Raynor HCA 2014-04
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2014
A great war-date Union soldier's letter, 4 1/2pp. 8vo., written on patriotic stationery, by Pvt. Robert H. Crist (1829-1912), Co. F, 21st Indiana Vols., [later captain 1st Ind. Hvy. Artillery], Camp Murray, Baltimore, Oct. 16, 1861, included with this letter is a 2pp. 4to. plan of Camp Murray drawn by Pvt. Crist and saved after being sent home, in part: "…we moved our camp about 1/4 mile east…we have a much better camp than before…we had to carry our luggage…we have the impression that we are to remain here sometime…I heard Jeff Davis tell quite a number of them that as soon as the south seceded…France and England, England especially would join with them in maintaining their independence and would…recognize their Confederacy. This England failed to do and probably will not…it leaves the South in a tight place. The was a large mass in the South that demanded a change…and secession was the thing. Many of them enlisted eager to enjoy the fun and participate in the glory…it is fast loosing its novelty, many of them are deserting some going home and many…coming north seeking…protection. They are better fed than most Northern people suppose, but those Gulf state troops cannot stay all winter in Virginia…I will send a picture…of our camp as it was…it looks very natural. The hollow square is on a slope just out side the encampment where we were drilling…we recd our guns last Monday. Our clothes has not come yet. Many of the men's pants need a patch…where it shows…when they stand in the rear rank…the 14th Ind…have ben in service 5 months and have received less clothing than us, they have recd no money. We just recd news of a fight at Harpers Ferry…". Overall all VG to near fine
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