Giraud, Pierre (fl. 1863) to Mr. & Mrs. Edward Giraud
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08510 Author/Creator: Giraud, Pierre (fl. 1863) Place Written: Aboard USS "Montauk" at Ossabaw Sound, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 February 1863 Pagination: 2 p. : envelope ; 24.7 x 19.7 cm. Order a Copy
Written by a Union sailor on the USS "Montauk" to his parents in New York City. Tells them that since his last letter he has been in two major engagements at Fort McCallester on the Big Ogeechee River where they tried to capture the CSS "Nashville." Says it was handled badly. Blames his commander, Captain Worden, who is "pleasant" but "excitable." Claims that "If we win a Fight in this ship it will be more by good luck than good management." Reports that he worked the guns on both occasions and "made some splendid shots" at the fort from 1,780 yards away. Says his captain said he is one of the best shots he ever saw. Does not think they will attack again and that he will be going back to Port Royal soon to prepare for the attack on Charleston, which he predicts to take place on 23 February. Mentions that the "Montauk" is "badly cut up." Document has a two inch slit cut into it toward the bottom.
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