Painter, Heber (1841-1900) to sister [Kate]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02016.013 Author/Creator: Painter, Heber (1841-1900) Place Written: Camp Hamilton, Fortress Monroe, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 April 1862 Pagination: 4 p. ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm. Order a Copy
Commends her on her improvement in school under a new teacher. Feels strongly about having his sister properly educated and encourages her to persevere in her studies. Writes that no furloughs for illness or business are being granted for the men in his division. Anticipates a third appearance from the Merrimac when the weather improves. Reports that the steamer Vanderbilt will cooperate with the Monitor to capture the Merrimac and that he will remain at camp until the Merrimac is taken. Complains of the contents of his sister Ella's letters stating that, "there is nothing worth reading it." Expects to hear from both sisters soon. Mentions that he is trying a new type of writing in the present letter. Recipient inferred from content.
Before joining the service, Painter was a trained printer from Danville, Pennsylvania. He was mustered as a private into F Company of the 58th Pennsylvania infantry on 8 October 1861 and transferred to I Company on 1 March 1862. While in I Company, he was promoted to Sergeant and eventually mustered out on 21 January 1866 as First Lieutenant. Painter also held a post as Quartermaster's clerk, and performed freedman duties shortly after the war ended.
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