Abstract:
In this Civil War letter dated January 4th, 1863, the author, stationed at Camp Young, informs his wife Mary about his well-being. He shares the recent movements of his regiment, describing their journey from Wilmington to Kingsville and back, covering over twelve hundred miles, enduring extreme cold and lack of sleep and food. He mentions several soldiers who fell sick and describes the harsh conditions they faced during their travels. The author expresses his desire to have some personal belongings returned, including a mattress, bed cover, and sword. He asks Mary to send iron shoe heels, vial oil, and a carpet bag, and offers to pay the freight charges. The author discusses food shortages, the abundance of salt, and fluctuating prices for various goods. He inquires about potatoes and peanuts, suggesting he could sell the latter at a higher price in his location. The letter ends with the author expressing his hope for better times and the prospect of receiving a letter from Mary soon.
Description:
Knight, William W., Letter to Mary Knight. January 4, 1863. William Knight Letters, Box 1, Folder 3, Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections. 1 PDF document and scans, 3 pages. Includes transcript.