86th New York Infantry

Item LTR-9411

Description

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


Camp 86th N.Y.V. Vols
August 6th, 1864


Friend Amanda,

I received your welcomed letter last evening. I had just returned from a short march about 5 P.M.. The rebels charged a position of our line held by the 18th Corps. Our Corps (2nd) is on reserve & not knowing but the Rebels would break the line. We were ordered out to support it if necessary. We were not needed. The 18th drove them back. It is reported this morning that plenty of the Rebels were killed. But we don’t know the truth of the affair yet. I don’t think the war will end this year. The position that Lee holds in front of Petersburg is one of the strongest Lee has been in during this campaign. I don’t think Grant will succeed in driving him out by attacking them in front. I think we will have to try some other plan to get him out. I do wish the war would end.

I begin to think I would like to be at home or in some place besides Va. I would like to come home this winter but don’t expect to . Oh, I know you must have enjoyed yourself when George & Martin were at home. I am glad they had such a privilege. No one can tell how happy a soldier is when he gets liberty to go home. I think if I could get the short leave of 15 days this winter, I could come back & stay another year without finding much fault. Capt Vincent is not back yet. He is a noble looking man & just as brave as he looks. I wish every man in the Army was like him. The war would soon end. We expect him back soon as he is able to come. I received a letter from George since he was home. He wrote that he enjoyed himself very much. Please excuse my poor writing. I am not very well & my nerves are quite unsteady. Remember me kindly to all.

Respectfully your friend
John Cottrell
Co D, 86th N.Y. V. V.