Bell, Grove L. (1844-1863) [Civil War letters of Grove Bell, a private in the Union Army] [decimalized]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08913 Author/Creator: Bell, Grove L. (1844-1863) Place Written: various Type: Header Record Date: August 1862-October 1863 Pagination: 15 letters + 1 poem Order a Copy
This collection is a series of 15 letters and one printed poem from Private Grove Bell to a number of recipients, including his sister. The poem is dedicated to the Ladies of Portland, Connecticut, Bell's hometown. Private Bell enlisted in the 20th Connecticut Infantry on August 4, 1862. He was mustered into D Company. In 1862 and 1863 the 20th Connecticut fought as part of the Army of the Potomac and saw action in Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Although Bell survived extensive action in both these battles, he died on December 4, 1863. Highlights of the collection include a letter describing his action in the battle of Gettysburg, including a harrowing experience where a shell landed within inches of his leg and descriptions of some of the wounds his comrades suffered. The letters also include Bell's doubts about the course of the war: "There [are] a few big men with scraps on their shoulders that are making all of the money. They are the ones keeping this war going." Inventory available.
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