Kessler, Samuel (fl. 1861-1864) to Mary Kessler
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.52.14 Author/Creator: Kessler, Samuel (fl. 1861-1864) Place Written: Chattanooga, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 September 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 25.1 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his sister from camp. Describes the "great battle" [the Battle of Chickamauga] that is taking place. Notes his regiment has been in the battle since the beginning. Writes they fell back five miles and have been fortifying ever since. Notes that the rebels, who are commanded by General Braxton Bragg, have reinforced and now outnumber them three to one. Comments that the Confederates are in front of them and will try to push them into the Louisiana River but believe they are too well fortified for that to happen. Reports on the death toll and wounded soldiers.
Samuel Kessler enlisted as a private on 5 September 1861. On 5 September 1861 he mustered into "C" Co. Indiana 9th Infantry. He was mustered out on 15 September 1864. The Battle of Chickamauga was fought from 18 September 1863 to 20 September 1863. After a three day battle the Union withdrew to the city of Chattanooga, Tennessee on 21 September 1861. The Confederates laid siege, the siege would not be broken until November in the Battle of Chattanooga. The Confederates suffered an estimated 18,454 casualties while the Union suffered an estimated 16,170 casualties.
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