Our Collection

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.

Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) to Joseph Curtis

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00653.09.09 Author/Creator: Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) Place Written: Mississippi Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 May 1863 Pagination: 1 p. ; 32 x 19.6 cm. Order a Copy

Written in the field between Vicksburg and Jackson, Mississippi. Gorsuch, Captain of the 83rd Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, writes to his uncle. Wishes to describe the movement of his troops in detail, but writes that newspapers have covered their activity from Williken's Bend to Perkin's Plantation. Relates that his regiment engaged in the Battle of Port Gibson (1 May 1863), and suffered no losses. Discusses the battle in detail, expressing pride at compliments on his bravery in battle. Describes the harsh conditions to which he has endured while marching, including lack of food and filthy clothing. A note in the margin relates that he transmits a letter (not included) written by Jefferson Davis taken from Davis's house below Vicksburg.

Gorsuch, Joseph B., ?-1864
Curtis, Joseph, fl. 1863-1865
Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889

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