deep distress in consequence of her brother's death. She takes it very hard indeed. Otherwise we are getting along about as we have been for the last eighteen months.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe enemy occasionally makes raids upon us \u0026amp; plunder \u0026amp; destroy our property. A few weeks ago they came over to Indian Town \u0026amp; burned all the buildings on Dr. Marchant's place, opposite where he used to live, together with the academy, \u0026amp; plundered several citizens, taking horses, carts, [__groes], salt \u0026amp; c. They have since removed from Shiloh \u0026amp; have made their headquarters at E. City.  One of their officers, a Capt. Sanders was killed in the street the night of the 5th inst.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Diphtheria has been very prevalent this winter. I believe I wrote you of the death of two of Mr. Baxter's children. Now I have to inform you of the death of [Suda] Shaw of the same horrible disease. It was a heart rending scene to witness the distress of the family. I deeply sympathize with the bereaved parents, but for [Suda], we know she is better off. She is beyond the reach of harm, safe in her Heavenly Father's arms. Jodie has been strongly threatened with the same disease, if indeed he has not had it in a modified form. All of us have had sore throats \u0026amp; your Ma has been doctoring for diphtheria. All are however better now, Lillie \u0026amp; Ida going to school \u0026amp; Jodie playing about the house as lively as ever. He has grown very much since you saw him, \u0026amp; talks quite plain. You would hardly know him. from home and hoping soon to hear from you. You cannot imagine how anxious we are to hear from you, or surely you would write much oftener than you do. What can be the matter? Is it that you do not write, or does your letters miscarry? I know not the cause, but whatever it may be should be very glad if it could be remedied. I know not how to direct you more than I have. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere are so many changes. I received one letter from Mr. Lassiter from Mr. [Boro]. Since then I learn he has sold out \u0026amp; removed, so you must seek for information \u0026amp; opportunities, \u0026amp; neglect no possible chance of letting us hear from you. I have committed you unto Him that is able to keep you, and I forget not my prayers morning \u0026amp; night to beseech Him to take care of you, to preserve \u0026amp; keep you from all evil \u0026amp; harm, and restore you again to the bosom of the family, if it can accord with His blessed will. All send their love.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour Father. Jos. B. Morgan\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFeby 13 [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have just heard that the guerillas had attacked the enemy in Pasquotank killing [Tim.] Cox \u0026amp; probably some others. We hear that the Capt. commanding in E. City [Elizabeth City] has ordered all the people white \u0026amp; black to report to him, \u0026amp; it is said he intends to compel them to take up arms. The whole country is in a perfect ferment. The people are growing desperate \u0026amp; the inhuman conduct of our enemies seems to be driving every man capable of bearing arms into the bushes or into the army. How long such a state of things is to exist the Lord only can determine.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy health is very bad just now. I am suffering among other things with sore throat, \u0026amp; have been for some time past.  The rest of the family are well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI should be so glad to hear from you. Not one word yet since Albert left have we heard from you. Mrs. Shaw gets letters from Willie \u0026amp; Julian \u0026amp; I should suppose yours could come in the same way. Send them to Col. Shaw \u0026amp; he will forward them if you will request him to do so I am sure. Your Ma sends her love \u0026amp; says she would like to write, but you must not think because she does not, she has forgotten you. Other causes prevents. I have hastily penned these few lines this morning having just heard of an opportunity for sending a letter out. Your Uncle James is still with us \u0026amp; talks of coming out soon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour Father. Jos. B. Morgan\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCurrituck County\u003cbr\u003e\nJany. 3d 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son-\u003cbr\u003e\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you \u0026amp; we are beginning to feel very anxious to hear from you. I wrote you a short time since giving a short statement of our troubles \u0026amp; the devastations \u0026amp; excitement produced by a Brigade of negro troops under Gen. Wild passing through our county. But it is utterly impossible for me to give you anything like a correct idea of the state of things in our midst. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have just returned home from Fortress Monroe. The citizens of our county held a meeting \u0026amp; appointed Dr. Cowell, A. J. Lowe, B. L. Dey, B. M. Baxter \u0026amp; myself a committee to proceed to Old Point, the Headquarters of Gen. Butler, who is in command of the Department of Va. \u0026amp; N. C., for the purpose of ascertaining what was required of the peaceful inhabitants to secure their property from destruction \u0026amp; their dwellings from the flames. We left home last Sunday \u0026amp; passed through their lines by way of Deep Creek. Col. DeForest in command at North West treated us very courteously \u0026amp; and gave us a passport to Gen. Getty's headquarters, which is some three miles back of Portsmouth. We had a very pleasant interview with Gen. Getty, who seems to be a perfect gentleman, and who kindly facilitated our business by giving us a passport and transportation to Gen. Butler's Headquarters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTuesday morning at 8 o'clock we took the boat for Old Point, where we arrived about ten A.M. We obtained an interview with Gen. Butler about three o'clock P. M. He received us very respectfully \u0026amp; treated us very courteously, and after hearing our statement conversed with us some half an hour or more very pleasantly. He said nothing was required of us only to remain peaceful and use our influence to put down guerrillaing \u0026amp; blockade running; that being accomplished we should not be further molested by his troops; that he did not include us in his general order no. 49, nor did he consider us within his lines. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe returned home \u0026amp; reported the result of our interview with Gen. Butler. We had hardly got home when a squad was sent out to enroll the inhabitants of Camden \u0026amp; Currituck. We are inclined to believe, however, they are recalled \u0026amp; we may be allowed a short respite.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour Ma has been quite ill but is now fast recovering. Jodie is suffering from croup very much. All the rest are tolerable well. I am not very well but hope am improving. Everything is excitement \u0026amp; suspense \u0026amp; God only knows how we are to get along. All is gloom \u0026amp; doubt around us, but God governs in the affairs of men \u0026amp; will bring all things right in the end. You Ma is trying to get some shirts ready for you, and whenever we can procure anything for you will send by the first opportunity. Some of my friends talk of going to Richmond \u0026amp; if they do I shall try to send my horse  by them with instructions to sell him \u0026amp; send you the money. It may come when you do not need it \u0026amp; if so take care of it for future use. You must be economical \u0026amp; make the best use you can of both time \u0026amp; money. Should they bring him out, I shall instruct them to\nsell him and have the money insured \u0026amp; sent by express to you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAll send their love \u0026amp; best wishes, and I pray that a kind Providence may preserve and protect you my dear son.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Father. J. B. M.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Since writing the enclosed your two letters of the 13th and 27th of Decr. have come to hand. We are glad to learn you are so well after your exposure \u0026amp; hope you will not suffer any very serious consequences. All are well at present \u0026amp; send their love. Those gentlemen I spoke of coming out have returned. They sold my horse for $600 \u0026amp; I trust you have recd. the money. J.B. M.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIndian Ridge\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 16th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son-\u003cbr\u003e\nI embrace the opportunity this morning, as Mr. Forbs is just going out, to write you a few lines, to let you know we have had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 26th of April, that we were all well, \u0026amp; made still more happy on hearing glorious news from Va. The N. York Herald admits that Grant has been terribly whipped \u0026amp; driven back with the loss of only 41.000 including 7 Major Gens. \u0026amp; some 15 Brigadiers. We have rumors that the Yanks have also been badly worsted near Petersburg \u0026amp; driven back with considerable loss. Also various other rumors of the capture of the \"Beast\" \u0026amp; c \u0026amp; c. which if true you have no doubt heard ere this, as you can learn the truth much earlier than we can. Should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day. I think there can scarcely be a doubt of the truth of Grant's disaster. I did not see the statement myself, but Mr. Hilliard Baxter told me he had read it in last Thursday's Herald \u0026amp; you may be sure his loss is much greater than the Herald would admit. The Yanks have been making frequent raids among us for the last three weeks, one a week at least. Saturday night they carried off one of my mules, but I was fortunate enough to recover him on Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am glad to learn you were pleased with your things. The boots \u0026amp; gloves I expected would be full large, but it was the best I could do, \u0026amp; your cloth, how does it suit you? It was nearest the color that could be got. We have felt a great deal of anxiety about you of late, fearing that the Yankees would get so near, you would have to take the field again [see note below], but if Grant is driven back we should feel much easier on that account. I forgot to say that our joy at the good news was somewhat allayed by a report that the brave \u0026amp; noble Gen. Longstreet was badly wounded, Pickett \u0026amp; Jenkins \u0026amp; some others killed. I trust the reports may not be true, but should it prove true, God will raise up others to fill their places. He will not suffer our enemies to succeed in this unjust, cruel \u0026amp; unholy war.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI said we were all well. Jodie has slight chills \u0026amp; fevers, caused perhaps by the [days?] of The Measles--he says he wants to see Bro. Pat mighty bad. He has been keeping you some apples but has been compelled to eat them, to keep them from rotting. The children all send their love. Mr. Low \u0026amp; family request me to send their respects. Mrs. Shaw \u0026amp; family are well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my respects to Willie, Jule \u0026amp; all your friends. Write often. May a kind Providence continue to watch over you \u0026amp; protect you my dear son. Your Father. J. B. M.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIndian Ridge\u003cbr\u003e\nOct 31st 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son-\u003cbr\u003e\nAfter so long a time I find an opportunity of sending you a few lines from home, as I know you are very anxious to hear from us all. Your note from Riddick's Ferry was received, though not until we heard from you through your friend from [K/Hitt___?] \u0026amp; who also delivered me a package of smoking tobacco, which was very acceptable, \u0026amp; for which accept\nmy thanks.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have had a good long respite from the Raiders, not having been troubled with any since you left. They have passed on the Indian Town Road once since, but none came up our road. There is no news at all. Everything seems to be at a stand. We are still having the most delightful weather. It is so dry we can scarcely get water to use. I have never seen so dry a season. Mr. Lowe and myself have just finished making syrup. We have made about 70 gals., enough to serve us the next year plentifully. I am again without any help at all. Mr. Sawyer \u0026amp; his wife left the week you went away. I do not know how I shall manage to house my crop as there is no laborers to be had.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA few days after you left I saw the order postponing the commencement of your school until the 10th of Novr., and ordering the cadets to report for temporary duty at Camp Lee. I suppose you are still there, though according to the order will soon leave for school. I shall therefore leave the direction of my letter to the friend who will take it out after he can ascertain your whereabouts.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe are all in as good health as usual. I am still very much troubled with rheumatism in my arm, which bothers me very much. You must write me every opportunity, tell me how you are getting on, \u0026amp; how you have disposed of your money, and do not forget to have the discrepancy in your account corrected. And above all things else my Dear Son do not\nforget, nor neglect, your duties to your Heavenly Father; let not your young \u0026amp; gay companions lead you astray, nor tempt you to neglect your religious duties, and may our Heavenly Father keep you as in the hollow of his hand, shield \u0026amp; protect you from all danger \u0026amp; harm, and restore you to us again in His own good time. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI forgot to tell you the result of our meeting. It closed on Sunday after you left, and on Monday seventeen were baptized \u0026amp; added to the church, among them our neighbor Mr. John Fanshaw.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour Ma, Archie, \u0026amp; the children all send their love. Frank is on a visit to Mayock \u0026amp; will write you soon. Write him often. Mrs. Shaw \u0026amp; family are all well. Tell Willie he must write me sometimes. Give him my respects \u0026amp; tell him not to forget his good resolutions \u0026amp; to never stop until he has obtained the pearl of great price. God bless \u0026amp; protect you my dear\nson is the constant prayer of our father.\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. B. M.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIda sends you some money, $2.00.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from morning drill on April 15 [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt was a very rainy and disagreeable morning, and my shoews being very inferior, also having a cold, I thought it very imprudent for me to go, as it would make me worse.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully submitted,\u003cbr\u003e\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTo Commandant of Cadets\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport of Cadet Morgan.  Overcoat on Post after taps. April 23 [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt was a very chilly night and I felt very uncomfortable without an overcoat and as I was unwell I thought it very imprudent to be without it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully submitted,\u003cbr\u003e\nBy Cadet Morgan\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTo Commandant of Cadets\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport of Cadet Morgan.  Visiting on the 8th of May [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI had just come out of the hospital and could not find any of my books in my room, they had been misplaced during my absence, some of my roommates told me that some one in No. 34 had borrowed them.  I went in to get them, and while doing so, I was reported.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully submitted,\u003cbr\u003e\nBy Cadet Morgan\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTo Commandant of Cadets\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully submitted,\u003cbr\u003e\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTo Surgeon V. M. I.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Forestville N. C.\nJuly 2d 1862","Friend Pat\nI was in Currituck a few days ago and saw your father. He gave me a letter to bring out for you which I have this day mailed to you. He requested me to write to you and tell you where to write to him at so that he could get it.  If you would write to him and enclose it to me at Murfreesboro NC I will endeavor to get it to him. Say to Col. Shaw and Mr. Woods sons that if they will do the same I will try to forward their letters on for them. I hear that Pat Grandy was killed at Richmond. Poor fellow I am sorry for him he was a brave little fellow. Write soon as I shall be in Murfreesboro in about six day.","Yours very Respectfully\n[D. W. ?]","Abram Riddicks Farm.  Hertford Co. NC","Dear Pat\nI have just come through the lines and have with me a letter for you which I will mail at Weldon.  Write to me immediately on the reception of this and I may be able to carry it through to your father on my return.  Tom Hampkins and myself are going to Raleigh with a lunatic.  Then I am going to Greensboro Lincolnton and Charlotte.  Bill [Dozier] is married to Miss Barnard.  Mr. Wigginton is dear and there is much sickness in Currituck.  The Yankees are carrying on high in E. City [Elizabeth City]. [They] have nearly driven all the citizens away [from] E. City now and then killing one.  They murdered George Fearing last Thursday.  They have destroyed the Salt works on the banks \u0026 c \u0026 c.  Excuse this bad writing.  I am in a hurry and have a miserable pen.  Give my regards Will Shaw and Mr. Wood.  Tell them both their familys are well.  I was at Dr. Woods a few days ago.  Write and direct your letter to my care Weldon","Yours in friendship\nW. H. [Cowell]","Pat I broke open your leeter to put this in is the cause of it looking so ragged about the envelope","Camp Galtin Murfreesboro\nNC March the 12 64","Your letter of the 26 of Feb came to hand on yesterday and found me well except weakness. I have just returned from Camden. I had a sick furlough and it happened in a good time the confederates went down just behind me and placed their pickets at [Shingle] Landing. You may depend that I had a gay time we had a party at Mr. J. Ambros Doziers we danced nearly all night. I danced the first set with Cousin Arch [?] the second with Maggie Fanshaw. Mr. Ambrose Dozier also danced we had three members of the church on the floor at once. I went to see Shaw. I stopped at by yur house a day or two they were all well I believe. I went to see my [?] twice while I was in there and found her as lovely as ever. She is as perfect as an angel and as precious as a diamond. I went to school with her both times walked with her alone to the academy and spoke of the pst present and future. Jessy Williams has gone in on furlough this morning.  I wrote to Mattie and sent your enclosed to the [?].  Marcus [Tavells] was in on furlough the same time that I was he came out with me we had fine times together. Try to get a leave of absence and come and see me.  Mattie sends her respects to you and says she would be pleased to see you if you will write me when you think you can get one I will manage to get one the same time and we will go in together. I have not time to write much more as I have to mke out requistitions for rations for the men this evening. Our company are all in Camden except 8 and they are without shoes consequently they nor myself have but little duty to perform. We manage to draw rations enough for ourselves and cook and eat.","If I have accused you wrongfully I beg your pardon. You spoke of my flirting with my intended much sooner would I destroy my own life. What deceive my first and only love and the best girl that ever graced the side of a gentleman do not speak of it again you will me tremble to think of such vile thing. You speak of being low spirited you must cheer up and if you will do you duty I think you will be able to accomplish all you wish for I have made Mat promise to use her influence in your behalf and you know she can be of much use to you. I had a letter from a young lady in Petersburg yesterday she thinks I am a flirt little does she think that I am engaged but I will not deceive her any longer for I respect her very highly. I will ask to be excused and to be her friend in the future and not a lover. Our Regt. will start over the river tomorrow morning. I have had the men that are with me belonging to our Company excused from this march they seem to be very much pleased at it.  We will have the whole camp to oursleves. I wish you were with me so that we could lay in our bunk and talk of our sweethearts. I hope the time is not far distant when we will be able to go where we please then we can visit our sweethearts and not be looking for the infernal yankees to come and capture us. I also had a leter from brother Isaac he is well and in Petersburg. I believe all of our friends and relatives are well. Write soon and tell Wood to write to me. Give my respects to all of my inquiring friends if any and reserve a greater portion for yourself.","Your cousin\nJno B. Wiginton","Indian Ridge\nCurrituck County, Jany 28/63","My Dear Son-\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you. The last one I think was dated the 16 of November last. We heard from you by Albert, who got safely home, but destroyed all the letters he brought off with him for fear of falling into the hands of enemies. He reported you\ntolerably well- but gives a horrid description of your fare, \u0026 seems very glad to get home even under the circumstances.","Your Uncle James has again been driven from his home by the shelling of his premises, and together with his family is now residing with us. Albert is going to school to Mr. Lowe, who now has a very large school. Since I last wrote you we have the distressing intelligence of the death\nof your Uncle [Geo?]. He was killed at Fredericksburg. His family is in great distress. They are making arrangements for moving back to Currituck \u0026 will reside with William [D___], who was recently married to Miss[A_nett] Barnard. Your Ma is in deep distress in consequence of her brother's death. She takes it very hard indeed. Otherwise we are getting along about as we have been for the last eighteen months.","The enemy occasionally makes raids upon us \u0026 plunder \u0026 destroy our property. A few weeks ago they came over to Indian Town \u0026 burned all the buildings on Dr. Marchant's place, opposite where he used to live, together with the academy, \u0026 plundered several citizens, taking horses, carts, [__groes], salt \u0026 c. They have since removed from Shiloh \u0026 have made their headquarters at E. City.  One of their officers, a Capt. Sanders was killed in the street the night of the 5th inst.","The Diphtheria has been very prevalent this winter. I believe I wrote you of the death of two of Mr. Baxter's children. Now I have to inform you of the death of [Suda] Shaw of the same horrible disease. It was a heart rending scene to witness the distress of the family. I deeply sympathize with the bereaved parents, but for [Suda], we know she is better off. She is beyond the reach of harm, safe in her Heavenly Father's arms. Jodie has been strongly threatened with the same disease, if indeed he has not had it in a modified form. All of us have had sore throats \u0026 your Ma has been doctoring for diphtheria. All are however better now, Lillie \u0026 Ida going to school \u0026 Jodie playing about the house as lively as ever. He has grown very much since you saw him, \u0026 talks quite plain. You would hardly know him. from home and hoping soon to hear from you. You cannot imagine how anxious we are to hear from you, or surely you would write much oftener than you do. What can be the matter? Is it that you do not write, or does your letters miscarry? I know not the cause, but whatever it may be should be very glad if it could be remedied. I know not how to direct you more than I have.","There are so many changes. I received one letter from Mr. Lassiter from Mr. [Boro]. Since then I learn he has sold out \u0026 removed, so you must seek for information \u0026 opportunities, \u0026 neglect no possible chance of letting us hear from you. I have committed you unto Him that is able to keep you, and I forget not my prayers morning \u0026 night to beseech Him to take care of you, to preserve \u0026 keep you from all evil \u0026 harm, and restore you again to the bosom of the family, if it can accord with His blessed will. All send their love.","Your Father. Jos. B. Morgan","Feby 13 [1863]","We have just heard that the guerillas had attacked the enemy in Pasquotank killing [Tim.] Cox \u0026 probably some others. We hear that the Capt. commanding in E. City [Elizabeth City] has ordered all the people white \u0026 black to report to him, \u0026 it is said he intends to compel them to take up arms. The whole country is in a perfect ferment. The people are growing desperate \u0026 the inhuman conduct of our enemies seems to be driving every man capable of bearing arms into the bushes or into the army. How long such a state of things is to exist the Lord only can determine.","My health is very bad just now. I am suffering among other things with sore throat, \u0026 have been for some time past.  The rest of the family are well.","I should be so glad to hear from you. Not one word yet since Albert left have we heard from you. Mrs. Shaw gets letters from Willie \u0026 Julian \u0026 I should suppose yours could come in the same way. Send them to Col. Shaw \u0026 he will forward them if you will request him to do so I am sure. Your Ma sends her love \u0026 says she would like to write, but you must not think because she does not, she has forgotten you. Other causes prevents. I have hastily penned these few lines this morning having just heard of an opportunity for sending a letter out. Your Uncle James is still with us \u0026 talks of coming out soon.","Your Father. Jos. B. Morgan","Currituck County\nJany. 3d 1864","My Dear Son-\nIt is a long time since we have had a letter from you \u0026 we are beginning to feel very anxious to hear from you. I wrote you a short time since giving a short statement of our troubles \u0026 the devastations \u0026 excitement produced by a Brigade of negro troops under Gen. Wild passing through our county. But it is utterly impossible for me to give you anything like a correct idea of the state of things in our midst.","I have just returned home from Fortress Monroe. The citizens of our county held a meeting \u0026 appointed Dr. Cowell, A. J. Lowe, B. L. Dey, B. M. Baxter \u0026 myself a committee to proceed to Old Point, the Headquarters of Gen. Butler, who is in command of the Department of Va. \u0026 N. C., for the purpose of ascertaining what was required of the peaceful inhabitants to secure their property from destruction \u0026 their dwellings from the flames. We left home last Sunday \u0026 passed through their lines by way of Deep Creek. Col. DeForest in command at North West treated us very courteously \u0026 and gave us a passport to Gen. Getty's headquarters, which is some three miles back of Portsmouth. We had a very pleasant interview with Gen. Getty, who seems to be a perfect gentleman, and who kindly facilitated our business by giving us a passport and transportation to Gen. Butler's Headquarters.","Tuesday morning at 8 o'clock we took the boat for Old Point, where we arrived about ten A.M. We obtained an interview with Gen. Butler about three o'clock P. M. He received us very respectfully \u0026 treated us very courteously, and after hearing our statement conversed with us some half an hour or more very pleasantly. He said nothing was required of us only to remain peaceful and use our influence to put down guerrillaing \u0026 blockade running; that being accomplished we should not be further molested by his troops; that he did not include us in his general order no. 49, nor did he consider us within his lines.","We returned home \u0026 reported the result of our interview with Gen. Butler. We had hardly got home when a squad was sent out to enroll the inhabitants of Camden \u0026 Currituck. We are inclined to believe, however, they are recalled \u0026 we may be allowed a short respite.","Your Ma has been quite ill but is now fast recovering. Jodie is suffering from croup very much. All the rest are tolerable well. I am not very well but hope am improving. Everything is excitement \u0026 suspense \u0026 God only knows how we are to get along. All is gloom \u0026 doubt around us, but God governs in the affairs of men \u0026 will bring all things right in the end. You Ma is trying to get some shirts ready for you, and whenever we can procure anything for you will send by the first opportunity. Some of my friends talk of going to Richmond \u0026 if they do I shall try to send my horse  by them with instructions to sell him \u0026 send you the money. It may come when you do not need it \u0026 if so take care of it for future use. You must be economical \u0026 make the best use you can of both time \u0026 money. Should they bring him out, I shall instruct them to\nsell him and have the money insured \u0026 sent by express to you.","All send their love \u0026 best wishes, and I pray that a kind Providence may preserve and protect you my dear son.\nYour Father. J. B. M.","P.S. Since writing the enclosed your two letters of the 13th and 27th of Decr. have come to hand. We are glad to learn you are so well after your exposure \u0026 hope you will not suffer any very serious consequences. All are well at present \u0026 send their love. Those gentlemen I spoke of coming out have returned. They sold my horse for $600 \u0026 I trust you have recd. the money. J.B. M.","Indian Ridge\nMay 16th 1864","My Dear Son-\nI embrace the opportunity this morning, as Mr. Forbs is just going out, to write you a few lines, to let you know we have had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 26th of April, that we were all well, \u0026 made still more happy on hearing glorious news from Va. The N. York Herald admits that Grant has been terribly whipped \u0026 driven back with the loss of only 41.000 including 7 Major Gens. \u0026 some 15 Brigadiers. We have rumors that the Yanks have also been badly worsted near Petersburg \u0026 driven back with considerable loss. Also various other rumors of the capture of the \"Beast\" \u0026 c \u0026 c. which if true you have no doubt heard ere this, as you can learn the truth much earlier than we can. Should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day. I think there can scarcely be a doubt of the truth of Grant's disaster. I did not see the statement myself, but Mr. Hilliard Baxter told me he had read it in last Thursday's Herald \u0026 you may be sure his loss is much greater than the Herald would admit. The Yanks have been making frequent raids among us for the last three weeks, one a week at least. Saturday night they carried off one of my mules, but I was fortunate enough to recover him on Sunday.","I am glad to learn you were pleased with your things. The boots \u0026 gloves I expected would be full large, but it was the best I could do, \u0026 your cloth, how does it suit you? It was nearest the color that could be got. We have felt a great deal of anxiety about you of late, fearing that the Yankees would get so near, you would have to take the field again [see note below], but if Grant is driven back we should feel much easier on that account. I forgot to say that our joy at the good news was somewhat allayed by a report that the brave \u0026 noble Gen. Longstreet was badly wounded, Pickett \u0026 Jenkins \u0026 some others killed. I trust the reports may not be true, but should it prove true, God will raise up others to fill their places. He will not suffer our enemies to succeed in this unjust, cruel \u0026 unholy war.","I said we were all well. Jodie has slight chills \u0026 fevers, caused perhaps by the [days?] of The Measles--he says he wants to see Bro. Pat mighty bad. He has been keeping you some apples but has been compelled to eat them, to keep them from rotting. The children all send their love. Mr. Low \u0026 family request me to send their respects. Mrs. Shaw \u0026 family are well.","Give my respects to Willie, Jule \u0026 all your friends. Write often. May a kind Providence continue to watch over you \u0026 protect you my dear son. Your Father. J. B. M.","Indian Ridge\nOct 31st 1864","My Dear Son-\nAfter so long a time I find an opportunity of sending you a few lines from home, as I know you are very anxious to hear from us all. Your note from Riddick's Ferry was received, though not until we heard from you through your friend from [K/Hitt___?] \u0026 who also delivered me a package of smoking tobacco, which was very acceptable, \u0026 for which accept\nmy thanks.","We have had a good long respite from the Raiders, not having been troubled with any since you left. They have passed on the Indian Town Road once since, but none came up our road. There is no news at all. Everything seems to be at a stand. We are still having the most delightful weather. It is so dry we can scarcely get water to use. I have never seen so dry a season. Mr. Lowe and myself have just finished making syrup. We have made about 70 gals., enough to serve us the next year plentifully. I am again without any help at all. Mr. Sawyer \u0026 his wife left the week you went away. I do not know how I shall manage to house my crop as there is no laborers to be had.","A few days after you left I saw the order postponing the commencement of your school until the 10th of Novr., and ordering the cadets to report for temporary duty at Camp Lee. I suppose you are still there, though according to the order will soon leave for school. I shall therefore leave the direction of my letter to the friend who will take it out after he can ascertain your whereabouts.","We are all in as good health as usual. I am still very much troubled with rheumatism in my arm, which bothers me very much. You must write me every opportunity, tell me how you are getting on, \u0026 how you have disposed of your money, and do not forget to have the discrepancy in your account corrected. And above all things else my Dear Son do not\nforget, nor neglect, your duties to your Heavenly Father; let not your young \u0026 gay companions lead you astray, nor tempt you to neglect your religious duties, and may our Heavenly Father keep you as in the hollow of his hand, shield \u0026 protect you from all danger \u0026 harm, and restore you to us again in His own good time.","I forgot to tell you the result of our meeting. It closed on Sunday after you left, and on Monday seventeen were baptized \u0026 added to the church, among them our neighbor Mr. John Fanshaw.","Your Ma, Archie, \u0026 the children all send their love. Frank is on a visit to Mayock \u0026 will write you soon. Write him often. Mrs. Shaw \u0026 family are all well. Tell Willie he must write me sometimes. Give him my respects \u0026 tell him not to forget his good resolutions \u0026 to never stop until he has obtained the pearl of great price. God bless \u0026 protect you my dear\nson is the constant prayer of our father.\nJ. B. M.","Ida sends you some money, $2.00.","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from morning drill on April 15 [1863]","It was a very rainy and disagreeable morning, and my shoews being very inferior, also having a cold, I thought it very imprudent for me to go, as it would make me worse.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Overcoat on Post after taps. April 23 [1863]","It was a very chilly night and I felt very uncomfortable without an overcoat and as I was unwell I thought it very imprudent to be without it.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Visiting on the 8th of May [1863]","I had just come out of the hospital and could not find any of my books in my room, they had been misplaced during my absence, some of my roommates told me that some one in No. 34 had borrowed them.  I went in to get them, and while doing so, I was reported.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan","To Commandant of Cadets","Report of Cadet Morgan.  Absent from drill on May 12th [1863]","When I had come from the funeral of Genl. Paxton, the day being very warm, and having marched nearly 3 miles, I was taken with a very severe headache, which compelled me to take my bed and rendered me entirely unfit to attend to the above duty.  At the time for sick call I reported to the surgeon and got some medicine.","Respectfully submitted,\nBy Cadet Morgan, P. H.","To Surgeon V. M. I."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eMorgan Family Civil War papers, 1862-1864. MS 0356. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Morgan Family Civil War papers, 1862-1864. MS 0356. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of Morgan Family correspondence (12 items) during the Civil War. Included are eight letters (dated 1862-1864) to Cadet Patrick H. Morgan. Those from his father (dated 1863-1864), Joseph B. Morgan, contain news of Civil War civilian and home life in Currituck County, North Carolina. Specific topics include enemy raids for food and supplies, diphtheria, an uncle's death in battle, and the hardships of war. Other letters are from family friends and cousin John B. Wiginton. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAlso included are Cadet Morgan's written excuses (four items) to the VMI Commandant for various infractions for the period of April to May 1863.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Forestville, North Carolina. Letter regards mail from James B. Morgan and the death of Pat Grandy.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Hertford County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp Galtin Murfreesboro.\" Letter regards personal and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Currituck County, North Carolina. Letter regards wartime civilian life, the death of an uncle in battle at Fredericksburg, Virginia, and enemy raids.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards enemy treatment of civilians and family news. Letter also mentions \"Willie\" who is William Brenton Shaw, VMI Class of 1865.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Currituck County, North Carolina. The letter includes a detailed account of the journey of a  committee of citizens to appeal to Union General Butler to \"secure their property from destruction.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and discusses rumors of a major Confederate victory, stating \"should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and cautions son against neglecting his \"religious duties.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten excuses by Cadet Patrick Morgan submitted to the VMI Commandant. These were explanations given by cadets after breaking a regulation.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of Morgan Family correspondence (12 items) during the Civil War. Included are eight letters (dated 1862-1864) to Cadet Patrick H. Morgan. Those from his father (dated 1863-1864), Joseph B. Morgan, contain news of Civil War civilian and home life in Currituck County, North Carolina. Specific topics include enemy raids for food and supplies, diphtheria, an uncle's death in battle, and the hardships of war. Other letters are from family friends and cousin John B. Wiginton.","Also included are Cadet Morgan's written excuses (four items) to the VMI Commandant for various infractions for the period of April to May 1863.","Written from Forestville, North Carolina. Letter regards mail from James B. Morgan and the death of Pat Grandy.","Written from Hertford County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news.","Written from \"Camp Galtin Murfreesboro.\" Letter regards personal and family news.","Written from Currituck County, North Carolina. Letter regards wartime civilian life, the death of an uncle in battle at Fredericksburg, Virginia, and enemy raids.","Letter regards enemy treatment of civilians and family news. Letter also mentions \"Willie\" who is William Brenton Shaw, VMI Class of 1865.","Written from Currituck County, North Carolina. The letter includes a detailed account of the journey of a  committee of citizens to appeal to Union General Butler to \"secure their property from destruction.\"","Written from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and discusses rumors of a major Confederate victory, stating \"should these things be true, this fanatical war must be drawing rapidly to a close. May God speed the happy day.\"","Written from \"Indian Ridge.\" Letter regards family news and cautions son against neglecting his \"religious duties.\"","Written excuses by Cadet Patrick Morgan submitted to the VMI Commandant. These were explanations given by cadets after breaking a regulation."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_f20f82c4c3cf6dfb048677ca709303e6\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"famname_ssim":["Morgan family"],"persname_ssim":["Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Shaw, William B. (William Brenton), 1843-1908"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morgan family","Morgan, Patrick H. (Patrick Henry), 1844-1917","Shaw, William B. (William Brenton), 1843-1908"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":16,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_612_c02_c04"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_352.xml","title_ssm":["Francis B. Clark collection"],"title_tesim":["Francis B. Clark collection"],"unitdate_ssm":["1866-1876"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1866-1876"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1866/1876"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"text":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876","MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks","There are no restrictions","Francis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama.","This collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\"","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"collection_ssim":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Poetry","Notebooks"],"date_range_isim":[1866,1867,1868,1869,1870,1871,1872,1873,1874,1875,1876],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Francis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript # 0270, Francis B. Clark collection. Virginia Military Institute Archives\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Manuscript # 0270, Francis B. Clark collection. Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\"\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\""],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_8aacd66df01f7bfd7fe84c355ada3502\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_352.xml","title_ssm":["Francis B. Clark collection"],"title_tesim":["Francis B. Clark collection"],"unitdate_ssm":["1866-1876"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1866-1876"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1866/1876"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"text":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876","MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks","There are no restrictions","Francis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama.","This collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\"","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"collection_ssim":["Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0270","/repositories/3/resources/352"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1870-1879","Poetry","Notebooks"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Poetry","Notebooks"],"date_range_isim":[1866,1867,1868,1869,1870,1871,1872,1873,1874,1875,1876],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Francis Barnard Clark was born in 1850 in Augusta Georgia. He graduated from VMI in 1870 and went on to become a lawyer and author. Clark died in 1896 in Mobile, Alabama."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript # 0270, Francis B. Clark collection. Virginia Military Institute Archives\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Manuscript # 0270, Francis B. Clark collection. Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\"\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection (two items) consists of a notebook containing original poetry by Francis B. Clark, including \"Natural Bridge,\" \"To the Lee Family,\" and \"Washington and Lee.\" The collection also contains one privately printed poem \"The Irish Emigrant.\""],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_8aacd66df01f7bfd7fe84c355ada3502\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Clark, Francis B. (Francis Barnard), 1850-1896"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_352"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_302.xml","title_ssm":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation"],"title_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865 March 20"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865 March 20"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"text":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865","MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Francis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock.","This collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Francis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865 March 20. MS 0216. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865 March 20. MS 0216. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_395e8e9ef1729c833d336960c3499fdc\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"names_coll_ssim":["Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_302.xml","title_ssm":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation"],"title_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865 March 20"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865 March 20"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"text":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865","MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Francis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock.","This collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0216","/repositories/3/resources/302"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Letters of recommendation","Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Francis Smith Johnson was born in 1847 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He was also a lawyer. Johnson died in 1902 in Little Rock."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFrancis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865 March 20. MS 0216. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865 March 20. MS 0216. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (March 20, 1865) from Thomas B. Robinson (VMI Class of 1856 and faculty member) that recommends Francis S. Johnson for service in the Confederate Army."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_395e8e9ef1729c833d336960c3499fdc\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"names_coll_ssim":["Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Johnson, Francis S. (Francis Smith), 1847-1902"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_302"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"George T. Coleman letters, 1868","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_157.xml","title_ssm":["George T. Coleman letters"],"title_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters"],"unitdate_ssm":["1868"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"text":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868","MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","George Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina.","This collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"collection_ssim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912"],"creator_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGeorge Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["George Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGeorge T. Coleman letters, 1868. MS 0073. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868. MS 0073. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_7b0d561baca7b9c8432366eae5407dd0\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"names_coll_ssim":["Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:04.198Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_157.xml","title_ssm":["George T. Coleman letters"],"title_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters"],"unitdate_ssm":["1868"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"text":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868","MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","George Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina.","This collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"collection_ssim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0073","/repositories/3/resources/157"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912"],"creator_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Race relations","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1870","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGeorge Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["George Thompson Coleman was born in 1850 in Danville, Virginia. He was a non-graduate of VMI, Class of 1870, and then was a traveling salesman. He died in 1912 in Charleston, South Carolina."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGeorge T. Coleman letters, 1868. MS 0073. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["George T. Coleman letters, 1868. MS 0073. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of two letters (dated February 11 and 18, 1868) from Cadet George T. Coleman (VMI Class of 1870) to his brother William D. Coleman (VMI Class of 1857, later editor of the Richmond Enquirer). The primary subject of the February 11th letter is Cadet Coleman's reinstatement at VMI. The letter dated February 18 encloses a Letter to the Editor in which Coleman defends the Corps of Cadets against accusations that they had been harassing black citizens of Lexington, Virginia. This collection also includs the envelopes."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_7b0d561baca7b9c8432366eae5407dd0\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"names_coll_ssim":["Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Coleman, George T. (George Thompson), 1850-1912","Coleman, William D., 1838?-?"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:04.198Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_157"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including: \u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA calling card\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePoems about New Market Cadets\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA VMI commencement program (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_257.xml","title_ssm":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers"],"title_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1858-1868"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1858-1868"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1858/1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"text":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868","MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)","There are no restrictions.","Hardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas.","The Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\nA calling card\nPoems about New Market Cadets\nA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\nA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\nA VMI commencement program (1867)\nA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"collection_ssim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["6 items"],"extent_tesim":["6 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Programs (Publications)"],"date_range_isim":[1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Hardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858-1868. MS 0177. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858-1868. MS 0177. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA calling card\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePoems about New Market Cadets\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA VMI commencement program (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\nA calling card\nPoems about New Market Cadets\nA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\nA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\nA VMI commencement program (1867)\nA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)"],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_ca1e5c1132d8be4861de072545a70193\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_257.xml","title_ssm":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers"],"title_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1858-1868"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1858-1868"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1858/1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"text":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868","MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)","There are no restrictions.","Hardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas.","The Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\nA calling card\nPoems about New Market Cadets\nA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\nA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\nA VMI commencement program (1867)\nA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"collection_ssim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858/1868"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0177","/repositories/3/resources/257"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Freemasons","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Speeches, addresses, etc.","Programs (Publications)"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["6 items"],"extent_tesim":["6 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Programs (Publications)"],"date_range_isim":[1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Hardaway Hunt Dinwiddie was born in 1844 in Lynchburg, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. He went on to become an educator. Dinwiddie died in 1887 in Texas."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858-1868. MS 0177. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers, 1858-1868. MS 0177. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA calling card\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePoems about New Market Cadets\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA VMI commencement program (1867)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Hardaway H. Dinwiddie papers consist of the personal papers (six items) of Dinwiddie, including:\n\nA calling card\nPoems about New Market Cadets\nA document titled \"phrenological analysis\" (1858)\nA manuscript of a VMI valedictory speech (1867)\nA VMI commencement program (1867)\nA certificate of withdrawal from Lexington's (Virginia) Masonic Lodge (1868)"],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_ca1e5c1132d8be4861de072545a70193\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Dinwiddie, Hardaway H. (Hardaway Hunt), 1844-1887"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_257"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_264.xml","title_ssm":["Howard J. Merritt papers"],"title_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"text":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865","MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Howard Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia.","The Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910"],"creator_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["3 items"],"extent_tesim":["3 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHoward Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Howard Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHoward J. Merritt papers, 1865. MS 0184. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865. MS 0184. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_439555230279284141871477c8b61043\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"names_coll_ssim":["Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_264.xml","title_ssm":["Howard J. Merritt papers"],"title_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"text":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865","MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Howard Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia.","The Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0184","/repositories/3/resources/264"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910"],"creator_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1868","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["3 items"],"extent_tesim":["3 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHoward Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Howard Jeffries Merritt was born in 1848 in Lawrenceville, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1868 and went on to become a farmer. He died in 1929 in Brunswick County, Virginia."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eHoward J. Merritt papers, 1865. MS 0184. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Howard J. Merritt papers, 1865. MS 0184. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Howard J. Merritt papers consist of the personal papers (three items) of Merritt. The papers include a letter (dated February 25, 1865) from VMI's Adjutant James H. Morrison to Merritt's father. Also included are two orders (dated February 15 and February 23, 1865) pertaining to Merritt's dismissal and subsequent reinstatement. Merritt was dismissed for deserting his post as sentinel and for breaking into a storeroom to obtain bread."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_439555230279284141871477c8b61043\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"names_coll_ssim":["Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Morrison, James H. (James Horace), 1839-1910","Merritt, Howard J. (Howard Jeffries), 1848-1929"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_264"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_614.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00029.xml","title_ssm":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers"],"title_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1863"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1863"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862/1863"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"text":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863","MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Full text transcriptions are available online","Jacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia.","Dear Sister\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.","I have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026 demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.","I made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.","Sept 2\nDear Sister\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.","Sister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026 Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.","Kiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.","Dear Papa\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026 Penney \u0026 Badois Practical French grammar \u0026 Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026 atlas Smiths \u0026 Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.","I reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.","I am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.","We are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026 to hear that Grandpapa \u0026 Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026 Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.","Tell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.","Please send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.","They say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.","I feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026 one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.","Give my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.","Virginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862","Dear Aunt\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.","Tell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026 have sold them already \u0026 I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.","Dear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026 write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.","You will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.","Dear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026 [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nOctober the 5th 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026 I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.","Ma I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.","My dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.","There was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.","I must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\nKent","P.S. Tell Maurice \u0026 John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.","VMI. Oct 20th, 1862","My own darling Mother\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\nyour attached son\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNovember the 2nd 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.","I have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.","Ma I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.","There is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026 evening.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.","This is the 3 {November 3}\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.","Tell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.","The Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.","I will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 10th 1862","Dear Bro\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026 Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026 sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.","As we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026 I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026 minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026 he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.","Tomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026 my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.","I wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026 General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 16th 1862","Dear Ma\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026 Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.","I went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.","Tell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026 black. I remain your affectionate son\nKent","PS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026 some of the examples more.\nKent.","VM Institute\nNov the 23 1862","Dear Papa\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026 As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026 I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026 I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.","Tuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026 All duties were suspended \u0026 the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026 bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026 Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026 there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026 every thing else in proportion.","Tell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.","I am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026 stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026 off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026 black , remain your Attached son,\nKent.","PS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026 Hues, K.","Virginia Military Institute\nDecember the 20th, 1862","My Own Dear Mother\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026 pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.","We los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.","I have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.","Ma when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026 pants which are very comfortable.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.","Kiss May \u0026 Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\nJ. Kent L.","I hope all are better \u0026 your mind is not so much troubled.","Virginia Mil Institute\nJanuary the 2nd 1863","My Own dear Parents\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026 wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.","The examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026 French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.","We only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026 Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.","Lexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026 the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.","I was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026 coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.","Tell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.","I have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026 how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.","I cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.","South Side James R\nOpposite Columbia\nMay 4th 1863","Dear Mama\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026 where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.","We got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.","I and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.","I thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026 Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\nI am your attached son, Kent.","Ashland, May 8th/63","Dear Papa\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\nYour attached son, Kent.","Orange CH\nMay 11th 1863","Dear Papa\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.","[Col] M \u0026 Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026 when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.","The mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026 Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.","Culpeper C H\nMay 18th, 1863","Dear Sister\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026 Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026 Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.","Dear Cousin\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.","I shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nMay 19th 1863","Dear Mama\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.","Maggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026 cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.","[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]","Hd Qts 2 Va Cav\nMay 18th, 1863","My dear Mrs. Langhorne\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026 sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.","I think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026 all of the little ones believe me very truly\nYour friend\nThomas T. Munford","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nJune 1st 63","Dear Papa\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.","Send me some stamps. J Kent.","This collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.","This series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.","This series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.","Written from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts Stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"collection_ssim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["17 items"],"extent_tesim":["17 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2020\"\u003eFull text transcriptions are available online\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e  "],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["Full text transcriptions are available online"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Jacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026amp; demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSept 2\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026amp; Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eKiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026amp; Penney \u0026amp; Badois Practical French grammar \u0026amp; Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026amp; atlas Smiths \u0026amp; Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026amp; to hear that Grandpapa \u0026amp; Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026amp; Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePlease send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026amp; one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026amp; have sold them already \u0026amp; I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026amp; write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026amp; [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nOctober the 5th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own Darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026amp; I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Maurice \u0026amp; John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI. Oct 20th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nyour attached son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember the 2nd 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own Darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026amp; evening.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Edgehill \u0026amp; Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis is the 3 {November 3}\u003cbr\u003e\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 10th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026amp; Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026amp; sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026amp; 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026amp; I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026amp; minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026amp; he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026amp; my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026amp; General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026amp; Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 16th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026amp; Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026amp; black. I remain your affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026amp; some of the examples more.\u003cbr\u003e\nKent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVM Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 23 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026amp; As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026amp; I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026amp; I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026amp; All duties were suspended \u0026amp; the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026amp; bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026amp; 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026amp; Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026amp; there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026amp; every thing else in proportion.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026amp; stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026amp; off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026amp; black , remain your Attached son,\u003cbr\u003e\nKent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026amp; Hues, K.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nDecember the 20th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Own Dear Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026amp; pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026amp; pants which are very comfortable.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Edgehill \u0026amp; cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eKiss May \u0026amp; Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Kent L.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI hope all are better \u0026amp; your mind is not so much troubled.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Mil Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJanuary the 2nd 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Own dear Parents\u003cbr\u003e\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026amp; wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026amp; French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026amp; Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026amp; the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026amp; coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026amp; how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSouth Side James R\u003cbr\u003e\nOpposite Columbia\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 4th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mama\u003cbr\u003e\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026amp; where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026amp; 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026amp; Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\u003cbr\u003e\nI am your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAshland, May 8th/63\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026amp; 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOrange CH\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 11th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[Col] M \u0026amp; Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026amp; when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026amp; Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCulpeper C H\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026amp; Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026amp; Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Culpeper CH\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 19th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mama\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026amp; cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHd Qts 2 Va Cav\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear Mrs. Langhorne\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026amp; sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026amp; all of the little ones believe me very truly\u003cbr\u003e\nYour friend\u003cbr\u003e\nThomas T. Munford\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Culpeper CH\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 1st 63\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSend me some stamps. J Kent.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Dear Sister\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.","I have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026 demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.","I made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.","Sept 2\nDear Sister\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.","Sister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026 Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.","Kiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.","Dear Papa\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026 Penney \u0026 Badois Practical French grammar \u0026 Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026 atlas Smiths \u0026 Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.","I reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.","I am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.","We are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026 to hear that Grandpapa \u0026 Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026 Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.","Tell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.","Please send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.","They say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.","I feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026 one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.","Give my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.","Virginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862","Dear Aunt\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.","Tell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026 have sold them already \u0026 I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.","Dear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026 write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.","You will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.","Dear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026 [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nOctober the 5th 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026 I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.","Ma I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.","My dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.","There was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.","I must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\nKent","P.S. Tell Maurice \u0026 John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.","VMI. Oct 20th, 1862","My own darling Mother\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\nyour attached son\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNovember the 2nd 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.","I have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.","Ma I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.","There is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026 evening.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.","This is the 3 {November 3}\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.","Tell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.","The Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.","I will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 10th 1862","Dear Bro\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026 Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026 sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.","As we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026 I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026 minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026 he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.","Tomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026 my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.","I wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026 General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 16th 1862","Dear Ma\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026 Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.","I went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.","Tell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026 black. I remain your affectionate son\nKent","PS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026 some of the examples more.\nKent.","VM Institute\nNov the 23 1862","Dear Papa\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026 As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026 I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026 I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.","Tuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026 All duties were suspended \u0026 the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026 bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026 Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026 there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026 every thing else in proportion.","Tell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.","I am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026 stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026 off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026 black , remain your Attached son,\nKent.","PS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026 Hues, K.","Virginia Military Institute\nDecember the 20th, 1862","My Own Dear Mother\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026 pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.","We los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.","I have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.","Ma when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026 pants which are very comfortable.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.","Kiss May \u0026 Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\nJ. Kent L.","I hope all are better \u0026 your mind is not so much troubled.","Virginia Mil Institute\nJanuary the 2nd 1863","My Own dear Parents\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026 wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.","The examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026 French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.","We only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026 Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.","Lexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026 the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.","I was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026 coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.","Tell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.","I have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026 how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.","I cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.","South Side James R\nOpposite Columbia\nMay 4th 1863","Dear Mama\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026 where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.","We got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.","I and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.","I thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026 Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\nI am your attached son, Kent.","Ashland, May 8th/63","Dear Papa\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\nYour attached son, Kent.","Orange CH\nMay 11th 1863","Dear Papa\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.","[Col] M \u0026 Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026 when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.","The mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026 Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.","Culpeper C H\nMay 18th, 1863","Dear Sister\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026 Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026 Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.","Dear Cousin\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.","I shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nMay 19th 1863","Dear Mama\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.","Maggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026 cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.","[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]","Hd Qts 2 Va Cav\nMay 18th, 1863","My dear Mrs. Langhorne\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026 sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.","I think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026 all of the little ones believe me very truly\nYour friend\nThomas T. Munford","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nJune 1st 63","Dear Papa\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.","Send me some stamps. J Kent."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, MS 0361, Virginia Military Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, MS 0361, Virginia Military Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThis series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.","This series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.","This series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.","Written from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_698d78f702b77e6c36c092f93ad5b5c1\"\u003eManuscripts Stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts Stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_614.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00029.xml","title_ssm":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers"],"title_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1863"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1863"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862/1863"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"text":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863","MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Full text transcriptions are available online","Jacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia.","Dear Sister\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.","I have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026 demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.","I made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.","Sept 2\nDear Sister\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.","Sister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026 Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.","Kiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.","Dear Papa\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026 Penney \u0026 Badois Practical French grammar \u0026 Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026 atlas Smiths \u0026 Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.","I reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.","I am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.","We are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026 to hear that Grandpapa \u0026 Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026 Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.","Tell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.","Please send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.","They say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.","I feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026 one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.","Give my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.","Virginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862","Dear Aunt\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.","Tell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026 have sold them already \u0026 I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.","Dear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026 write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.","You will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.","Dear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026 [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nOctober the 5th 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026 I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.","Ma I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.","My dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.","There was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.","I must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\nKent","P.S. Tell Maurice \u0026 John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.","VMI. Oct 20th, 1862","My own darling Mother\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\nyour attached son\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNovember the 2nd 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.","I have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.","Ma I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.","There is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026 evening.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.","This is the 3 {November 3}\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.","Tell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.","The Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.","I will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 10th 1862","Dear Bro\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026 Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026 sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.","As we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026 I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026 minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026 he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.","Tomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026 my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.","I wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026 General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 16th 1862","Dear Ma\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026 Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.","I went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.","Tell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026 black. I remain your affectionate son\nKent","PS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026 some of the examples more.\nKent.","VM Institute\nNov the 23 1862","Dear Papa\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026 As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026 I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026 I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.","Tuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026 All duties were suspended \u0026 the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026 bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026 Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026 there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026 every thing else in proportion.","Tell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.","I am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026 stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026 off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026 black , remain your Attached son,\nKent.","PS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026 Hues, K.","Virginia Military Institute\nDecember the 20th, 1862","My Own Dear Mother\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026 pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.","We los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.","I have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.","Ma when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026 pants which are very comfortable.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.","Kiss May \u0026 Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\nJ. Kent L.","I hope all are better \u0026 your mind is not so much troubled.","Virginia Mil Institute\nJanuary the 2nd 1863","My Own dear Parents\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026 wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.","The examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026 French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.","We only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026 Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.","Lexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026 the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.","I was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026 coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.","Tell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.","I have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026 how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.","I cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.","South Side James R\nOpposite Columbia\nMay 4th 1863","Dear Mama\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026 where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.","We got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.","I and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.","I thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026 Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\nI am your attached son, Kent.","Ashland, May 8th/63","Dear Papa\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\nYour attached son, Kent.","Orange CH\nMay 11th 1863","Dear Papa\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.","[Col] M \u0026 Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026 when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.","The mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026 Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.","Culpeper C H\nMay 18th, 1863","Dear Sister\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026 Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026 Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.","Dear Cousin\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.","I shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nMay 19th 1863","Dear Mama\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.","Maggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026 cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.","[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]","Hd Qts 2 Va Cav\nMay 18th, 1863","My dear Mrs. Langhorne\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026 sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.","I think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026 all of the little ones believe me very truly\nYour friend\nThomas T. Munford","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nJune 1st 63","Dear Papa\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.","Send me some stamps. J Kent.","This collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.","This series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.","This series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.","Written from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts Stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"collection_ssim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, 1862/1863"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0361","/repositories/3/resources/614"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["17 items"],"extent_tesim":["17 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2020\"\u003eFull text transcriptions are available online\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e  "],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["Full text transcriptions are available online"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Jacob Kent Langhorne (\"Kent\") was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on March 1, 1845. He matriculated at VMI in August 1862 and left VMI in February 1863 to join the Confederate Army. Langhorne enlisted in Company C, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment and was killed in battle at Brandy Station, Virginia, on June 9, 1863. He is buried in the Crockett-Kent graveyard near Shawsville, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026amp; demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSept 2\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026amp; Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eKiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026amp; Penney \u0026amp; Badois Practical French grammar \u0026amp; Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026amp; atlas Smiths \u0026amp; Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026amp; to hear that Grandpapa \u0026amp; Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026amp; Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePlease send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026amp; one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026amp; have sold them already \u0026amp; I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026amp; write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026amp; [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nOctober the 5th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own Darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026amp; I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Maurice \u0026amp; John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI. Oct 20th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nyour attached son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember the 2nd 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy own Darling Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026amp; evening.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Edgehill \u0026amp; Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis is the 3 {November 3}\u003cbr\u003e\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 10th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026amp; Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026amp; sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026amp; 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026amp; I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026amp; minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026amp; he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026amp; my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026amp; General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026amp; Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 16th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026amp; Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026amp; black. I remain your affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nKent\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026amp; some of the examples more.\u003cbr\u003e\nKent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVM Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov the 23 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026amp; As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026amp; I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026amp; I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026amp; All duties were suspended \u0026amp; the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026amp; bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026amp; 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026amp; Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026amp; there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026amp; every thing else in proportion.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026amp; stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026amp; off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026amp; black , remain your Attached son,\u003cbr\u003e\nKent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026amp; Hues, K.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nDecember the 20th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Own Dear Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026amp; pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026amp; pants which are very comfortable.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all at Edgehill \u0026amp; cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eKiss May \u0026amp; Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Kent L.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI hope all are better \u0026amp; your mind is not so much troubled.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Mil Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJanuary the 2nd 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Own dear Parents\u003cbr\u003e\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026amp; wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026amp; French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026amp; Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026amp; the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026amp; coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026amp; how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSouth Side James R\u003cbr\u003e\nOpposite Columbia\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 4th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mama\u003cbr\u003e\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026amp; where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026amp; 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026amp; Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\u003cbr\u003e\nI am your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAshland, May 8th/63\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026amp; 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOrange CH\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 11th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[Col] M \u0026amp; Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026amp; when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026amp; Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCulpeper C H\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026amp; Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026amp; Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Culpeper CH\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 19th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mama\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026amp; cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHd Qts 2 Va Cav\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear Mrs. Langhorne\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026amp; sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026amp; all of the little ones believe me very truly\u003cbr\u003e\nYour friend\u003cbr\u003e\nThomas T. Munford\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Culpeper CH\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 1st 63\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Papa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSend me some stamps. J Kent.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Dear Sister\nAccording to promice I sit down to write to you. I wrote to Mama the day after I arrived here. The 2 evening I had been here I was invited to the Misses Baxters to Tea an was treeted so kindly that I began to feel some what like I was at home. Sister no one can like this place at first but I will soon become use to it I reckon. I met Risk Hutter at Buchannan and he gave me a letter of introduction to Breedlove the Adjutant of the Corps. I expect he is a very nice fellow without knowing whether he is or not.","I have not commenced studying yet on account of the examination but will comence studying tomorrow I hope. I have made severall very pleasant acquaintances since I have been here. Burton one of my roomates is a very good fellow but I do not consider any of them my equals. Ruffin from Salem is here. I have had one report against me for not [doudling] in ranks property but Major Ship let me off with the report. Any one can get off with all reports \u0026 demerits that they get untill they have been here a\nmonth.","I made the accuaintance of a Mrs Myers comeing over here, a very nice old lady and she invited me very kindly to come and see her. The old cadets have give me 2 or 3 buckings every day since I have been here. They hurt at first like the mischief but I am getting tough now and it dont hurt so bad.","Sept 2\nDear Sister\nI will comence again but have nothing of interest to write. Tell Ma that I have read my bible every day since I have been here. We allso have prayers every night among the cadets and tell her that I have been every night and expect to keep it up as long as I stay here. I have looked for the last too days for a letter from home if you all knew how much I want to hear from home you would sertainly write. Sister I have been thinking all day about the nice grapes and peaches you all are having and how much I would\nlike to be their.","Sister when you write let me know how Uncle Archer is getting along with the copperas business and tell him he must write to me. In fact I must hear from home once or twice a week any how. How are all at aunt Sarah's and [tell]. I hope the future days of her life may be spent more happily than the past. Tell Aunt Nanny Brother Jim Maurice and Jim Armistad to write to me and to let me know whether Cousin Nanny is with you. Give my love to all of the above named and kiss dear Aunt Nanny a dozen times for the nice ring she gave me. Tell dear Papa \u0026 Mama that I am going to do all I can for my own [interest] as well as for theirs. What a gods blessing it is to have two such dear parents as they are.","Kiss Ma and tell her that I hope god may bless her and all the rest of you. Tell Papa that I will try and do all I can. Kiss Mag and Mary and my love to John. Good by dear sister with love to all your affctionate Bro Kent. Write soon.","Dear Papa\nI have been intending to write to you for several days but thought I would wait a day or two so that if I wanted anything from home I could write for them and very well I did as I want you to send me the books with the following names: Bolmar's Levizack's French Grammar \u0026 Penney \u0026 Badois Practical French grammar \u0026 Dictionary Modern and Ancient geography \u0026 atlas Smiths \u0026 Dukes Arithmetic as it will be a great help to me in studying Algebra. They have always had books here until this year and I don't no why they have not gotten them this year. Tell Ma to send me my gray Roundybout as we will not get our uniform for a month yet and perhaps more.","I reckon you think I spend half my time writing but I think so much of home and the dear ones there that I cannot help writing. I would give so much to see you all to day. Tell Brother Jim and sister that they must not give out their trip to Natural Bridge this fall as it would disappoint me very much.","I am rooming now with Rough Griffin son of Dr. G of Salem and like him very much. About one half of the boys here are very nice boys the other half are perfect rowdies. When you write let me know how you are getting along on the farm and whether uncle Archer has heard from his horse and write me how Nanny looks. Pleas don't let any one hack her about.","We are not regularly started with our studies yet will get straight by next week. I received Sisters letter last week the other day and was delighted to hear from home \u0026 to hear that Grandpapa \u0026 Uncle M had improved so much. Give my best love to uncle M. \u0026 Aunt Liz when you see them and tell them that I regretted not seeing them very much. What horse will Jimmy Armistead get.","Tell Sister I have been on guard twice once on police and once on fatigue. I don't mind police guard much as I don't have to stand long at a time but fatigue guard is very hard duty. You have to stand 2 hours at a time and then you are off 4 and [on] 2. You are put on guard one morning at 6 and come off the next at 6 but that exempts you from drill or any other Military duty and from your studies also but I will not have to go on that kind of guard for a month yet. The other kind of guard does not exempt you from any\nduty whatever.","Please send me the papers when you send the books as I have only heard that there was a battle at Manassas and one in Kentucky and that is all I know about it. I have made on Algebra this week 10 1/2 3 being the highest mark and I missed one day the day I was on fatigue guard. I consider the mark very good as I never studied algebra before and don't understand how to work\nby letters. I don't know what I got on my other studies as our marks were not read out to us in French and geography but I hope and trust that they are good. I would like to do well here as it is such a great thing for one to do well here.","They say no one can get a furlough here unless they have been here 6 months. 6 months sounds longer to me now than 12 years did before. It is a sad thought to me to think of 6 months. Write me all the news when you write as I don't hear a word now. Tell uncle Archer to write to me and let me know how much copperas he is making a day. Write me how everything is going on the farm. Tell brother Jim I will write to him next but he must not [want] to receive one before he writes. Is he gaining his strength rapidly or not. Tel him that the Bridge will pay any one for coming to see it. I didn't have time to look at it well I only stopped long enough to get my breakfast.","I feel very sick at my stomach every morning getting up so soon and drilling an our before breakfast. We get up at five and go down to roll call having from 3 to 5 minutes to dress and roll up and strap our beds. We go to tattoo at half past 9 and the roll is called again then we have half an our to fix down our beds and undress. Tell Ma I all ways take time in that half our to read my bible. Then the lights are tapped out and if there be light burning after the drum quits beating the orderly of the room gets 5 or 10 demerits for it \u0026 one of the boys in the room are made orderly every week and is responsible for any noise made in it and if any noise should be made in the room during study hours the orderly is reported for it and gets from 3 to 5 demerits for it or if any thing in the room should be out of order or out of place the orderly is reported for it. The inspectors of rooms visits 3 to 6 times a day.","Give my love to all at Cousin [H ---] and at aunt Sarah's. You all must write often. Give my best love to all at home. I remain as ever your attached son, Kent.","Virginia Military Institute. Sept 28, 1862","Dear Aunt\nI have been intending to write to you but have been waiting to hear from home but as today is Sunday and in the afternoon and I cannot spend my time more profitably I will try to write to you knowing at the same time that I have nothing that will interest you.","Tell Bro Jim that I received the books \u0026 have sold them already \u0026 I had bought them from the first class men before they reached here. I wish he had sent a dozen copies of French Grammar as it would be a great recommendation to the boys to get them and I could sell every copy for two $ apiece. When you write ask him whether there were any more copies there or not and at what they can be bought for.","Dear Aunt I had intended to write you a tolerable long letter but night came before I thought it would tis now after supper and the study drum will soon beat and as I want some things from home I will just change the subject \u0026 write for what I want. Tell Pa my gray jacket, 2 order me a pair of shoes as I have drilled so much since I have been here that they are nearly worn out and General Smith says that it is impossible for him to furnish shoes and the reason I write for my jacket is that there is at least 100 boys to get\nthere uniforms before me and my coat will not be decent to wear to church and if any one is not dressed decently at church roll call they get 5 demerits for it and send my old overcoat as it is pretty cold here at 5 o'clock in the morning and standing guard at night.","You will please tell Ma to send them as soon as possible. Tell Papa if he has not succeeded in getting Maurice to some good school to send him here as they have a class here that he is perfectly qualified to join and any one is obliged to study some here to get along at all. There are some boys here as small as John but they are older than I am. There is scarcely a boy in school that is not older than I. I would let you know how I stand in my class if I could see the section marcher I would let you know how I stand\nin my class. I will let you know next time.","Dear Aunt the study drum has beat and I must close. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin Fannies \u0026 [Hues]. I have been thinking of you all day. The Misses Baxters send there love. Good by. Kiss Ma for me I remain you attached nephew\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nOctober the 5th 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI commenced writing to you this Morning before Church but whilst I was gone the wind blew over the ink stand and blotted the writing out. I write to you to day for 3 reasons, 1st because I cannot be bet employed, 2ly because I will not have time next week and 3ly because I will have a good opportunity to sent it \u0026 I have no stamps. I wish you would send me some when you write as we are not allowed to go up town to get them. I am called off now to say my bible lesson; will finish when I return. I have just returned and said a very good Lesson. In fact there was not a boy in the whole class that missed a single word.","Ma I am getting along very well in every thing and I am doing admirably on Geography and French but algebra is very hard to me. Some of the examples take at least 3 hours to work them. I haven't more than 1/2 an our recitation during the whole day. We get up at 5 in the morning and go to rev {reveille} and come back and wash and then we go to drill at half past 5 and drill until 7; we go to breakfast at half past and get back at 8; we have to get our algebra then until we go to the section room at 9; we come out at\n10, have an our to get geography, go in to recite at 11 and come out at 12. From that time until 10 minutes to one we have to get our French; we go to dinner at 1 and come from at half past; we have from then until 2 for recreation and from then until 3 to prepare our French; we come out of the section room at 4 and then go to drill and drill until 5. We go to dress parade then and come off a quarter to 6; we then have 15 minutes to carry our guns up stairs and wash and black our shoes for evening parade; when is over at half past and then we are marched to supper and stay until 7; we go in the prayer room at 7 and come out at half past; we have from then until 8 to clean up the room for inspection; from then until half past 9 we have for study hours; from then until 10 to put down our beds and in this half our I all ways read my Bible. The lights are then tapped out.","My dear mother I have done all that I could do since I have been here to study and I think I have succeeded very well. Tell Maurice I received his letter and will write to him next time. He said that bro Jim was going to the army this month some time. What division is he going to, I hope he is going back to Jackson's army and if he does tell him he must be sure to come this way. I hate to think of his going to the army again. I think he has done his share. He said in his letter to me that he was still week {weak}\nand had not gained much flesh, hope he has by this time. If he has not I hope you will not let him go to the army. Tell him that I will expect another letter from him yet.","There was 6 boys expelled from here yesterday and there will be at least 12 or 15 shipped tomorrow evening. Give my love to all at Edgehill and cousin H. Write me how Nannie looks and let me know whether or not she paces and how does pa like his mules. Write me what is going on on the place. you all must not expect me to answer your letters. I am much better satisfied here now than I ever was before. You all must write very often. I will send this letter by Mr. Callwell. Did uncle Archer ever get his house back that was stolen from him.","I must close as it is nearly time for evening parade. We never have any other military duty on Sunday evening and only inspection of arms in the morning. My love to Uncle Archer and tell him to write. Love to all at cousin Fannies, good by. My love to all kiss dear little Mary and May and tell Mary I wish I could have the pleasure of kissing her bless her sweet little sole. I wish I had time to write more. I stand about 2 in geography and 3 in French and 7 on Math the shortest lesson that we have had since I have been here, 10 pages, the others are between that and 20. Good by and believe me as ever your attached son\nKent","P.S. Tell Maurice \u0026 John to study hard and Arithmetic especially. My love to all the servants I remain your attached son, Kent.","VMI. Oct 20th, 1862","My own darling Mother\nI reckon you all feel a little uneasiness not having heard from me for so long. I have been sick in the hospital since Tuesday morning. Dr. says I am improving. I have had an attack bilious fever am so weak that it has been quite an effort for me to write this much but knowing that you would be uneasy I thought I would try write this much. The boy comes to take it to the office. I remain\nyour attached son\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNovember the 2nd 1862","My own Darling Mother\nI have been intending writing you ever since I came out of the Hospital but I have had as much as I could do ever since. I have been so weak that I have not attended to any military duty yet and don't think I will be strong enough for a week yet. I am still taking medicine. I could get a furlough at any time but I would loose so much time from my class that I thought I had better stay here but if I don't gain my strength more rapidly I will apply for a furlough and come Home and stay for a week or 10 days. You have no idea dear Mama how much I want to see you all at home. It makes me all most cry to think about Home and the dear ones their. Some of the boys seem perfectly satisfied here but I will all ways want to see home.","I have been attending to my academic duties since Tuesday and the lessons are very hard to me indeed. I don't know what I made on my studies last week but I expect I made very poor ones as I lost so much time whilst I was in the Hospital. I will have to study very hard to keep up with my class. I don't know when I will stand head in my class again. I mean to devote most of my time to my Mathematics as that is the main study here. I hope you have written to sister that I was well enough to attend to my studies again. Tell brother Jim I will answer his letter the first chance I have. Tell Pa that I will write to him shortly. I forgot last time I wrote to Maurice and directed it to Papa.","Ma I want you to be sure to send me a box by the cars to Lynchburg and from there by packet. Write to Uncle D when you send it and he will have it put on the packet and then I will be sure to get it. The cloth has come for our uniforms at last and I hope we will get them soon. Sister spoke of my wearing the Jacket that Aunt Sarah gave me, the reason was that it was so narrow across the breast that I got reported 2 for not holding my shoulders back and I quit wearing it. The Jacket and overcoat you sent me have been quite a treat to me as it has been very cold since you sent it. You said the jacket was not nice enough there are any quantity that are 60 times worse than mine.","There is a young Fleming in the hospital that may die at any minute. If he dies here it will be the 4th cadet that has died here in 21 years. I think that very few. I hope and trust that this poor fellow may live yet but he is just as low as he can be to live. Every body has gone to church and I feel very lonesome and home sick. The sick are not allowed to go out of Barracks and to the Hospital morning \u0026 evening.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss May and Mary for me and let me know whether the instruct[ions] has come or not.","This is the 3 {November 3}\nThat poor fellow that I spoke of being so sick in the Hospital died yesterday evening about 5 oclock. He is laid out in one of the Society Halls. Just to think a week ago that Dr. Madison thought that I was the sickest one in the Hospital and he poor Fellow is gone and I am yet spared. It makes the cold chills run over me to think of it.","Tell Uncle Archer that the Druggist says he will take some copperas and said he would let me know to day how much he would take. I will write to him as soon as I hear how much to send. Ma this is all the Ink I have or I would not write with it. I wish you all would write oftener from home.","The Corps Has just been called out and all Military and Academic duty suspended for today and I reckon tomorrow as he will be buried tomorrow. In fact we had some little difficulty this morning about some of the academic duties. The First Classmen held a meeting and refused to recite and then all of the classes refused and they appointed a committee to visit the Superintendent and he suspended all duty for the day.","I will answer Brother Jim's letter in a day or two if I have time. Write me how every thing is going on on the place and how the lame horses are getting along. Write me how the carriage horses look and how Nannie and Annie look. I would like to see how every thing is going on the farm now. What kind of speculation did Maurice make on his chestnuts and what does John do with\nhimself now does he do any thing or not.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 10th 1862","Dear Bro\nI received your letter some week or 10 days ago and would have answered it sooner time ago but have been waiting to hear from home. I have not heard a word from home for 2 weeks. I have not a word of news to write you. I suppose I wrote you about the death of young Fleming, he died a week ago yesterday. Whilst his dead body was in the House we had no duty to attend to\nAcademic or Military. The Corps was turned out on Tuesday to bury him but his Bro came from Staunton on the Stage and carried his body home. The Corps marched a mile after the hearse, then we were halted \u0026 Major Ship detailed on 4 Pall bearers \u0026 sent them on to Staunton with his corpse.","As we only had 3 more days that week to attend to duty \u0026 3 being the highest mark I was the maximum \u0026 I only made [5..] the worst mark on math I have made since I have been here. I went to the board this morning had this example given me. The hour \u0026 minute hands of a watch show the time of day to be 24 minutes past 3 oclock, at what time will they come together. You are only allowed 1 minute to demonstrate. I couldn't work it and then I asked him Pro Miller to work it out and explain it and took him minutes to work it and I told him he ought not to mark me on an example that I only had a minute as I knew he had been 5 and he said he would not mark me on it but told me to come round to his room that night \u0026 he would show me how to work it. Tis night now and time for me to go.","Tomorrow is the 23rd anniversary of the VMI and by the way I have a good piece of news to tell you. The Beef Sergeant has bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner tomorrow and we have for dessert Pies. They generally fire a salute with cannon but the powder is so scarce that they will not fire one but their is a piece of bad news with it, the old cadets are going to buck every Rat in Barracks {Barracks} tomorrow. They have had regular committees taking down all their names \u0026 my name came under that head. Bro Jim I have been scuffling and my hand trembles so that cannot write and so much excited that you must excuse all mistakes.","I wrote to Papa some time ago about some shoes and he never wrote me a work about them \u0026 General Smith says he cannot and will not furnish us shoes and I am nearly barefooted and If Ma has not sent me the box pleas send me a pair in it. Pleas excuse this poorly written letter. I will try and do better next time. Love to All at Edgehill \u0026 Cousin Hues. Kiss Mama and the two children, love to all. I remain as ever your attached Bro\nKent","Virginia Military Institute\nNov the 16th 1862","Dear Ma\nI received your letter a day or too ago and was so sorry to hear of the death of poor Henry. He is quite a loss to Papa I don't know what he will do without him \u0026 Mr. Peyton poor man was killed. I feel so much for poor old Mrs. Peyton. I did not understand what you said about Mr. Dabney.","I went to Preaching this morning and the Preacher wants the people here to cut up their carpets to make blankets for the soldiers. They are going to give the carpets in the aisles of the churches here to them. Ma I want you to buy one of Aunt Lees Linsey dresses most suitable to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing thicker than osenburgs to line them with and we have to give the biggest kind of price for it. Send me a piece of home made soap to wash my feet with. If you have started the box you needn't trouble your self about them.","Tell Maurice I will answer his letter next Saturday. He had better buy as many chestnuts as he can if he can buy them low and sell them. They are selling here at 50 cts a quart. I want to write to Aunt this evening so I must stop. My love to all at cousin Hues. Kiss Mag and Mary, love to all both White \u0026 black. I remain your affectionate son\nKent","PS My Math is as much as I can possibly master \u0026 some of the examples more.\nKent.","VM Institute\nNov the 23 1862","Dear Papa\nI hate to write to you today as I have been put in a lower section in Math. I commenced this letter yesterday and my heart was touched to the very core to think of telling you that I had been put in a lower section \u0026 As Professor Miller did not do me justice about it I went to see him about it and he looked at my marks before I went in the Hospital and found that I stood 3 in the section on Marks \u0026 I told him that I had not had time to get the rules that the boys had gone over whilst I was in the Hospital and that If I new the rules I could keep up. He gave me a lesson in the rules \u0026 I hope now to take a higher position in my section than I ever have held yet.","Tuesday the 11th was the 23 anniversary of Institute \u0026 All duties were suspended \u0026 the day commenced as follows. The old Cadets hung \u0026 bucked every new cadet or rather Rats as they call us in Barracks. They got up between 4 \u0026 5 and tried to catch us in bed but we new something was out and we were up as soon as they. We had turkeys Ham \u0026 Rice for dinner. The Beef Sergeant bought 40 odd turkeys for dinner \u0026 there is not more than 225 boys here and we ate them all up \u0026 every thing else in proportion.","Tell Uncle Archer I saw Mell yesterday. She says she wants 2 Winter dresses, says someone stole the only thick dress she had, says the Captain of the boat says he wants her next year, says he can get the money for her hire now if he wishes. She told me this yesterday and asked me to write to him.","I am getting rather tired of guard duty as I have to go on 1 every week \u0026 stand 3 hours guard at night 1/2 or 3/4 in the day besides having to march on \u0026 off. I have gotten 27 demerits but have only 3 Academic reports, some of the others are incorrect and a good many that I can get of[f] with by writing excuses. One of the reports that I got 11 demerits for nearly half of which I have gotten was giving notice that the inspector was visiting which I think I can get off with it as the sentinels on post had all ways given notice to us that the Inspector was visiting and it was 2 or 3 time I was on post and I thought it was my duty to give them notice. I haven't time to write more as I have to get ready for church. Good by, love to all both white \u0026 black , remain your Attached son,\nKent.","PS love to all at Edgehill. Mell told me yesterday that Emily told her that Will H was wounded is it so or not, love to cousin Milly \u0026 Hues, K.","Virginia Military Institute\nDecember the 20th, 1862","My Own Dear Mother\nI received your letter a day or two since and have been very uneasy about Maurice ever since as you said you had to give him food or nourishment every hour. I went to Gen Smith and carried him a copy of Papa's letter to him and tried to get a furlough but he would not let me have one. I never wanted to come home so much in my life as now. I will certainly know how to appreciate the comforts \u0026 pleasures at home when I get there. You could send me a box by Bonsacks but you must not do it you have two much trouble now to think of me or boxes either. My roommates will get boxes and they will share with me.","We los[t] another one of our most promising fellow cadets yes, the very flower of them all, young Preston son of Col P. professor of the Institute. He was the most perfect young Christian I ever saw. He had just been lingering for the last 7 weeks all most all the time out of his head. He was more generally beloved by all that knew him than any on I ever saw.","I have not gotten my Shoes yet on account of the River being frozen up. I wrote to sister whilst she was in Lynchburg to give Uncle Daniel some money to get me a pair of skates. I hope she got the letter before she left. I want you to send me some money by Christmas as there will be several Tableaux and a gymnasium performance for the benefit of the soldiers and I would like to go to them. There has been one all ready and the boys are up town at another to night. I have not been to either because I had no money and do not want to be disappointed again.","Ma when they all get well at home I want you to send me a couple a pair of white gloves as we are not allowed to wear any but white ones and I cannot keep one pair clean and tis so cold to hold a cold still gun in your hand at night. I wrote a note in one of aunt Sarah's letters to you to get me some linsey to line my overcoat with as we can get nothing but cotton cloth. I have gotten my jacket \u0026 pants which are very comfortable.","Give my love to all at Edgehill \u0026 cousin Hues. I have not time to write more now as it is nearly time for Tattoo and as I am orderly I have to go for a bucket of water for morning. Ma I never knew how much I loved you all until now.I have been separated from you. Some one of you must write me every week, you would if you knew how much pleasure it affords me to receive one from any of you. Tell Brother Jim I think he might write to me oftener than he does. I was looking over the letters I received since I have been here and every one has written oftener than he.","Kiss May \u0026 Mary for me, tell Maurice I will answer his letter as soon as I can. Pleas send me some stamps as I have to borrow one to send this. Love to all white and black. [Good] night your devoted son\nJ. Kent L.","I hope all are better \u0026 your mind is not so much troubled.","Virginia Mil Institute\nJanuary the 2nd 1863","My Own dear Parents\nI commenced writing to you yesterday \u0026 wrote upon unruled paper and it was written so indistinctly that I was afraid you could not read it and I determined to write it over. I cannot express my thanks in writing for the nice box you sent me also for the 10$ you sent me for Xmas gift.","The examination commences today. I think I will get through very well if I do not get confused, but as I was never examined in public before. I feel all most certain that I will get through on Geography \u0026 French. If they examine me by asking me questions I don't think I will get through but if he gives me examples I think I will get through on Math. I am determined to commence this year by doing my duty as well as I can in every thing.","We only had one day Christmas and I was very glad of it. I thought of home so that I did not enjoy my self Xmas day. I was thinking all day about the deaths of poor Henry \u0026 Elsy and about the sickness at home since I left. Things will be so much altered when I get home so I cannot enjoy myself at all. There is no enjoyment to be seen now no how.","Lexington has done more for the soldiers than any place I know for the size of it. They gave nearly 5 hundred carpet blankets to them besides giving 3 theatrical performances \u0026 the cadets gave a kind of Negro show for their benefit. The show given by the cadets cleared 3 hundred dollars. The ladies made about 600 hundred dollars in all of their performances.","I was invited to the Misses Baxters Monday night to tea and was introduced to 4 young ladies. I was never as much confused in my life as I was when they entered the room. I had been in the house nearly an hour when they came in and I was not expecting them atall as I had been there so long. We had a splendid supper, had muffins, chipped ham, biscuit, tea \u0026 coffee, [p--]. I did not enjoy myself much as they were all perfect strangers to me.","Tell Uncle Archer if he has not hired out all of the servants yet that General Smith would like to get 3 of them for waiters in the hall and will give $175 for them and you cloth them. They would not be exposed at all as all they have to do is to wait in the Hall. Write to me soon and let me know how Maurice and [Tru] are getting. I was so glad to hear that Maurice is entirely out of danger. When he was so sick and I did not hear from home for so long and I tried to get a furlough and couldn't get one I thought I would desert several times. I hope he is well enough to walk about now. Tell him I will answer his letter next. Give my best love to Aunt Sarah and thank her for the nice ham she sent me. Tell her that I answered her letter as soon as I received it and have not heard a word from her since. Tell Molly I think she might write to me some time. When you write again send me some stamps as we cannot get any here.","I have just been examined on Geography and got through with out a blunder. Write and let me know whether the two lame horses will ever be any account \u0026 how Nanny is looking. I would like to take the Lynchburg Virginian this year as I never hear any news here at all. Tis nearly time for dress parade and I want to put this in the male tonight. Give my love to Miss Laura when you see her. Good by I remain your attached son, Kent.","I cannot write often and you must not wait for me to write. Tell Sister she must write twice to my once. Kent.","South Side James R\nOpposite Columbia\nMay 4th 1863","Dear Mama\nI commence this letter not knowing when \u0026 where I can mail it. We left Orange C.H. on the 1 and started to Spotsylvania C.H. where we heard our army was. We hadn't gone far from Orange CH before we met with a squad of Yankee Cavalry which made us leave the road and go to the woods. They then pursued us a mile or two where we lost sight of them. We then came to the\nroad leading to Richmond to the right of the central railroad where we camped for the night.","We got up the next morning and went out of the woods to the railroad where we came to a company of about 50 or 60 men tearing up the railroad. They saw my white horse. Just we turned back and 2 of them pursued us about a mile when we came to a halt and when they came up in sight we rode towards them then they ran back about a mile up the main road. We then met some citizens who had just left Louisa CH where the Yankees were tearing up the track and were coming towards James R. We then came on to Columbia and tried to cross the river but there were so many people to cross that we could not have gotten over in time to have made our escape.","I and Mr. Lee went out to watch them approach. We had been out about 3 hours \u0026 1/2. About 11 oclock in the night when their advanced guard of about 100 men came up we went and gave information to the Citizens. We then started down the tow path towards Richmond. Had gone about 2 miles and and were right upon them before we heard any thing from them.","I thought then I would be a prisoner in 10 minutes but we crossed the small part of James R and got over on the Island and happened to come to a mans private ferry who got us over and saved us from their mercy. They have burned all the bridges over the canal and all the barns and stables and every thing like food on the other side of the River from here. They tried to destroy the aqueduct over the Rivanna but did not succeed. They shot a young man over the river yesterday 3 times and then cut his head off\nand rolled him in the canal right before his mother \u0026 Fathers eyes. I am right well. Love to all. I will right as soon as I can again,\nI am your attached son, Kent.","Ashland, May 8th/63","Dear Papa\nI wrote to Ma from Columbia but as there was no regular mail from there I write to let you know that I am well and I am now [illegible] this Yankee scout and will get to the Regiment to day or soon in the morning if they do not move from where they are now. We crossed the river at Columbia at about 5 oclock Saturday night and they came in between 5 \u0026 8 on Sunday. We were in\nside of there lines 3 or 4 times. I have learned how to retreat but not to advance. I haven't time to write more. Love to all. I remain\nYour attached son, Kent.","Orange CH\nMay 11th 1863","Dear Papa\nI saw Tip Griffin yesterday who told me that you were very uneasy about me. I got to the Regt Saturday the 9 and would have written yesterday but the mail was carried off before I new it. I wrote to you once from Columbia and again at Ashland. Tell Ma I am a better hand to take care of my self than she thought. I flanked the Yankees until I got across the James R. and please don't be so uneasy about me in the future.","[Col] M \u0026 Judge say that they think it best for me to join the Wise Troop for three very good reasons. 1 that Capt. Steptoe is willing to take me in his mess. 2 you can get nearly twice as much for your horse to eat as a general thing in a small Company than you can in a large \u0026 when they issue corn you get a bag for each company and if the company is small you get as much more. 3 and best reason you will fare better in that line your self. You can buy any thing you want from the government at their price with his\nconsent.","The mail is about to leave and I must close. Love to all the family \u0026 Cousin Kate. Direct your letter to Orange CH.","Culpeper C H\nMay 18th, 1863","Dear Sister\nI received Mamas letter two or three days ago and received yours and cousin Kate's yesterday. I have had quite a nice time since I have been in camp. I have made the acquaintance of a good many nice officers. Capt Steptoe is one of the nicest gentleman I ever saw and is so kind to me. I understand that Floods \u0026 Pickets divisions are camped near here \u0026 Jones, Imboden, Hampton,\nJenkins and W.H. Lee are and in fact all our cavalry forces are here. We expect to leave here for some unknown point in a day or two. I shall try and fill your memorandum if possible. I don't intend to write long letters to you when you have nothing to do and write short ones. Judge is here and sends his love. I will write to Ma in a day or two. Never forget to mention bro Jim in your letters. I will write to him soon. Love to all. I am your Bro, Kent.","Dear Cousin\nI received your two very short notes and regret to write as I have nothing in the world to write. I have not seen your Bro yet. I shall give him your memorandum in full and shall tell him not to apply for a furlough until he hears from you. Forbear he may not get another in time especially if you are in as big a hurry as cousin Nannie R. I shall try to get the veil and dress. What cotton will you have it. The paper is unruled on the other side and I cant write on my knee. Judge sends love and speaks of you very often. I am\nyour attached cousin, Kent.","I shall expect to hear from you all often but you mustn't look for letters from me more than every 2 weeks.","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nMay 19th 1863","Dear Mama\nI wrote to sister yesterday and write this morning because Col. M. wishes to enclose a letter in mine. I have had no trouble in having my clothes washed so far. I want you to send me the receipts for making buns those sweet roles you use to make as we have no use for our sugar, and how to cook potatoes cut up under meat and to fry them. I like camp life so far very much. All the cavalry forces we have are concentrated near hear except Robertson who we are looking for every day. I hear that Gen. Beauregard is to take charge of Jackson Corps. God has certainly taken a great man from us. No one hear thinks that his place can be filled.","Maggie is looking nearly as well now as when I left. I never knew a horse to become as much attached to any one in my life. I have been offered $800 for her several times. Tell uncle Archer if Pa is not at home to know what Mr. Billy Barwell will take for his brown horse and if he will take $500 for him to let me know as Capt Steptoe wants a horse and cannot get one at any price. There is no news. Never forget to mention him in your letters and tell him to try and get well. Tell Sister \u0026 cousin K I don't want such\nshort letters. Love to all. I am your attached son, Kent.","[The following letter from Col. (later Brigadier General) Thomas T. Munford, VMI Class of 1852, was enclosed in Langhorne's letter]","Hd Qts 2 Va Cav\nMay 18th, 1863","My dear Mrs. Langhorne\nI received your kind note by Kent and will send a few lines in reply in his letter to you. After giving Kent an opportunity of seeing the Regt I recommended him to join the Wise Troop, now commanded by Capt Wm Steptoe who promised me to take Kent into his mess with him. I consider him second to no man in my Regt. In every way a gentleman he looks after his men \u0026 sees their\nwants are supplied. Your noble boy I am sure will do well and you may rest assured that any assistance that I can give him will be cheerfully rendered. If he needs anything at any time I will see that he is provided for. [For the] cavalry have to carry all they have on their horses and have but few wants.","I think we will have an active campaign and hope the vandals may soon be driven across the Potomac again. With my kindest regards to Mr Langhorne, Lizzie \u0026 all of the little ones believe me very truly\nYour friend\nThomas T. Munford","Camp Near Culpeper CH\nJune 1st 63","Dear Papa\nI received your letter a day or two ago and have commenced to answer it once or twice but was interrupted. I had my mare valued at 650$. My arms have not cost me a cent. One of the men gave me a rifle captured at Chancellorsville and I drew a pair of pistols from ordnance wagon which I will return as soon as I can capture one. I bought a saber for 3$, the best one I have seen. Capt Steptoe sends his regards to you. He has just ordered us to strike tents and I have to close. Let me know when Jimmy Langhorne is coming. Love to all, I remain your attached son, Kent.","Send me some stamps. J Kent."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, MS 0361, Virginia Military Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Jacob K. Langhorne Civil War papers, MS 0361, Virginia Military Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThis series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of 17 Civil War letters (dated September 1862 to May 1863) from Jacob K. Langhorne to various members of his family. These letters were written during his VMI cadetship and his service in the Confederate Army with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include cadet life, family matters, and camp life.","This series contains 10 letters written by Langhorne to his family while he was a cadet at the VMI in Lexington, Virginia. Topics include cadet life and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne's health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Cadet Fleming and general cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Christmas holiday and cadet life.","This series contains six letters written by Langhorne while he was with the 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Topics include camp life and family news.","Written from \"South Side James\" River. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.","Written from Orange, Virginia. Letter regards Langhorne joining the \"Wise Troop.\"","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp. Also included is an enclosure from Thomas T. Munford (VMI  Class of 1852) to Margaret L. Kent.","Written from Culpepper, Virginia. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_698d78f702b77e6c36c092f93ad5b5c1\"\u003eManuscripts Stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts Stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Langhorne, Jacob K. (Jacob Kent), 1845-1863"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_614"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_556.xml","title_ssm":["James A. Harden papers"],"title_tesim":["James A. Harden papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1860-1866"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1860-1866"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1860/1866"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"text":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866","MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556","Fort Delaware (Del.)","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th","There are no restrictions","James Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.","In 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.","Harden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia.","V.M. Institute\nJune 6th, 1861","My Dear Sister, \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again.","Returned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\nYour Loving Bro‐\nJames.","Direct to \nCadet Jas. A. Harden \nV. M. Institute \nLexington, Va \nNever ~Darling~","Camp at Fairfax Station\nAug 21st 1861","Dear Father,\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.","There is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026 he can take it under consideration \u0026 report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026 that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026 what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.","But enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026 gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\nYour affectionate son.\nJim","My regards to Miss Matilda \u0026 Mr. Stevens family.","Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\nOct. 3rd/61","My Dear Sister:\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.","Wise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.","There is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.","How are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.","But I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\nYour Loving Bro.\nJames.","Camp near Manassas\nJany 4th 1862","Dear Sister\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.","Genl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026 Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026 will probably be all winter.","Camp Giles Co. Va.\nNov  11th 1863","My Dear Sister‐\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\nYour loving Bro James","Camp Near Lewisburg\nDecember 3rd, 1863","My Dear Sister, \nI rec'd your kind \u0026 affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026 started back to this point I left my desk \u0026 all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026 they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026 did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026 most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.","This Batt. \u0026 the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026 I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026 sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026 four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026 everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026 whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026 \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026 forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.","Everything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026 I left some clothing at her house \u0026 the Yankees heard of it \u0026 went \u0026 searched the house \u0026 destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026 of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026 all friends when you write again. Good bye. \nYour Loving Bro\nJames","After you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie","Camp near Lewisburg\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well.","Since I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026 took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026 if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026 get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\nYours devotionally\nJames","Staunton Va.\nMay 19th 1864","My Dear Sister,\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye. \nYour most devoted Brother,\nJames","Head Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\nMay 26, 1864","My Dear Sister:\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\nYours devotedly,\nJames\nMy best love to all","Camp near the Chickahominy\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\nJune 4th, 1864","My Dear Sister\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026 repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026 had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026 determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\nYour loving Bro.\nJames","Near Strasburg Va\nJuly 22nd 1864","My Dear Sister: \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026 drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026 moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026 captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026 some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026 I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others.","We have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026 the news.","Did you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026 come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026 I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\nYour devoted Brother,\nJames‐","Direct to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley \n(I have no stamps\u0026 it is impossible to get any here)","[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026 whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.","Near Martinsburg Va. \nJuly 27, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026 we (the Infantry) halted \u0026 the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026 camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026 yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026 blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026 haversacks \u0026 everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026 fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026 retreated towards Williamsport.","I am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.","Where we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026 bread \u0026 meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026 as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart. \nEver my precious sister \nYour devoted Bro,\nJames","[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\".","[On back of envelope] \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026 Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co.","Near Winchester, Va.\nAug 18th 1864","My Dear Sister;\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026 attacked the enemy here \u0026 drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026 Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026 a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026 may cross the river \"if we can\".","I would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026 when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026 nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026 enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026 will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\nYour devoted Bro. \nJames","Camp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\nSept. 14th, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026 Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026 I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026 headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026 sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\nWrite me at once.\nYour affect. Bro\nJames","Officer's Prison Fort Delaware\nSept. 30th, 1864","My Darling Sister,\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026 relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\nYour devoted Brother\nJames","Direct to:\nAdjt. J. A. H.\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\nVia Flag of truce","Officers Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 1st, 1864","My darling Sister:\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026 Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026 family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\nEver your devoted Bro","Officer's Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 9th 1864","My precious Sister:\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026 as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026 I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026 at Uncle J's \u0026 all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026 well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026 well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\nYour ever devoted Bro.\nJames","Walnut Grove\nTuesday morning","My darling Sister:\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026 could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\nYour fond \u0026 devoted Bro.\nJames","The bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.","Written from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"","Written from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.","Written from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.","Written from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"","Written from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.","Written from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.","Written from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits.\"","Written from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.","Written from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.","Written from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.","Written from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.","Written from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.","Written from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.","Letter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"collection_ssim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"geogname_ssm":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"geogname_ssim":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"places_ssim":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"creator_ssm":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927"],"creator_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["27 items"],"extent_tesim":["27 items"],"date_range_isim":[1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\nHarden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Contents Note"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.","In 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.","Harden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 6th, 1861\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReturned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Loving Bro‐\u003cbr\u003e\nJames.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to\u003cbr\u003e \nCadet Jas. A. Harden\u003cbr\u003e \nV. M. Institute\u003cbr\u003e \nLexington, Va\u003cbr\u003e \nNever ~Darling~ \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp at Fairfax Station\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 21st 1861 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Father,\u003cbr\u003e\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026amp; he can take it under consideration \u0026amp; report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026amp; that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026amp; what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026amp; gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son.\u003cbr\u003e\nJim\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy regards to Miss Matilda \u0026amp; Mr. Stevens family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\u003cbr\u003e\nOct. 3rd/61\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHow are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Loving Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near Manassas\u003cbr\u003e\nJany 4th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGenl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026amp; Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026amp; will probably be all winter.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Giles Co. Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nNov  11th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister‐\u003cbr\u003e\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026amp; were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour loving Bro James \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Lewisburg\u003cbr\u003e\nDecember 3rd, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e \nI rec'd your kind \u0026amp; affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026amp; started back to this point I left my desk \u0026amp; all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026amp; they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026amp; did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026amp; most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis Batt. \u0026amp; the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026amp; I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026amp; sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026amp; four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026amp; everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026amp; whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026amp; \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026amp; forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eEverything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026amp; I left some clothing at her house \u0026amp; the Yankees heard of it \u0026amp; went \u0026amp; searched the house \u0026amp; destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026amp; of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026amp; all friends when you write again. Good bye.\u003cbr\u003e \nYour Loving Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAfter you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near Lewisburg\u003cbr\u003e\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026amp; took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026amp; if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026amp; get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\u003cbr\u003e\nYours devotionally\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eStaunton Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 19th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye.\u003cbr\u003e \nYour most devoted Brother,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHead Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 26, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026amp; they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours devotedly,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003cbr\u003e\nMy best love to all\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near the Chickahominy\u003cbr\u003e\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 4th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026amp; repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026amp; had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026amp; determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour loving Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Strasburg Va\u003cbr\u003e\nJuly 22nd 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026amp; drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026amp; moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026amp; captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026amp; some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026amp; I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026amp; the news. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDid you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026amp; come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026amp; I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Brother,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames‐\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley\u003cbr\u003e \n(I have no stamps\u0026amp; it is impossible to get any here) \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\u003cbr\u003e\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026amp; whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Martinsburg Va.\u003cbr\u003e \nJuly 27, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026amp; we (the Infantry) halted \u0026amp; the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026amp; camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026amp; yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026amp; blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026amp; haversacks \u0026amp; everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026amp; fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026amp; retreated towards Williamsport.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhere we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026amp; bread \u0026amp; meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026amp; as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart.\u003cbr\u003e \nEver my precious sister \u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Bro,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\u003cbr\u003e\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\". \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[On back of envelope]\u003cbr\u003e \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026amp; Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Winchester, Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 18th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister;\u003cbr\u003e\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026amp; attacked the enemy here \u0026amp; drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026amp; Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026amp; a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026amp; may cross the river \"if we can\". \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026amp; when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026amp; nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026amp; enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026amp; will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e \nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\u003cbr\u003e\nSept. 14th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026amp; Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026amp; I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026amp; headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026amp; sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\u003cbr\u003e\nWrite me at once.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affect. Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficer's Prison Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nSept. 30th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Darling Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026amp; relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to:\u003cbr\u003e\nAdjt. J. A. H.\u003cbr\u003e\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\u003cbr\u003e\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\u003cbr\u003e\nVia Flag of truce\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficers Prison, Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember 1st, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy darling Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026amp; Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026amp; family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nEver your devoted Bro\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficer's Prison, Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember 9th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy precious Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026amp; as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026amp; I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026amp; at Uncle J's \u0026amp; all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026amp; well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026amp; well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour ever devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWalnut Grove\u003cbr\u003e\nTuesday morning\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy darling Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026amp; could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour fond \u0026amp; devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M. Institute\nJune 6th, 1861","My Dear Sister, \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again.","Returned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\nYour Loving Bro‐\nJames.","Direct to \nCadet Jas. A. Harden \nV. M. Institute \nLexington, Va \nNever ~Darling~","Camp at Fairfax Station\nAug 21st 1861","Dear Father,\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.","There is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026 he can take it under consideration \u0026 report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026 that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026 what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.","But enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026 gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\nYour affectionate son.\nJim","My regards to Miss Matilda \u0026 Mr. Stevens family.","Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\nOct. 3rd/61","My Dear Sister:\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.","Wise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.","There is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.","How are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.","But I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\nYour Loving Bro.\nJames.","Camp near Manassas\nJany 4th 1862","Dear Sister\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.","Genl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026 Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026 will probably be all winter.","Camp Giles Co. Va.\nNov  11th 1863","My Dear Sister‐\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\nYour loving Bro James","Camp Near Lewisburg\nDecember 3rd, 1863","My Dear Sister, \nI rec'd your kind \u0026 affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026 started back to this point I left my desk \u0026 all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026 they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026 did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026 most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.","This Batt. \u0026 the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026 I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026 sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026 four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026 everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026 whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026 \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026 forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.","Everything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026 I left some clothing at her house \u0026 the Yankees heard of it \u0026 went \u0026 searched the house \u0026 destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026 of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026 all friends when you write again. Good bye. \nYour Loving Bro\nJames","After you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie","Camp near Lewisburg\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well.","Since I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026 took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026 if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026 get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\nYours devotionally\nJames","Staunton Va.\nMay 19th 1864","My Dear Sister,\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye. \nYour most devoted Brother,\nJames","Head Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\nMay 26, 1864","My Dear Sister:\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\nYours devotedly,\nJames\nMy best love to all","Camp near the Chickahominy\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\nJune 4th, 1864","My Dear Sister\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026 repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026 had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026 determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\nYour loving Bro.\nJames","Near Strasburg Va\nJuly 22nd 1864","My Dear Sister: \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026 drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026 moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026 captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026 some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026 I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others.","We have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026 the news.","Did you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026 come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026 I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\nYour devoted Brother,\nJames‐","Direct to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley \n(I have no stamps\u0026 it is impossible to get any here)","[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026 whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.","Near Martinsburg Va. \nJuly 27, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026 we (the Infantry) halted \u0026 the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026 camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026 yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026 blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026 haversacks \u0026 everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026 fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026 retreated towards Williamsport.","I am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.","Where we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026 bread \u0026 meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026 as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart. \nEver my precious sister \nYour devoted Bro,\nJames","[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\".","[On back of envelope] \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026 Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co.","Near Winchester, Va.\nAug 18th 1864","My Dear Sister;\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026 attacked the enemy here \u0026 drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026 Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026 a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026 may cross the river \"if we can\".","I would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026 when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026 nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026 enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026 will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\nYour devoted Bro. \nJames","Camp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\nSept. 14th, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026 Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026 I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026 headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026 sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\nWrite me at once.\nYour affect. Bro\nJames","Officer's Prison Fort Delaware\nSept. 30th, 1864","My Darling Sister,\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026 relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\nYour devoted Brother\nJames","Direct to:\nAdjt. J. A. H.\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\nVia Flag of truce","Officers Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 1st, 1864","My darling Sister:\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026 Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026 family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\nEver your devoted Bro","Officer's Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 9th 1864","My precious Sister:\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026 as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026 I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026 at Uncle J's \u0026 all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026 well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026 well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\nYour ever devoted Bro.\nJames","Walnut Grove\nTuesday morning","My darling Sister:\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026 could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\nYour fond \u0026 devoted Bro.\nJames"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames A. Harden papers, 1860-1866. MS-0476. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860-1866. MS-0476. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026amp; were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026amp; they are in fine spirits.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.","Written from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"","Written from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.","Written from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.","Written from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"","Written from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.","Written from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.","Written from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits.\"","Written from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.","Written from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.","Written from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.","Written from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.","Written from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.","Written from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.","Letter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_81f984174fa2507dfcea3bda3e994bec\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":25,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_556.xml","title_ssm":["James A. Harden papers"],"title_tesim":["James A. Harden papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1860-1866"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1860-1866"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1860/1866"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"text":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866","MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556","Fort Delaware (Del.)","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th","There are no restrictions","James Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.","In 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.","Harden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia.","V.M. Institute\nJune 6th, 1861","My Dear Sister, \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again.","Returned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\nYour Loving Bro‐\nJames.","Direct to \nCadet Jas. A. Harden \nV. M. Institute \nLexington, Va \nNever ~Darling~","Camp at Fairfax Station\nAug 21st 1861","Dear Father,\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.","There is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026 he can take it under consideration \u0026 report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026 that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026 what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.","But enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026 gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\nYour affectionate son.\nJim","My regards to Miss Matilda \u0026 Mr. Stevens family.","Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\nOct. 3rd/61","My Dear Sister:\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.","Wise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.","There is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.","How are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.","But I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\nYour Loving Bro.\nJames.","Camp near Manassas\nJany 4th 1862","Dear Sister\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.","Genl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026 Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026 will probably be all winter.","Camp Giles Co. Va.\nNov  11th 1863","My Dear Sister‐\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\nYour loving Bro James","Camp Near Lewisburg\nDecember 3rd, 1863","My Dear Sister, \nI rec'd your kind \u0026 affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026 started back to this point I left my desk \u0026 all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026 they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026 did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026 most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.","This Batt. \u0026 the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026 I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026 sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026 four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026 everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026 whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026 \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026 forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.","Everything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026 I left some clothing at her house \u0026 the Yankees heard of it \u0026 went \u0026 searched the house \u0026 destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026 of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026 all friends when you write again. Good bye. \nYour Loving Bro\nJames","After you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie","Camp near Lewisburg\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well.","Since I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026 took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026 if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026 get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\nYours devotionally\nJames","Staunton Va.\nMay 19th 1864","My Dear Sister,\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye. \nYour most devoted Brother,\nJames","Head Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\nMay 26, 1864","My Dear Sister:\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\nYours devotedly,\nJames\nMy best love to all","Camp near the Chickahominy\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\nJune 4th, 1864","My Dear Sister\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026 repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026 had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026 determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\nYour loving Bro.\nJames","Near Strasburg Va\nJuly 22nd 1864","My Dear Sister: \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026 drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026 moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026 captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026 some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026 I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others.","We have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026 the news.","Did you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026 come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026 I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\nYour devoted Brother,\nJames‐","Direct to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley \n(I have no stamps\u0026 it is impossible to get any here)","[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026 whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.","Near Martinsburg Va. \nJuly 27, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026 we (the Infantry) halted \u0026 the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026 camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026 yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026 blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026 haversacks \u0026 everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026 fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026 retreated towards Williamsport.","I am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.","Where we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026 bread \u0026 meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026 as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart. \nEver my precious sister \nYour devoted Bro,\nJames","[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\".","[On back of envelope] \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026 Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co.","Near Winchester, Va.\nAug 18th 1864","My Dear Sister;\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026 attacked the enemy here \u0026 drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026 Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026 a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026 may cross the river \"if we can\".","I would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026 when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026 nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026 enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026 will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\nYour devoted Bro. \nJames","Camp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\nSept. 14th, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026 Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026 I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026 headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026 sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\nWrite me at once.\nYour affect. Bro\nJames","Officer's Prison Fort Delaware\nSept. 30th, 1864","My Darling Sister,\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026 relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\nYour devoted Brother\nJames","Direct to:\nAdjt. J. A. H.\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\nVia Flag of truce","Officers Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 1st, 1864","My darling Sister:\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026 Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026 family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\nEver your devoted Bro","Officer's Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 9th 1864","My precious Sister:\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026 as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026 I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026 at Uncle J's \u0026 all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026 well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026 well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\nYour ever devoted Bro.\nJames","Walnut Grove\nTuesday morning","My darling Sister:\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026 could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\nYour fond \u0026 devoted Bro.\nJames","The bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.","Written from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"","Written from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.","Written from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.","Written from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"","Written from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.","Written from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.","Written from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits.\"","Written from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.","Written from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.","Written from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.","Written from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.","Written from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.","Written from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.","Letter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"collection_ssim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860/1866"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0476","/repositories/3/resources/556"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"geogname_ssm":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"geogname_ssim":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"places_ssim":["Fort Delaware (Del.)"],"creator_ssm":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927"],"creator_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Battalion, 23rd","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Alumni—Biography","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864 Military Science","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Prisoners of war","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 36th"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["27 items"],"extent_tesim":["27 items"],"date_range_isim":[1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\nHarden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Contents Note"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Abel Harden was born on December 8, 1841 in Greenville, Augusta County, Virginia to Daniel Madison Harden (1813-1887) of Kentucky and Eliza Ann Gibbons (1815-1848) of Virginia. He came to VMI on June 4, 1861 to receive military training. After a few weeks Harden enlisted in the 36th Virginia Regiment and was appointed sergeant major on Aug 10, 1861. He is shown as Acting Assistant Adjutant General in the 2nd Brigade Army of the Kanawha in November 1861. He resigned and and was discharged on March 25, 1862 and became Acting Adjutant for the 23rd Virginia Battalion sometime in the summer of 1862. Harden was appointed 1st lieutenant and Adjutant of the 23rd Battalion on November 20, 1862. He was praised for \"distinguished gallantry\" at Droop Mountain in November, 1863. He was captured at the Third Battle of Winchester and held at Ft. Delaware, Delaware where he was released on oath June 12, 1865.","In 1880 Harden married Winnie Ella Berkey (1859-1921) of Buckingham County, Virginia and the couple had eight children: Susan Mary Harden, Annie Tupper Harden, David Humphreys Harden, James Edwin Harden, Mildred Lee Harden, Robert Edward Harden, Benhamin Bee Harden, and Dixie Mae Harden.","Harden died on September 7, 1942 in Dillwyn, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 6th, 1861\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReturned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Loving Bro‐\u003cbr\u003e\nJames.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to\u003cbr\u003e \nCadet Jas. A. Harden\u003cbr\u003e \nV. M. Institute\u003cbr\u003e \nLexington, Va\u003cbr\u003e \nNever ~Darling~ \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp at Fairfax Station\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 21st 1861 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Father,\u003cbr\u003e\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026amp; he can take it under consideration \u0026amp; report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026amp; that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026amp; what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026amp; gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son.\u003cbr\u003e\nJim\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy regards to Miss Matilda \u0026amp; Mr. Stevens family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\u003cbr\u003e\nOct. 3rd/61\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHow are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Loving Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near Manassas\u003cbr\u003e\nJany 4th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGenl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026amp; Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026amp; will probably be all winter.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Giles Co. Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nNov  11th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister‐\u003cbr\u003e\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026amp; were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour loving Bro James \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near Lewisburg\u003cbr\u003e\nDecember 3rd, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e \nI rec'd your kind \u0026amp; affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026amp; started back to this point I left my desk \u0026amp; all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026amp; they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026amp; did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026amp; most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis Batt. \u0026amp; the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026amp; I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026amp; sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026amp; four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026amp; everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026amp; whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026amp; \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026amp; forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eEverything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026amp; I left some clothing at her house \u0026amp; the Yankees heard of it \u0026amp; went \u0026amp; searched the house \u0026amp; destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026amp; of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026amp; all friends when you write again. Good bye.\u003cbr\u003e \nYour Loving Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAfter you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near Lewisburg\u003cbr\u003e\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026amp; took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026amp; if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026amp; get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\u003cbr\u003e\nYours devotionally\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eStaunton Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 19th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye.\u003cbr\u003e \nYour most devoted Brother,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHead Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 26, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026amp; they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours devotedly,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003cbr\u003e\nMy best love to all\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near the Chickahominy\u003cbr\u003e\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 4th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026amp; repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026amp; had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026amp; determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour loving Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Strasburg Va\u003cbr\u003e\nJuly 22nd 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026amp; drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026amp; moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026amp; captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026amp; some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026amp; I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026amp; the news. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDid you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026amp; come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026amp; I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Brother,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames‐\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley\u003cbr\u003e \n(I have no stamps\u0026amp; it is impossible to get any here) \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\u003cbr\u003e\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026amp; whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Martinsburg Va.\u003cbr\u003e \nJuly 27, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026amp; we (the Infantry) halted \u0026amp; the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026amp; camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026amp; yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026amp; blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026amp; haversacks \u0026amp; everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026amp; fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026amp; retreated towards Williamsport.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhere we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026amp; bread \u0026amp; meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026amp; as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart.\u003cbr\u003e \nEver my precious sister \u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Bro,\u003cbr\u003e\nJames \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\u003cbr\u003e\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\". \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[On back of envelope]\u003cbr\u003e \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026amp; Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNear Winchester, Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 18th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister;\u003cbr\u003e\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026amp; attacked the enemy here \u0026amp; drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026amp; Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026amp; a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026amp; may cross the river \"if we can\". \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026amp; when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026amp; nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026amp; enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026amp; will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e \nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\u003cbr\u003e\nSept. 14th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026amp; Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026amp; I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026amp; headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026amp; sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\u003cbr\u003e\nWrite me at once.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affect. Bro\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficer's Prison Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nSept. 30th, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Darling Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026amp; relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour devoted Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect to:\u003cbr\u003e\nAdjt. J. A. H.\u003cbr\u003e\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\u003cbr\u003e\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\u003cbr\u003e\nVia Flag of truce\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficers Prison, Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember 1st, 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy darling Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026amp; Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026amp; family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nEver your devoted Bro\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficer's Prison, Fort Delaware\u003cbr\u003e\nNovember 9th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy precious Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026amp; as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026amp; I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026amp; at Uncle J's \u0026amp; all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026amp; well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026amp; well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour ever devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWalnut Grove\u003cbr\u003e\nTuesday morning\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy darling Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026amp; Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026amp; could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour fond \u0026amp; devoted Bro.\u003cbr\u003e\nJames\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M. Institute\nJune 6th, 1861","My Dear Sister, \nI suppose you have heard ere this my whereabouts - I passed through Staunton on yesterday week and would have called to see you but the cars were behind hand that day and the stage left immediately after cars got there and I did not have time to do so. I went to Uncle Jim Burn's and intended coming to see you from there but heard that your school was out and you had gone to Mt. Solon and as I did not have time to come there I left for this place on Monday last where I have been ever since. I entered as a regular cadet. I am well and getting along very well‐ am very lonesome and often long for a letter from you‐ have rec'd no letters from anyone since I have been here. I rec'd a letter from you the day I left the University‐ but have not been able to answer it since‐ and here I have not time to do anything of that kind‐ keep a feller running to roll call, drums, drills and lecture every two minutes almost. When a feller comes here he has to give up his liberty in every respect‐ it is just like you were in jail. Can't leave barracks hardly without permission. I have no news of any importance to write you‐ in fact I haven't heard any news or seen a newspaper since I have been here. I suppose you have rec'd a letter from Uncle Jimmy or Aunt [Min] ere this. They told me they would write and let you know where I was for I did not know when I should have an opportunity to write. There is that infernal drum again.","Returned. I have but time to say Good Bye and write very soon. Love to all.\nYour Loving Bro‐\nJames.","Direct to \nCadet Jas. A. Harden \nV. M. Institute \nLexington, Va \nNever ~Darling~","Camp at Fairfax Station\nAug 21st 1861","Dear Father,\nI received yours Lou's and Billy's notes day before yesterday. My advice to Billy would be to return to the Institute. All the Military schools in the land will be in operation, and others will doubtless spring up these will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army. No education in future will hardly be considered complete that does not embrace a knowledge of tactics. It seems to me impolitic to draw Southern boys into the war, when we have enough able‐bodied men to fight our battles, and especially when there is a probability that these boys will render more effective service to their country at a future day. Billy has been at the Institute one year and laid a foundation for his education and I see no good reason why he should not continue to build upon it. I do not think the fact of a war being in progress should do away with the intellectual training of one generation. Two of the Corps of Professors at the Institute have been ordered to return by the 1st of October, the places of the others will be supplied, at least this is the arrangement at present. I suppose by Fall, the cadets whose martial spirit now inclines them to remain in the army, will return to the Institute. Billy spoke of returning as drill master. Since the battle of Manassas, the men would be indignant to talk to them about a drill‐master  as they call themselves old soldiers.","There is no position in this Regiment, or any other, in which Billy could draw pay, and remain only a month or so. But if it is his desire to join the army for the war, and this meets with your approval, I don't think there is any doubt about his obtaining a situation in this Regiment as 3rd Lieut. of Capt. Brown's Company at a salary of eighty ($80) a month. Capt. Brown's 3rd Lieut. has resigned and the vacancy will be to fill, and I asked the Captain the probability of Billy's election. He consulted with his men, and told me he did not think there would be any doubt about it. The resignation of the Lieut. has just been sent in and whilst it will certainly be accepted, it will not be heard from for three or four weeks. I can postpone the election until the 1st October, if necessary. This is all I can do for Billy at present, you \u0026 he can take it under consideration \u0026 report. But tell Billy if he decides to take the post‐ I want him to understand that Genl. Elzey don't give furloughs \u0026 that I don't want to be troubled by loaning money‐ clothes, or treating to ice cream that if he comes he must come with the determination to \"hoe his own row\"‐ He has been in the army long enough to know what it is \u0026 what will be expected of him. Of course I will cheerfully administer to his wants should he get sick, but Billy understands he remembers my lectures about his sponging and complaining at Winchester.","But enough on this subject for the present. I have been directed to make a requisition for 40 rounds of cartridges in addition to what I have and now have a good deal on hand. I am told 17 loads of boats went to Aquia Creek a few days since. I was at Fairfax C.H. yesterday‐ the whole country around is one grand encampment. We have a good deal of sickness in our camp‐ not less than 150 cases‐ of this number about twenty have the remittent fever. Some of my men I fear will die. A. B. Bridges who married  (Robt. Miller's) widow died in the hospital at Richmond with the fever‐ he was delirious when he reached Gordonsville. We lost another man last week with the fever on his way home near camp \u0026 gave them all the attention we can. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Steven's illness‐ but hope he is well by this time. Let me hear from you soon.\nYour affectionate son.\nJim","My regards to Miss Matilda \u0026 Mr. Stevens family.","Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain\nOct. 3rd/61","My Dear Sister:\nI wrote you some days ago from Meadow Bluff but did not get an opportunity to send it. When I wrote it we were under orders to march the next morning, where I did not know- but now, as I am at our journeys end I can tell you. We are encamped in full view of the enemy. We being on the Eastern or first top of Big Sewell Mountain and they being on the Western or second top- the mountain having two tops about one and a half miles apart with a deep ravine between. We are now in close quarters certain- so much so that we can readily distinguish them drilling with the naked eye. We can see everything quite plain. Since I wrote last a new order of things have come around. Gen. Lee now commands here. Gen. Wise has been superceded by Gen. Floyd and the two commands have been united.","Wise has been ordered to Richmond and has gone. Gen. Loving is here with his forces. If we have a fight Loving will command the right wing- Lee the centre  and Floyd the left wing. Our force has been considerably increased but is not near strong enough. The enemy's reported strength at their position on top of Sewell is twelve thousand (12,000)- but then they have nearly as many more between them and Charleston. So that our little force of two thousand would be no where without they attack us in position. One thing certain I don't think it will ever do for us to attack them with this force. But something must soon be done. We cannot remain in sight of one another long without something being done and what is more our men cannot stand it- being on half rations all the time all they get is three biscuits a day and a piece of tough beef- and soldiers can't live in this country where it rains every other day and cold enough to freeze them on any such food as that. We have had several very heavy frosts here. Last Saturday morning a soldier from a Miss. [Mississippi] Regiment was found dead in a wagon supposed to have frozen to death. It rained all Thursday night and all day Friday night very hard and it was as cold as January and the poor fellow not having any tent along with them (having in obedience to orders left them at Meadow Bluff) froze to death. But his is only one of many deaths that occur here every day. Poor fellows! They take sick and have no one to take care of them and die from neglect. You can hardly pass a house without seeing a dead man and often you find them in barns and stables in the stalls where horses have been and nobody to bury them. I was told the other day by a man who said he saw three dead men lying in a stable and had been there so long they were actually putrifying[sic]- and I shouldn't be surprised if it were so- every house from here to the White Sul. [Sulfur] is a hospital. I should like to see some of those Manassas boys out here awhile- they would see some to grumble at.","There is to be a decisive battle fought here ere long whether we shall winter in Charleston or not and I don't care how soon for I am tired undergoing such hardships and doing nothing. I want to get into better quarters somewhere. I don't care where much- can't get as much as a hand full of hay- have to lie on the cold wet ground (in fact nothing but mud) and get up in the morning with rheumatism and sore throat and if it was not but for Lottie's piano cover I would have had to taken it on the naked ground and I believe I would have been dead long had it not have been for it. But I still have pretty good health- have a bad cold occasionally but I don't mind that much.","How are all at home? I should like very much to see you all. Have you seen Lottie yet- don't you think she is a beauty? I wish I could see her now.","But I must close as it is getting too dark to see how to write. I long for a letter- do write very soon. Give my best love to all at house also Uncle [Jo Burns?] family and tell Mollie to write. Tell Aunt [Minta?] that I wish often for some of her good biscuits and chickens- tell her to be sure to write very soon. Direct to the care of Col. McCausland, 36th Reg. Va. Vols. Floyd's Brigade, Charleston, Va. and if we whip the Yankees I will get it there; if not I will get it wherever I may be. Best love to all- tell Uncle Jimmy to write often. Good Bye. May God Bless you my dear Sister in the prayer of\nYour Loving Bro.\nJames.","Camp near Manassas\nJany 4th 1862","Dear Sister\nYour welcome note of the 30th inst reached me today. The bouquet retained its freshness and fragrance‐ and am much oblige to all parties interested in getting it up. Remember me kindly to them, and tell Miss Matilda that I will try and send her one in return, in the spring, especially as she took so much pains to fix it for a Colonel. Tell her the complaint among the Commissioned Officers here is that the smiles are all bestowed on the men in ranks. Well they justly deserve them. I believe I was acting as Brigadier when I last wrote, Col. Hill has returned and I am done playing \"Big Indian\" but after a week's experience in that capacity I don't think it is as vexatious position as that of little Colonel.","Genl. Elzey came up from Centreville today. He is still complaining with rheumatism.  He does my Regiment the compliment to have his body guard detailed from it. He says the Baltimorians \u0026 Tennesseeans stole from him.  (Geddie Effinger my roommate has just come and give me a scolding about not having a good fire).  But I must tell you that I am in my \"shanty\". We moved in last night. You will see from the enclosed picture that it bears a striking resemblance to the habitations along the line of the rail‐road in Northern Georgia only it is a better building. My kitchen is not quite completed. I eat in my tent this morning with snow on it, this is as near a Valley Forge scene as I have yet experienced. The ground is covered with snow, but it is very slight and the first winter weather we have had yet. My men are nearly all in their huts. And now I must tell you something else in connection with our Winter Quarters. I was at Genl. E. K. Smith's House today (I will tell you why I went there directly) for some time. He told me that Genl. Johnston wanted us to remain at Centreville and it was some time before he could prevail upon him to let us come here, so you see we are among the \"favored few\".  I was at Centreville yesterday. Many Regiments are still in their tents \u0026 will probably be all winter.","Camp Giles Co. Va.\nNov  11th 1863","My Dear Sister‐\nI have but time to write you that I am safe‐ have had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly‐ looking for reinforcements‐ will start back tomorrow. My love to all‐ will write again soon.\nYour loving Bro James","Camp Near Lewisburg\nDecember 3rd, 1863","My Dear Sister, \nI rec'd your kind \u0026 affectionate letter some days ago and reply at my earliest opportunity. When we retreated to Giles Co. \u0026 started back to this point I left my desk \u0026 all my writing apparatuses behind \u0026 they did not get up until a week ago when I started on a flag of truce to the enemy \u0026 did not get back until last night. As I have been so long delayed in writing to you I suppose it is unnecessary to give you any detailed account of the late fight as you have I suppose seen several accounts in the papers. It was the hardest \u0026 most disastrous fight we have ever had in this portion of the country.","This Batt. \u0026 the 22nd Regt. bore the brunt of the fight. What our loss is I do not know, certainly very heavy though. It will be some gratification to you to know that I was highly complimented in Genl. Echols official report (for my conduct in the fight) to the War Dept, though it does not become me to speak of it to anyone but yourself \u0026 I desire that you  will not speak of it. I have just returned from a very pleasant \u0026 sociable visit to the Yankees. We were treated very kindly indeed. We remained with them three days \u0026 four nights had \"sure 'nuff\" coffee three times a day \u0026 everything good that any one could desire, egg‐nog \u0026 whiskey included. I send you a Yankee paper of as late a date as I could get. I got a letter from L. last night and found it waiting my return. She is well \u0026 \"all right\", does not give any satisfactory reasons for her long delay‐ but I suppose I will have to give her a slight lecture\u0026 forgive her. She inquired after you‐ says she heard you were going to her neighborhood Christmas‐ hopes you will. If you do, you must go to see her. Her Mother has been very ill this fall‐ still is so.","Everything is very dull here now. I have not been to see any ladies since the fight, expect to do so as soon as I can get some clothes washed. Has Lizzie Van Lear returned from Salem yet? When I got home last night I found an invitation from and Aunt of hers, Mrs. Alex Arbuckle to visit some ladies at her house‐ but I rec'd it too late to go. She is a very nice lady, has been very kind to us. When we retreated from here the Col. \u0026 I left some clothing at her house \u0026 the Yankees heard of it \u0026 went \u0026 searched the house \u0026 destroyed it together with a great deal of her clothing \u0026 of her family. I lost some valuable clothing but saved the most of what I had. I do not know when I will be able to get a leave of absence. I would like you to buy me some yarn and knit me a pair of suspenders if you will. Do not make them more than 1 ½ inches wide. I will come to see you all as soon as I can. Aunt Mint is mistaken about my not writing to them. I have written twice I think without a reply. I will write again tonight. Give my best love to all. My love to Kate Duck \u0026 all friends when you write again. Good bye. \nYour Loving Bro\nJames","After you have finished reading the Yankee paper send it to Uncle Jimmie","Camp near Lewisburg\nJanuary 5th 1864 \n \nMy Dear Sister:\nI rec'd your letter together with the one you wrote for Uncle J. on Christmas day. I am sorry I was not able to spend Christmas with you all‐ have enjoyed myself tolerably well.","Since I wrote you last we have been run again by the Yankees‐ retreated to Salt Sulphur Springs ahead of Averill  going in the direction of Salem. Into position on Sweet Springs Mt.  to fight him, but he heard of us being there \u0026 took another road‐ have come back near Lewisburg‐ 5 miles on the Union Road‐ are encamped in a miserable place‐ don't think it possible to supply ourselves here very long. I am anxious to see you all‐ don't know when I'll be able to come. May come last of the month‐ don't look for me though‐ don't feel very well today. If you have an opportunity to send my trunk key to Uncle J. do so \u0026 if you don't have one send it in a letter. I will have to go there \u0026 get some clothes before I come to Salem. Love to all. Excuse me‐ have the Blues\nYours devotionally\nJames","Staunton Va.\nMay 19th 1864","My Dear Sister,\nWe are here waiting to get on the cars. Will leave here this evening for [left blank by Hardin]. Gen. Lee's army I think. We are nearly worn out entirely‐ have been on the march for ten or fifteen days. The news from all quarters is glorious‐ hope it may continue. Give my best to all. I will write again very soon. Good Bye. \nYour most devoted Brother,\nJames","Head Qrs. 23rd Va. Batt.\nMay 26, 1864","My Dear Sister:\nI write you to let you know that I am still \"right side up with care\". No fighting today- have had nothing but skirmishing since we have been here. We are just as sure to whip Grant if he attacks us here as the sun will shine tomorrow. We have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits. Do not be uneasy about me if you do not hear from me often. I have no means very seldom of writing. If I am hurt you will hear of it very soon.\nYours devotedly,\nJames\nMy best love to all","Camp near the Chickahominy\nOld Battlefield of Gaines Mill\nJune 4th, 1864","My Dear Sister\nWe had a heavy fight yesterday \u0026 repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade \u0026 had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits \u0026 determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.\nYour loving Bro.\nJames","Near Strasburg Va\nJuly 22nd 1864","My Dear Sister: \nI wrote you a few days ago by private hands from near Snickers Ferry but will write you again now. We got here this morning from Middletown and have been in line of battle all day awaiting the approach of the enemy who have been pursuing us ever since we left the Potomac‐ but they ceased today. I thought this morning that we would have a battle today. They were following us all day yesterday \u0026 drove  in our pickets last night about 10 o'Clock and but from some cause they have stopped. They are reported to be in very heavy force \u0026 moving up in several different columns. They have been rather getting the better of us since we left the Potomac. They have captured a few portion of our wagon train several times and day before yesterday routed Ramseur's Division by bad management on his part. He lost between 4 and 600 men‐ Jim [Ba‐‐‐] was slightly wounded in the shoulder by a spent ball. He was to see me yesterday‐ said he was going back to duty yesterday evening. Gen. Lilley (Bob) was wounded \u0026 captured. This took place two miles below Winchester. Our Division was not on that road. I am much in hopes we will go on back up the Valley and take some rest and get something to eat for I am worn out and half starved for something that is fit to eat. I feel no interest in anything except just so far as I am personally concerned. I am dispirited. I have changed shirts but once since I left Staunton \u0026 some garments I haven't changed at all. I have but one change along but and they are dirty \u0026 I can neither get the chance nor time to get them washed. With all these afflictions I cannot say that I feel well‐ but still I am not sick for I am much better off than a great many others.","We have a report here that Grant is dead‐ hope it may be so‐ but I fear it isn't. I am very anxious to see some papers \u0026 the news.","Did you get my letter to you from Harrisonburg? I wrote to you from there and asked an old Gentleman standing on the street to mail it for me which he promised to do. This is a gloomy evening‐ just suits my feelings. Write me at once a long letter about everything. Give me the news. Tell me about everything and everybody. I hope we will soon get back up the Valley when I will try \u0026 come see you. We may more any way though. There is no telling. Give my very best to all. Tell Effie that I understand \"Uncle Davy Jamison\" is along with this army \u0026 I am on the look out for him. Write me very soon. May  God ever Bless you and the kind friends of Mt. Solon will ever be the prayer of\nYour devoted Brother,\nJames‐","Direct to 23 Va. Battalion, Echols' Brigade, Breckinridge's Div., Army of the Valley \n(I have no stamps\u0026 it is impossible to get any here)","[letter continues on the top of Page 1]\nIf we fight the enemy here or anywhere be assured they will get licked. We had a fight with them at Snickers Ferry on the 18th \u0026 whipped them badly. Our loss as heavy as theirs‐ Rode's Div. done the principal fighting.","Near Martinsburg Va. \nJuly 27, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nGod has again made us victorious. The day after the fight I wrote you from Strasburg we moved down and attacked the enemy about 7 miles above Winchester and completely routed him. We from them with infantry and Artillery some two or three miles this side of Winchester when night came on \u0026 we (the Infantry) halted \u0026 the Cavalry pursued them much farther. The next day we remained in camp (waiting for rations) until about 4 o'clock, when we moved down \u0026 camped near Bunkers Hill \u0026 yesterday moved to this place. The enemy largely outnumbered us but we whipped them with the greatest greatest ease routing him. They burned a large number of their wagons‐ say 75‐ \u0026 blew up some caissons threw away a large number of arms, knapsacks \u0026 haversacks \u0026 everything that would impede this progress. Gen. Mulligan was mortally wounded \u0026 fell into our hands. Our loss was very slight‐ also that of the enemy. They came here \u0026 retreated towards Williamsport.","I am beginning to think that there certainly must be some Providential interference in regard to myself or perhaps it may be the prayers of my friends. I feel that there is certainly something‐ I cannot (lead?) a charmed life? I have felt this more strongly the other day than ever before. Perhaps it was because I realized my situation more fully than before.","Where we will go from here I cannot tell. There are several conjectures‐ among them are 1st that we will go on a trip to the North West by the way of Cumberland, Md. to Wheeling. 2nd that we will make the trip without crossing the river. 3rd that we will go back up the valley. I am in favor of some place where rest can be found‐ but if we can do anything by taking the trip to N.W. Va. I am in as long as I am able to put one foot before the other. I feel bully today. I am full up to the guzzle for once. We have had hard times in the eating line in the last ten days. I have drank so much coffee today that I am so nervous I can scarcely write. Being full of coffee \u0026 bread \u0026 meat I now long for some good smoking tobacco which is as scarce as hens teeth down here and scarcer too. I have some Yankee letters for your perusal. If we do will send them to you if I have an opportunity. Will send you a sample in this. She is a good writer but I think is flirting with him. I also send a picture which I think is hers‐ am not sure for there were several pictures captured together‐ but she speaks in one of the letters of a recent date of sending a picture to him \u0026 as this was the newest looking one of the lot, I take it for hers. Isn't she loving‐?  Derrick got a letter in which I got a message from Mrs. Lewis that Jimmy Sprout, Ginny's oldest boy died a week ago. All this you have heard. I am anxious for a letter from you. Write often twice a week. I may get them. Give my best love to all. Pray for me and be a good Christian May that God will ever bless you and the dear friends in Solon is the heartfelt devoted desire of my heart. \nEver my precious sister \nYour devoted Bro,\nJames","[end of letter continues on tops of other pages]\nI want a Junebug or Dulcinea. The wounded of the last has healed. The bullet is still there. My heart is lonely. I have \"no one to love me‐ none to caress\". Col. [Barton?] speaks of going to Mt. Solon shortly. If he does will write by him. Remember me very kindly to \"Bro. Sam\".","[On back of envelope] \nI have no stamps. Saw Mr. Brown \u0026 Geo. G. the day before yesterday. They were well. M. is with his Co.","Near Winchester, Va.\nAug 18th 1864","My Dear Sister;\nAgain we are on the move forward down the Valley. We marched from Strasburg here yesterday \u0026 attacked the enemy here \u0026 drove him beyond the town. They fell back from our front at Strasburg night before last‐ caused by a flank movement of Gen. Anderson with two Divs. of Longstreet's Corps \u0026 Fitz‐Lee's Cav. Div. We fought here only a Brig. of Infantry \u0026 a large force of Cav. , their main force having gone towards Berryville. They certainly have a very large force‐ say 35 or 40 thousand.  Our loss here heavy in comparison to that of the enemy. I lost my Sergt. Major badly wounded leg amputated. The fifth one I have had since I have been with this Battl. I again have great cause to thank God that I am again spared. Pray for me still. I suppose we will move on towards Martinsburg again \u0026 may cross the river \"if we can\".","I would like to send you some money to \"splurge on\" if I have an opportunity. If you can get it then do so \u0026 when I come I will give or send it to you by the first opportunity. I don't want you to sit down in Mt. Solon \u0026 nurse your hands. I want you fly around \u0026 enjoy yourself with your associates. While they are taking pleasure excursions, I don't want you to remain behind. For funds as long as I have any I have plenty for you to enjoy yourself with. I want you to see something of the world. Be very choise[sic] of your associates, both ladies and gents‐ especially the latter‐ avoid forward nor too intimate on short acquaintance, rather be hard to cultivate‐ don't show your likes or dislikes too much, cover them as much as possible‐ altogether if you [can]. I have not time to answer your last letter. I wrote Mr. Paul to get me a n‐‐‐‐‐. I hope he will. I am greatly in need of one. I have no further news to write you now. Go to see Maj. Yancey if you can and enjoy yourself. Visit all you can so it ain't too much. I don't know the name of the girl that wrote the letters more than \"Recca\" or \"Pet\". The feller's name is Cassius L. Mather 23rd O.R. I don't think he was killed. Give my best love to all, write me very often. Write long letters. The reason I want the small pistol sent to Uncle J. is that he asked me to leave one of them with him. He has the large one now \u0026 will keep it until I can get a belt. Good bye my dear sister. May God Bless you. Pray for me.\nYour devoted Bro. \nJames","Camp 6 miles below W.Chester [Winchester]\nSept. 14th, 1864","My Dear Sister,\nI have been looking for more than a week for a letter from both you \u0026 Mr. Paul but have not re'ced either. What has he done about getting me a boy. I am here with no one to do anything for me- living worse than a negro. The man that I had to cook a little for me was discharged today \u0026 I am in a sweet fix. Ask Uncle Paul to get me anyone he can for any price for a short time. I must have some body or I'll leave here. I am not well- haven't been for more than a week, suffering dreadfully with rheumatism \u0026 headache. Ask Uncle Paul for God sake to get me someone and start him right off. I am dirty filthy lousy \u0026 sick. Got no clothes, no nothing.\nWrite me at once.\nYour affect. Bro\nJames","Officer's Prison Fort Delaware\nSept. 30th, 1864","My Darling Sister,\nI can imagine what your anxiety for me has been and hasten to avail myself of the only opportunity (and I fear an uncertain one). I have to inform you of my whereabouts and safety. I hope though that you have gotten one at least of the four or five letters I wrote and left in Va. to be sent to you. I was brought here on 27th inst. in company with the 184 other officers from our army- 125 of which were captured the same time I was and belonging mostly to our Div. Our Brigade being left back to support the Cav. was entirely cut off and surrounded and nothing was left us but to surrender. It might have been worse and I thank God it is not.  Write me about my horse. Tell Mr. Paul that I would like to have the name of some of his friends here (in the North) to whom I can apply for pecuniary assistance. I write to him today. I would like for any of our friends to do me a like favor. I am well. Give my best love to all my friends \u0026 relatives. Write me very soon and be sure to give me the name of some one to whom I can look for assistance. I will give more instructions in Mr. P's letter.\nYour devoted Brother\nJames","Direct to:\nAdjt. J. A. H.\nPrisoner of War, 23rd Batt. Va. Inftry.\nDiv. No. 33 Fort Delaware, Del.\nVia Flag of truce","Officers Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 1st, 1864","My darling Sister:\nAnother week has gone and still no tidings from you. O Heavens the anxiety of suspense! I cannot estimate what a letter from you would be worth to me now. You certainly have rece'd one or more of the letters I have written you from here and I cannot see why it is I have not rece'd at least one from you if you followed my directions. As I told you in my last I will try to make it convenient to write once a week. You write at least that. Adjt. [Sydenstricker] who left here shortly after we got here for exchange promised to write you all about me from Richmond. Also Col. Edgar \u0026 Capt. Marshall who left only a few days ago. Answer all of my questions in my former letters in two or three successive letters so that I may be more likely to see them. Don't forget my horse and the references. I am still enjoying good health and doing as well generally as could be expected under the circumstances. I have found several persons in the month who have befriended me. Write me often. Give my best love to all in Mt. Solon, also to Miss N - at Churchville- also Uncle J. \u0026 family. Jim Burn is here as well- so is John Hanna. Good bye. I sent you some stamps in my last. May God Bless you my dear darling sister.\nEver your devoted Bro","Officer's Prison, Fort Delaware\nNovember 9th 1864","My precious Sister:\nI certainly expected to get a reply to some of my former letters by the last flag of truce boat - but was again disappointed. Why is this? Certainly you have written? I have written you some four or five letters from here - three in as many weeks- but not one word have I heard to quiet my anxiety- which is very great. I do not know why it is- others receive letters from the South- why wouldn't I? Write me every few days until I hear from you \u0026 as I told you in some of my former letters, if you cannot get U.S. postage stamps enclose to Col. Ould \u0026 I can pay it here- but get them if you can. Perhaps Mrs. Mary Lewis (was McFarland) can inform you how to obtain them. Don't fail to send me the names of those to whom I can apply for assistance. I explained all this in my former letters. Tell me about my horse, etc. Have inserted in Rich. [?], requesting New York Daily News to copy, a personal for me, giving me the information I want. Get the address I want from Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul or if they cannot give them, they can probably get some one to do it who can. Maj. McCue for instance. They can insert a personal as above to the parties requesting them to supply me. Make use of every expedient to let me hear from you. I am nearly crazy to do as I think Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Uncle Paul can certainly give me the information so badly needed. Be sure to write often. I shall be utterly miserable until I hear from you. Give my best love to all in Solon \u0026 at Uncle J's \u0026 all enquiring friends. Jim [Burns or Beam?] is here \u0026 well. Write to Mollie. Jim McFarland also here \u0026 well. Have you rece'd my letters from Winchester? May God Bless you ever, my darling sister.\nYour ever devoted Bro.\nJames","Walnut Grove\nTuesday morning","My darling Sister:\nIt was my intention to start to see you today but both Uncle Jimmy \u0026 Aunt Mint think it best for me to remain and not undertake the trip too soon. As you may suppose I am very weak \u0026 could not so all the way to Mt. Solon in one day if I were to start now. My health is tolerable. Rest assured that I will come just as soon as possible. My anxiety to see you cannot be expressed. Give my best love to all. I arrived here Saturday night. I send this by Mr. Goodman who goes to Staunton after his daughter. Good Bye until we meet up- will I hope be very soon.\nYour fond \u0026 devoted Bro.\nJames"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames A. Harden papers, 1860-1866. MS-0476. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James A. Harden papers, 1860-1866. MS-0476. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026amp; were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026amp; they are in fine spirits.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The bulk of the collection consists of letters written by James A. Harden to his sister, covering wartime events experienced by his unit as well as his time at Ft. Delaware, Delaware. The collection also includes one letter (dated June 6, 1861) written while Harden was at VMI and other items.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards arrival at VMI and daily life as a cadet.","Written from Camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia. Letter discusses the importance of military schools that \"will serve as a nucleus around which to build up a Southern Army.\"","Written from \"Camp at Rich Hill on Big Sewell Mountain,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in the 36th Virginia Infantry Regiment, including troop movements and enemy locations.","Written from \"Camp near Manassas,\" Virginia. Letter regards daily life in camp.","Written from camp in Giles County, Virginia. Note explains that they have \"had a desperate fight. We fought four to one \u0026 were whipped very badly-looking for reinforcements.\"","Written from camp near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Letter regards heavy losses in battle, a \"visit to the Yankees,\" and family news.","Written from \"Camp near Lewisburg.\" Letter regards troop movements to avoid the enemy, James A. Harden's health, and a potential visit at the end of the month.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards troop movement to meet General Robert E. Lee's army.","Written from headquarters, 23rd Virginia Battalion. Letter mentions that James A. Harden is \"right side up with care\" and that they \"have plenty of men \u0026 they are in fine spirits.\"","Written from \"Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill,\" Virginia.  Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.","Written from near Strasburg, Virginia. Letter regards a fight at Snickers Ferry, Virginia on July 18, 1864 and a decline in mood.","Written from \"near\" Martinsburg, Virginia. Letter regards current troop movements, engagement with the enemy, and personal matters.","Written from \"near\" Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards recent engagement with the enemy, desire to send money home, and personal matters.","Written from camp \"6 miles below Winchester,\" Virginia. Letter regards loss of a cook and James A. Harden's poor health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards capture and transfer to Fort Delaware.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards life in prison and health.","Written from \"Officer's Prison Fort Delaware,\" Delaware. Letter regards disappointment in not receiving letters from family and family matters.","Written from Walnut Grove. Letter regards release from Fort Delaware, Delaware and the hope to travel home soon.","Letter confirms that James A. Harden is a prisoner at Fort Delaware, Delaware."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_81f984174fa2507dfcea3bda3e994bec\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Harden, James A. (James Abel), 1841-1927","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Hardin, Daniel M. (Daniel Madison), 1813-1887"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":25,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_556"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"James E. Witt letter, 1865","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War. \u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_557.xml","title_ssm":["James E. Witt letter"],"title_tesim":["James E. Witt letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865 February 8"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865 February 8"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"text":["James E. Witt letter, 1865","MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","James Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia.","This collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War.","The letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames E. Witt letter, 1865. MS 0477. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865. MS 0477. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War.","The letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_4a3a77d48b567ed6523575ca7ab7f8c9\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_557.xml","title_ssm":["James E. Witt letter"],"title_tesim":["James E. Witt letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1865 February 8"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1865 February 8"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1865"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"text":["James E. Witt letter, 1865","MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","James Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia.","This collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War.","The letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"collection_ssim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0477","/repositories/3/resources/557"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1865],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Etchison Witt was born in 1845 in Bedford County, Virginia. He graduated from VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he was a teacher. Witt died in 1936 in Lynchburg, Virginia."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames E. Witt letter, 1865. MS 0477. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James E. Witt letter, 1865. MS 0477. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated February 8, 1865) from New Market Cadet James E. Witt (Class of 1867). Witt had just resigned his cadetship in order to join the Confederate Army during what turned out to be the last weeks of the Civil War.","The letter was written from VMI headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond, Virginia. The letter is addressed to \"Dear Miss\" [Fannie, last name unknown] is largely personal in nature, involving his relationship with the young woman. The letter also mentions the resignation of large numbers of cadets who were trying to join the army."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_4a3a77d48b567ed6523575ca7ab7f8c9\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Witt, James E. (James Etchison), 1845-1936"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":0,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_557"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862/1867"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"text":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867","MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \nonline.","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I.\nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write.\nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa\nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain,\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\nHenry","Camp Carter's Station\nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \nonline."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I.\nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write.\nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa\nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain,\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\nHenry","Camp Carter's Station\nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862/1867"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"text":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867","MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \nonline.","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I.\nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write.\nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa\nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain,\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\nHenry","Camp Carter's Station\nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862/1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \nonline."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I.\nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write.\nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa\nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain,\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\nYour affectionate son\nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\nHenry","Camp Carter's Station\nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613"}}],"included":[{"type":"facet","id":"repository_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Repository","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","value":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","hits":167},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/repository_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"collection_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Collection","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Alfred R. Gibbons letter, 1863","value":"Alfred R. Gibbons letter, 1863","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Alfred+R.+Gibbons+letter%2C+1863\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers, 1860/1993","value":"Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers, 1860/1993","hits":19},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Andrew+C.+L.+Gatewood+papers%2C+1860%2F1993\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Andrew Pizzini, Jr. Civil War parole document, 1865","value":"Andrew Pizzini, Jr. Civil War parole document, 1865","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Andrew+Pizzini%2C+Jr.+Civil+War+parole+document%2C+1865\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton family papers, 1855/1869","value":"Barton family papers, 1855/1869","hits":3},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Barton+family+papers%2C+1855%2F1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Carlton B. Shafer correspondence, 1860/1865","value":"Carlton B. Shafer correspondence, 1860/1865","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Carlton+B.+Shafer+correspondence%2C+1860%2F1865\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Charles B. Hundley cadet account book, 1864/1865","value":"Charles B. Hundley cadet account book, 1864/1865","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Charles+B.+Hundley+cadet+account+book%2C+1864%2F1865\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Charles T. Haigh papers, 1862/1864","value":"Charles T. Haigh papers, 1862/1864","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Charles+T.+Haigh+papers%2C+1862%2F1864\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Edmund Berkeley letter, 1863","value":"Edmund Berkeley letter, 1863","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Edmund+Berkeley+letter%2C+1863\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Edward M. Watson letter, 1868","value":"Edward M. Watson letter, 1868","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Edward+M.+Watson+letter%2C+1868\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876","value":"Francis B. Clark collection, 1866/1876","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Francis+B.+Clark+collection%2C+1866%2F1876\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865","value":"Francis S. Johnson letter of recommendation, 1865","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Francis+S.+Johnson+letter+of+recommendation%2C+1865\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/collection_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"date_range_isim","attributes":{"label":"Date range","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"1855","value":"1855","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1855\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1856","value":"1856","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1856\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1857","value":"1857","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1857\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1858","value":"1858","hits":3},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1858\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1859","value":"1859","hits":5},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1859\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1860","value":"1860","hits":21},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1860\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1861","value":"1861","hits":27},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1861\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1862","value":"1862","hits":62},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1862\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1863","value":"1863","hits":49},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1863\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1864","value":"1864","hits":42},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1864\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"1865","value":"1865","hits":29},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1865\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/date_range_isim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"creator_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Creator","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Atwill, Samuel F. (Samuel Francis), 1846-1864","value":"Atwill, Samuel F. (Samuel Francis), 1846-1864","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Atwill%2C+Samuel+F.+%28Samuel+Francis%29%2C+1846-1864\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Bagnall, John S. (John Seldon), 1844-1922","value":"Bagnall, John S. (John Seldon), 1844-1922","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Bagnall%2C+John+S.+%28John+Seldon%29%2C+1844-1922\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","value":"Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Baldwin%2C+Briscoe+G.+%28Briscoe+Gerard%29%2C+1828-1898\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","value":"Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Bolling+W.+%28Bolling+Walter%29%2C+1845-1924\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","value":"Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Charles+M.+%28Charles+Marshall%29%2C+1836-1862\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","value":"Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Randolph+J.%2C+1844-1921\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","value":"Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Berkeley%2C+Edmund%2C+1847-1906\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Beverley, John H. C. (John Hill Carter), 1853-1934","value":"Beverley, John H. C. (John Hill Carter), 1853-1934","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Beverley%2C+John+H.+C.+%28John+Hill+Carter%29%2C+1853-1934\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Black, William Johnson, 1845-1935","value":"Black, William Johnson, 1845-1935","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Black%2C+William+Johnson%2C+1845-1935\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Brannon, John, 1822-1901","value":"Brannon, John, 1822-1901","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Brannon%2C+John%2C+1822-1901\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Breedlove, James W. (James Winchester), 1843-1889","value":"Breedlove, James W. (James Winchester), 1843-1889","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bcreators%5D%5B%5D=Breedlove%2C+James+W.+%28James+Winchester%29%2C+1843-1889\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/creator_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"names_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Names","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Arnold, Laura Ann Jackson, 1826-1911","value":"Arnold, Laura Ann Jackson, 1826-1911","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Arnold%2C+Laura+Ann+Jackson%2C+1826-1911\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Atwill, Samuel F. (Samuel Francis), 1846-1864","value":"Atwill, Samuel F. (Samuel Francis), 1846-1864","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Atwill%2C+Samuel+F.+%28Samuel+Francis%29%2C+1846-1864\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Bagnall, John S. (John Seldon), 1844-1922","value":"Bagnall, John S. (John Seldon), 1844-1922","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Bagnall%2C+John+S.+%28John+Seldon%29%2C+1844-1922\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","value":"Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Baldwin%2C+Briscoe+G.+%28Briscoe+Gerard%29%2C+1828-1898\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton family","value":"Barton family","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Barton+family\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","value":"Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Bolling+W.+%28Bolling+Walter%29%2C+1845-1924\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","value":"Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Charles+M.+%28Charles+Marshall%29%2C+1836-1862\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","value":"Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Barton%2C+Randolph+J.%2C+1844-1921\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","value":"Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Berkeley%2C+Edmund%2C+1847-1906\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Beverley, John H. C. (John Hill Carter), 1853-1934","value":"Beverley, John H. C. (John Hill Carter), 1853-1934","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Beverley%2C+John+H.+C.+%28John+Hill+Carter%29%2C+1853-1934\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Black, William Johnson, 1845-1935","value":"Black, William Johnson, 1845-1935","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bnames%5D%5B%5D=Black%2C+William+Johnson%2C+1845-1935\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/names_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"geogname_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Places","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Culpeper County (Va.)","value":"Culpeper County (Va.)","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bplaces%5D%5B%5D=Culpeper+County+%28Va.%29\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Currituck County (N.C.)","value":"Currituck County (N.C.)","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bplaces%5D%5B%5D=Currituck+County+%28N.C.%29\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Fort Delaware (Del.)","value":"Fort Delaware (Del.)","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bplaces%5D%5B%5D=Fort+Delaware+%28Del.%29\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Poetry","value":"United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Poetry","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Bplaces%5D%5B%5D=United+States+--+History+--+Civil+War%2C+1861-1865+--+Poetry\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/geogname_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"access_subjects_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Subjects","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Academic records","value":"Academic records","hits":4},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Academic+records\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Account Books","value":"Account Books","hits":7},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Account+Books\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Baseball","value":"Baseball","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Baseball\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Books","value":"Books","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Books\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Broadsides (notices)","value":"Broadsides (notices)","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Broadsides+%28notices%29\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Bull Run, 2nd Battle of, Va., 1862","value":"Bull Run, 2nd Battle of, Va., 1862","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Bull+Run%2C+2nd+Battle+of%2C+Va.%2C+1862\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Cedar Creek, Battle of, Va., 1864","value":"Cedar Creek, Battle of, Va., 1864","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Cedar+Creek%2C+Battle+of%2C+Va.%2C+1864\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Circular letters","value":"Circular letters","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Circular+letters\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Clippings","value":"Clippings","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Clippings\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Commencement ceremonies","value":"Commencement ceremonies","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Commencement+ceremonies\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Confederate States of America. Army—Corps of Engineers","value":"Confederate States of America. Army—Corps of Engineers","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Confederate+States+of+America.+Army%E2%80%94Corps+of+Engineers\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/access_subjects_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"facet","id":"level_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Level","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Collection","value":"Collection","hits":56},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=Collection\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"File","value":"File","hits":2},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=File\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Item","value":"Item","hits":108},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=Item\u0026view=compact"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Series","value":"Series","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=Series\u0026view=compact"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/level_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"all_fields","attributes":{"label":"All Fields"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=all_fields\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"keyword","attributes":{"label":"Keyword"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=keyword\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"name","attributes":{"label":"Name"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=name\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"place","attributes":{"label":"Place"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=place\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"subject","attributes":{"label":"Subject"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=subject\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"title","attributes":{"label":"Title"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=title\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"container","attributes":{"label":"Container"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=container\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"search_field","id":"identifier","attributes":{"label":"Identifier"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026search_field=identifier\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"score desc, title_sort asc","attributes":{"label":"relevance"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=score+desc%2C+title_sort+asc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"date_sort asc","attributes":{"label":"date (ascending)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=date_sort+asc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"date_sort desc","attributes":{"label":"date (descending)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=date_sort+desc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"creator_sort asc","attributes":{"label":"creator (A-Z)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=creator_sort+asc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"creator_sort desc","attributes":{"label":"creator (Z-A)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=creator_sort+desc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"title_sort asc","attributes":{"label":"title (A-Z)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=title_sort+asc\u0026view=compact"}},{"type":"sort","id":"title_sort desc","attributes":{"label":"title (Z-A)"},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Cadet+life%E2%80%941860-1869\u0026page=3\u0026sort=title_sort+desc\u0026view=compact"}}]}