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

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