Gibson, Randall Lee (1832-1892) to his father Tobias Gibson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04501.010 Author/Creator: Gibson, Randall Lee (1832-1892) Place Written: near Baton Rouge, Louisiana Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 November 1861 Pagination: 3 p. ; 24.5 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Informs his father that his unit has just left New Orleans. They are the first regiment to receive orders to leave the state. Discusses local benefits given to raise money for his regiment, and the health of his brother Claude, who also commands a regiment. Claude Gibson suffered from consumption (tuberculosis); he died of the ailment in 1863.
In part: "I am glad to tell you that my regiment is so well organized that I well feel no concern and henceforth will have but little to do beyond supervision. I had a long talk with Genl Ruggles to whose Brigade I belong...He is a very nice Gentleman indeed...Ours is the only Regt to leave the state at present; others will leave if the case demands reinforcements...Claude is getting better and with care & prudence he may arrest his disease but may be delicate...He has a most handsome command. Indeed it strikes me as strange that he & I apparently unfitted for military life should have been so suddenly elevated, to high commands...I shall quit the Boat either at Vicksburg or Memphis and...by Rail to provide quarters for my Regt in advance...My Regt is small but well armed & well provided in every regard. I will make it work whereever called into action. We shall have a big & successful [fight?]."
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