Raynors HCA 2016-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/17/2016
Letter written by John Pugh and signed “John P,” joined the Union Navy in October 1861 and was yeoman aboard the U.S.S. Quaker City, serving in the East Gulf Blockading Squadron, 2pp., US Steamer Quaker City, Off Charleston, February 9, 1863, VG. In part, “I will send you some poetry about the battle between the Rebel rams and our blockading fleet on the morning of 31st January, composed by one of my shipmates ... I suppose you have seen the Rebel account of the fight. They took the Gunboat isaac Smith. .... They put a 9 inch shell into us. And I never want to see the like again. the shell came through the wheel cutting away on of the wrought iron arms...then through the ship’s side, then through two bulkheads ... I think it burst or exploded when it struck the main brace. I was standing about 10 feet from where it came through ...” plus, a two page poem regarding the incident with a headline, “Composed by one of my shipmates on board the USS Quaker City off Charleston, S.C. J.W. Pugh.” The poem is (12) four line stanzas. it provides a very detailed and rythmatic review of the engagement.
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.