AUG. 1862 UNION SOLDIER LETTER - PRIVATE HENRY L. COOLEY, CO. “C”. 2ND VERMONT INFANTRY

$40.00 SOLD

Quantity Available: None

Item Code: 2021-96

Dated “Near Alexandria / Camp California Aug. 28 /62.” Addressed to: “Dear Parents.” 3 pp. in ink on unlined paper, 5” x 8. Exhibits fold-marks, lower part of page three snipped off following Cooley’s farewell signature. Else VG.

Henry Cooley was a resident of Brattleboro, Vermont, mustered as a private into Co. “C”, 2nd Vermont Infantry, 6/21/1861, who died of disease, 1/11/ 1863. His 2nd Vermont was mustered in Burlington in June 1861 and following the first Battle of Bull Run present at nearly all major battles of the Army of the Potomac [including Gettysburg, where it was engaged in repelling Picket’s Charge]. Mustered out July 15, 1865, the 2nd VT lost during service 224 men killed or mortally wounded and 175 by disease for a total of 399.

In this letter, Private Cooley explains his silence of the last several week, blaming it on the loss a knapsack containing his writing materials, and writes of his expectation of joining General Pope’s Army of Virginia following the collapse of McClellan’s 1862 Campaign. As follows:

“I don not write very often…my paper and stuff was sent off in my knapsack a long time before we left Harrison’s Landing and we have not seen them since. We have had a pretty busy time lately. I have been about sick for two weeks back but have been on duty all the [time]…I expect we shall join Pope. I have seen Burt Pealer to day. I hear bob Sims is getting up a company it will be as good a company as has left B [urlington]…

I want father to send me $20 just as quick as he can. Write back and I will send him $60 next pay day…I keep $25 in my pocket all the time. Send it in a week if you can…From your son”

Solid 2nd Vermont collectible. In protective sleeve.  [JP] [ph:L]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

CLICK HERE FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS.

THANK YOU!

Inquire About AUG. 1862 UNION SOLDIER LETTER - PRIVATE HENRY L. COOLEY, CO. “C”. 2ND VERMONT INFANTRY

For inquiries, please email us at [email protected]

featured item

“REMEMBER THE MAINE!” U.S.S. MAINE DECORATED “GOING ASHORE” NAVY FLAT CAP

There was a long tradition in the U.S. Navy of the men decorating their uniforms with colorful embroidery, both to occupy idle hours on shipboard and in hopes of attracting some attention when on shore. The designs might be concealable and not be… (1219-44). Learn More »

Upcoming Events

29
Mar

April 13-14: Spring Gettysburg Military Antiques Show Learn More »

Instagram