Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) to his sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02232.12 Author/Creator: Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) Place Written: Shelbyville, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 January 1863 Pagination: 8 p. : envelope ; 16 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy
Describes the events leading up to and including his involvement in the Battle of Stones River (Murfreesboro). He reports that he and Marshall (his brother, also known as Sam) are alright but Captain [Thomas H.] Francis of company A suffered a foot injury and was left behind after the battle. After his experience he writes: "I never would have thought that human man could have suffered the exposure we were subject to." Ward is quite confident that the battle was a Confederate victory and gives details on the numbers of men killed, wounded and taken prisoner on each side. He writes that the number of Union forces was more than double the Confederate forces. Union forces are still in Murfreesboro, and he is uncertain when they will be involved in another engagement. He tells his sister that he has "got a great deal better since the fight the first of January and commenced reading the Bible through." He invites her to read the Bible along with him every night. Sends his regards to female acquaintances at home and closes the letter by stating "I would give anything in the world to see Pa and Ma." Contains some cross-writing.
Edward K. Ward was a commissioned officer in Company A of the 4th Tennessee Infantry (Shelby Greys).
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