Fontaine, Lamar (1829-1921) to Mary C. Day
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06640.01 Author/Creator: Fontaine, Lamar (1829-1921) Place Written: Lyon, Mississippi Type: Autograph letter signed Date: April 1892 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope ; 23.5 x 14.6 cm. Order a Copy
"Lines suggested, while standing over the dead body of a loved comrade, killed by a bullet fired from across the Potomac, by a treacherous hireling foe, Leisburg Va. Augt 9th 1861." A fair copy of his ballad "All Quiet along the Potomac tonight." Fontaine underlines words throughout the song which emphasize the unimportance of a private's death. Gives his unit as Co. I, 2nd Va. Cavalry, C.S.A. Written on letterhead for Lamas Fountaine & Sons, Surveyers and Civil Engineers.
Fontaine served as a despatch bearer for the Southern forces around Vicksburg. This song quickly became very popular for both the Union and the Confederacy. Commanders on both sides issued a joint order prohibiting the barbarous custom of picket fire, exhibiting the powerful influence of music during the war.
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