Engberth, Jacob M. (fl. 1863-1864) to John Reeser
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.43.08 Author/Creator: Engberth, Jacob M. (fl. 1863-1864) Place Written: Morrisville, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 29 August 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 24.9 cm. Order a Copy
Comments on deserters being shot. Describes a deserter being led through camp behind his coffin, allowed to speak a few words, and "his leges wos tide up and kneeled becide his coffen and then thair wos twelve men shot at him…" Reports that two soldiers were shot from the same division, five were shot from 112th regiment, and three were shot from 12th Corps. Adds that five will be executed today in the army Corps. Mentions that the war will not last long once Charleston, South Carolina falls "it will strike tearer [sic] to the harts of all the Southren Soldier…" Mentions that General William H. French requested his regiment to be sent to West Virginia from General [likely Gouverneur K.] Warren.
John Reeser enlisted as a Private on 16 July 1864. He was mustered into "B" Co. PA 197th Infantry. He was promoted to Corporal on 18 August 1864. He was mustered out on 11 November 1864 at Philadelphia, PA. Jones was part of Company B, 11th Cavalry. There were two Gereral Warren's; General Gouverneur Warren was in the Virginia vicinity during this time while General Fitz-Henry Warren was in Texas. This suggests that General Gouverneur Warren is whom Jacob Engberth was speaking of.
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