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Text Any textual data included in the document Charlestown Jan 25, 1856 My dearest friend, Agreeably to my promise and from a yearning to be with you in the only way that remains, I pen you a few lines in hopes they will find you safely within that beloved circle your description of which so delighted me and wither my thoughts have followed from the moment of our parting. How shall I express to you the thoughts which thronged my mind, as, in the stillness which my occupation affords, I pondered over the events of the past few days? They seemed to lend new interest to the past, and caused me to think upon the thousand delights, friendships and blessings which have been scattered in the path of my young life. I felt a thanksgiving to the beneficent disposer of events who has thus blessed me - and finally I have been conducted not by an unseen hand to her - whose young affections, with all the delightful associations which in the course of the same good Providence may be permitted to follow - it will be my first and last endeavor to prove worthy of. How true is that verse from the hymn “In each event of life, how clear Thy ruling hand I see. Each blessing to my soul more dear, Because conferred by thee.” Such has been some of my day-dreaming, dreaming surely it seems, and very welcome will be the next token from you, that reassures me that it is a reality - the solemnity of which I feel most deeply. Enough of this. How did you reach home, in the severe cold and how did you find all the dear ones there? You hardly know how much your account interested me and, of course, you will have much to say. But I must close for I wish to post it in the Office tonight, hoping you will receive it tomorrow. I dare say I shall mis-spell your first name as I never saw it in print - the way you pronounce it but you will pardon and correct, and believe me ever, Your affectionate and devoted friend, Jerome Peirce Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 25, 1856 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Charlestwon, MA. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1856-01-25 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #232 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Charlestown, MA. Allie Charlestown MA. Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4dc6b9fb466ac2251dbe1095db1ac684.jpg 7384b6aa3a9d13c1199e659c7622d81a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/70d12f3df9ab83205d88da47210bdcf0.jpg e2d5446e400d71222e44a26a1db32107 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0cb504826b6419897c2c85cd6e11b7b4.jpg d71652771a4b9661275a067a313de6bf https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6edd976687f50a2ffad00c054f21d2f8.jpg d36de81cdf5f5a9f3d172289f76a3d95 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/fb758fe8bb0a1060d94e97c8b9939494.jpg 2951d0a7f329c36e2c9a418af3b8d6a6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f7366b1788a8e92fb7d8e0ada780ef53.jpg 7123c4490dd9ef5021ccedafb3a0a02d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0afeb5bef0a1a208e4f916a3a5e0bdaa.jpg 901a8f0bfcf8bbd4a58147ac56fda6ad https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d73a95dd4a3bd2f6d31f473988e37748.jpg 7b3c63186f319f3461408862b80aa1bf https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/add11f0c3bfe12e8be49ca3e92738f0c.jpg f0496cd7c33a2ef06cfc536074f63a9e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Sunday morning, 25th Jan 1863 My ever dear wife, It is getting along in the forenoon. Have just been doing up my work, washing dishes, cups, etc., and putting things in order in the tent. Jos. H. went on picket yesterday and has not yet returned. Expect him soon. Have put on some water to heat for his tea when he comes. Also, my largest cup sits in the fire in which I a boiling some pork, so we manage to keep ahead a little on victuals. So you can imagine me thus commencing Sunday on the Rappahannock [River]. Have just read again yours of the 21st received last eve., and how good it seemed to get one Sat. eve. You did not think to number your last two. I forgot to [number] my last but I have no doubt we get all the letters now, for I expect they have “looked after them” between N.Y. [New York] and Washington of late. But the mails are often delayed a little between here and W. [Washington] on acct. [account] of the immense amount of mater. [materiel], often bringing part at a time, as it takes whole teams to bring it, but of late, letters have come promptly. You will hear before you get this how the movements of the Army have been delayed by the storm. It has not fairly cleared off yet. We are now seeing the Virginia winter and I do not believe we can do anything for the present. I went out a short distance last Friday to see the troops (Franklin’s Corps) returning to their camp and it was a sight. They had to come back 8 miles to get rations. Near us, the going was so bad teams could not get to them. The plan was to mass the whole army except our Corps on the Right, we supporting the batteries here in front and acting on the Centre, at the favorable moment, and so compel them to move their Right and Center to the Left. This plan made a long march for Franklin’s troops. But’s “all up” for now at least and everything is quiet and muddy enough. Folks at home can form no idea of the thousand difficulties the weather alone makes for us, and together with the vigilance and advantage of position of the enemy so far, they must be patient. I used to think things didn’t move fast enough, but I have seen what it is to rush ahead at the call of the people, and like Gen. Butler, I have had some of my opinions “corrected.” I know there is much to make us weary and almost despair of the Country Government and all. But I cannot believe the vast upheaving is all in vain, and as I think it over, as I have deeply of late, I can see but one course. “Conquer or be Conquered,” for I now think if the South separate, our troubles are but first begun. For I think the South have deeper designs than mere slavery to preserve, and in fact, that will fade into insignificance if they could only worry us to an acknowledgement of their independence. They are [a] daring brave, enduring race and have a great “Southern Empire” in view, Mexico included. And I believe the French see this, by their attempts in Mexico, intend to checkmate or share with them in case of a possible separation. The people are discouraged and the Army much so and full of indifference, owing to not being paid, and the various hardships and defeats, so I cannot tell what is to come. I shall endeavor to do my duty till the end, whatever it may be. I enjoy your letters very much, always, and don’t wonder you feel discouraged, because you cannot see all there is to delay and trouble us, and am fully aware of the villainy. But still I say with Gen. B. [Burnside], “Be of good cheer.” We are in possession of more territory by far than a year ago. I hope for something more cheering and shall as long as life lasts. You spoke in one of your letters of sending the Capt[ain] a book. I discouraged you because I had sent for one and it had not come. It came last eve. with your letter. You may think I done wrong to buy it, but could you know how much, how very much comfort I shall take with it, you will not feel I am forgetful. I thought you could have $9.00 of the watch money and I would keep $3.00, so I sent for a copy of Shakespeare, a little, snug, fine-printed, beautiful copy, smaller than mine at home. And I fairly clapped my hands as the “Orderly” (the sergeant who gets the letters) handed me it. I got it of Crosby and Nicholas of Boston, who had to send to Philadelphia for it. Lippincott & Co. Edition. Cost $2.00, hence the delay in getting it. Mr. Ellis saw my letter to “C & N” [Crosby & Nichols], so Abbie wrote, and perhaps he gave me a lift. I shall take a great deal of comfort with it, besides contributing some to others, for there are others who appreciate such things and it will tend to elevate the tone of manners in the Company. It is the impression, true to a great extent, that we grow coarse and depraved here and some will imagine their friends much changed, but for myself (to you), I have much to try my temper in my tent, too. (That’s private and things are improving.) but I never fought myself so hard and honestly in my life, and above all, I never clung to or enjoyed the memories of the past, the refining influences of home, reading, etc., etc. as I do here. And profanity and low talk never shocked me as it does now and how often, yes, every moment, as it were, the faces of those dearest to me, each look and manner, comes to mind! I have spoken thus at length, that you might know that I am trying to, “Keep the heart with all diligence,” and many, many are the hours I spend here in the tent looking into the fire and dream of home and of the dear faces there. And the Scriptures are dearer, far dearer than ever, by the way. Called at Frank Craft’s tent the other day and a young man by the name of Hyde gave me a beautiful copy of “Proverbs” in [a] red linen cover, got up for the Army, very small, as he had several sent him. So I look with so much comfort upon my library! Testament, Proverbs (I often wish I had brought a small copy of the whole Bible.) for I miss only the glorious Prophets, those beautiful verses of “Isaiah” in particular. Have got the “Register” for today, too. Have not heard only by Henry from the folks at Boston or from Alonzo since I wrote. Am very anxious for him. I would not attempt to send the book to Capt. S. He has ample chances for reading matter and would not expect [it]. Feel it my duty to look to my own comfort first, and that’s the motto here. There’s an appropriation made and we hope to be paid off before a great while. This one thing will destroy the efficiency of the Army if not attended to soon, and government thinks so, I imagine. The note in reply to the photographs was very neat, but I should like to hear from them by letter. Have had more letters from Jamestown and expect a letter from Sarah. Heard she had written. Enclosed was a “Delta” from New Orleans sent by Ed Haynes to them. Glad of the news from Frank and Will. Have written them. Jos. H. has come and all is confusion. Will add a word by and by to close. After dinner. Jos. H. is laying down to get a little rest. Says he will write you sometime. He is getting to like Shakespeare’s plays. Don’t know as I can add anything more but love to all friends. Hope Mary will be entirely well. I received the paper and yarn. Am going to cut off the tops and ravel out for yarn. One pair that are worn out. I wear two pair this season. Have three pair good ones now. As ever your husband, Jerome Note appearing above the date and salutation on Page 1: “No.3. No.2 mailed last Friday.” Note written on margins: “I send you an advertisement from a Baltimore paper. You see slaves are like any other commodity.” TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Jack Phend and Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The location from where this letter was written is not indicated. However, based on letters prior to and after this one and the history of the Army of the Potomac, it was written while the 36th Massachusetts Regiment was camped near Falmouth, Virginia, across the Rappahannock River from Fredericksburg, Virginia, in Stafford County. NOTE 2: The “Jos. H.” that Jerome referred to in this letter was Joseph H. Peirce. He enlisted as a Private in Orange, Mass., on August 4, 1862, at age 18. Jerome also enlisted in Orange on the same date, but as a corporal. Jerome was 31 years old at the time. According to the Unit History, Joseph H. Peirce was taken Prisoner of War at Pegram Farm, Virginia, on September 30, 1864, (See Letter No. 227) and he was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was the son of Joseph Peirce, one of Jerome’s brothers, and was, therefore, his nephew. NOTE 3: The storm and its aftermath referenced in the letter resulted in what has been called the Mud March. General Burnside, after the disastrous defeat at Fredericksburg in December 1862, hoped to cross the Rappahannock River and hit Lee’s flank. The march began on January 20th but it began raining hard for four days, and the offensive was called off on January 23rd, the date this letter was written. NOTE 4: “Franklin’s Corps” was the VI Corps of the Army of the Potomac, commanded by Gen. William Franklin. NOTE 5: Below is a copy of the newspaper advertisement clipping he mentions in the letter and which he enclosed. The name of the newspaper from which it was taken or the date it was published is not known, but presumably the date was on or shortly before this letter was written. NOTE 6: The “’Delta’ from New Orleans” almost certainly refers to the New Orleans newspaper “The Daily Delta.” Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 25, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Falmouth VA. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-01-25 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Jack Phend Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 5.54 X 3.23 5.82 X 7.14 11.58 X 7.12 5.82 X 7.14 8.02 X 4.99 8.02 X 9.95 8.02 X 4.99 3.89 X 3.78 3.89 X 3.78 jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #64 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Camp at Falmouth, VA. Allie Falmouth VA. Jerome Peirce Newspaper clippings https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6b1bfb6655cc6b8c1c0157cd857abe07.jpg ca936197c99e41f02b195546f28c43d0 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/474f7747353f225d4baea458ef558fb2.jpg 1907ffe224ff90ef102404395d5cb090 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d4f847405d880c7f585cbccc8626c6e4.jpg 746d0b0b34b471e789cfa6f54a1f4f5c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4f773d0c1d9507440709a1aa4552e9ca.jpg 3b9da68916c1c9a8b6726b2959e33f95 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Dorchester, [Massachusetts] 27 Jan 1861 My dear Wife, Sunday Evening! Here in Eddie’s study just after ten. E. and Ewin Brown from C. studying out a Greek lesson, and all very still and pleasant, a fitting time for a nice chat with your dear self. We have had a lovely day, very. How I wish you and our darling could be here! Have been to church all day. Morning. Mr. Hall preached a warm Anti Slavery discourse, very earnest and sincere and prompted by the occurrence at Tremont Temple last week, when Phillips and his friends were silenced and finally the Hall was closed to prevent a serious riot. This P.M. Mr. Putnam (the younger) of Roxbury, [gave] a fine discourse. He is a splendid looking man and grand preacher. You may believe I have enjoyed the day intensely but for the thought that you could not share it. But, Dear Allie, all will come out right, for they all feel for us, and it would not offend or surprise the friends if we should return here within a year but still I think it best to be patient for a short time. Kate and I went to church this P.M. so we had some talk, and she does not want our little one to grow up there, and there will be no trouble in getting back when we have given things a little further trial. Have enjoyed myself much so far, but shall be more busy in future as the boards are now ready to grain tomorrow. Saw Finney yesterday, they have another little girl. Sarah had much such a time as she did before, but is comfortable now. Don’t remember how old it is. Mrs. Torrey has a fine boy, born Friday morn. I believe all nicely. Called on Albert J. yesterday, very busy but cordial. Can’t tell when I shall go there. Called on Hall, urged me very hard to go home with him, shall some eve. Said he would supply me with some books, has 1,500 and a year at Crosby Nichols and Co. Have not seen Charles Smith, was out when I called at the bank, has a new situation. Shall be in Charlestown this week and will tell you more anon. Went to ride down to Bro. Hayne’s this eve, with Sarah and Ellen and Alonzo. They (E. and A.) rode while we called. They were very cordial and things are all kindly, I doubt not. Inquired after you all with much interest. I have given you some idea of my movements, but have not lost thoughts of you. How do you do? How does Henry keep house? Shall hope to hear from you very soon and trust you are well. I don’t like to say when I shall be home but it will not be three weeks am quite sure, so keep a good heart. You will see Sarah by Wednesday I think, and she longs to see you, and you will enjoy her for she is the same good Sallie. The country is beautiful here and a great deal of riding which seems home-like and it seemed like the Sabbath though Mr. Hall is giving great offense with his extreme course on slavery. He takes ground with Phillips and Co. and his people feel sorrow rather than anger. When shall I go to Billerica? I think next Sat night. Shall write them soon. I want to get fairly started in work and then I can tell more about my movements and shall return as soon as possible. I ought to tell Lulu a long story but can’t talk “baby” very well tonight. Does she eat with Mama? She must be a good girl tomorrow for poor Mama will have a hard time. O Allie, don’t think I am unfeeling, far from it. I will not keep you thus many years. But I must close, having told all that comes to mind at present. Try and keep well and cheerful. Also, remember us to Henry. Should write him but Eddie will soon want to write. Please tell Joseph that they must not use glue size on the painted stuff for shipping, for it will ruin on the water and as Brown expressed it “will run the thing into the ground”. Also, that they may send back the oil graining, as it will not be used. I shall prepare all my stuff myself. You can read the above to him. Mailed you the Ladies Book yesterday. All send love and Ellen will add something I guess. Good Night from Your affe [affectionate] husband Jerome Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) “Ellen” was Ellen Peirce, one of Jerome’s sisters (born in 1842) and “Alonzo” was Alonzo Ranlett (born in 1840). Ellen and Alonzo were married in 1864. “Joseph” was probably Joseph Peirce, one of Jerome’s brothers (born in 1820). Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 27, 1861 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Dorchester, MA. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1861-01-27 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #245 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Dorchester, MA. Allie Dorchester MA Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d7e32fafe2d0ede39708005c7599bcc6.jpg 258efafaaf2d66409cf6cb35a85d81c6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/497d32a7f579063f75180fb2ec783175.jpg cea7cd80adf5b31e3c01a574f1ff67b7 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3001d3097b87eb9f4290188b06c3c06e.jpg d0d7c8a18c58163562edb517afb1771e https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3faee30fcde0f51121b502d6c1885a0d.jpg 3923e43afacc8783909d4f6cade089f3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1864 Letter Collection Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document “Erins Station” near Knoxville Tennessee January 30th, 1864 My ever dear wife, Your letter of Jan. 10th came last eve and altho of late I write Tuesdays and only once a week for the reason that stationary is so costly and there is little variation of late in our life. But the time seems favorable this morning and I feel so thankful for your preservation in the late accident and you confiding feelings in the Great Hand in the hollow of which we all rest. How much indeed, do we owe to this each day of our lives and who more than we soldiers? You spoke of thinking of so much in a moment, you can know something how I have felt more than once since I have been in the army. I can never tell you how much it is [“is” should probably be deleted] has strengthened my faith and hope that our lives here are no chance or accident but have a meaning and end which if we do our part will issue well whatever betide. It is a little singular in regard to your late escape that I had a presentiment a few days ago that you had passed that same peril. It came first in the night while in a half wakeful state and impressed me so that I thought much about it for sometime. Was it not strange? It seemed so pleasant that you were all once more at home! How gladly would I too join you! But as that cannot be I can only send these poor epithets to assure you of my constant remembrance. Your letter was very pleasant, as you seemed I thought more cheerful. I have seen a notice of the book you spoke of. Am glad you read it and could tell me something about it and I trust it served to fill your mind profitably for awhile. I know how much you think of me, but I love to know that you can turn for a little while and divert your thoughts and share them at least with anything that will keep away sadness. I must give you an idea of how we are situated. In health I never was better, but we are short of food and were it not for a few cents, I should go really hungry. Little biscuit, such as we could eat half a dozen at home, with the other fixings, we have to pay 50 cents per doz. For corn “Dodgers,” is corn and water baked, cost 20 cents and more apiece. Flour and meal are in proportion. The country is almost cleared of everything and many of the people are emigrating to the west, Ohio and thereabouts. The Government does all they can to feed and clothe us, and there is much improvement, but still we don’t have enough to keep from being faint only by private expense. I mention this not to complain but to explain. I made out to raise a little extra from sale of my sack and old blouse as my dress coat came while I was gone, so I keep along so far. My trip home caused me to miss two paydays so I have not of course been able to send you money as I wished to, but I hope you won’t allow yourself to suffer. You mentioned the need of flannels, etc. We hope soon to go North and probably we shall not be paid off till we get there and then six months pay will be due me, and I hope to send you the entire or nearly the whole amount. Two months or perhaps more will be sergeant’s pay 17 dollars instead of 13. Was surprised that you had not heard from me later than the 13th Dec. [letter] but by this time you have and you will find many things mentioned and explained. I speak of all this because I thought you did not make allowance in some things for the “chances of war”, such as missing pay days, etc. I certainly have tried to do the best I could for you, and we must be patient and have faith in the future a little even while the present seems dark and stranger. Am glad people are feeling encouraged about the war, and Fosters sentiments give me much encouragement. Mr. Lincoln, like Gov. Andrew, took the war in the beginning and I hope he will be allowed to finish it. I saw a short sketch in the paper of a speech by Mr. Arnold of Ills. [Illinois] in which he made a fine point in regard to Mr. L [Lincoln], and the whole subject. Many of the old regts [regiments] are reinlisting which will have a good effect, particularly in discouraging the rebs. A hundred prisoners came into K[noxville] yesterday from General Anderson’s force taken at a fight of two days near here, a part of Longstreet’s. Some secesh families too were to be sent to the Rebel lines today which made “weeping and wailing”. Ben E. was in town and informed me of the above. The work of preparing us for moving is going on. Today we expected an inspection of knapsacks, haversacks, canteens etc. to be replaced by new ones etc. You would have been amused to see me for the last few days. Have been busy sewing till my thread is gone. Mended haversack, knap’k [knapsack], and yesterday covered my canteen with blue pant cloth and succeeded finally and this morning boiled out my hack bag and darned socks so I’m ready for a start. It rains now for the first time for sometime and most of us are in the tents writing etc. Weather since we left Strawberry Plains has been delightful and we could sit round with our coats off. Cooking takes up a good deal of time even with short rations from the fact that we “extend” everything by boiling, frying, etc. I wrote a letter to you in ones to Ellen while you was there which she will send you I presume. The rest I have sent to B. Wrote the family on Thursday, also Sister Lucy. Sent you a “Knoxville Whig and Rebel Ventilator”, Brownlow’s paper. You must share it with everybody. Cost 15 cents apiece. [???] letters [???] all up now [Part of letter missing] [???] well already which [???] us [???] [???] deal and by and by I expect we shall appear up North, quite transformed from the war-worn looking men we were of late. We’re to have “East Tennessee” inscribed on the flag, and it will have a meaning to us at least! Saw Ben E last eve. Had a letter from Mrs. Finney spoke of your call there and of reading a letter from me written at Tazewell. I wish you would always mention the first thing, what letters you receive from me. You may think you do but I can’t tell from what you say what ones you get. Till now, the 13 Dec. I wrote, the 27 Dec., the morning after I reached the regt., and regularly once a week since and a little oftener. The 27 Dec. letter was written in a great hurry and perpendicular instead of cross ways. I thought you would smile when you got it. I have inquired several times about a letter from Tazewell with a little picture of a deer for Lulu. I want her to receive all the little things of the kind, for such things impress her little mind and she will feel I do not forget her. Shall be glad when she can realize that I did not go from home because I did not love you and her, but for a great good cause which will affect many like her in the future, more than we can calculate now. I manage so that a day seldom passes but I read even a little in my Bible. Did you ever realize what a beautiful book Isaiah is? The 26th and 36th, 41st and 42nd, 53rd and 55th chapters and many others! Ben and I often get to reading and talking over it. His wife is still in Wheeling, Va. learning music, etc. quite brave and happy. [Part of letter missing] Remember [“me” should probably be inserted] particularly to Father and Mother. I do not forget them in the advancing years, and I trust time will only lend health and cheerfulness to them, and that the “family” will yet all gather about them and increase, not diminish, their happiness. Give [???] sons and brothers love to each and all and still believe me ever your loving husband Jerome Kiss for Lulu. Shall need some envelopes soon. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Parts of 3rd and 4th pages are missing and appear to be cut out. NOTE 2: The regiment went into camp at Erin’s Station, about five miles from Knoxville, on January 26th, 1864. It was there until Feb. 15, 1864. NOTE 3: On January 16th, the regiment made camp at Strawberry Plains, 16 miles north of Knoxville, where the railroad crosses the Holston River. The Regimental History indicates that they built houses there. (Regimental History, p. 125) NOTE 4: Tazewell is a town in East Tennessee near the Clinch River. The Regiment History states: ”December 11th, while we were still near Rutledge, Lieutenant Hodgkins, who had been home on leave of absence and detached service at Cumberland Gap, rejoined the regiment and brought not a little cheer to all hearts by the announcement that a large mail and supplies were at Tazewell. The supply-train arrived on the 13th and once again we had a taste of bread, coffee and sugar. That reached us on the following day.” (Unit History, p. 123) NOTE 5: Brownlow’s Knoxville Whig and Rebel Ventilator was a pro-union newspaper, which was reestablished between November 11, 1863, and February 21, 1866, after General Burnside’s army returned to East Tennessee in September 1863. Brownlow became governor of Tennessee in 1865. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brownlow%27s_Whig NOTE 6: John Albion Andrew was a U.S. antislavery leader who, as governor of Massachusetts during the Civil War, was one of the most energetic of the Northern “war governors.” https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Albion-Andrew NOTE 7: The reference to Mr. Arnold of Illinois likely refers to Congressman Isaac Arnold. http://www.mrlincolnandfriends.org/members-of-congress/isaac-arnold/ In a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in March 1964, he said “Let Abraham Lincoln finish the great work he has begun. He has borne censure and denunciation for acts for which others were responsible, with a generosity which has extorted from his rivals the declaration, ‘Of all men, Mr. Lincoln is the most unselfish.’ I ask the ardent and impatient friends of freedom to put implicit faith in Abraham Lincoln. If you deem him slow, or if you think he has made mistakes, remember how often time has vindicated his wisdom.” It is possible that he made similar points in a speech prior to March 1964 and prior to Peirce’s letter. NOTE 8: Richard Anderson was a Confederate General who took over command of the First Corps when General Longstreet was wounded by friendly fire during the Wilderness Battle. Anderson and his Corps did an all-night march from the Wilderness to Spotsylvania Courthouse to prevent the Union troops from occupying a key crossroads. He led the First Corps in heavy fighting between March 8-12, 1864, at Spotsylvania Courthouse, where Sergeant Peirce was killed. NOTE 9: Reference to Foster’s sentiments about the war reference to Major-General John G. Foster who relieved General Burnside of command of the Army of the Ohio on Dec. 11th, 1863. Around January 31st, 1864, Foster asked to be relieved due to a reopening of old wound, and was relieved on Feb. 9th, 1864 by General J.M. Schofield. NOTE 10: Corn dodgers are fried corn meal, commonly called hush puppies currently. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 30, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Erins Station, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-30 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Tom Neubig (transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource "5.46 X 3.12" - 1st Scan "5.02 X 8.01" - 2nd Scan "10.12 X 8.01" - 3rd Scan "5.02 X 8.01" - 4th Scan (JPG) Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #192A Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Erins Station, TN Allie Erins Station Jerome Peirce TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/053e9cdb7e6350f1890cf06762885917.jpg 9c598ee5e9e9ea745e69dcefc1314300 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a28679ed55d9816fd126d30d20998023.jpg d7da3552d564ebc27d475bf17065d6d9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Boston 31 Jan 1861 Allie dear, Have just come from Charlestown where I have passed the A.M. in making calls. Spent the night with C. Smith. Found them all well and seem quite happy. Have a fine boy named Francis Albert. Looks like Charles, only light blue eyes. Sent a great deal of love, etc. Called on Mrs. Mason, the Jacob’s, Toppan’s, Locke’s and Hall’s. Mrs. J has a boy, 5 weeks old otherwise as usual. Wrote to you but went to Orange probably. Found all the friends well and many inquiries and loves for you and “Lu” [Lulu]. Of course have many things to tell you about them that I can’t stop to write. Abby Phipps has a beau, being Mr. H. Lothrop, Lois S’s sister’s husband, the sister that died out west. Charles don’t think much of her choice. Jim Jacobs is married and living with his father also. So there will be some family anom[osity]. Have just got a letter from Billerica, all well, and just got a letter from you. By the way I got your letter on Tues. and was happy to hear you were well. I trust you are still so and enjoying yourself with Sarah and Foster. Have got thro [through] about all I can do here and would be glad enough to be with you but I must make a call or two. Shall go to Albert S. tonight and all say I must see Lucy. Hope to start for home next Tues but may not till Wedns or Thurs but it will not be longer than that I think. How do you do and our darling “Lu” [Lulu]? I do want very much to see you. I am no man to be away from home and family, that’s certain and shall be most happy to get back and be fairly started again. I hardly know what to write you for everything seems much as of old but I must confess I quite as [???] be in the country, even now, so much din and having no place that seems like home. Hope to hear from you by Foster or by mail. Our little “Lu” [Lulu] is equal to any of them except in size. I forgot the shoes for her in time to send them but got a pair in C[harlestown], also the powder [???]. Am not sure but I shall have Mary’s bundle forwarded by express as I should have to wait, I think, for it. How do you get along with your work? Have thought of you constantly and hope you will keep well and cheerful. Sent the “Inquirer” by Foster and some brushes which I shall use. Remember me to all. Sophia’s friends I haven’t seen as yet, have been so very busy but no doubt they send best wishes. You may ask me lots of questions when I get home for I can’t think of half the little items. Mr. Johnson appears better, more as he used to. As ever you own with many kisses for “Loo” [Lulu]. Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) Foster Peirce was one of Jerome’s older brothers. The 1850 U.S. Census listed him as being born in 1812, living in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and being in the furniture business. It is interesting to note that when that census was taken, Jerome, then 19 years old, was living with the Foster Peirce family, with his occupation being recorded as a “gilder.” Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 31, 1861 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Boston, MA. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1861-01-31 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Ben Raterman (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #246 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Boston, MA. Allie Boston MA Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a72f0de29b5c199516c532cb3b66888b.jpg 48bacd7b2dbbf4839be8dc5eed7d87aa https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/098b9ef8c6ab6ce848df8e81ef4f3c87.jpg da2de3ea87071aeb9ef63a8a583b3bd1 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/b5fcda37a7b44047a828f702a2b9e0eb.jpg f4535be1e05bebcd5d4862dd6314c5e5 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/09f71a8f0092f7fb3d09ef817559de45.jpg 537f150eb927ba8a4ea80f131ecb3987 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Monday 5th Jan 1862 [Should be “1863”] My dear wife, What was our surprise yesterday P.M. to see brothers Joseph and Foster coming down the line. Jos. H. saw them first, but we [were] not long bidding them welcome. Of course I must send you a line of nothing more, for we have been so busy with them that I can write but little. Capt. S. has been very courteous and kind. Bros. [Brother] J. [Joseph] slept there last night and has an invitation for tonight also. This morn. [morning] Jos. H. and myself with Jos. took breakfast there at the Capt.’s. tent. Breakfast of beans and griddle cakes with coffee, etc. which means “hardtack”, sugar and milk. It was a treat and we enjoyed it highly. Near noon we all started with Capt. Smith (who was at Orange) where Jos. dined today went on a hunch down to the river [Rappahannock River] as near the scene of the late battle as possible. Could hear the pickets talking, etc. Capt. R. was also of the company. Had a fine time for we have most lovely weather. This P.M. went and had our pictures taken, J. Mellen, Sumner Moore, Jos. H. and self, and all are pronounced fine likenesses. I had mine so I thought you would like it and hope it will please you. It is called a good thing by the boys who have seen it. We have a dress parade tonight at 6 o’clk when the adjutant makes his first appearance. His new equipments came by his father and he’s looking the finest I ever saw him. I am friend of him for the Colors sake and I know he will make a fine officer. The folks seem to have enjoyed their visit very much, were happily disappointed in finding us in more comfortable quarters than they expected. I hope you will see them. They can tell you many things. Had letter last eve. from you and Abbie. Don’t think too much about elevation, etc. for all those things come by time and exertions and I am not entirely friendless I think. The flannels drawers came by Jos. from B. [are] just the thing. Foster will see that we have things, money and all things for our comfort and are very kind indeed. Capt. R. has friends in Washington who deliver things forwarded for us. I am to have a pr. of boots etc. It has done us a world of good to have them to see us, to feel that they know how things are, etc. And there were many others too that it done good. Capt. Sawyer, I verily believe, will be happier by it for he has been very attentive. We are in excellent health, as the folks thought. I send a little pan that I found over in F. [Fredericksburg] have mentioned before for Lulu. She can make a cake. I wish I had a book or some other relic for you, but I could not obtain anything conscientiously that I could keep, situated as we were on those fearful days. All is now quiet and what a contrast to the days of slaughter. We visited the grim 32 pounders [cannons] that still frown upon the city, and the folks have some idea of war. Jos. H. and his father are here and I must close. Thanks for your letters, a kiss for you and Lulu. Love to friends and as ever Your loving husband, Jerome P.S. I shall be on dress parade as you see me in the picture with the cross belt, equipments, gun, which look cumbersome in a picture. I send you Miss Waldo’s letter. Have destroyed Mr. Mayo’s letter. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 5, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Falmouth VA Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-01-05 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 6.25 X 4 8 X 9.75 15 X 10 8.75 X 10.15jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #57 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Camp at Falmouth VA Allie Falmouth VA Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e004e21b15a2c39fe0021c3c53e2bcf0.jpg 4fb264e1a9a4e31ad1f951fdd9c4ffef https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ea770d1c3c6d4dada464e0120cb81c0c.jpg 7c2976d000fc4579de22a249545e308f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/b5f4f99d15b3885418591c0b3198a89c.jpg dc7befa04f8cc706e61a84f70fbbdc67 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7fedcb095b682e12e4d22d1a390c2fbe.jpg edb4d877d9ca390a67b8de434fe7ea41 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1864 Letter Collection Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Blans [Blaines] Cross Roads, E. Tenn. Etc. 6th Jan. 1864 My dearest Allie, I wrote you as usual at Billerica on Mond. [Monday], intended to on Sund. [Sunday] but could not, being so very uncomfortable and disturbed by the severe cold weather but if you chance to be at Boston when this reaches you with Ellen’s I knew you would be disappointed if I did not have at least a word for you which I hope I shall always. Here I sit by the fire, paper and writing materials strewed all about me. And what shall I say? Nothing new since Monday only that my tent is more roomy and I expect to take some little comfort reading papers, writing and thinking of you at home. Yesterday wrote a family letter to Billerica and to Jamestown N.Y. Hope to pay my debts in this line sometime. Allie, I always enjoy knowing that you are in “town” and enjoying yourself with the friends and sights and keeping your mind fresh and I trust you will see the brightest side to all things. [Transcriber’s Note: The next four lines of the letter have been heavily crossed out with what appears to be a black pencil to make them illegible.] Your last [letter] with Ellen’s I enjoyed so much. The picture of the friends assembled about you, one reading, Edwd. at the piano, you going to church, Foster’s new book and I always like to know what books he reads. Saw a notice of it and expect it must be very interesting and I think he (and Gen. B. [Burnside]) is one of the institutions of this war. The “Fair” must have been a magnificent affair. Ben and I sat in his tent and read all about it in the Journal. His bro [bother] Isaac is very kind and sends many papers. “Journal”, “Independent” and many from others and forms the Reading Room of the Co. if not the Regt. News from Orange is not plenty, no great change there, but I’m glad you keep up correspondence with friends there for it is appreciated I think as Henry M. [Almost certainly “Mayo”] speaks of it. Had a letter from Charles Smith. Spoke of the gathering etc. I wrote to the ‘Socials’ from Tazewell early so they might receive it in time. Directed it to Finney. You spoke of being pleased etc. that I was in the Com. [Commissary] Dept. We have to learn. I am satisfied that I am better off in the Regt. and besides I should have to report and if you get my last [Insert “letter”] of Monday last, you will see I got help immediately and now you can see the progress and I think for awhile of your little Sergeant and of four dollars a month more although it may be sometime before I can recruit safely, yet I will have a case that you and our darling are remembered. So look cheerfully into the future. Don’t think me thoughtless of how your headaches sometimes and how faithfully you strive. I know all and love you more than I can tell for it and feel that a better day must come by and by out of all this trying and we need only turn to the good book to find comfort and promise. Days are short, but I mean to glean all the comforts I can wherever I am. Did you receive the letter from Tazewell with the little picture of a ‘deer’ for Lulu directing you to send to the care of Lieut. Cross etc.? Be particular and tell me what letters you get. This my second to you this year. Your last was “4th in Dec.” My chimney is built on the front of the tent this time on one side of the end thus [Note: He included a small sketch of his tent.] while my rubber blanket serves for a door. Logs lined with stone and plastered up forms the fireplace and the whole [???] so I can almost stand erect and sit nicely on pine boughs and thus I greet you once more. Do you have any time to read? I wish you could some, just something to cheer and keep in mind something besides work, work for you need it. So do steal a moment once in a while and tell me about it. Some favorite passage in the Scriptures. “Isiah” is a beautiful book full of poetry and comfort and promise. A kiss for Lulu and always for you and the love of your Jerome I enclose a dollar to get some stamps. Have had to get me some gloves, shoes etc. and must keep a little by me. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: “Blans Cross Roads” in eastern Tennessee could not be found on a current map. However, the town of Blaine is located approximately twenty miles northeast of Knoxville, Tennessee. The envelope for this letter bears the postmark of Knoxville, Tennessee. Also, in his letter dated January 10, 1864, three days after this letter, Jerome indicates that he was “Near Blaine Cross Roads, Tenn.” The envelope for this letter is also postmarked Knoxville. Therefore, he almost certainly was located near the present town of Blaine, Tennessee, in early January 1864. NOTE 2: It is interesting to note that he mentions his increase in pay as the result of being promoted from corporal to sergeant on January 1, 1864, just prior to the date of this letter. His monthly pay increased from $13.00 to $17.00 as the result of the promotion. It also appears that as the result of his promotion, he was moved to the Commissary Department of his regiment. NOTE 3: Henry Mayo, also from Orange, Massachusetts, enlisted in on the same date, August 4, 1862, as Jerome. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 6, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-06 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #188 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Allie Blaine's Crossroads Jerome Peirce TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8a4f1f6a911682168ef43e4c209c744c.jpg dcb58732b17c05d7524b764ed5dc0522 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4fd88c25328a0d5ad1af196eb6dc29f2.jpg b7aea64e79eb51b766e2c5cb857b505a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/35f2da2926a8d0150bbf21652c5a4e39.jpg 06f233809fa457f2d5f5682a8964664c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f4d494d18025494f428b9f79045acee4.jpg a330929b4947b853df6807bab0afdc0f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/cadc2d18e3232e8c4eafbbe159c58ba7.jpg eaa52e171aa19fd575937682d8609f89 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/bbe5327139c14eef57ffdb8207c12a86.jpg e5e4b8436026c405304acc3e44526857 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION “Milldale” Rear of Vicksburg July 1st 63 My dearest Wife, Ben E. [Edmands] is here with me. Jos. H. left me this morn for the train once more. All to myself again, an airy, nice tent “all to myself, and a spare bed and board.” Ben and I have just taken cold coffee together, he writing to somebody. [I] have just finished a long letter to the friends at O. [Orange] (for Jos. H. and I). Mail closes very soon and I can only say a few words this time to acknowledge yours of the 14th ult. came yesterday, also a “Register” and can you imagine how good it seemed to receive it? Our big mail, they say, is close at hand at last and then what a treat! Ah, dear Allie, how much I’ve talked and thought of you! and all our dear home joys, our little Lulu too. How my heart reaches out to meet you both! No news, all quiet, and the Co. away on picket again. Am well excellently, and have been so busy improving my tent, and “policing” about, cleaning up all the chips and litter about it. It is called “policing”, and then I have seen and heard the mockingbird sing, to know him I mean for I have heard and wondered what it was, a slate colored, jolly fellow so full of songs and imitations, perfectly wild with joy all the time, and it seems as though he mocked and laughed at everything skimming from tree to tree, tho’ he hovers about a big tree near us, and the Adjt’s tent, chatted quite a while with him this morn. Alonzo is well. Did not receive letters yesterday and was quite disappointed. It seems so strange to be so long without a mail! but the letters directed [to] Louisville come thro’ but now you must direct them “via Cairo, Ills.” Mails come but I fear I shall have to close this before I receive it. P.M. No dear Allie, I gave up the idea of mailing this today for I did receive your letter of the 4th, or rather third, June, and I find so much that I must refer to, that I felt I must make out a passable letter to you. Ever loving and living for me! like a true dear wife that you are! Your birthday, the 4th. Ah yes, but as I said before I have lost the certainty whether it was the 4th or 6th. I remember mentioning as we were marching along, “This or the 6th is my wife’s birthday to one of the guards.” Oh, how my thoughts lingered over the past, even in that weary march, for all the tender memories “help” us so! Ben E. [Edmands] says (as I mentioned your age) that, if the memory of the oft coming birthdays had one unpleasant thought, it might console to know that his came the preceding day, the 3rd, and again the further we get on the nearer we are of an age for the good place of rest knows no difference of age. He always has some pleasant, cheering thought. And now let me enter here from my “diary” the record of that day. Thurs 4th. Mysterious movements. We usually have a bugle call as we fall in, but on that day no unnecessary noise was allowed which gave the impression of a retreat, hence “Mysterious movements”. Rapid march of the Brigade back to Columbia. Left about noon, arrived at C. [Columbia] about 9 P.M. (20 miles strong), fording the river by light of a lantern and wetting the lower limbs. Camped near the former headquarters (of the Gen’l.) Rumors afloat. Letters from wife and sister Abbie. Such was the day with me and how dear were the letters received and how eagerly read by the candle as I told you doubtless. I have often mentioned my appreciation of the kindness of your (and my) friends towards you. Tell them a soldier‘s heart is [as] large as his arm is strong. But your history of the Linen was funny indeed and Ben and I had a hearty laugh over it. No, we’ve seen but little, the poor fellows at Memphis you know. I mentioned the wounded all had white loose draws and frocks like and I doubt if any were among those. Ben got a nice package of letters from “His Amy,” Bro. Isaac and papers, Harper’s Magazine etc. and shares all with me. He sits here reading the papers now. Feel much, very much, interested for Frank and Will. I do trust Will will recover his wanted, and more than wanted, health. Of Frank, if he must come again, how gladly would I welcome him to “ours”, but I trust ‘twill seem fit for him to remain at home, altho I feel that it is the first duty of all that can come, and have we not left loved ones at home as dear as any to “rally round the flag” for one grand last effort, and then goes up the “All Hail and well done!!” And sweet peace and victory is ours. It must be so. Recd. a nice “Diary” from Alonzo the other day, and I am writing with the pencil of it, thick and slate colored. Shall send home my old one soon. But I close. When the mail is regulated and I can look for something often, how pleasant t’will be. Papers recd. are of the 20th. Vicksburg affairs are well told but let us hear soon of the utter destruction of Lee and his invading hosts of the North. ‘Tis the duty of our folks to do it. I’ve two more envelopes directed to Milk St., but they will be all right. I want to hear of your receiving all of my letters etc. Intended to have written Foster’s folks today, will tomorrow, or very soon. I hope my last month’s life will be deemed an excuse for silence, as long as they could know this [through] you of our movements, for I was indeed tired and worn down but I’m once more myself, so love to them and all and ever your devoted and loving husband Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The “Ben” referred to in this letter was Benjamin B. Edmands. He enlisted as a Private at age 27 from Brookline, Massachusetts, and he was subsequently promoted to Corporal. On January 20, 1864, he was discharged from the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment for promotion as a Lieutenant in the 54th Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers. NOTE 2: The “Jos. H.” that Jerome referred to in this letter was Joseph H. Peirce. He enlisted as a Private in Orange, Mass., on August 4, 1862, at age 18. Jerome also enlisted in Orange on the same date, but as a corporal. Jerome was 31 years old at the time. According to the Unit History, Joseph H. Peirce was taken Prisoner of War at Pegram Farm, Virginia, on September 30, 1864, (See Letter No. 227) and he was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was the son of Joseph Peirce, one of Jerome’s brothers, and was, therefore, Jerome’s nephew. NOTE 3: The “Alonzo” Jerome referred to in his letters was Seth Alonzo Ranlett. Ranlett enlisted in Co. B of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment as a Private on July 24, 1862, at age 22, and he was from Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was promoted to First Sergeant on August 27, 1862, and was commissioned as a First Lieutenant on December 1, 1862. On December 17, 1862, he was appointed Adjutant of the Regiment. He was mustered out “on account of physical disability from disease incurred in the service” on February 20, 1864. Ranlett was born on March 18, 1840, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and he died May 21, 1905, in Newton, Massachusetts. Ranlett’s wife was Ellen Peirce Ranlett, with a date of birth of March 22, 1842, and a date of death of January 12, 1914. They were married on January 21, 1864. Ellen Peirce was one of the children of Foster Peirce and his wife Catherine Abby Beaman. Also, Foster Peirce was a brother of Jerome. Therefore, the Ellen that Jerome mentions in his letters was one of Jerome’s nieces, and starting on January 21, 1864, Alonzo was the husband of one of his nieces. NOTE 4: Abbie (Abigail) Jaquith was Allie’s younger sister. Abbie was born in 1836, and she died in 1915. Allie (Albinia) was born in 1834, and she died in 1920. NOTE 5: Foster Peirce was one of Jerome’s older brothers. The 1850 U.S. Census listed him as being born in 1812, living in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and being in the furniture business. It is interesting to note that when that census was taken, Jerome, then 19 years old, was living with the Foster Peirce family, with his occupation being recorded as a “gilder.” NOTE 6: The genealogy information found for the Jaquith family on ancestry.com shows that Allie (Albinia) had a brother by the name of Franklin, who also went by “Frank.” He was born in 1839 and died in 1922. In an 1864 letter Allie wrote, “I will be coming to Orange with my brother Frank.” Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, July 1, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Vicksburg, MS. Milldale, MS. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-07-01 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 6.5 X 4.10 6.05 X 8.75 10.85 X 8.75 5.9 X 8.75 5.9 X 8.75 5.9 X 8.75 Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #135 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Milldale, Rear of Vicksburg, MS. Allie Jerome Peirce Milldale MS Vicksburg MS https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/483a09cbe4a8839366d813faac9008a9.jpg d59c84361c9fe08871e4db5c8a03f5b8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6a7dcbc3673047fb7fd591298373d2fc.jpg cb8199019f29f9a6d01c11e2798b9513 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0509bb29d9f8069c17a6c815b64b1638.jpg e399e8631f20516dc8a3a0edc6b8a59a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5736dffb79763014c0314501bb7127f8.jpg 933f1d51df52aeb61526067c52c03e2f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Sunday Eve 12th July 1863 Ever dear Allie, Here we are in the woods near the insane asylum, a fine building about two miles from the city of Jackson, which you know is the capital of Mississippi. I cannot relate in full the events of the past week. My last letter was written last Sunday just the other side of the Big Black River. We crossed on Tues[day] and advanced to this place suffering from the heat and marching but reached here on Fri[day] the P.M. of which we formed in line of battle and skirmished some two or three miles (in two divisions) forming a grand sight thru cornfields, woods, hills, etc. etc., quite surprised at not meeting the enemy before. Finally halted near the asylum for the night in a cornfield. Saturday, yesterday morning early, we moved forward cautiously feeling the enemy toward the city and soon rested in a pleasant wood but we soon discovered we were near a Reb battery, which thundered away at us with grape, solid shot and shell and killed two in the 27th Mich[igan] Regiment of our Brigade who rested below us but none of us were hurt here. But not so with the skirmishers [of] Co. F, mostly Milford men. [They] were the first to furnish victims, two from M. [Milford] were killed, Ellis and Hoyt, and some six wounded, mostly slightly. So far the 36th [has] done splendidly and ‘twas something to lay under the fire of yesterday in the woods hugging the ground like moles and no batteries in position to cover us, and what a relief this morning when two of ours opened on them. Such a rout and screaming of shot and shell for a few moments! Well thanks to [the] good giver, I am so far preserved from harm and feel hearty and well and trust in the same good Being to keep us to the end. The work is hardly yet begun and great events probably await us as the enemy are cornered and desperate, and several days will pass before it closes, but victory is sure in the end. The “Boys” are in fine spirits. Official news is received today of the fall of Port Hudson and defeat of General Lee in Pennsylvania. Trust all is true. Of the future, I know not. We are constantly ready to move and so long letters and words are impossible. (Rainy and I must close as I am outdoors.) Monday A. M. Still laying and safely waiting for “developments”. The batteries on our left, working a little. Went to the asylum grounds to see a few of the company who are ill from the effects of hard marching and heat, fatigue, lack of appetite, etc. All seem to think things are going well. Prisoners taken yesterday express the opinion that they cannot hold out long altho they mean to trouble us all they can. We seem to be feeling out their batteries and waiting to get [into] position. A large detail from “ours” last night working on fortifications nearby. Company H with the rest [have] not come in yet. Cloudy and spits of rain this morning and we are resting nicely this morning. Our mission seems to be to hold this position, to repel rather than attack. All talk and information seem to indicate a capture of the entire force here eventually and down goes the house with it! Only one of the Orange Boys are ill, W. H. Goddard, but not seriously. All [of] us [are] comfortable under a shelter on the Common or “Park” in front of the asylum. A delightful spot. Dear Allie, I have scratched off these few lines, not knowing when this will reach you, but you must possess your souls in patience and hope, for the work will surely close soon now and I am still sanguine that we shall meet again, and how much I shall have to relate that I cannot put on paper! Love as ever to all. I enclose some myrtle leaves and blossom, gathered in the grounds and a house where our line advanced. Our chaplain “fell out” some four or five miles back so I don’t know who looks out for the mail. No mail since last Sabbath. Alonzo well. Near Jackson, Miss., but very busy. As ever your loving Jerome Transcriber’s Note: The following note was written on the inside of the flap of the envelope: Later reports this morning point to a regular siege of the place. If so, we may remain some time. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: According to the Unit History, on July 5, 1863, the 36th Massachusetts moved towards Jackson, Mississippi, pursuing the retreating Confederates, with relatively few losses on both sides. After an eight-day siege of the city, it was abandoned by the Confederates on July 18. The regiment moved on until it reached Milldale, Mississippi, on July 23. NOTE 2: The Big Black River is a river in Mississippi and a tributary of the Mississippi River. Its origin is in Webster County near the town of Eupora in the north central part of the state. From there it flows 330 miles in a generally southwest direction until it merges with the Mississippi River 25 miles south of the city of Vicksburg. The Battle of Big Black River Bridge, fought May 17, 1863, was part of the Vicksburg Campaign. Union commander Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant and the Army of the Tennessee pursued the retreating Confederate Lt. Gen. John C. Pemberton following the Battle of Champion Hill, in the final battle before the Siege of Vicksburg. NOTE 3: The following information appears in the Unit History about the two men from Company F who were killed as mentioned in this letter. As always, this information agrees perfectly with what Jerome wrote. George H. Ellis was 23 years old when he enlisted on August 4, 1862. He was killed in action on July 11, 1863, the day prior to the date of this letter. Ames Hoyt was 20 years old when he enlisted on August 6, 1862. He was also killed in action on July 11, 1863. NOTE 4: The Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana (May 22 – July 9, 1863), was the final engagement in the Union campaign to recapture the Mississippi River. While Union General Ulysses Grant was besieging Vicksburg upriver, General Nathaniel Banks was ordered to capture the Confederate stronghold of Port Hudson, in order to go to Grant's aid. When his assault failed, Banks settled into a 48-day siege, the longest in U.S. military history. A second attack also failed, and it was only after the fall of Vicksburg that the Confederate commander, General Franklin Gardner, surrendered the port. Consequently, the Union gained control of the Mississippi River and navigation from the Gulf of Mexico through the Deep South and to the river's upper reaches. NOTE 5: In writing about the “defeat of General Lee in Pennsylvania,” he was referring to the Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, which resulted in a decisive Union victory on July 3, 1863. NOTE 6: William H. Goodard enlisted from Orange at age 21 with Jerome on August 4, 1862. He died of disease on August 17, 1863, a little over a month after this letter was written, at Louisville, Kentucky, NOTE 7: The “Alonzo” Jerome referred to in his letters was Seth Alonzo Ranlett. Ranlett enlisted in Co. B of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment as a Private on July 24, 1862, at age 22, and he was from Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was promoted to First Sergeant on August 27, 1862, and was commissioned as a First Lieutenant on December 1, 1862. On December 17, 1862, he was appointed Adjutant of the Regiment. He was mustered out “on account of physical disability from disease incurred in the service” on February 20, 1864. Ranlett was born on March 18, 1840, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and he died May 21, 1905, in Newton, Massachusetts. Ranlett’s wife was Ellen Peirce Ranlett, with a date of birth of March 22, 1842, and a date of death of January 12, 1914. They were married on January 21, 1864. Ellen Peirce was one of the children of Foster Peirce and his wife Catherine Abby Beaman. Also, Foster Peirce was a brother of Jerome. Therefore, the Ellen that Jerome mentions in his letters was one of Jerome’s nieces, and starting on January 21, 1864, Alonzo was the husband of one of his nieces. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, July 12, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Jackson, MS. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-07-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Bard Davidson (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 4 X 6.4 6 X 8.75 11 X 9 6.15 X 9 Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #140 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Near Jackson, MS. Allie Jackson MS Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/33b1f956d8abf8b0613729393d7eda67.jpg 07aa398d8075d1bcc3aecaa070f32b7d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/aa73dadae485f65b20410f54bceb6ec3.jpg a69d9c0ee9e2c071676937507d67516b https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/716ecde76ee2b91d851bfdf242bff7e6.jpg 8139e652b232f5a57346f073c9f657b1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Transcriber’s Note: The parts of the letter that precede this page are apparently missing. Jul 15, 1863 … for sometime as Grant takes more time and “bags” all he can. All things now point to a speedy close of the hard fighting. Official accounts continue to come in of successes all around and the rebels here and well discouraged. Yesterday during a flag of truce the rebs came out and talked with us or our boys. Regretted that we should be fighting and wished ‘twas over with and there are many conscripts here who will not hurt us if they can help it and but for the leaders, ‘twould soon be over with. We can see of the dome of the capitol at J. [Jackson] on a little hill a few steps from here and where I went this A.M. to see the artillery practice. The guns crack away every five minutes. Benjamin’s Battery is playing away but rebs does not reply very often and then over or under shoots. We have learned to be quite indifferent to the din and danger of these things. I tell you these things not to alarm you but that you may know that I am wonderfully spared so far and I see no serious danger near. I take as good care of [my] health as possible and after what I passed through marching here and in the first days work in the woods in front, I gave myself little trouble. We have been able to procure a little corn, some potatoes and I have with a plenty of fresh meat something still to live on. I see by a letter from Mary (at O. [Orange]) that Dr. Willis is dead of diphtheria. This was sudden and a great loss. Jos. Henry was well last Thursday and in good spirits. Goodard, I think, will recover. Do not think it is serious. Went to see him day before yesterday but they are now moved further to the rear. All sorts of stories are in camp about our going North and but I suppose when Jackson [Mississippi] falls we leave for Cincinnati. We have some delay about the mails and you must not allow yourself to worry because you don’t receive letters promptly. I write twice a week. They promise us that this mail will leave promptly. Rec’d a “Journal” from B. and two “Registers”. Alonzo is nicely and writes today to Ellen. Has just left me with some paper, etc. as their baggage was all behind. We came in lightest order. Knapsacks have come up tho all right. Am glad you have the prospect of remaining with Marion. Do… TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: The parts of the letter that follow this page are apparently missing. NOTE 2: Based on the text, this letter was written in the vicinity of Jackson, Mississippi. NOTE 3: The “Alonzo” Jerome referred to in his letters was Seth Alonzo Ranlett. Ranlett enlisted in Co. B of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment as a Private on July 24, 1862, at age 22, and he was from Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was promoted to First Sergeant on August 27, 1862, and was commissioned as a First Lieutenant on December 1, 1862. On December 17, 1862, he was appointed Adjutant of the Regiment. He was mustered out “on account of physical disability from disease incurred in the service” on February 20, 1864. Ranlett was born on March 18, 1840, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and he died May 21, 1905, in Newton, Massachusetts. Ranlett’s wife was Ellen Peirce Ranlett, with a date of birth of March 22, 1842, and a date of death of January 12, 1914. They were married on January 21, 1864. Ellen Peirce was one of the children of Foster Peirce and his wife Catherine Abby Beaman. Also, Foster Peirce was a brother of Jerome. Therefore, the Ellen that Jerome mentions in his letters was one of Jerome’s nieces, and starting on January 21, 1864, Alonzo was the husband of one of his nieces. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, July 15, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Jackson, MS. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-07-15 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 7 X 4.3 7 X 9.3 7 X 9.3 Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter # 141 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Near Jackson, MS. Allie Jackson MS Jerome Peirce