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.

Spencer, George A. (fl. 1862-1864) to his Parents

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00653.21.06 Author/Creator: Spencer, George A. (fl. 1862-1864) Place Written: Alexandria, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 May 1864 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.6 cm. Order a Copy

[draft]
Camp 7 R. I. Vol
Alexandria Va
May 15 '64

Dear Parents

I thought I would write you a few lines and let you know how I am getting along. I am well as usual and hope this letter will find you the same. Julius Newell was here yesterday to see me he is 1st Lt. in the Mass. Battery. He is on Gen. Casey's staff in Washington. He is well and looks first rate. He send his love to you all. He is going home in June. Lt. Phelps has got some money from home. He came up to camp last night pretty well soaked. He pawned his watch some time ago. He owes Mr. Chaffee 50 or 60 dollars and he owes Steve Chaffee 16 dollars. He would have starved to death in Fort Sedgwick after he got mustered in if it had not been for Steve and his father. Dont tell anyone what I have wrote although it is the truth & somebody will tell him of it when we get home. We had a Brigade review yesterday but I did not go. 1 went off & stayed untill it was over and then come back. I have had two letters from Mary Ellen. She has got the Reb money I sent. Give my love to William and Mary & Aunt Hannah and all the rest. Write soon as you get this letter
From your Son
Geo A Spencer
Co. I 7 R I Vol
1st Brigade 2 Division
9 A. C.
Washington D C
P S Has William got the letter I wrote to him?
GAS Write soon
[Sketch of 30 Pound Parrot Gun Mounted on Siege carriage in one of the Forts round here]

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources