18 10 273 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/008e987a5a56aafbbf43406aa3a05e66.jpg 47011daaf963a1d9f880044825e50ae1 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5e0ad5cb54f507df2a91f849b8350c89.jpg e5c8387de0803c1fce82da170f96a8be https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/988a4d0f7ab2169b69638405b037aa55.jpg f4b7399192e9eb04cf5bed08afcd8177 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f4455ed8ad997f92aec4fe1437edbb2c.jpg b2c1a647d724211aead8d859ae30ce89 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 Wednes[day] 4th March 1863 (Newport News) My dear Wife, Expected to be on guard today, but evening to Brigade drill and chilly weather. Dismissed till tomorrow morn at reveille (6 o’clk). So here we are J. H. and myself writing. Have nothing, yes, a little something to record. Day before yesterday received a good letter from Bro. Ballou of O[range]. Will send it to you after answering and last night or P.M. late a box came from O[range]: apples, brown bread, donoughts, cookies and 2 pies and some dry articles, such as pepper etc. All very nice of course and causing a brief indifference to Army rations. Our drills and guard duty are fully organized and we have little time to write for we can hardly get our things out before the bugle sounds for something as follows. 6 o’clk a.m. Reveille, very soon after Police Call when all clean up the street, ½ past six Surgeon’s Call, or Sick Call, 7 Breakfast Call, ½ past 8 drill an hour, ½ past ten Battalion drill (the whole Regt.) an hour, 12 dinner call, ½ past one drill call again, 3 p.m. Bat[talion] drill till 4 p.m., 5 Dress parade, 6 supper, 1/2 past 8 “Tattoo”, 9 Taps lights out and add to this the recalls from drill drummers call and you form an idea of what we hear of the bugle. I catch a few moments to read for all this or write. Am in the midst of “Love’s Labor Lost” (Shakespeare) and keep up testament reading, following you and Abbie in your readings as much as possible. So you see I am quite busy and have little time to entertain sad thoughts for I am excellently well. Yesterday P.M. was on fatigue duty that is “boss” of cleaning up our parade ground in front of our camp. Cut down several firm peach trees, filling up the holes and leveling the effects of a ambulance camp. This P.M. from 1 to 4, brigade drill, 3 Regt. Well don’t you feel tired? Now to your letter, for I am writing over it, and first I am grieved that you have to work so hard and [for] such poor for remuneration. I would I could relieve you some way but I am a soldier and trying to get ahead by all honorable means and if I am doomed to remain long in the service I shall advance if possible for the pay’s sake and I trust with an honorable and patriotic ambition added and I know if there is any show, the officers are my friends as you will see the Captain is. I wish to mention one thing. You may think I think of only my reading, etc. but I am determined to deserve promotion but it is only thru peril and work or the death or incompetency of others that we can gain it. But be assured what can be done to add to my work or pay I shall do. You speak of Aunt Wyman. [Abbie] did not mention that she was seriously ill, but have expected it for sometime. Have heard nothing from Alonzo since my last [letter]. Shall hear tomorrow I think. By the way I wish to say that I mailed the little box yesterday. Put 4 stamps on it. Hope it will prove enough and that it will reach you safely for I took real pleasure in making and filling it. You can improve the looks very much by rubbing some sweet oil on it with a cloth. Don’t put it where it will heat suddenly for the wood was damp when I made it and the contents wet or were. Let it season gradually and it will not be so likely to be loose. I have some other shell specimens that I would like to send home but don’t know if I can. Have not heard from Suffolk. May today as the mail comes early P.M. and here let me tell you to direct [your letters] to Newport News via Fortress Monroe as they come one day sooner. Shall try and answer Miss Waldo’s letter today and will send it (hers) if I do. You will please keep her letters and our friends’ [letters] out of the family for awhile. The bugle is sounding for Reg. [Regimental] Inspection but we (J. H. and I) don’t have to go, so we are alone in the tent, he writing home. Among other things in the box was some wedding cake I suppose Lottie’s. I want to inquire what you done with that jack knife. Curiosity. I cut at Orange ball in block and did you manage not to break it? The Orange boys are all in good health and always return the same. Had a letter from Mr. Stevens the other day. He was still in the hospital in Re, not fit to return to the Co. [Company] and desiring his descriptive list. He’ll manage to get home after a while. By the way, there is a brother of Geo. Burdett in Co. B, a fine pleasant fellow, but sick and yesterday got his papers and will get a discharge I guess. Heart complaint [???] etc. Has a faint remembrance of you he thinks. He is the image of Geo., his brother. I forgot to mention that we are getting disciplined. Have to come out with boots blacked (when on guard), brasses shined up and you don’t know how nice your Jerome looks now that he doesn’t have to do cooking. I don’t think you could see much change. My beard is out and dulling, will reduce me in flesh. Hattie I believe asked if we had amusements in camp. We have bull playing, jumping etc. and cards some. I do little of either, as you know my taste for shared moments. But it is a lively cheerful scene generally. It is cold and bleak here now and seems much like the weather in Boston. My darling Lulu, where is she? Does she have a nap daytimes? I wish I could see her. Don’t pray tell her of her qualities. Sund. [Sunday] eve. heard the band play in another brigade. There is a little drummer boy of 13, no father. He is very modest and pretty. One of the [???] who seems to have the case of [whom it is] said “He’s a good boy and don’t grow old!” So let it be with her [Lulu]. Don’t make her [Lulu] “grow old”. His name is Jimmy Moores. As ever wish a kiss for you both. Your loving, Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Tom Neubig and Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The term “tattoo” comes from the early 17th century Dutch phrase “doe den tap toe” ("turn off the tap"), a signal sounded by drummers or trumpeters to instruct innkeepers near military garrisons to stop serving beer and for soldiers to return to their barracks. NOTE 2: The “J. 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: Rev. Levi Ballou gave the sermon at the funeral service sermon held for Jerome, ten days after this letter was written, on Sunday, June 19, 1864, in the church in Orange, Massachusetts, where Jerome had been the “Sabbath School Superintendent.” Rev. Ballou made reference to several letters that Abbie had shared with him. The following is an excerpt from that sermon. “Again, he writes his companion [his wife, Albinia or Allie], only 12 days before he fell, and after describing the place where he then was, as reminding him much of certain localities where they had in former days conversed and strolled together. He adds that by the movements of the army, “It looks like a fearful future for some.” He asks, “Shall we be spared the last fearful conflict?” “We hope all will be for the best.” He then speaks of his darling child to whom he sends some flowers which he had culled for her to keep to remember Papa and in closing says, ‘I hope to see you again soon.’” This collection of letters also includes two letters sent by friends of Jerome and Allie to Rev. Ballou in early June of 1864 that were read at the funeral service. Rev. Ballou’s sermon was obtained with the help of the current minister at the First Congregational Parish Church in Orange from the Rare Books Department of the Hesburgh Library of the University of Notre Dane, Notre Dame, Indiana, which has all of Rev. Ballou’s papers. NOTE 4: 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 5: Edwin Stevens enlisted at age 39 from Orange, Massachusetts, on August 4, 1862, the same date that Jerome enlisted. He was killed at Campbell’s Station, Tennessee, on November 16, 1863. 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, March 3, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Newport News, 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 1863-03-03 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 5.48 X 3.22 5.03 X 7.89 10.15 X 7.98 5.03 X 7.89 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 #79 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Newport News, VA. Allie Jerome Peirce Newport News VA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c7edef086cae78243c92bc8e4462307d.jpg edaba2d93a2cd9ab099452f709de930f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3ed2dfb259071dfbaccd9b8d01837584.jpg 1c3c8dc003276c37cc5c80522c0bebfa https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/99eef77ed1215245b2e58693e0134917.jpg f32c3c9ac41e134f42a3fec5c3546fc5 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/9ace774b179108f3e1a6d19b7ef18ed5.jpg 52d019dcd6e71cdf131478405548626c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6ac85ce5d354f7181e1f663ca5531a43.jpg d3246f94694d04bcf9d0b162ee3a9681 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 Lexington Ky 31st Mch 1863 My dear wife, I wrote you a few lines again today to inform you principally how to direct your letters in future. It is as follows: Co., Reg. & Corps as before but to “Burnside’s Department via Cincinnati, Ohio” and I shall get them. Have not heard from home yet since our arrival and you may imagine how anxious I feel to receive some tidings. I wrote you last Sabbath and to Abbie yesterday. We shall probably receive a mail soon. I have nothing new to write. It is quite cold here and snows a little today. The people think it is our doings for ‘tis uncomfortably cold for the season. Lumber is being distributed to raise our tents so by and by we expect to be nicely camped once more. Have been very busy this morning cleaning up equipments and for inspection this P.M. but I think there’ll not come off. The boys have been having a smart game of ball as it is a nice place and all in the best of spirits. There is a swift clean brook runs thru the grounds in the rear, so we have a nice chance to wash. Great fine black walnut trees adorn our ground. The state lunatic asylum, a large mass of brick buildings with red roofs, stand at the left while [Henry] Clay Monument looks down upon the opposite side, while cars are constantly coming and going in front of us and it don’t seem possible that we are so far from home as it is an old settled place and seems like Mass. very much. A gentleman formerly of Providence, R.I. called upon us on Sunday P.M. and a very pretty little boy with him. I showed him little Lulu’s picture. He looked funny and hardly knew what to do. He was a roguish little fellow. The church bells and the general hum seems quite [a] civilization once more. We can get passes to attend church and I shall attend at every opportunity. How do you all do? What do the papers say? I want very much to get a “Journal” and I suppose our movements were all talked over before we knew precisely where we are going. Many thought we were going to garrison places north to look after “Copperheads” but I understand they are growing “beautiful by less” everywhere and so I think they will. What of Will and Frank? I feel anxious about affairs in Suffolk for it looked like a fight when we left Va. No paymaster yet but expected daily and then I hope to send you something and have a little myself, for so far from home [I] shall need a little. Is Alonzo at home? I presume you will anticipate all these questions in your letters so I will close. Love to all and a special share for yourself and Lulu. As ever your affectionate husband, Jerome P. Transcriber’s Note: The following is an apparent continuation of the letter on a separate page. Allie, I suppose you will hear from Dan Preston’s family by this time all I could write What a tragedy! Oh Allie, there is something worse than my being here. To think of the fate of Ellen and her feelings! I pity her very much for wiser one might have saved her. I think by a right course Lucy wrote me about her. I send you some leaves and a purple flower, the “hyacinth”. The leaves are the ‘mistletoe’, a sacred plant with the English. Druids used in their worship I believe. They shoot out of maple trees, many feet from the ground. The limb swells like a sore and these shoot out all around it like this. Transcriber’s Note: The following note was written vertically on the margin, possibly not by Jerome. “Contents of the letter all safe.” Transcriber’s Note: The following appears on the reverse side of this page. This came in one of the first letters but took it out with some flowers and did not see it till this morning. Private We are pretty well. How is Alonzo? Your affec[tionate] Sister Hattie TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: Henry Clay (1777 – 1852) was an American lawyer, planter, and statesman who represented Kentucky in both the United States Senate and House of Representatives. Clay helped elect John Quincy Adams as president, and Adams subsequently appointed Clay as Secretary of State. Clay served four separate terms in the Senate, and he ran for the presidency in 1824, 1832 and 1844, and unsuccessfully sought his party's nomination in 1840 and 1848. In addition, he created the Whig Party. Clay died on June 29, 1852, in Washington, D.C., at the age of 75. He was the first person to be lain in state in the United States Capitol rotunda. He was buried in the Lexington, Kentucky, Cemetery. The Henry Clay Monument, shown below, was erected at the cemetery in 1857 and consists of a 120-foot tall Corinthian column surmounted by a statue of Clay. The remains of Clay and his wife Lucretia rest in two marble sarcophagi on the floor of a vaulted chamber at the base of the monument. Clay’s estate, known as Ashland, is also located in Lexington and is now open to the public. NOTE 2: In the 1860s, the “Copperheads” were a faction of Democrats in the Northern United States who opposed the Civil War and wanted an immediate peace settlement with the Confederates. Republicans started calling anti-war Democrats "Copperheads,” likening them to the venomous snake. Those Democrats accepted the label, reinterpreting the copper "head" as the likeness of Liberty, which they cut from Liberty Head large cent coins and proudly wore as badges. By contrast, Democratic supporters of the war were called War Democrats. The “Copperheads” represented the more extreme wing of the Northern Democrats. Republican prosecutors accused some prominent “Copperheads” of treason in a series of trials in 1864. NOTE 3: Hattie was Allie’s younger sister. Her complete name was Harriet Walker Jaquith, and she was born in 1845. The information about her on ancestry.com indicates that she probably died in 1930. NOTE 4: 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, March 31, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Lexington, KY. 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 1863-03-31 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 6 X 9 11 X 9 6 X 9 6.5 X 8 6.5 X 8 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 #95 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Lexington, KY. Allie Jerome Peirce Lexington KY. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2213a9b935317e8abdd70d664f461cf3.jpg c5b75fbb41e70850b5abcda5fec10e26 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/47ec760be07a345425b4e6efc183030d.jpg 6457e1964a2db6e494fa27309bcda8e1 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3348f9503c235767b18a977077ebea0f.jpg cc284ed05725df627e832f531948992d 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 Camp near Nicholasville, Ky. 31st March/64 My dearest wife, Noon. Just in from Knoxville! Over the mountains, 11 days of successive marching and a weary, worn set of men we are but we [are] nearing Home! My first opportunity of sending you anything since one from K. [Most likely, Knoxville, Tenn.] a week ago last Saturday. Did you get it? Am too tired and worn out to tell you particulars. Marched every morning at 6 1/2 o’clk a.m. and halting for coffee and dinner an hour and once or twice two hours. From Morristown it is 13 days marching with only 24 hours rest aside from our regular nights sleep so you may judge what a work has been done. We got to camp generally from 4 o’clock till 1/2 past 5. Rumor says we report at Annapolis, Md. and then each Regt. to its respective state for furlough, reasonable but uncertain. My general health is good but tired, very, but expect to be on the cars [railroad cars] and then the poor feet will rest. Have had plenty to eat, are now drawing soft bread. If I could only see you all I could tell you much but this will report me at least. I have marched the entire distance, nearly 190 miles, with knapsack and everything on. Had to march some in the rear, but always stacked arms with the Regt. Jos. H. well and sends regards. Will write when at our destination. Some leaves from Fort Sanders where the charge was made. Ever your own Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Per the Unit History: December 20, 1863 – April 6, 1864. The regiment moved numerous times in eastern Tennessee, including in the Knoxville area, before being ordered to move by train, by way of Baltimore, to Annapolis, Maryland, where it arrived on April 6, 1864. NOTE 2: The “Jos. H.” Jerome referred to in this letter, as well as in other letters, was almost definitely 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 on September 30, 1864 and was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was a nephew of Jerome. NOTE 3: On November 29, 1863, Confederate forces under Gen. Longstreet unsuccessfully tried to capture the Union-held Fort Sanders (also known as Fort Saunders), located northwest of Knoxville, Tenn., with a charge that ultimately failed, with only a few Confederates reaching the inside of the fort, where they were killed or captured. The 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was present at the battle but was not directly involved in the main fighting. It suffered one loss, a private who died of his wounds when a shell exploded near him. Longstreet’s failure to capture Fort Sanders essentially ended the Knoxville Campaign, with the city remaining in Federal hands for the remainder of the war. This Confederate defeat, plus the Confederate loss at the Battle of Chattanooga on November 25, 1863, put much of East Tennessee in the Union camp. NOTE 4: The following two notations appear on the front of the envelope containing this letter: “flowers in this” and “Leaves from Fort Saunders”. The leaves from Fort Sanders/Saunders Jerome mentions in his letter survived and were still in the envelope along with the above letter when received by the National Park Service and are pictured below. 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, March 31, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Camp near Nicholasville, KY. 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 1864-03-31 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 #203 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Nicholasville, KY. Allie Jerome Peirce KY. Nicholasville https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/76a877df91d33e359e0915a4c98f3a23.jpg f6c83fc91a4b11d1f6b7d2be46578f3d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/db8e7248973df7a7e27dc92324d36e8b.jpg 5e763429c0961dc5208f5202c398034d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8e208998d98414baac5a9c9daf15db0b.jpg f1277c3143bf9bc619b15fa34b7a7d65 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ea05fbe9d0a9f9f93d11cbf01b611b18.jpg daa50eb3b2b5d28c3dba53c4750c5b41 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 “Mossy Creek” E. Tenn Sat. morn 5th Mch/64 My ever dear wife and little one. Mail goes in a few moments and I can only send you a singe word to thank you for your most comforting letter of the 21st Feb just this moment. Should like to send a long letter with our movements which don’t amount to much so far only tiring out the men. Went as far as Morristown 12 miles from here, came back Wedns. [Wednesday]. Expected to have come back to Strawberry Plains, and a few of us went ahead Wedns. night but had to come back some 24 miles extra marching. Have been troubled with an abscess on my neck. It has opened and I am now quite smart again. Some lame in right knee but shall rest a day or two in camp, a general stop being put to movements. You will receive a note by Mr. Sallervay I hope written a week ago. Your account of his sermons and kindness are a great comfort to me, and your letter done me so much good. Oh Allie, I do take some comfort in my good name and trust I deserve it. I am certainly trying against many hardships to do something for the present day and generation and I hope you will keep up good courage to the end. You know I am without stationery or change of clothing. So you must accept such as I have. Have had some stormy weather but not cold. Rations are not full, but better than before. I think it is intended to hold our position and that soon we shall advance again. Building R.R. [Railroad] bridge at Strawberry Plains, etc., etc. Didn’t get the other letter from home or Boston yet. Please write Boston friends and tell them how I am situated. Expect my knapsacks but uncertain. The officers are doing all they can for us. It is a difficult thing to keep open communications for supplies, etc. We’re in the woods, expect to change camp as soon as the ground gets dry. Am sorry to send you thus poor affairs but will read your letter and do better as soon as I can. Knew you would feel anxious ab [about?] our hurried and strange movements spoken of in my letters from the [Strawberry] Plains. You may send me a pair of socks. Have the feet short somewhat as extra troubles in marching. Do not need anything else, especially if my things come up and weather getting warmer. We learn to get along with very little. Give much love to all the friends at Bedford too. Did Laura get my letter written a long time ago? You will please send a small sheet of paper and so I can write you regularly. Cannot [Insert “write”?] anyone else till my things come up, till then how it is. Bro. Ben is well and the kindest of friends to me. He will write you one of these days. You can hardly imagine the discomforts of these “light marching orders” movements. There is so much I would like to say to you but I think of you constantly and I feel daily more and more how much we must lean on the great Right Arm. Please write all often for letters are such a comfort and will reach me somehow. Love to each and all and a kiss for wife and Lulu from your own Jerome A nice lot of stamps now. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Mossy Creek is a district or section in the southeast part of Jefferson City, Tennessee, in Jefferson County. It is located east of Knoxville, Tennessee, with Strawberry Plains located about halfway between Knoxville and Jefferson City. Mossy Creek was the site of a relatively minor Civil War battle on December 29, 1863. Morristown, Tennessee, is located just east of Jefferson City, Tennessee, about the same distance as Strawberry Plains is west of Jefferson City. NOTE 2: As indicated in the letter, Jerome was short of stationery when he wrote it. Consequently, the first page of this letter was written on the back of an advertising flyer summarized below. It should be noted that Allie’s maiden name was Jaquith. Therefore, the Joseph Jaquith who is named as the “Agent” in the flyer and who apparently distributed it is almost certainly Allie’s brother Joseph who was born in 1842. The flyer advertises a patented elastic roofing material to fireproof and waterproof roofs of all kinds as well as roofing cement for pointing chimneys, etc. by a company located on Warren St. in Lowell, Mass. Joseph Jaquith is listed as the Agent, with Wm. G. Clark of 67 Haverhill St., Boston, Mass., being the General Agent. NOTE 3: Strawberry Plains was then and is now a small community that straddles Jefferson, Knox, and Sevier counties in Tennessee and is located on the bank of the Holston River. Early in the Civil War, in 1861, the railroad bridge at Strawberry Plains was a target of Union sympathizers who tried to burn several East Tennessee bridges to hinder Confederate military progress. The conspirators failed in their efforts to burn the Strawberry Plains bridge, but they succeeded in their attacks of some of their other targets. NOTE 4: “Right Arm” undoubtedly refers to God. For example, in Psalms 98:1 there is a passage that reads, “O sing to the Lord a new song. For He has done wonderful things. His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him.” Having been a Sabbath School teacher at his church in Orange, Massachusetts, before he enlisted, Jerome would likely have been familiar with this and other passages in the Bible which indirectly refer to the “Right Arm” and God. 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, March 5, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Mossy Creek, E. Tenn. 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 1864-03-05 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 #199 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Mossy Creek, E. Tenn. Allie E. Tenn. Jerome Peirce Mossy Creek https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e23265e894a21ea98d976570e8591a98.jpg 23d29cb98f6c2f3ac6f12e5fc50f88ca https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/cb2c5bc7181346a961e2dff4d0da2496.jpg 0d26716658585813c4fa345383e8a159 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/89aa3572fca50b11cfc725e9da7d2fff.jpg 0d4c669bb3cf11d12f2be6d9b8be2c35 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 Newport News Va., 6th Mch [March] 1863 My ever dear wife, We were excused from forenoon drill today, it being too cold and windy, and have been improving some time writing to Mr. Ballou, and now I will devote a portion to you. Yours of March 1st, Sunday, was duly received yesterday and I read its contents with great interest and feel how little I can add to what you said, but I am full aware that to express yourself freely on paper does not make a complete or sincere Christian or friend, and I trust you will not think me inclined to draw any comparisons between your letters and others. You have a claim and a place in my heart which is all your own, and while it comforts and sustains me to know you discover any means to cheer your spirit and lighten your heart, I trust you will endeavor to maintain a cheerful faith. Do not sink into anything morbid, but as you say, humbly “cast your burden at His feet” and you will bear up. I remember the passage you mention. “Men likened to a count, etc.” It is beautiful and so truthful, too! One thing is to be allowed for here. I have and do read. I trust in a becoming spirit the Scriptures, but how often I wish, as I attempt to speak on paper, that I could sit by your side and chat and commune together on these sacred things together, for the continual din of the camp is constantly distracting the mind to a degree not realized by those at home. You speak of Will’s letters frequent[ly] and long. I had one from Frank yesterday. They it seems have just commenced drilling. Perhaps I’m mistaken but I hardly think they have had as much to take all their time as we have, and I have not the faculty of writing so much when life is so monotonous. At present we can scarcely find time to do our common duties. So much to do. Everything to keep so nice: guns, equipment and if you have any ambition, everything, even buttons, must be constantly in good order. So I cannot write much more than I do. Does Will write to as many as I do? And I try to send you letters to make up for my poor affairs. Could you see all, I think you would wonder we write as much. I was surprised to hear such news from Aunt W. It only confirms that we of the liberal faith believe, you know, but it is indeed dreadful trying, and I trust may change for the better. Surely these times should bring about a charitable harmony among those of every faith, for every household has its vacant chairs and how much alike are the experiences of families. But think when the Conscription Act goes into force! Allie, while I cling like an anchor, and it is indeed an anchor which keeps me from drifting into indifference or despair, to the endearing memories of home. I am becoming daily more resolved and firm in my sense of duty to stand firm and accept my lot as a soldier of the best country that God ever blessed man with. What of good I can win or deserve, I shall possess, if possible, and I feel firm in the faith that all will issue well, and the end will be peace, and a peace worth contending and living for. And I find much here to be thankful for and for continued health more than all. Here will soon be a still larger class to feel the keen pangs of separation from home and dear ones. And each must help each other by all means by good courage and firm reliance on “Him who doeth all things well.” So our little Lulu has been visiting school. She was a good girl to keep so quiet. And one of the days will be a scholar, too. How time passes! Six months we’ve been in the Army and what of the next six months? I trust ’twill be crowned with fruits of success ready for gathering. And if the whole people will once rise to the occasion, this war will soon close. Who can doubt it? Have not heard lately directly from Foster’s. I take it Alonzo is very slowly recovering, but have little hope of his return to the Army for a long time, if ever. But his spirit was good and I trust it, with the body, may fully recover. Am glad Mr. S. is to establish a Bible class and trust will be fruitful in good works and uniting the people. Don’t you think these times have been instrumental in turning the minds of people to religious thought? I see in papers I receive that these trials are bringing the American people to a sense of dependence upon the Great Giver more than ever and this feature alone has much that is encouraging in it. Jos. H. is writing and will add something for you. I think I forgot to mention that Everett Peirce has been or is quite ill with the lung fever, but I hope soon to hear of his recovery. It is dinner hour and will close by and by. Did you receive the mosses from Ben E.? Tell me when the box reaches you. Direct to Newport News via Fortress Monroe in future. A little later. I hear we shall soon be on drill and I must close and add a word to Lettie E. (J. H. is writing her.) I have written with ink, not such as I would like to, but it [is] the hardest time to write letters we have ever had and you must forgive much and believe more, and know that my thoughts are always with you. Dreamed of you all and home last night but cannot recall it sufficiently to mind to relate it. Lost half of my ink by the overturning of the ink stand, a tent accident. Give Lulu a good kiss for Papie and reclaim [it] for yourself. I should hardly know what to say or do in “presence of wife and baby”, but trust to learn again sometime. I send more leaves. Love to all. Received the papers and tooth brush. Tell me if the wristers reach you safely and the paper. Thank Mary for her note. Hope all are well and happy. Love abundantly, from yours ever, Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: Rev. Levi Ballou gave the sermon at the funeral service sermon held for Jerome, on Sunday, June 19, 1864, in the church in Orange, Massachusetts, where Jerome had been the “Sabbath School Superintendent.” Rev. Ballou made reference to several letters that Abbie had shared with him. One of those letters was probably this one. The following is an excerpt from that sermon. “Again, he writes his companion [his wife, Albinia or Allie], only 12 days before he fell, and after describing the place where he then was, as reminding him much of certain localities where they had in former days conversed and strolled together. He adds that by the movements of the army, “It looks like a fearful future for some.” He asks, “Shall we be spared the last fearful conflict?” “We hope all will be for the best.” He then speaks of his darling child to whom he sends some flowers which he had culled for her to keep to remember Papa and in closing says, ‘I hope to see you again soon.’” This collection of letters also includes two letters sent by friends of Jerome and Allie to Rev. Ballou in early June of 1864 that were read at the funeral service. Rev. Ballou’s sermon was obtained with the help of the current minister at the First Congregational Parish Church in Orange from the Rare Books Department of the Hesburgh Library of the University of Notre Dane, Notre Dame, Indiana, which has all of Rev. Ballou’s papers. NOTE 2: Foster was an older brother of Jerome. He was born in 1812. 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 some of 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: The “Jos. H” or “J. 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 5: According to several medical dictionaries, “lung fever” is an archaic, non-specific term meaning “pyrexia (fever) arising in a background of pulmonary inflammation” and could include what is now known as pneumonia. NOTE 6: In his reference to “leaves” he is referring to having sent leaves and/or flowers to Lulu that he had picked at various times where he was stationed. Seven of these mementos have survived and were included in envelopes that are in this collection. NOTE 7: “Wristers” are a warm, knitted coverings for the wrist. 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, March 6, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Newport News, 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 1863-03-06 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Jack Phend (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 5.05 X 8.17 9.96 X 8.17 5.05 X 8.17 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 #80 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Newport News VA. Allie Jerome Peirce Newport News VA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e559eb60ff6ae39339b690ed3471d893.jpg 44f9114359480203743d385701a8d7ba https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f43e6d0d12e1f201ebe6fdfa57a728f2.jpg faaf0fdfa09df91f6988318ba463ffd1 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/1e065ea9980f348a510960c08e244cec.jpg d8dbd147aff92c7ca718c65971dfd35c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d095c6c7bb26a1e09649d85eb4c01b57.jpg 285750a3a13860f0e125d8e928230c0d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/93ecd6ce0cdad84a7d7bec80aa508ffc.jpg 662def331b0524149e8e21c41178428c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/9550629be6ce2f0cf578c971991debff.jpg 4b6ce49f57f6617ea3cd885eb178223f 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 Middleburg, Ky, 11th May, 1863 My own dear Wife, I intended yesterday to have written you a “nice long letter.” ‘Twas a beautiful sunny day, thought I would wait ‘till the latter part of the day, so to have the “latest” news and before long the news, sure enough, began to come in. For the last few days, we have been in a fever of excitement by the news from the Rappahannock. One day victory and rejoicing, and then, defeat, or check and a corresponding depression. Well, thought I would attend the prayer meeting ‘till candle light and then light my candle and have a long chat with your dearest self, when while one young soldier was at prayer, a short burst from the 27th Mich. in front of us, soon little knots gathering here and there in our own Regt. Pretty soon, as our Col. and Lieut. Col. were passing out [a paper], a Maj., Lieut. Cross of Col. Leasure’s staff stopped them (the Col.) and gave him a paper, looked a moment and then turned about for his quarters. Soon, the bugle sounded and the whole Regt. was soon gathered about him while he read this dispatch from Gen. Wilcox (our Corps Com. [Commander]) to Gen. Welch. “Stoneman reinforced by Gen. Dix, who enter Richmond. The Stars and Stripes now float over the Rebel Capitol! Hooker reinforced and again crossing the river to meet the enemy!!!” How can I describe what followed, cheer after cheer went up at the Col.’s call (Reveille!). Well, the boys seemed perfectly wild with joy and they seemed at a loss what to do. Pretty soon “Out with your candles!” and in a twinkling every tent was illuminated by the candle, stuck out on the ridge pole, while the officers’ quarters were covered, and it was one of the most beautiful scenes I ever saw, for we had plenty of candles. The eve. was warm and still. In the meantime, the band, which is improved by the addition of four fifers, bass drum, and cymbals rung out, in merry tunes. Now just imagine this, trebled for the other Regts. soon followed suit, (the 36th were first on the candle move). Soon three large bonfires were blazing from the heights opposite our camp (south) and as they lighted up the freshly budding trees ‘twas a picture for the artist. The whole valley was soon lighted up, far and wide. But soon came the order again “Fall in boys with your candles!” and the whole Regt. with the band were in line and marched round the other two Regts. The 100th Penn. stood in line of battle at “Support Arms” with a lighted candle in the muzzle of their guns, 27th Mich. ditto and as were marched by them, the welkin rang with cheers from each in response, and the Bunker Hill boys done their part, as Lieut. Gird in his speech said, “You would not think Mass. was ‘left out in the cold.‘” Marched to the Col.’s quarters, each man lifting his candle (in a bayonet) as high as we could. Called out the Col. who thanked us for the compliment, and proposed “three more” for the great victory, and need I say how five hundred voices responded? Then came Adjt. (or acting) Hodgkins who made a speech and ‘twas fine. We then went to one of the Captain’s quarters and speeches from Captains Warriner, Sawyer, Lieuts. Brigham and Gird. (Captain Smith too, the one who was at Orange). They were all good. Brigham and Gird are good speakers. But the late hours came and at last all was still. It was a night to be remembered and with all the “scenes” at home I never shall forget this. God grant it may not be dashed by any misfortune, and that soon we may hear of the capitulation of Lee‘s Army, and the total downfall of the vile race of traitors. ‘Twas not one lot to share in this, but it was a fit place to hear these tidings on the soil of old Kentuck, the land of Henry Clay, and I felt that if I live to see home ‘twould be glory enough that I too was a soldier of the Republic in this her hour of trial. (Breakfast) How my thoughts have been with you at home, in these few past hours! It seems too good for reality, and with trembling we receive it, but I trust our brothers Frank and Will are indeed in the rebel Capital! But much hard fighting is yet to come I fear, but the arm is nerved and ready now to deal the last fatal blow to this infernal monster. In this Deptmt. [Department] all is quiet. The traitors seemed to have abandoned all idea of further mischief in Ky., but still they must be watched, and you will see by the way Gen. Burnside is dealing with Copperheads, that the “mill is grinding.” Vallandigham and others are beginning to feel what it is to talk treason. Well, your nice letter of the 3rd was received and last eve. Jos. H. came and showed me yours to him and the few words to him. He seems happy in his new place, is back more than two miles from here, and has to obtain a “pass” to get here. His letters from home are, I believe, all favorable, altho’ I expect the Orange boys in the 52nd have had a hard time. The boys here are all well. I mailed a letter to the folks at Billerica yesterday, (Mary). Our mail comes every day in the forenoon, the mail goes out at the same time. Am glad you had such a nice time, riding home, and at Stoneham. I hope you will correct any wrong impressions to Lucy or any one, in what I might have said about your “working” for yourself. I thought I took particular pains in her case not to give such impressions. I am satisfied and appreciate fully all the friends have done, and commend you, above all for your spirit, but at first the thought of leaving Lulu grieved me, but I know all is well, and you have done right, and I only felt, that you could do fine sewing among our mutual friends instead of shop life. You know I dislike that. You will now be among old friends, and have much to cheer and keep your mind busy. I know when I call to mind all things, I am hardly deserving [of] your dear self, and the thousand kindnesses I have enjoyed, and I will try and not to grieve you by any words again. Shall be eager for news now and I trust we are now to see the dark clouds breaking and that we shall soon be united once more in peace and happiness. My health is excellent, appetite tremendous, just as I was at Dayton years ago. Have not heard from the Suffolk boys for a long time. I kept the colored picture of Lulu. Had Henry P.’s picture the other day. Ben E.’s wife has had quite a “gay” time at Wheeling amid the excitement of the Rebel raid, rather amusing to her. B [Ben] thinks it quite a joke that she has been so much nearer the Rebs than he has [been.] All sorts of rumors about our movements. We may go back to Camp “Dick”, there is no telling how the late result will affect this Dept., time will tell. I amuse myself reading, hunting for flowers, and keeping things in order, [and] receiving and writing letters. Have sent your letters In Care of Charles S. of late thinking you would receive them more direct. Am glad you got the picture and glad you liked it. I have written this in haste, began before 5 o’clk A.M., ‘tis now past 6 and I want it to go this morning. Remember, as ever to all friends and may it find you happy and rejoicing in the hope of a speedy end of our woes. Hope to hear from you this morn. Thank Lucy for her kind letter, recv’d. a few days ago. I hope she will be benefitted much by her new teeth, as she certainly will. Kind regards to George. I trust the air is better. Remember to Miss Waldo, Abbie and As ever you loving husband Jerome I enclosed a letter for you in one to Murray the other day. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The capture of Richmond and the United States flag flying over the Capitol Building of the Confederacy was, of course, significantly premature when this letter was written. U.S. troops did not enter Richmond until April 3, 1865. The celebration and the speeches are described exactly as detailed in this letter on Page 44 of the Unit History. It describes the events as a “Fourth of July occasion” and goes no to say, “We soon learned that we had exulted too soon.” NOTE 2: Stephen C. Warriner enlisted as a Sergeant at age 23 from Monson, Massachusetts. He was appointed Captain of Co. E of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment on August 22, 1862, and he resigned on April 22, 1864. NOTE 3: Captain Christopher Sawyer enlisted as a Captain at age 28 from Templeton, Massachusetts, on August 22, 1862, and he commanded Company H of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, the company that Jerome was assigned to. He was discharged on account of disability on February 19, 1864. NOTE 4: William F. Brigham enlisted at age 23 from Marlborough, Massachusetts. He was appointed First Lieutenant of Company I on August 22, 1862. Brigham was discharged for disability on January 20, 1865. NOTE 5: James B. Smith enlisted at age 23 from Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was appointed Captain, Company K, on August 22, 1862. Smith was wounded at the Battle of Pegram Farm on September 30, 1864, but was mustered out with the Regiment on June 8, 1864, as a Major. He was subsequently promoted to Brevet Colonel for “gallant and meritorious service.” NOTE 6: Joseph W. Gird enlisted from Fitchburg, Massachusetts, at age 22 as a Private in Company F of the 25th Massachusetts Volunteers on October 4, 1861. On August 11, 1862, he was appointed First Lieutenant of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment but resigned on May 18, 1863. He was appointed Second Lieutenant in the 57th Massachusetts Volunteers on November 3, 1863, and was promoted in that regiment to Captain on December 31, 1863. Lieut. Gird was killed in action on May 6, 1864, at the Battle of the Wilderness, just a few days before Jerome was killed. NOTE 7: William H. Hodgkins enlisted at age 22 from Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant on Oct. 17, 1862. He served as the Acting Adjutant from January 18, 1863, until May 31, 1863, and was promoted to First Lieutenant on October 17, 1863, and to Captain on May 6, 1864. Hodgkins was subsequently promoted to Brevet Major, U.S. Volunteers, for “valued and distinguished service at Fort Stedman, Virginia, on March 25, 1865.” NOTE 8: The Ben E. referred to this letter was almost certainly Benjamin B. Edmands. Edmands 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 9: The “Mary” referred to in this letter was almost certainly Allie’s younger sister, Mary Frances Jaquith. She was born in 1841, while Allie (Albinia) was born in 1834. NOTE 10: Clement Laird Vallandigham (1820 – 1871) was an Ohio politician and leader of the Copperhead faction of anti-war Democrats during the Civil War. He served two terms in the United States House of Representatives. In 1863, he was convicted at an Army court martial of opposing the war, and exiled to the Confederacy. He ran for governor of Ohio in 1863 from exile in Canada, but he was defeated. NOTE 11: Camp “Dick” was Camp “Dick Robinson” a large Union Army organizational and training center located near Lancaster in rural Garrard County, Kentucky. The camp was established on August 6, 1861, despite the protests of Governor Beriah Magoffin, a strong secessionist and Southern sympathizer. It was located about halfway between Cincinnati and the Cumberland Gap, and was about 30 miles from Lexington, Kentucky. It was constructed on the farm of Captain Dick Robinson, a strong pro-Union supporter. The post served as a rallying point for local loyalists, as well as for Unionists who had left their homes in eastern Tennessee in order to enlist in the Union army. In 1862, the Confederate Army seized the camp and renamed it "Camp Breckinridge," in honor of Confederate general and former U.S. Vice President John C. Breckinridge, a native Kentuckian. The advance of the Union army into the region forced the Rebels to abandon the camp, and Federal troops regained its possession for the remainder of the war. After hostilities ceased in 1865, the camp was phased out of existence. NOTE 12: 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 13: The “Col. [Colonel]” referred to in the letter was Colonel Henry Bowman, from Clinton, Massachusetts, who enlisted as a Captain in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteers on August 1, 1861. He was captured at Ball’s Bluff, Loudon County, Virginia, on October 21, 1861. He was a prisoner of war at Richmond and was a hostage for Confederates held in New York for trial as pirates. Bowman was exchanged in August 1862. On August 22, 1862, he was promoted to colonel, commanding the 36th Massachusetts. He resigned on July 27, 1863, but was recommissioned in October of 1863. He subsequently served in different units, including at Baltimore and Philadelphia until the close of the war. 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, May 11, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Middleburg, KY. 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 1863-05-11 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 5.83 X 7.17 11.58 X 7.17 5.85 X 7.17 5.82 X 7.12 11.15 X 7.12 5.82 X 7.12 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 #111 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Middleburg, KY. Allie Jerome Peirce Middleburg KY https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f19ef904c7ba62365098df95665da741.jpg bb203158d2997412e6744e8f6145beb8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/079cc794a5b3ebaa76182e6b18cbff3f.jpg 3f88971475ba3506552304af3fc4be69 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c241e7f5830409379df3690027badb56.jpg 2ae5978de33c8995e08d83d1043d0308 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 Thurs Eve 14th May 1863 My dearest Wife, Evening is come and though the mail brought nothing this eve, some token is your due and by my candle I close the day with a few lines more as a remembrance than to tell news. The day has passed very quietly, have spent most of the day my tent reading, have rarely left my tent. Yours of the 6th and of the Sunday before were duly received and you know something of the pleasure of the loving missive, and I trust your occupation will not lessen your loving messages for I find I live so entirely upon them. Nature is looking lovely “beyond compare” at this time and compensates much for so many blessings and endearments to demand. Most of the Co. [Company] has been on picket and some have just returned and others going out. There is again a bustle and a preparation, which indicates a movement and vague rumors are afloat about a raid from Morgan etc., etc. and which we have learned to regard very indifferently but still we may move in the morning as rations for two days are ordered. I fear it shall be dull tonight for there is absolutely nothing to write, but were I by your side with our dear little Lulu, how I could recall the past with perhaps a new interest! But now it seems like a strange tiresome dream. We are waiting for some intelligence from Hooker and are exceedingly impatient, for the papers are grossly sensational here and we feel lost in the dark and long for something reliable and pray that it may be propitious. It is with gratitude I hear of your good health. Is it not everything? Can we not bear almost anything if health is shown us? I feel so and you may be assured I shall use every effort to keep it. Am glad Hattie received my letter I wrote to Mary a day or two ago and sent some flowers for Lulu. I wish I could indeed write her a story, for Heaven knows, I want not be forgotten, and so I send her something she can see and handle as a token. You ask me about supplies, hdkfs. [handkerchiefs], towels. I am nicely supplied. Bought me a nice towel at Camp Dick and have one I brought from home. Hdkfs. [Handkerchiefs], I have two. It is so far from home you need not attempt to send such things, at least for the present. My wants are very few and I can supply myself from the Government. Have just drew me a new canteen, rubber blanket and one pair [of] socks and we keep our knapsacks as small and compact as possible. I am glad you attended Teacher’s Meeting. Pray don’t exclude yourself when opportunity for going out offers, for all such things while they may indeed remind you of past joys, will still offer some solace. I cannot tell you how grateful I am to be remembered. It seems worth suffering something for and inspires to greater fidelity. My thoughts have been much with the boys at Suffolk and I can but fear that they will yet see the sharp edge of war ere they reach home, but I trust the same hand will keep them in safety. Wrote Miss Waldo. Yet today, Henry Mayo spoke of his folks having a letter from you lately. I suppose you heard of the death at Athol of Miss Hill (one of John H.’s daughters, the eldest) that attended the dances at A [Athol]. Miss Goddard is quite well again but [???] tells me he is discontented and unhappy on his new place. Wants to go to California again, etc., queer if true, isn’t it? You may ask what I’ve been reading today, one of James’ novels, perhaps I have mentioned it before “Arrah Neil”, a picture of Cromwell’s time in England, rather dull but winding up with a happy marriage and a death scene on the battle fields of “Edgehill” of two who were just united also, thus setting joy and grief face to face and on the whole a touching picture. Every deserted camp shows many books, left behind for the next to carry along, not all of the highest order, but still, I have seen Scott, Leven and James in the list and thus speaks of home. You see I write in ink or pencil just as it happens. Sometimes pencil is very convenient for, unless quite careful, I lose my ink and I keep enough to superscribe with. One of our men came up today who was taken sick the other side of the Potomac and several of the Regiment. We have meetings several evenings in the week, sort of a revival, I imagine just now. I attend on Sunday always, the others are more general in which the chaplain takes a minor part. The “Tattoo” and my candle admonish me that it is growing late. So once more I must add a “Good Night” with remembrances to all friends, and love abundantly from your own Jerome. Please send in every other letter a sheet of paper as I wish to keep a little ahead. It’s better than sending much at a time. Fri. [Friday] morn. [morning]. All right this noon. Some good steak for breakfast, broiled. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) The “raid from Morgan” mentioned in this letter refers to a Confederate cavalry unit led by Brig. Gen. John Hunt Morgan. Morgan and his men are best remembered for the infamous raid they made into Northern territory. Specifically, Morgan's Raid was a diversionary incursion into Indiana and Ohio from June 11 until July 26, 1863. It covered more than 1,000 miles, beginning in Tennessee and ending in northern Ohio. It coincided with the Vicksburg Campaign and the Gettysburg Campaign, and it was meant to draw U.S. troops away from these fronts by frightening the North into demanding their troops return home. Despite his initial successes, Morgan was thwarted in his attempts to re-cross the Ohio River and eventually was forced to surrender what remained of his command in northeastern Ohio near the Pennsylvania border. Morgan and his senior officers were kept in the Ohio state penitentiary, but they tunneled their way out and took a train to Cincinnati, where they crossed the Ohio River to safety. The raid was ultimately classed as a failure. 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, May 14, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Middleburg, KY. Lexington, KY. 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 1863-05-14 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Bob Johnson (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 5.84 X 7.17 11.06 X 7.17 5.84 X 7.17 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 #112 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Not indicated. Probably in the Middleburg/Lexington, KY. area. Allie Jerome Peirce Lexington KY Middleburg KY https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/493e0fdbf05b30fad0f4b23bee1b277f.jpg 2a184022082c371794afdcc6989a6c79 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5a4eb6162e7d83cfa4a6de8a1a121747.jpg f4f9d786c9b1b347f3a6c9d0d6b938af https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/217026de116bfb46c98893fe9dab94e0.jpg 4b4aa3aba58458e68b89aacc59a7c0c2 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 Lexington Ky Wednes[day] 20th May 1863 My dearest Wife, A long pause you will think in my letters. I wrote Abbie last Sunday eve. and expected to write you before, but Monday P.M. the Color Sergeant peeked into my tent [and] says quite mysteriously “fix yourself nice and be ready to leave in an hour.” Accordingly, I fixed and about 5 P.M. six of the color guard in all were all ‘aboard’ an army wagon with all their effects. Camped in the wagon at Hustonville first night. Tues[day] took an ambulance and came on to here, stopping near our old ‘Camp Dick’ for dinner and arrived here about midnight (took supper at the hotel in Nicholasville). Reported to the ‘Provost Marshal’ and were soon quartered for the night in Main St. It has been a wonder, all this for everybody, for no one could imagine what all the ‘Colors’ were being taken away from the Brigade, for two, yes, three other regts came the same [day] a[nd] the 45th Penn[sylvania] is expected today. All the officers, provost marshals and every official seemed utterly in the dark and even the Maj. Genl. Wilcox, to whom we reported this morn, seemed at first as deep as we were but finally he seemed to know and forthwith the colors ‘were taken in’ to his ‘house’, were provided quarters here in the fairgrounds where A tents are pitched and cooks, rations and all provided in style. Well, there is to be a grand ball tomorrow eve and the Colors from the whole corps are expected, to decorate and adorn the occasion, and what part we will take remains to be seen. Invitations were sent as far as N.Y. and we came 72 miles. This is one of the great movements I expect. We left too early for the mail so I have had no letters nor shall expect till we return which will be Sat. or Sunday perhaps. We are having fine times, liberty to go and come. Am going downtown soon and thought I would just send you a line. The country is lovely, the grounds where we are fine and fragrant with the locust tree[s]. A kind of a ‘Pic Nick’ for us. The boys who “generally kept themselves fixed up” were selected by order of the Col. so you see I am not quite careless yet. This for your private ear. How and where are you and are you still well? No doubt of it and you will be contented with this small affair for this time. Must fix up a little so a kiss and “good day” for today. Your loving Jerome P.S. Had a laughable affair with a drunken officer on the road who attempted to arrest us, etc. etc., but sergeant was game and we came out all right. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: In reference to “Camp Dick,” Camp “Dick Robinson” was a large Union Army organizational and training center located near Lancaster in rural Garrard County, Kentucky. The camp was established on August 6, 1861, despite the protests of Governor Beriah Magoffin, a strong secessionist and Southern sympathizer. It was located about halfway between Cincinnati and the Cumberland Gap, and was about 30 miles from Lexington, Kentucky. It was constructed on the farm of Captain Dick Robinson, a strong pro-Union supporter. The post served as a rallying point for local loyalists, as well as for Unionists who had left their homes in eastern Tennessee in order to enlist in the Union army. In 1862, the Confederate Army seized the camp and renamed it "Camp Breckinridge," in honor of Confederate general and former U.S. Vice President John C. Breckinridge, a native Kentuckian. The advance of the Union army into the region forced the Rebels to abandon the camp, and Federal troops regained its possession for the remainder of the war. After hostilities ceased in 1865, the camp was phased out of existence. NOTE 2: At the time Jerome wrote this letter he was part of the Color Guard for the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, which had the responsibility of guarding the “Colors’, i.e., the battle flag, of the Regiment. NOTE 3: The “A Tent” or “Wedge Tent” was a canvas tent stretched across a six-foot long horizontal bar with two vertical supporting bars in the front and back. These Civil War tents could sleep up to six men, but could only accommodate four men comfortably. If five or six soldiers were sharing the tent, they would have to turn over at the same time. It was a rather large tent and was not easy to transport when an army was on the march. NOTE 4: The “Col.” he refers to was Henry Bowman, from Clinton, Massachusetts, who enlisted as a Captain in the 15th Massachusetts Volunteers on August 1, 1861. He was captured at Ball’s Bluff, Loudon County, Virginia, on October 21, 1861. He was a prisoner of war at Richmond and was a hostage for Confederates held in New York for trial as pirates. Bowman was exchanged in August 1862. On August 22, 1862, he was promoted to colonel, commanding the 36th Massachusetts. He resigned on July 27, 1863, but was recommissioned in October of 1863. He subsequently served in different units, including at Baltimore and Philadelphia until the close of the war. 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, May 20, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Lexington, KY. 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 1863-05-20 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 5.84 X 7.17 11.16 X 7.17 5.84 X 7.17 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 #113 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Lexington, KY. Allie Jerome Peirce Lexington KY https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/eadc06b7df4c771cd35219e0962e5b6f.jpg 647d1900ef391a929e630c15e265c048 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/27da723dbde1737daf5aef0a5e562c93.jpg d3c89332dfb47ee751e9feb199bccd9a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/bdd9dbaa81a761b3337f6b2cc2a96d68.jpg 1d65fce3cf5f6ffd9111ae7cef03d0e6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/1c505fd940d9881a66612df0a93b80b4.jpg 025629fc00c5f135cf0bee509b22142d 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 Lexington Ky 22nd May 1863 My dearest Wife, You will learn by last Wedn[esday’s] letter of our visit in L[exington] etc. It is ‘after tea’ (or coffee) and coming on dark and I can send you but a line in haste but I know they will be welcome as I love to send them for in all my turns and adventures, the face of my ‘own’ comes into temporal and I feel how good it is to have one dear friend more than others to share all. Well, Thurs. we remained about camp and town and eve received orders to report to headquarters for our part in the Ball. ‘Twas quite a fine affair. Civic and military and rather select. Some of the ‘first’ people such as Judge [???] Robinson etc. etc. and a goodly share of young people. Two officers with empty coat sleeves, a lieut. of artillery and a N.H. major were there who told of real service. The front entry and parlors were the scene of the dancing and all highly decorated with colors, the 36th flag being conspicuous in the entry. Of course we were outside and on guard a part of the time but could see and hear a good deal. About 2 a.m. this morn we were called in and had a nice lunch of the prevailing niceties of such occasions, cake, ices, wine, etc. etc. We have been sleeping for the most part today and mean a walk downtown this eve. This noon a large fire took place at which I “played engine” for an hour or so with many others of the ‘boys’. Everything wanting the order and system of the east, the fire had its own way completely destroying the medical hospital for soldiers. A large brick building (shaped like the Seminary in Charlestown) but four or five times as large. It stood alone or it would have been a disastrous fire - very. No orders as yet to ‘go home’ but expect them at any time. I cannot tell you all my adventures. I have seen some of the darker shades of army life for the distant field camp is the purest spot certainly. Of course I have heard nothing from friends for a week and desire to hear very much. Trust you are well. Are you in Chelsea? Have sent your letters to Billerica but expect to hear when I return to camp the latest news. Am in excellent health. Wrote Bro. Haynes folks yesterday. Weather very warm and everything dusty to the last degree. Love to all and as ever your ever loving husband, Jerome P.S. These flying notes are poor things I know, but you know my best thoughts, tho “unexpressed”, and love are yours entirely, for I do not feel the less the dear old home ties but this life is so full of stir I cannot write best always. News is scarce here. J I send you A’s letter. Don’t know whether you saw it before. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Ben Raterman and Josef Rokus) Although the first name of Judge Robinson is illegible in the letter, it is possible that he was referring to James Fisher Robinson, who was an attorney and who might also have been a judge. More importantly, Robinson was the pro-Union governor of Kentucky at the time of the ball described in the letter, serving from August 18, 1862, until September 1, 1863. The governor of Kentucky would very likely have attended this ball, which was probably intended to be a part of a public relations effort to impress the local population with the capabilities and “friendliness” of the Union army. In addition, he would definitely have been part of the “first” people, as referred to in the 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, May 22, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Lexington, KY. 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 1863-05-22 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 5.64 X 3.17 4.84 X 7.91 9.79 X 7.91 4.84 X 7.19 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 #114 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Lexington, KY. Allie Jerome Peirce Lexington KY https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/fe0ec887ffd9270ac759209404b34c9a.jpg 9019aa9757fe161ac3d7438c6ef4a76a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/81c6e0f0c15951b18e5d112e179cb846.jpg 35699550586a2b4896dc40625b0a522d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6507ddfe2bf893b16928bab98c80acf9.jpg fb5b0d40fff1dd300f1952ed242dc4d0 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 Camp near Columbia Ky May 26th/63 My dearest Allie Tues eve. Have just arrived at camp, overtaking the Regt. [Regiment] some 30 miles from Middleburg, where I left them with the colors last “Monday week” as they say out here being about a week and one day and all for Ball as my former letters will tell you. Left Lexington on Sat. P.M. and have travelled some 200 miles, mostly in ambulance wagons, tho [though] had an opportunity of practicing horseback riding for two half days and expect I am fitted for a Cavalry officer. We are encamped in the woods on Green River and a romantic place it is. Back of our tents is a steep rocky bank leading to the river where I have just had a nice bath. Have passed some wild and splendid forest scenery as I ever saw and as we approach the settlements you see cultivated fields and regularity again. Words can hardly do justice to the “views” about here. I found a generous mail, two letters from you, 15th and 18th (mailed) the last at B. [Billerica]. Expect another mail tonight. Letter from Frank, Ellen P., Alfred Phipps and many papers. You will hear of meeting Alonzo at Nicholasville Sat. eve. Letters and hdkefs. [handkerchiefs] from Miss Waldo (for Abbie), a pen ink stand I shall get when A. [Alonzo] opens his trunk. Am very glad you sent it. Murray sent a letter also. It is most dark and I am only writing you a line [for you] to know I am well and safe, tho [though] they say we are approaching the Rebels again. We may remain here awhile and may move on in 24 hours. Should like to say more about some things but can’t stop now. The good letters from the friends do me much good. Am glad you are doing well. I send some posies again for Lulu, something to keep her in mind of Papie. Love to Albert and family and friends. Alonzo is quite as well as I expected and has born his journey well. He wrote Ellen at Danville. I think the climate will agree with him. It is quite warm this cool night. Will write more before long but I am always your loving husband Jerome P. Wedns morn 27. Jos H. came last eve. Is well and very busy. The Army is concentrating a large force here. It is a lovely place where we are in camp. Am quite refreshed this morn. Had a nice chat with Ben E. last eve. and he sends kindest regards to you. Isaac spoke of your visit with them. Hope you will keep it up as they will be true friends to you. Had very kind letters from Foster and Kali by Alonzo, also Miss Waldo. Hope Abbie is better. Can’t tell what is before us but will write often. Please send a sheet of paper and envelopes in your letters. Direct your letters in future to “via Louisville Ky” instead of Cin [Cincinnati] as the railroad comes from there to near this point. Got these flowers at Hustonville. Did Mary receive my letter at B [Billerica]? TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: Jerome referred to the ball he mentions in this letter in two previous letters, namely Letter No. 113 dated May 20, 1863, and Letter No. 114 dated May 22. 1863. The ball was organized in Lexington, Kentucky, by the officers of the Union’s Ninth Corps, with all of the local civilian dignitaries invited. Such events were not uncommon and were intended to be a part of a public relations effort to impress the local population with the capabilities and “friendliness” of the Union army. Jerome’s involvement was to be part of the escort that took the colors of the 36th Massachusetts Regiment to the ball. NOTE 2: The “Alonzo” Jerome referred to in this letter 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 3: 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 4: Benjamin B. Edmands (Ben E. in this letter) 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 5: The “Foster” mentioned in this letter was Foster Peirce, 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: 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 7: The “Mary” referred to in this letter was almost certainly Allie’s younger sister, Mary Frances Jaquith. She was born in 1841, while Allie (Albinia) was born in 1834. 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, May 26, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Columbia, KY. 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 1863-05-26 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Barb 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 4.97 X 8.06 9.84 X 8.06 4.97 X 8.06 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 #115 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 near Columbia, KY. Allie Columbia KY Jerome Peirce