Kessler, Thomas J. (fl. 1843-1868) to A. P. Kessler
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.52.13 Author/Creator: Kessler, Thomas J. (fl. 1843-1868) Place Written: Chicago, Illinois Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 September 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 25.1 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his father from Camp Douglas. Reports he did not get paid as expected and is out of paper and postage. Discusses another man in camp whose body was sent home. Comments the soldier had a sore throat and had only been sick for a few days before he died. Notes he is the only man in his regiment who has died of illness. Comments many of the men are tired of being in the army. Writes, "when or if ever get out alive I think we shall stay out thats whats the matter not because we Have not Been provided for but this thing of being under a command that makes a few dollars more than we do." Notes he has been writing everyday and believes that he will get his share of the music.
Thomas J. Kessler enlisted as a private on 29 June 1863 at Edwardsburg, Michigan. On 8 July 1863 he mustered into "G" Co. Michigan 1st SharpShooters. He was mustered out on 28 July 1865 at Delaney House, Washington, D.C.
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