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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.

Holly, William H. (d. 1864) to Mary Ann Davis

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02165.09 Author/Creator: Holly, William H. (d. 1864) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 August 1862 Pagination: 4 p. ; 17 x 13.4 cm. Order a Copy

Written at an unkown location to a friend. First, he compares a soldier's occupation to a teacher's and observes that if he is paid no matter the amount of work he does, it is logical that he should be lazy. Is dubious whether they will defeat the rebels. Expresses dislike for Bethel Military Co., hoping they will have to fight in the front ranks. Talks of friends at home. Says furloughs are not being granted, but he would still not like to come home without being able to stay. Talks of Major General John C. Breckinridge's victory at Baton Rouge and gives a detailed description of their current position.

William H. Holly was mustered into the "E" Co. CT 12th Infantry on 11/19/1861. He died a prisoner of war on 12/11/1864 at Salisbury, NC. N.B. Holly spells his name "Holley."

Holly, William H., ?-1864
Breckinridge, John C. (John Cabell), 1821-1875

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