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Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to parents

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.008 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Fairfax Court House, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 June 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 24.6 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy

There are signs that they will be stopping here for a few days, so he will write a longer letter than the last one. The 6th corps will act as reserve troops for the army, and will "go where it is most needed." Is within 10 miles of Bull Run. Thinks there might be another battle there soon. There are now fewer than 10,000 men in the corps. A full corps should have over 40,000 men. A few more two-year and nine-month terms end soon, and many think the corps will only number 7,000 after that. "We had a hard time being up nearly every night at work or on picket." Was at work for 26 hours straight at one point. Their lines are only 100 yards from those of the Confederates, and "there was considerable firing on the picket line on the right of us" coming from Rebel sharpshooters. Marched six more miles the next day. Had to arrest the 36th New York, which had been rioting on account of their time being up. "Rum and whiskey was at the bottom of it." They go home on July 4th. "I suppose they will commence the draft soon up there… the sooner the better for us." Needs a "good stout" pair of boots. Is glad, albeit selfishly, that no one can be drafted from his family. Had a dream that his father had enlisted and was going to fight. Sid is well. Will try to write some more soon.

Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892

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