2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
Fascinating war-date ink inscribed Union soldier’s 4pp. 8vo. letter written, on red, white, and blue patriotic letterhead showing an eagle and shield with a patriotic poem printed as the caption, by Pvt. Newton S. Bowns, Co. I, 5th Conn. Vols. Clear Springs, Md., Dec. 21, 1861 concerning fighting the Confederates near Dam No. 5, Md., in part: “…we left Frederick on the16th via Boons Burrow and to Williamsport, a distance of 16 miles. Our feet were very sore and lame after marching with knapsacks of about 40 lbs...started for Dam No. 5 and I went down to the river where the balls were flying over our heads like bumble bees. Some of our men with the Captain of the artillery went across the river and set the mill on fire. There was a house caught fire from the mill. This started the Rebels from the spot to a place about one mile above, where the river was very narrow and would fire then call out you cowards, you thieves, you sons of bitches, you cant ever conquer us for both God and the Devil is against you. They seem to be well clothed, well fed and very cheerful…we stayed there until…the 20th, went as far as Clear Spring, stayed there until…the 22nd then went to Hancock where we now are. We expect to cross the river tomorrow...Please excuse all mistakes for there is 20 men in this tent. You can judge what kind of a place it is to write...”. it is interesting to note that famous gun manufacturer Samuel Colt first organized Bowan’s regiment. Bowns served faithfully throughout the war. Seeing action at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and Kennesaw Mountain. Light soiling, else very good.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.