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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.054 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: Annapolis, Maryland Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 December 1861 Pagination: 1 p. Order a Copy

Reports that a review of the division went very poorly for the 8th Regiment because of the Lieutenant Colonel. Responds to news from his mother about a possible servant by saying that he will give him a try if he is under no obligation to keep him. Declares that he really likes the servant he has and would like to try to retain him.

Dec. 14, '61 We are just starting out for another Review this morning the whole Division - 8 Regts - it will be a fine display, about 8000 men in one lot & seven fine bands. The Brigade review was about a perfect failure as far as the 8th was concerned yesterday afternoon owing to our accomplished Lt. Coln Gen Foster told Harland such an inefficient man must not go on the expedition. I dont know as there can be any objection to Sheldon coming on if it costs us nothing & I am not liable in the least to keep him. I want much to keep the soldier I now have, it is quite an advantage to have one that understands army life. Love Chas

Coit, Charles M., 1838-1878

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