These two documents relate to the discharge of Private Ray W. Porter of Company A, 83^rd Pennsylvania Infantry.

The first document is headed “CERTIFICATE TO BE GIVEN TO VOLUNTEERS AT THE TIME OF THEIR DISCHARGE TO ENABLE THEM TO RECEIVE THEIR PAY.” The document is pre-printed and filled out in strong period ink. It meas. approx. 8.25 x 11.75 inches. There are two vertical and two hard to see horizontal fold lines. Bottom of document has three-cornered tear. This document states that Private Porter is being discharged for disability at Tunstalls Station, Va. on May 20, 1862. Document is signed by D. P. Siegler as Company Commander.

The second document ids a “FORM 5” document detailing Private Porters pay. This is also pre-printed and filled in with legible ink. Document meas. approx. 7.75 x 10.00 inches and is in good condition.

Ray W. Porter listed his residence as Crawford County, Pennsylvania though he was born in Oneida County, New York. He stood 5’ 7” tall with a dark complexion, gray eyes and dark hair when he enlisted as a Private in Company A, 83^rd Pennsylvania on August 21, 1861. Porter was discharged for disability on May 20, 1862 before his regiment began active campaigning. It is known that after the war he moved to Clackamas County, Oregon where he died on February 12, 1918 and is buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Oregon City.

The 83^rd Pennsylvania spent most of its service in the 5^th Corps and is known for its hard fighting on Little Round Top where it stood next to the 20^th Maine.

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