6 page letter in ink, dated "Warrenton Junction Va / Sept. 5, 1863". Housed in a modern, two sided frame measuring 15 3/4" x 24 3/4". Excellent condition, clean and undamaged.

This somewhat lengthy letter addressed to his "Friends" provides interesting insight into the Civil War Conscription Act, which legalized the method of hiring a substitute to take one's place, or paying the government $300 as commutation of service, in the event that you were drafted. This practice became the prerogative of only the unusually well-to-do.

As a soldier, Sgt. Skinner has taken exception to conscription practices. He states, "I am not exactly satisfied with either the Conscription Act or the way it is enforced...I wish the $300 clause was stricken out...I think we might have more men in the field...by volunteering that we are getting by Conscription...it is men, not money, which the country wants."

James A. Skinner was 21 years old when he enlisted on 9/30/61 at Baldwinsville, NY as a private. On 10/1/61 he mustered into Battery B, 1st NY Light Artillery. Promoted to Corporal (date not given), Qtr Master SGt. (date not given), and 2nd Lieut. on 8/11/64 (declined commission). Mustered out on 9/30/64 at Petersburg, VA.