Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to parents
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.016 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Fort Hamilton, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 August 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 19.5 x 11.8 cm. Order a Copy
This letter came with a note saying it was dated 1863/08/16 but came in an envelope from 1863/10/07. Most of the soldiers are at church, so he has time to write. Very quiet around the fort today. Did not go to church because he did not have his uniform and did not want to be dressed poorly in church. Camp is "flooded with ladies. Most of them are from home come to see their relatives in the 37th." It is "quite warm" in New York City. Often takes a salt water bath in New York Harbor in the morning. Thinks he will have "a chance to come home after the Draft has taken place." The draft starts again tomorrow, and he hopes that there will be no rioting this time. Is "entirely over the dysentery." Does not "fancy this kind of military life." Still drills often; "a fellow hardly has any time to himself here." Has seen two of his friends from home at the fort. Would ask his mother to come down and stay with him, but there is no good place for her to stay. It costs as much as $1.50 a day for some soldiers to put their wives up in the city. Is fed well here; "all the soft bread we can eat and new potatoes 4 times a week." Wakes up at 5:00 AM every day, and all lights are out by 9:15 PM. "They are going to make great soldiers of us." It is hard to keep the uniforms clean when they sleep on the ground all the time. Captain Bliss was buried with military honors. "Out in Virginia they do not make so much of a parade over a funeral." Has not answered Ann's letter but will be sure to do so soon. Eats plenty of bread and drinks plenty of milk. They "need not feel worried about me at all." Heard from Joe that Willie was hurt.
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