35th Pennsylvania Infantry - Brevet Brigadier General

Item LTR-11375

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 4 pages, written in period ink.


Camp Curtin
Harrisburg
 
July 9^th 1861
 
Dearest Wife,
 
I now take up pen to inform you that I am well and hoping that when you receive these lines, they may find you enjoying health with the kind blessings of Providence.  I received your kind letter yesterday and was very glad to hear from you and the rest of the family.  I was very glad to hear that Mother was quite well and also the Little Pets.  As I think a great deal every day and night of you, Mother and the pets.  My health has been pretty good since I was at home to see you.  
 
I was on duty from Sunday morning at 8 o’clock until Monday morning at 8 which made just 24 hours and I think it was the hottest time I ever passed.  Our Regiment was called out at 2 o’clock on Sunday afternoon for Inspection when we were drawn up when they were detained about one hour with overcoats and all the clothing they had drawn.  You may imagine the heat they had to endure.  There was some of them that fainted while drawn up in line.  We all expected that we would have to leave but our regiment was to leave but it did not happen.  The 1^st and 2^nd had to go into enemy’s territory on equipment have been handled around moving briskly for some days.  We will, I think, be moved soon.  We have all been wanting to go as soon as could be done.  There is no telling which way we will have to go soon.  There was very strict orders issued on Sunday for not one man to leave the camp for the time but we found out Monday that we would not be moved at that time.  Our men are middling well at this time except Leo Suders.  He has measles but is getting better.  And I think he will be well in a few days. I believe he is the only man that is sick now.  Dr. Van Greise was here last Sunday in Harrisburg.  It is very hot and dry here yet.  
 
I had a letter from Mr. Elder yesterday.  He was well and getting along as well as usual.  He says he will be down here to see me when he is through with his turn.  Which will be in the course of a few days.  Please write soon and let me hear from you as soon as you can.
 
Yours,
 
William Dixon
 
P. S.  I have not heard anything of us going up to Chambersburg for the last few days.