Raynors HCA 2015-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/3/2015
A good war-date Union officer's letter, 3pp. 4to., written by Lt. William H. Mickle [WIA Gettysburg, 7/01/63], 134th New York (as staff officer to the chief of artillery 20th Corps), "Hd. Qrs. 20th Corps office Chief of Arty., near Atlanta, Ga., July 19, 1864", in part: "…we have been on the move for two days, have crossed the Chattahochie & are within…four miles of the doomed city-Atlanta. We started from our old encampment on the other side the Chattahoochie…crossed the river & encamped…at a deserted plantation. Yes, deserted save by a pair of worn-out old slaves who were left there to die…yesterday we advanced through Georgia forest about (3)…miles cutting roads, building bridges & having a rough time generally; when moving in the vicinity of the enemy we don't wait for good roads, but "strike a bee line" & through no matter what…today we have been advancing cautiously till we came to Peach Tree Creek & found the enemy in force on the Atlanta side. We may move across the stream yet, but at considerable sacrifice of men. I am writing this at Genl. Howard's Hd. Qr as I had a little business to transactCapt. Kirlin is still with Genl. Howard as mischievous as ever…have they drafted the second time in your county?…I sympathize with Mrs. Thompkins at the death of her noble boy & the wound of her dear patriotic husband…tis evening & I have witnessed the crossing of part of our troops over the Peach Tree Creek. I learned from prisoners that…that Johnston had been relieved & Genl. Hood been placed in command…we are glad of it for Johnston was much superior to Hood consequently we can whip them easier…the left of our army has torn up (5)…miles of the R. Road east of Atlanta & will move upon the other road leading from Atlanta southward…we don't hear much from Grant…but know that he will come out all right…lovingly, William." The original stamped transmittal cover is included. Overall VG to near fine.
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