Our Collection

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.

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 #: GLC03523.08.27 Author/Creator: Terry, Robert B. (fl. 1861-1865) Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 January 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 24.3 x 39.5 cm. Order a Copy

Writing from Camp Pierpont, he summarizes the military news for his father. Recently heard that some New York troops are coming across Chain Bridge, and that Birneys Zouaves (23rd Regiment) are coming to the area. Mentions that General George McClellan was supposed to come as well. Tells his father, "and when the word is given forward march you will not hear tell of any more blunders such as Bull Run. Ball Bull firing into their own Regiments and &c. But of a Victory as we know no such word as Defeat." Notes that his Division is to be increased to 20,000 soldiers, and that it is currently 13 or 14,000. Also provides details concerning General George McCall, who is trying to get his division on General Ambrose Burnside's expedition, but have been ordered to stay put.

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.

Terry, Robert B., fl. 1861-1865
McClellan, George B., 1826-1885
McCall, George Archibald, 1802-1868
Burnside, Ambrose Everett, 1824-1881

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources