Damuth, Dolphus (fl. 1839-1913) to John Damuth
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.14.29 Author/Creator: Damuth, Dolphus (fl. 1839-1913) Place Written: Vicksburg, Mississippi Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 June 1863 Pagination: 4 p. ; 12.5 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Describes the daily routine of the soldiers, who "sharp shoot day times and stand picket and dig rifle pits nights." Some men are about to attempt to infiltrate a nearby Rebel fort. The life of the soldiers laying siege to Vicksburg is filled with constant strain, and Damuth describes being woken in the middle of the night to stand guard in the pouring rain. Complains of the alarm, "I wish we could get out of this place for a little while so we could pul our pants off at night I have not had mine off in almost three months." Sends home a half-filled canteen he took off a Rebel soldier at the battle of Champion Hill. The camp orderly is ill and has gotten a discharge. Damuth hopes to take his place.
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