Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) to Joseph Curtis
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00653.09.01 Author/Creator: Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 January 1863 Pagination: 8 p. ; 25.3 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Written on the Mississippi River. Gorsuch, Captain of the 83rd Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, writes to his uncle in Hamilton, Ohio regarding the recent Battle of Chickasaw Bayou. Relates that his regiment left Memphis, Tennessee 23 December 1861 and sailed toward Vicksburg, Mississippi (possibly on the Mississippi River). Mentions foliage, sawmills, and plantations visible from the river. Reports the destruction of Confederate rail lines, cotton gins, and bridges. Relates that his men went six miles up the Yazoo River, and waited outside of Vicksburg before battle began 28 December 1862. Writes that members of the Sixth Missouri Regiment, led by Colonel Blood, were selected to cross a bayou by a ford through which the men could only pass single file. Relates grisly details of the charge: "Oh! It was a terrible sight to see... How they screamed as the balls tore great holes in their flesh, and the blood flew, until the ford seemed filled with blood. Over they still poured, fearless of the death dealing storm, piling man on man and still clambering over the dead bodies of their comrades." States that his men were ordered across next, but the order was quickly countermanded. Reports that he is sailing up the Mississippi. Requests newspapers, writes that he has the ague, and mentions an enclosed map of the battle (refer to GLC00653.09.02).
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