Raynors HCA 2016-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/17/2016
War-date Union soldier's letter, 3 1/2pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. George S. Youngs, [POW Harper's Ferry, Va., 9/15/62], Co. G, 126th New York Vols., "Camp of the 126th N. Y. V. Centreville, [Va.], May 28, 1863", in part: "…the Regt is gradually attaining a tolerable state of discipline, but we might have been better drilled…before we went to Harpers Ferry than we ever will be now…the boys have become indifferent and careless and before we went to Chicago they dared not be so…there are some who take pride in drilling well but there are enough in every Co. who do not [and] discourage those who do, but all are obliged to toe the mark at guard mounting and dress parade. Then the clothes must be brushed clean, buttons scoured, boots blacked, brass on cartridge boxes and belts scoured, guns and bayonet shining like silver and everything in band box order…then if a fellow stirs hand, foot or body until it is over he will pass the night in the guard house or if there is a button missing from his coat the same fate awaits him…the 39th passed through our camp all singing and all keeping perfect step to the music. There is a great many splendid singers in that Regt…there is one Co. of Italians, two of Germans and every time they get a little beer they can be heard singing all over the brigade. They were just returning from a scout…[with] a few cavalry with the Gen. It was said that a cavalry raid was anticipated. The camp guard was doubled and the picket line was strengthened…George S. Youngs." The original stamped transmittal cover is included. Minor soiling, else VG.
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