Raynors HCA 2015-08
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2015
A good war-date Union soldier's battle letter, 3pp. 8vo., written by Private Edward N. Steers [alias Edwin Angel], Co. F, 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, James Island, [S. C.], June 16, 1862, in part: "…in my last letter I wrote…that we were hourly expecting a battle and this morning it came off. We started on a march about light this morning and marched about three miles on double quick up…the Mark battery that they had [was] awaiting us until we approached within musket shot of them…the battery was giving them grape and canister from all directions. The third R. I. was cut up at a most wonderful rate…still they pressed on with as much courage as ever. The 3 N. H. was also cut up severely. About 4 in the afternoon we retreated in silence and in good order for we had not men enough to contend with them any longer…they were constantly receiving reinforcements from Charleston for it is only five miles [off]…we had a force of 12 thousand but the rebels had the greatest advantage…they were in the thick brush and we march up to them in the open field…you would have wished yourself home had you been in this battle…the damned rebels must be whipped and Charleston must and shall be ours…". The original stamped transmittal cover is included as well as his calling card reading: "Edward N. Steers." Overall VG
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