Union Soldier [Charles] Correspondence

Access and use

Location of collection:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Special Collections, University Libraries (0434)
Newman Library
Virginia Tech
P.O. Box 90001
560 Drillfield Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24062-9001
Contact for questions and access:
Phone: (540) 231-6308
Fax: (540) 231-3694
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research.

Terms of access:

The copyright status of this collection is unknown. Copyright restrictions may apply. Contact Special Collections and University Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for personal or research use can be requested using our reproduction/digitization form: http://bit.ly/scuareproduction.

Reproduction or digitization of materials for publication or exhibit use can be requested using our publication/exhibition form: http://bit.ly/scuapublication. Please contact Special Collections and University Archives (specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.

Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Union Soldier [Charles] Correspondence, 1861-1864, Ms2023-016, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Summary

Extent:
0.1 Cubic Feet 1 folder
Creator:
Charles (Union Army soldier)
Abstract:
This collection contains the correspondence of a Union soldier named Charles and comprises twelve letters dating from September 22, 1861, through July 4, 1864, that discuss his time in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
Language:
The materials in this collection are in English.
Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Union Soldier [Charles] Correspondence, 1861-1864, Ms2023-016, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Background

Scope and content:

This collection contains the correspondence of a Union soldier named Charles during the American Civil War. It comprises twelve wartime letters dating from September 22, 1861, through July 4, 1864. The earliest letter finds him in Annapolis, where his regiment is plagued by a series of terrible accidents. From there his regiment heads to Virginia, then up to Washington, where the bulk of these letters are written. On August 24, 1862, he writes of the upcoming Battle of Harpers Ferry. He goes on to write extensively of his time as a guard at Carroll Prison, where Rebel prisoners are kept. After his time as a prison guard, Charles is stationed in Suffolk, where he enthusiastically details his frightful excitement during battle. The final letter, written on July 4, 1864, finds Charles in camp near Petersburg, Virginia, and he mentions building a fort and the death of a Colonel Ryan.

Biographical / historical:

The author of these letters was a soldier named Charles, who fought in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He had a sister named Nellie. No other biographical information could be found.

Acquisition information:
The Union Soldier [Charles] Correspondence was purchased by Special Collections and University Archives in December 2015.
Processing information:

The processing, arrangement, and description of the Union Soldier [Charles] Correspondence was completed in May 2023.