Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) to Joseph Curtis
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00653.09.11 Author/Creator: Gorsuch, Joseph B. (1834-1908) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 13 June 1863 Pagination: 3 p. ; 20.3 x 12.9 cm. Order a Copy
Gorsuch, Captain and Provost Marshal of the 13th Army Corps, Army of the Tennessee, writes to his uncle Joseph during the Battle of Vicksburg, Mississippi. States "My office is perfectly over run with business worse than ever you were 1st of March. In the first place I have to feed all the rebel citizens between here and... Black River... You may believe that this is galling to these bitter secessionists to have to come to a Yankee, and ask for something to eat... Then I have charge of all the prisoners and deserters from the rebel army, and have to examine them as we get them, to get information of them." Relates that a deserter from Confederate General Joseph Johnston's army reported that Johnston has 40,000 soldiers ready to attack the Union Army's rear. Believes that Vicksburg will do more to end the Civil War than any other battle, but also thinks the city can remain fortified for several weeks before starving. Reports that he is in excellent health.
The Battle of Vicksburg took place 18 May- 4 July 1863, resulting in a Union victory.
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