The letter below is one of a series of 27 letters written by Colonel Dyer to his wife between August 31, 1862 and August 11, 1865.

A resident of Skowegan, ME, 42-year-old Captain Isaac Dyer was placed in command of the 15th Maine in August 1862 and received his appointment to replace Colonel Worder in September--his appointment to Lt. Colonel (and eventually Colonel) being made official, Dec. 12, 1862.  He then commanded the unit through the remainder of the war, and received a Brigadier’s Brevet for meritorious service, March 13, 1865. Resigning from service, Sept. 13, 1865, he returned to Skowegan, lived to age 92 and was buried there in 1913 and was buried there in 1913. His 15^th Maine served Louisiana & Florida & participating, in the 1864 Red River Campaign, and later in Virginia, and was present at the Bermuda Hundred. During service it lost 5 men killed and mortally wounded and 343 by disease for a total of 348.

Isaac Dyer was a well-educated, highly articulate correspondent and shrewd observer of men and events. In this letter—[Dated  “Monday Morning, April 6 1863”—3 pp.  in ink on lined letterhead, 7 5/8” x 9 5/8”—Exhibits fold-marks & two slight tears along fold-lines, else VG]—writes not as Colonel of the 15^th Maine but as Union Commander of Troops in West Florida, a position he assumed in January 1863, replacing General Dow. It is a teasing, encouraging letter, it appears he is attempting to raise her spirits. Excerpts as follow:

“My Dear Wife  This is to let you know that I am well. I have only a minute to write as I did not know a mail was going out….I am in good spirits, doing well but am ready to start for home the first chance that offers I mean the first time they will let me off.

I don’t expect to see you for many months but perhaps I may sometime this summer…. You must not flatter yourself that I am coming home for I consider it very doubtful.

If government thinks I am of any consequence I shant get of for trusty officers are not very plenty but I am willing to pass for all I am _____ provided I can be allowed to see my family.

Good Courage !

Good Courage !!

Good Courage !!!

Good Courage !!!!

Good Courage !!!!!

Now laugh

Why what makes you so poor your picture looks as though you had not a friend in the world. Go to Saratoga, go to Newport, go anywhere only be cheerful and continue to flesh out a little. Get some whiskey, get some wine & quinine.

Be of good cheer

Be not dismayed

Laugh, Laugh and grow fat…..

Yours as ever,

Isaac

Kiss the baby[?] always

Excellent collectible. Solid letter home from the Colonel of the 15^th Maine Infantry. In protective sleeve.  [JP] [ph:L]

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