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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to George Coit

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.265 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: Deep Creek, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 April 1864 Pagination: 2 p. Order a Copy

Requests a chess handbook and describes a company box that he has acquired to hold his books and other belongings. Writes that he is in command of the Regiment because Captain Hoyt is in Portsmouth attending a court martial.

Camp Deep creek Va Apl 5, '64
Dear George, I have ben playing chess this evening with Alf. Goddard & it has reminded me of my chess book - Staunton's Hand-book - I have forgotten whether I spoke to you about it or not. I had it over at conscript Camp & lent it to Lieut. Chipman of the 21st Connt Vol & a day or two before I came away Chipman brought it to Capt. sear's or the Adjutant's office & left it there for me but I forgot to get it. I wish you would go over & get it. Lieut. Chipman can tell you all about it. If you find it I would like you to send it to me by mail. I guess I can carry it in my new company box. I have had a nice box made for my Company books & papers with drawers & pigeon holes & room enough to carry a few extra books. The lid turns down forming a good desk, I am writing on it at present. Alf. Goddard has been on picket the last three days, came off this morning, & it has stormed every day, fortunately his head quarters were in a house. I told him to day that you had taken the first prize & he thought it quite remarkable. He is sitting reading the - April "Atlantic" - while I write, we have been playing chess but I can wax him at that. I do hope you are feeling well again you must be careful if you are going to study & take care of your health. I wish you could visit me here during your vacation. I am in command of the Regt again as Capt Hoyt is attending a Court Martial in Portsmouth as witness. I expect him up tomorrow. Best love & good night Affct bro Chas

Coit, Charles M., 1838-1878

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