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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

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

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.038 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Camp Sedgwick, Brandy Station, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 January 1864 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.1 x 13 cm. Order a Copy

Got a letter from him last week. Made a mistake at the top of the page with the address and wrote Northampton. It is the first time he has made such a mistake, "but it shows where my thoughts are most of the time." Heard at division headquarters that they will be marching soon. If they do march, it will likely be towards Harpers Ferry. Does not know if they will go by foot or train. There is about 3 inches of snow on the ground. "How in heavens name we can ever march" in this weather "is more than I know." Thinks his brother's writing has improved significantly. Wants to know if their father has sent his diary down yet. Sorry to hear Joe was sick; hope he has recovered by the time this letter reaches him. Asks him to send his love to everyone back home.

Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892

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