Damuth, Dolphus (fl. 1839-1913) to [Maria Damuth]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.14.01 Author/Creator: Damuth, Dolphus (fl. 1839-1913) Place Written: Camp Randall, Madison, Wisconsin Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 26 September 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 11.5 x 18 cm. Order a Copy
Thanks his family for a coat they have sent him and gives details about camp life. Talks about sharing a bed with other soldiers, food at camp and various forms of entertainment - "we hav fun all the time." Describes his colonel, Charles Gill, as a very good camp leader. Anticipates that the men will have a chance to leave camp once they are "mustered into service and I expect that to be tomorrow." [Damuth was right - the 29th Wisconsin Infantry was organized on 27 September 1862, the day after this letter was written.] Mentions that he has been re-elected for an unspecified office, probably to a position as sergeant, by his colonel. Damuth enjoys the promotion because "I don't have to do any hard work such as digging and carrying water."
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