Painter, Heber (1841-1900) to Rebecca Frick
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02016.023 Author/Creator: Painter, Heber (1841-1900) Place Written: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 October 1862 Pagination: 2 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Has nothing exciting to report from the town. States that if not for the recent election and draft, the soldiers would be in need of something exciting. Reports that the regiment had a parade and made a good appearance. He was surprised that Captain A. Frick (possibly his uncle) had resigned and hopes that being home will be good for his health. States that he received the "Danville Democrat" which contained a list of drafted men. Informs his aunt that substitutes are in high demand in Montour county (Painter's home county in Pennsylvania). However, the borough (Danville?) was exempt from the draft because volunteers filled the quota. Agrees with his aunt that this is the most important time of his life. Writes that he has had opportunities to "enter society" but has remained out because he expects to be leaving for Dixie soon. Believes that he and the others will be called on soon after the drafted men are "disposed of." Complains about recruiting and says he has not seen a recruit since his return. States that he was surprised to see a notice of the funeral of Sidney Easton. Reports that his health is "tolerably well." Recipient inferred from content of the letter.
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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