Dated “Willard’s Hotel, Washington D.C. Aug 12 ’63.” Single note sized page, in ink, measuring 6.5 x 4.75”. Exhibits fold-marks and lines, w/archival taping on the reverse. Else VG and entirely legible. In protective plastic case. Text:

“Guards and Patrols will pass A.P. Henson Hosp’l Steward 16 Mass. Vols. who is on his way from the Hospital in Gettysburg, where he was detailed on duty, through Washington until Aug. 13 P.M. / [Signed] C.C. Jewett, Surg. 16 Mass.”

Surgeon Charles C. Jewett, a resident of Holliston, MA, was commissioned into Field & Staff, 16^th Mass. Infantry on 8/5/1861, and mustered out 7/24/1864. Private Archibald P. Henson, a resident of Waltham Ma, was a 19 year watchmaker, mustered into Co. “H”, 16^th Mass. Infantry, 6/29/1861, and mustered out 7/27/1864. The 16^th Mass. Infantry was mustered at Cambridge, June 1861. This unit served Dept. of VA. garrison duty before joining the Army of the Potomac at the Battle of Fair Oaks, VA, in June 1862. From then on it participated in most of the major engagements of the AOP through the Siege of Petersburg in the summer of 1864, mustering out July 27, 1864. During service the regiment lost 150 men killed and wounded at 95 by disease for a total of 245.

At Gettysburg, on the afternoon of July 2^nd, the 16^th Massachusetts was positioned among Sickles’ 3^rd Corps regiments near the Peach Orchard, at the outset of Longstreet’s attack, which cost the regiment 81 casualties [out of 307 effectives]. Medically speaking, Surgeon Jewett and hospital steward Henson their hands full in the wake of the battle. Splendid 16^th Mass/Gettysburg collectible. Invites further research.

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