Terry, Robert B. (fl. 1861-1865) to Father
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 #: GLC03523.08.10 Author/Creator: Terry, Robert B. (fl. 1861-1865) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 July 1861 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope ; 25 x 40 cm. Order a Copy
Writes from Camp Harvey, which is five miles outside of the capital, located on a farm owned by a secessionist. Informs his father that when they took the oath in the army, there was contention from all the soldiers because they had not been paid, but they all took it regardless. Reports that there was one man, however, who refused to take the oath and was stripped naked and sent away. The army eventually sent for the man, brought him clothes, and paid for his fare to Philadelphia. Informs him that they are working under General George McClellan. Tells him the "best calvary of Rebels was completely cut to pieces in the fight at Manassa Junction by the New York five Zouaves." Mentions that the battle was fought under General Francis Patterson, General Nathaniel Banks, and General Winfield Scott. Asks that his father direct his letters to: Washington, in care of Captain Martins, Company K, 7 Regiment of Pennsylvania Reserved Volunteers. Written in graphite.
Robert Terry enlisted on 4 June 1861 as a Private. He was mustered into "K" Co. PA 36th Infantry. He was discharged on 27 April 1865.
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.