Blanchard, Ira (b. 1835) to Mary (Wright) Kellogg
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.31.08 Author/Creator: Blanchard, Ira (b. 1835) Place Written: Cape Girardeau, Missouri Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 July 1861 Pagination: 6 p. ; 19.7 x 24.5 cm. Order a Copy
Blanchard writes to Mary Wright from Camp Tremont outside St. Louis. Mentions cooking for the soldiers when he has nothing else to do even though there are five cooks for each company. Says they just received their uniforms and bayonets. Explains in great detail several expeditions and marches. Remarks the rebels were hiding in swamps and fleeing. Comments the local women visit their camp and many had never seen the "stars and stripes." States the local women are very pretty, but doesn't know if "...it goes more than skin deep or not." Discusses the friendliness of the "darkies" and their awareness that the war "...will ultimately result in their freedom and manhood." Letter is faded in sections and has two Union emblems.
Blanchard enlisted 13 June 1861 in Illinois as a Sargeant. He mustered into "H" Co., Illinois, Infantry.
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