Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) to his sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02232.14 Author/Creator: Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) Place Written: Shelbyville, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 February 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 30.5 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Ward writes that he's heard from a member of his company, Dave Poston, who was wounded in Perryville. Also writes that he has gotten fatter and has never enjoyed better health. He reports that federal troops are constantly getting secesh families out of Shelbyville and escorting them inside confederate lines. Writes that the men have learned to not get their hopes up for peace any time soon and states that "now we have concluded to place the limit of our trials to the end of Lincoln's administration." However, he writes "our boys are willing to suffer this and more, sooner than give up the ship." Writes that the "bloody lesson" that was the battle of Shiloh and consequent battle have emboldened the soldiers. Ward discusses all the gaming that goes on in camp and asks that his sister not worry about his morality. Asks that his sister remember him to the lady friends that have inquired after him including a Miss Emma Frazier of whom he writes "if I have seen her I don't recollect her." Ward writes that he is anxious to have a nice uniform and asks his sister to send him enough "cadet grey" cloth for a "coat with proper trimmings" and light blue cloth for some pants. He writes that he is determined to have a nice uniform or he will resign his commission and join the ranks. Also asks his sister to send him a silk handkerchief, a pocket knife, his [delta chi] pin, watch chain, diamond pins, and a pipe. He explains that "when we ain't a fighting, we soldiers like to put on airs sometimes and are just as anxious to make a sensation, as when we are at home." Writes that his monthly living costs are between $40 and $50 and admits that he always has the best of everything and intends to keep it that way as long as he can afford it. Informs her that Marshall (Samuel Marshall Ward, Edward's brother) is permanently in the surgical department. Writes that Captain Francis is in Murfreesboro and is now able to walk. Inquires about Miss Etta, his former fiancée, and what people have commented about their engagement. He tells his sister not to mention his inquiry to anybody.
Edward K. Ward was a commissioned officer in Company A of the 4th Tennessee Infantry (Shelby Greys).
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