7th Indiana Infantry - NEW

Item LTR-11844

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages, written in period ink.


Camp near Culpeper
September 20^th 1863
 
Dear Brother,
 
That's where I embraced my pen in hand to drop you a few lines in answer to yours of last evening. It found me well, hoping when these few lines reach you, they may find you all well.
 
Well, P, I haven't much to write to you this time, as there has been nothing transpired worthy of note. Therefore, you cannot expect much of a letter, but I will try and do the best I can.
 
We have moved our camp from where we were encamped on the Rappahannock. The Rebs all left and we had to follow up. Our cavalry crossed this day one week ago and drove their pickets to the Rapidan, about 12 miles beyond Culpeper. They hold the south side of the river and we the other. There has been a considerable bit of skirmishing across the river since we have moved, but it is all quiet now. We have gone into regular camp again, but how long we will remain, I am not able to say. But not long, I don't expect. So this is enough on this subject.
 
Well, P, I suppose you have heard the news that Pap has married again. I was rather astonished when I heard it, but I suppose it is better for both of them. I am not caring for my part, I am a soldier now and don't care what they do. But you must remember that when old G.W. returns home, they will have to stand back and give me a sight sure, for if they don't, I will raise them one. 
 
By the way, P, how is the fair damsels getting along in your part of the country? Do they need hugging? If they do, just tell them to wait till the old seventh gets home and they shan't be slighted.  We are wearing our last year away, and if we all have good luck, we will be with you all again. 
 
No more, write soon and oblige your brother, 
 
G.W. Sefton