19 10 273 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5867b24113e10de9f0950a7af2c9b02b.jpg b9ac2ec59704035f57c3d5a6b844111d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/138a26696fc5ece945aa7a3c9b09c30d.jpg a41f347b5505f8d2304739ea68ace40f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/58d691aee5a4d030d6c566dc606d6a14.jpg 8f0809db13ff16a27bf8a5258724c6c3 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/af23cc98697eb96bbda5d1c36aa7e48c.jpg 85f166af230c82742f9dc3cccdd2b21c 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 1862 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 Pleasant Valley Md 19th Oct 1862 My dear wife, I feel that I have a great deal to be thankful for on this lovely sabbath morning! Am feeling in excellent health and spirits—all quiet and orderly, in camp. Some of the soldiers are singing “All Hail the power of Jesus name &c.” A meeting I think[.] And then last eve, another mail and four letters for me making 13 last week! Yours of the 12th I read first, and it done me so much good--it sounded like yourself, and that master Frank Thayer should think of me when so far off. I should like to tell him a long interesting story about army life, but I can’t this morning as I have considerable writing in view, but thank him for me, and tell him I shall not forget him, and I hope he with many lads like him, will have a better lot in the future than these tiresome marches and fatigues and that he may never have to help put down Rebels. It is now 11 Oclk. and would you like to know what I have been doing this morn? Got up at 5 Oclk. With Jos. H. (he is out of the hospital and doing well) and Hiram Woodward, built a fire near my tent. Had breakfast about 6—Coffee, and a little hard bread soaked. had also some Cold fresh meat, salt mustard, some very good soft bread and syrup, cheese—so you see I don’t live very bad—sometimes. And while I am upon eatables let me say that the Co B Boys, got their boxes, safely a day or two since, and I got a Can of Tomatoes and box of Sardines[.] Gave a taste of the former to all the O boys, and had a good taste myself. had them hot, and Oh they were delicious. Alonzo gave me a little nice tea and I thank you (with a kiss) for that you sent, for it is the greatest treat you could think of, for I don’t drink Coffee but once a day, in the morning, and my head is all well of some bad feelings I had awhile ago. Well, after breakfast, washed, an odd custom, but we had breakfast early. Then came preparation for “Inspection”—Arms, Knapsacks &c. then got some oak leaves for my tent, making a nice comfortable bottom for my tent. My wollen [sic] blanket and overcoat, I am sitting on. my rubber blanket is up at the end of my tent to shade the sun a little, and the lookout is very pleasant on to South Mountain. the leaves are changing, and reminds me some what of old Tully—not quite as far off and more smooth, and miles long[.] My ink stand sets on my tin plate at my right hand, letters strewed about[:] one from Lottie H, Abbie, Will--that came came [sic] last eve with yours. Also a “Christian Register” from Abbie a few days since. Jos H has just sat down here and reading letters—no others in the tent. And what a contrast to last Sabbath! I trust we may be undisturbed this day, and I think we may not be for things are more quiet in appearance, than when we arrived back to Camp. Have read one or two chapters in Romans and the 29nth Psalm. opened by chance, read it. Expect a nice time, with the Register and Trumpet. It seems I am indebted to Roxy M. for the latter. I had not opened it when I wrote before. Give her my thanks for her thoughtfulness. Henry too was very glad to get it. Will’s letter was dated the 13nth. Should think they were having a hard time at work on digging trenches. I am not disposed to complain if we can escape that killing business. Frank writes finely, and in fine spirits. Will says he is [“]tough as a pine knot &c &c” I am glad indeed[--]wish W. was as hearty. I have been steadily improving in health for some days and feel like my old self--eat heartily. It is getting cool nights so have put on my other shirt. I left my white undershirts at Leesboro’. they were rotten, and it was so hot. I have not needed them ‘till now. And now about some more. Ellen wrote Alonzo, that the folks talked of coming out here to see us—that is Jos & Foster. if so, I wish you would send a pair of knit undershirts, blue or dark color. they are just as good, and will save you a good deal of work. You know I wear rather of a small size. I should like them very much, if you can send them so you had better. We have to have some one at Harper’s Ferry, to see close to any thing that comes, or we loose [sic] it, and that we can’t always do. Capt Prescott of Co B. was on the look-out and so got their things safely. there is no regular Express from there here, and so a team from the Reg. brot them up, but we can’t always have them. Expect my boots in the Capt’s box at Fred City, (left them at Leesboro’) so if I can get the shirts I am “all right” for the cold weather. Am glad about your Aid money. no doubt its all right, and trust the last of this month will bring me in something, but we Can’t tell, as the old Regts are complaining that the bounties to the new ones is cutting of their pay &c. Dinner call. Dinner over with and my things washed up—two tin plates & two spoons. Had Salt beef, bread, tea, a part of yours[?], nice. We often have our rations dealt out to us, so we can cook ourselves, such as Coffee, Sugar, Salt, pork &c. so ‘Ive [sic] just got me an extra plate for a fry dish. Shall carry my Tomato Can for a tea kettle, so I feel quite independent. But enough of this. What do you think of E. Judkins giving out? I suppose its all right for I think it would be a hard place, if I understand him. Saw Alonzo, today and shall again. He is very well indeed. Got letters last eve, but hadn’t read them this morn—had been so busy. Shall try and write Abbie today. Lottie sent me a sweet Geranium leaf, and tiny flower pressed. I have in my Testament. Did you get the leaves I sent? Got them at “Point of Rocks,” and some by the Canal as we marched up the other day. Will send you an oak leaf from my bed. [Marginal notes] [Page 1] It is a lovely day. What are you doing? Wish you and Lulu could come and sit with me this P.M. What would the little thing think to be at Church this P.M? At about 4 O’clk! I cant say much for our Chaplain for we don’t’ see him only on Sundays. Is a distant sort of a man and I am sorry to add not popular in the Reg. but we attend service regularly, and enjoy a good deal with our testaments in our tents. Tell me all how you get along. Am glad you let Edwd. P have the pictures. Did he get my letter? [Page 2] Remember me to Jos, Mary, all friends. [Pages 2-3] I will enclose Sarah’s letter. Don’t mention what I said of the Chaplain unless you are asked, but such is the case. Kiss little L. for her paper. Expect she is growing away from me. As ever Your Jerome [Page 4] Am I not getting on bravely with ink again? 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, October 19, 1862 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Pleasant Valley, MD. 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 1862-10-19 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Donald Pfanz (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 7.25 X 5 - 1st Scan 6.75 X 9.25 - 2nd Scan 11.25 X 9 - 3rd Scan 6.5 X 9 - 4th Scan 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 #25 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pleasant Valley, MD. "Pleasant Valley" Allie Jerome Peirce MD. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d1ab455197521c7ead0a4ec2176b2601.jpg 79353052870bb79260bca1c0390efddc https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0409f590d3262ebdc6d9cea435152829.jpg 957fda5df9caf8d0ceef97bff3245f8f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2f4e03a60a9498df3af09bbbbd457f4f.jpg c19b583b088c29f70e837e43d7442424 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 Sabbath day 15th Mch 1863 My dearest wife Have written something to mother and you must have a word. Your last came Friday eve. Was disappointed, happily so, for I usually get them Sat., so much for “Newport News” instead of Washington. Well, what shall I tell you? In the first place don’t be alarmed and imagine bad things because I told mother I have been indulging in a severe cold. Am feeling nicely today and passed most of the A.M. with Ben Edmonds. I have, of course, no objection to you sending notes to any of our friends. He is a good friend who appreciates confidence, and I read him your messages to him. I would not make additional postage tho’. I know you won’t pardon that request. Our chaplain is at home on a furlough and we have had no regular services, but in some tents the boys are singing “All Hail the Great Emmanuel’s Name”, and it is generally quiet in camp. Of course, I fall back on my own resources, and look over past letters, papers, Bible and so enjoy as good a Sabbath as I can. There is only a “morning inspection” Sundays so we are quite favored for one day. Allie mine, your last letter done me a world of good. It seemed so resigned and cheerful. Oh yes, we must be patient. I feel every day more satisfied that I came when I did, for conscription and the draft would have hardly spared me, and then I glory in being a Volunteer! and if anything occurs that I feel I cannot go through, I shall stand a good chance of getting home, especially after a year’s service for I find those who are true grit, when they do give out there is some chance before it is too late, for usefulness at home and there’ll be many a one that never can endure the three years of service, be they ever so favored, and I begin to see why it needs so many troops. Folks at home can little appreciate how many ways there are to use men up here for they not only have the regular military duties, but “lumping” on hard jobs of all sorts. Last night a large detail was made from each Co. to go to the landing and unload hay from the hold of a vessel and they did not get back ‘till 10 o’clk. This extra work is what discourages many good men and as many “Contrabands” as there are it is all wrong, for our regular duties pertaining to the soldier are for the most part cheerfully done. You will get a letter by Mrs. Hall. It was such a “godsend” to see her, but poor woman, she has much to try her, I think. She hardly got a glimpse of Dick. She said she would write you will her, and I think she will testify that I was “looking well” and in good spirits. Had a nice letter from Mary (at Orange) the other day. Speaks of receiving a long letter from you and in very sisterly terms and of Lulu. I think I shall write them today for J.H. is not well, has a severe cold and don’t seem to rally. Don’t think it’s anything serious, but he is weak and a bad tongue. Has been down some days. Taken as I was but he don’t rally so quick. Mch. [March] winds and telling on a good many and if we can escape with a simple cold ‘twill be a good thing. Have had nice letters from Abbie, Mrs. Ellis. Will send the latter. They are true friends. How much we would enjoy a visit there after these “cloudy days” are passed. Allie, I hope you’ve had a good day at church and been refreshed in spirit by words from your good pastor. I feel a deep interest in him and hope to [be] remembered in his office. Papers came all right. I must close for I must send him [a letter] to Orange. Kiss little Lulu and always accept a token yourself, and think me as never forgetting you anywhere and in full faith that we shall yet be “united” and so I am ever yours, Jerome Love to sisters Mail came, a letter from Ellen Peirce and Lottie Emerson. Alonzo still gaining. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The hymn “All Hail the Great Emmanuel’s Name” was written by Edward Perronet, who was the son of Rev. Vincent Perronet, Vicar of Shoreham, Kent, England. For some time, he was an intimate associate of the Wesleys at Canterbury and Norwich. He afterwards became pastor of a dissenting congregation. Perronet died in 1792. 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: “Contraband” was a term commonly used in the United States military during the Civil War to describe a new status for certain escaped or freed slaves who affiliated with the Union forces. The Army (and the United States Congress) determined that the U.S. would not return escaped slaves who went to Union lines and classified them as contraband. They used many as laborers to support Union efforts and soon began to pay them wages. The former slaves set up camps near Union forces, and the Army helped support and educate both adults and children among the refugees. Thousands of men from these camps enlisted in the United States Colored Troops when recruitment started in 1863. At war's end, more than 100 contraband camps existed in the South, including the Freedmen's Colony of Roanoke Island, where 3,500 former slaves worked to develop a self-sufficient community. 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 15, 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 1863-03-15 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 5.05 X 7.95 10.25 X 7.95 5.05 X 7.95 jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Test Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #85 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/eeecce46b127cf761d1a6c2ae82b2943.jpg 1127fd19ac1c659ed4e91a21953713b7 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/10ba6975d967c1d99ca10cd3e58f5125.jpg 1a3c77bd79c2bbc72ab50f0ac648bb6a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/64c6aa8ae5a92de883ff91d0718cec39.jpg 64745ac9096f252d9fecbc70803d5cee https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/44d8b310eed607532acb42c2e26c54f0.jpg 5f43f3381ea03f3ab3b17a7ab8a053bc 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 1862 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 Evening at Pleasant Valley Camp Md 22d Oct 1862. My dearest Wife and Lulu, It is eve, and Revielle [sic] will sound soon but will add a few words to you to go with Mary’s. Your two letters Came to hand yesterday and today, and the tea. many, many thanks for the same. It seemed so good after getting from guard duty this morn to have a cup of nice tea as I did this noon and Eve. I have written Mary in letter giving some little items I thought would interest, and I owed her a better letter even than that. I have no news in particular. Your letter done me much good, and I trust you will be able to see much yet to be thankful for. Kind friends have helped you so you can see your way through one change more, which I trust will not be without some pleasant scenes that will help you along in my absence. Have just been out to Roll call, and what should I find but another letter, from Sister Kate, a dear good one. will answer soon. Also a note from Ed H and Peirce. Am I not favored[?] We are near a mail station, and the Cars run regular near us which accounts for it. My mind has been so much with you, as I knew you was packing up—a homesick job I know, but I trust is all for the best. Good night, with a K. [kiss] as I must put out the light. Thu[r]s morn. Have just got up a little after 6 A.M. quite cool, but slept “warm as toast,” and our tents are very comfortable, and we are living well, as meat fresh, can be had. We manage to get some fruit[--]Apples—which agree with me. You ask some questions, whether I am allowed for shirts &c. certainly nothing is changed but what we have we have about 42 dolls allowed for clothing &c. independent of our wages. I have not drawn more than half, and I think not that. I did not see you as we left Worcester, altho’ I tried hard enough. Saw Mrs Hobbs and Walker. it was hard walking and Could not look about for fear of slipping down[.] the load was heavy, and the pavements slippery. About undershirts—Send them if anyone is Coming out, but not otherwise until I mention again. We are not certain of remaining here, and if we don’t, we might not get anything, but I will tell you more in a few days. I can get shirts of the Sutler, altho’ they ask high. Don’t think I am suffering. I am not. Am well and hearty, and contented. Of course we all want to push on, and get through[.] I think it will close up all at once, and suddenly when it does come, for we have an immense Army here, and at all points, and it will be a big move when it comes. We are all in good spirits, and the friends must try and keep so at home. Jno Miller told me about Henry G’s good fortune and seemed to think he is a lucky man, “always just so,” he says. I hope H will make the most of it, and improve it, and appreciate it. There was a mail went at Roll Call, but this will be delayed till night. I send you two letters a week. My regards to Joseph I [word missing] he will find business enough to pay and keep up good Courage for we shall all come out right yet, and his children at least will see better times, for all this trial, and that thought is a great deal with me. Regards to all friends, and as ever Your loving husband Jerome P.S. I bought an undershirt this morn. A good one ribbed, so You need not send unless you have a safe chance. I prefer that kind next to the skin. No news since morn. It is almost P M. drill hour. Boyden is out of the hospital and doing well. 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 and Lulu, October 22, 1862 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie and Lulu Pleasant Valley Camp, MD. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie and Lulu 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 1862-10-22 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Donald Pfanz (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 7 X 4.75 - 1st Scan 7 X 9.75 - 2nd Scan 11.5 X 9.75 - 3rd Scan 7 X 9.75 - 4th Scan jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #26 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pleasant Valley, MD. "Pleasant Valley" Allie Jerome Peirce MD. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2387fde845f73ae1a72b6c6bd95a2c07.jpg c16bbd14b18dfdd1f3dbcd6ec4ceaf7c https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/dbb33d7915df71fa7b8179b59b8c7391.jpg 62da94be36dff918955c213591d6aacc https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a4af3939d220d6b1541445cddec491f8.jpg 73163963df383504d39bcd0fff51dca6 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 15th Mar 1863 My dear Mother, And Father too. What, do you think that your ‘other boy’ don’t address you as personal particular? Not I assure you from indifference. Well, for two days I’ve been “kinder” ailing with a severe cold and have had to keep close for the same. Shall, I think, be all right by tomorrow. We are having severe weather here, cutting Mch. [March] winds and so near the sea that it seems much like old Boston altho we have no snow. We think you must have some big snow banks up north by the air hereabouts and very many are down with colds and coughs. Am taking medicine that looks like honey and tastes strongly of camphor and it loosened my cough very soon. And I have just finished dinner of a cup of nice tea and bread and I am feeling quite sound again. I have no news to write but I just wanted to tell you that I am not forgetful of the “old folks at home” and how much I wish I could set the time when we might meet again but I expect we have got to be patient still longer and see many more of our ‘sons’ in the field, yet I feel sanguine that all will end well and, in a way, to confer more peaceful and prosperous times for those to come after us when the true principles will govern and security will compensate for present trials. I look eagerly when the mail arrives for news from home and I cannot express how thankful I am that you are all spared in health and to feel that those dearest to me are cared for. Shall I ever repay it? My little Lulu, what do you all think of her? I often try and picture to my mind how she looks. It is one of the direful phases of this wicked war that so many men are so long denied the sight of the faces of innocent children and refined women, etc. And as I shook the hand of Mrs. Hall the other day it seemed like a dream. She left here on Fri. and I sent a hasty letter to be mailed when most convenient for Allie. A portion of the army have left for Suffolk, 3rd division, and I feel quite anxious for news from that quarter. The report being here that Rebel Gen. Hill was moving with a large force to attack that position but I expect that they are well fortified and we need not fear the general result altho for our personal friends we always feel anxious. I don’t know that we are likely to be called away tho we’re always ready. ‘Tis quite pleasant today, considering a little wind, sun out, but not so warm as some days. It seems Aunt Wyman is failing. Am not much surprised for she is into years somewhat and has seen much to try her I suppose. Should like to hear all about her from time to time as I have passed many pleasant hours with her and used to think her an excellent example of “growing old”. I suppose I must send a word to that daughter of yours so I must close for the present. As opportunity offers, send a line for they are still very welcome. How are father and Joe this winter? Remember me to the elderly friends who may inquire and believe me, your affectionate son, Jerome P Will send E’s letter next time. Envelope so small can’t fold them to take three sheets. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) Although this letter is addressed to “Mother” and “Father” and is signed “your affectionate son,” Jerome wrote the letter to Allie’s parents (i.e., to his parents-in-law) instead of to his parents beyond a shadow of a doubt based on the following: 1. A Peirce family genealogy indicates that Jerome’s mother, Martha “Patty” Sherwin Peirce, died on June 27, 1847. That genealogy shows that Jerome’s father may have died in 1808, but that year cannot be correct because several children, i.e., Jerome’s siblings, and Jerome himself were born after 1808. Therefore, it is extremely likely that Jerome’s parents had died before he enlisted in 1862. (No information about Jerome’s parents could be found on the findagrave.com website.) As an aside, that family history correctly shows Jerome’s dates of birth and death and indicates that he was killed at the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. This 283-page family history was written and published in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1880 by Frederick Clifton Peirce. It is titled Peirce Genealogy, Being the Record of the Posterity of John Pers, an Early Inhabitant of Watertown, in New England, and it is now available on ancestry.com and Google Books. It traces the Peirce family history back to John Pers in England. He was born in about 1588 and died in 1661. 2. The letters collection does not contain any letters to or from Jerome’s parents. Nor do any letters reviewed to-date ever mention anything about Jerome’s parents. 3. In this letter he refers to himself as “your other boy.” 4. He signed this letter as “Jerome P”. It is very unlikely that he would have signed it with the initial of his last name if he was addressing the letter to his parents. 5. Most significantly, he used the phrase “I suppose I must send a word to that daughter of yours”. It almost certainly means that he was planning to write a letter to Abbie after he wrote this 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 Peirce to Mother and Father, March 15, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Newport News, VA. Mother-in-law Father-in-law Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Mother and Father 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 1863-03-15 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 6.82 X 9.56 11.81 X 9.66 6.81 X 9.56 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 #86 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. Father Father-in-law Jerome Peirce Mother Mother-in-law Newport News VA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a38c7c2e47194b308bc19a65ab30a6a1.jpg b7c597d440aa588873beb82a7bdae207 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d896aeb2b9f48d03bb03ad594f893890.jpg 1a2b0f6fc8b62f9dfc1635894f9042a4 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/67882f16e2776c47f94f3bc45e540e2d.jpg fe9ef03719aff87e4cdefbac89017415 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/75bf6de9155b4c008c624888019b205a.jpg 251b71326f99caebb3153bc7b83a8952 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 16th Mch [March] /63 My dearest wife, Yours of the 13th came today and how can I express my thanks for the picture? If I only had yours to go with it. Well my dear wife, yesterday I wrote I was ill with a cold, have been on duty today omitting one drill only and I am some better and shall come out of it by and by. It is but a few moments daylight and I thought I would begin tomorrow’s letter. I showed Lulu’s [picture] to Corpl. Mayo and some they, who had seen her, they pronounced it excellent and how much comfort I shall take with it. I can see considerable change and not for the worse. I hope she will be as good as she is “otherwise.” She looks well and I trust she will remain so. But that every move in our tent is retented to many others. I should have pressed the little dear to my lips! and how much it made me sigh for home! Tues. AM 17th. And then I was interrupted and that’s the way we have to write. Am first in from Battalion drill. A beautiful mild day, very warm [compared] to what we have usually had. Am feeling quite well again today tho my cold is not quite cured. Ben E. called at my tent this a.m. and had a pleasant chat. He thought Lulu’s picture was very fine as a picture and a pretty little creature she is. It lead to a serious talk and we have both often questioned ourselves whether we did wrong to leave our dear ones for this life and did I feel that the whole people at home were so. I feel some may be. I should feel myself most wicked but no, there is, it seems to me, such as a great result if we do our duty that all these trials are more than counterbalanced and the government must be sustained or we must perish together. Had a letter from Lucy also yesterday. She said she expected you to make her a call or “visit” soon and by your mention of going to Boston I conclude you intended to go that way, hope you will. Of your going to the City, I know not what to say. If there were not “a better land” where the trials and griefs of the life were not forgotten we should be miserable indeed. I can only pray that you may bear up and feel sustained by another hand, not mortal, and we finally may see that all’s for the best. Such has been the lot of those generations who lived in times of war and public [???] and how many they have been! I can but hope that you will find something that will throw around you a more cheerful influence. Perhaps I ought not to speak so for I know you must be busy and it grieves me so much to know you are constantly struggling with your feelings. I know from experience what fearful times these are, but enough. P.M. Dear Allie, Shall I attempt to finish this? No letters from anybody today. They have just raised a rural arch in the centre of the Regt [Regiment]. Co. “C” next to ours, you know. It arches the street a framework some 20 feet high and covered with pine foliage for an ornament like one or two other reg[iments] and will look pretty. It looks like staying here at present. Jos. H. is better and is outdoors somewhere. Did not see his last letter from home of yesterday, so can’t tell the news. Presume all are well. I begin to feel a little like Spring, yet tired easily but when Mch. [March] is gone hope to be all right. I know this is not much of a letter. But you will have something to know me by if I was with you would do better. Tell me all your moves and adventures. Shall hear tomorrow I suppose. As ever your loving husband, Jerome Tell Lulu a little girl came to see me on a card [picture] and looked so much like Papie’s little girl that I have to look at it very often. Papie always sends a K [Kiss] to Lulu and Mamie but I have no one to give me those from you. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: Corp. Henry H. Mayo enlisted at the age of 21 as a corporal in Orange, Massachusetts, on August 4, 1862. Jerome enlisted on the same date. He was killed at the Battle of the Wilderness on May 6, 1864, just a few days before Jerome was killed at Spotsylvania Court House. NOTE 2: The “Jos. H.” that Jerome referred to in this letter was Joseph H. Peirce. He enlisted as a Private in Orange, Mass., on August 4, 1862, at age 18. Jerome also enlisted in Orange on the same date, but as a corporal. Jerome was 31 years old at the time. According to the Unit History, Joseph H. Peirce was taken Prisoner of War at Pegram Farm, Virginia, on September 30, 1864, (See Letter No. 227) and he was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was the son of Joseph Peirce, one of Jerome’s brothers, and was, therefore, Jerome’s nephew. 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 16, 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 1863-03-16 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Peter Rainey (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 6.89 X 4.72 6.61 X 9.45 11.6 X 9.32 6.69 X 9.49 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 #87 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/34b2ea59c1ed5cab988bc5d6943a7899.jpg d6b33e52b022506feedd9a26c80f8486 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/828ba4b45d39055bfe349e1ceb24c5da.jpg e57d62b10c93d79e0a1ac1e22fac4b6f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/760a4e0618fa57b4e8dbb0ccffe267f8.jpg dbcaf181af7dac31d79547b3005ed037 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 Mch [March] 20th 1863 My ever dear Allie, Winter, winter! All at once! Yesterday it looked foul and hailed all day and towards night it commenced snowing and has furiously ever since, so we can almost rival you at home. And I passed most of my time in other tents where there were fires, for it has been the worst time to keep comfortable we ever had. I am sitting here with two blankets over my lap, overcoat on. Have just drunk a cup of tea, and by the way Co. B boys gave me some tea and you need not send any more for the present and for still another season by and by. I must answer while I think of it a few questions. Capt. Sawyer has not been at home, nor will and if he did he could not go away from his course. He went on regimental business to Frederick City and Washington and returned day before yesterday. About your letters, I can read them very easily and I am thankful for them. And now Allie dear, I have to tell you that a change is taking place, in short a “movement” and for your dear sake I hope some of it is not true. The troops have been moving for some days and but for the storm, we should have been gone. It is said we are going to the ‘Western Department’ to join Gen. Rosecrans in Tenn. or Kentucky. We are to report at Baltimore as soon as possible. A great movement of the Rebels is expected as soon as the roads are passable in Kentucky and we are to meet them. Capt. S. [Sawyer] says we are certainly going there. He is eager to go but I shouldn’t be surprised if we went on the coast and remained at B [Baltimore] but such are the positive affairs now. One thing, I know my health will be better away from the salt water. Have not been quite as well here as when in the country and I shall have a great chance to see the country. You must muster up your courage and feel “all’s for the best” if we can’t hear quite as often. I am fully in the belief that the war will end ere long and I shall see you again. You must not expect much of a letter this time and this is doubtless the last I shall write from this place to you. I shall keep a ‘diary’, and tear out the leaves and send [them] you as often as I can. You will hear from Baltimore. My cold is better and I fell well, and when the weather settles I shall be all right. Wrote Abbie yesterday in hopes you would see her. Shall write Henry Peirce a short letter this P.M. Everybody is in good spirits tho the O [Orange] boys don’t entirely like going west. I expect we go from B [Baltimore] to Wheeling and so to Kentucky. If so, shall make all the notes I can. Expect you are having a ‘big’ storm and perhaps you did not go to Boston. Don’t know when the next word from you will catch us, probably at B [Baltimore]. And now let me tell you to send your letters to Washington again as formerly and they will be forwarded. They say we are to be paid off in a few days. I hope so and will forward you as before. 1st April is set as the time [for] 4 months pay the Capt. says. The captain is very happy and it seems good to see him again. I hope now, dear Allie, you will keep up good spirits. There is one who watches over us and I sometimes feel as tho he had special care of our Regt. Don’t worry about accidents for we enjoy a great deal on these moves! We shall do a great deal of R [Rail] Road travelling. Shall take good care of myself. Enjoyed your last letter much good and to feel you appreciate the Scripture[s] so much. We did indeed ‘wander’ when at O [Orange]. I used to feel it bitterly and it had much to do with my spirits often and I trust there is a happier future when the present clouds are passed. I hope you will find pleasure in your visit to B [Boston] and that I shall soon hear from you. Jos. H. is again all right and wrote home today. Have not heard from Jamestown for a long time. Wrote Lucy yesterday. So you will hear from me somewhere. The O [Orange] boys bear you in memory but you must hardly expect them to write for they do much of their own. A kiss for Lulu. When shall I meet you again? I can think of nothing more and there is confusion in the tent. Howe is the lieut. [lieutenant] and is with the Captain. So our Co. is “O.K.” and good fellows too. Love to all from your ever loving husband Jerome P. P.S. The postage on the box was all right I suppose. I hope the Govt. [Government] will not lose anything on what soldiers send home. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: The Unit History summarizes the movements of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment in March of 1863 as follows: On February 10, 1863, the regiment moved to Newport News, Virginia, where it remained in camp until March 22, 1863. From March 23 until March 29, 1863, the men went by steamer to Baltimore and then by train freight cars, outfitted with rough board seats, to Parkersburg, West Virginia, and then again by steamer to Cincinnati, Ohio, and on to Lexington, Kentucky. They remained there, except for a short assignment back to Cincinnati to deal with possible riots during an election. Those riots never materialized. NOTE 2: The “Western Department,” also known as the Department of the West, was a major command (Department) of the United States Army during the 19th century. It oversaw the military affairs in the country west of the Mississippi River to the borders of California and Oregon. NOTE 3: William S. Rosecrans (1819 - 1898) was an American inventor, coal-oil company executive, diplomat, politician, and U.S. Army officer. He gained fame for his role as a Union general during the Civil War. He was the victor at prominent Western Theater battles, but his military career was effectively ended following his disastrous defeat at the Battle of Chickamauga on September 19 -29, 1863. He was subsequently reassigned to command the Department of Missouri. Rosecrans was briefly considered as a vice presidential running mate for Abraham Lincoln in 1864. After the war, he served in diplomatic and appointed political positions and in 1880 was elected to Congress, representing California. NOTE 4: 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 5: Lt. William L Howe enlisted as a Private at age 23 in Orange, Massachusetts, on August 4, 1862, the same date that Jerome enlisted, and he was assigned to Company H, as Jerome also was. He received a commission as a Second Lieutenant on January 30, 1863. On July 7, 1863, he died of disease at Milldale, Mississippi. 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 20, 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 1863-03-20 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 6.64 X 9.68 11.33 X 9.76 6.58 X 9.56 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 #88 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 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/bf4ba2f59f0f01b401c0d62b90449685.jpg 8e62f58ec67e62164a39506102f969fc https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e4172ad3ab777ee2c481e2bff3e131b6.jpg 7de01c329cb2401798f66f1968b497e5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1863 Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Sunday Morn 22nd Mch [March]/63 My dearest wife, The sun is out once more and still we remain here but expect every hour to be called to march. Thought I would just say a word, not to tell you any news. The ‘story’ still is that we go “west” but I still believe it when fairly on our way. Have had a dismal time for the last few days, so very stormy but sun is appearing and soon all will be dry and sunny. Received this morn my ‘warrant’ which I shall send home by advice of the Capt. so you will have an opportunity of seeing the doc [document]. Take care of it. One sergeant and one corp. [corporal] failed to get their warrants, so a vacancy in the sergeants, and two or three corpls. [corporals] are to be appointed. Your letter from Boston came last eve. Hope you will find much pleasure in your visit. I hope my friends will not think I am a traitor just because I happen to be in the field and am cautious in my judgment as to the conduct of officers. I see a thousand things in our experience to make me so, and for Copperheads no one loathes them more than I do. I would gladly perform my duty in extinguishing them in a professional way. So don’t blush for me. I pray for what in Heaven’s name can I do more to prove my sincerity than bear like a good soldier the life in the field. And it looks quite “cool” for folks comfortably fixed at home to feel too anxious about our opinion about one who is just beyond the power of evil and if he deserves it. I trust he will be kept there by all means. I trust this will end the matter. All is confusion and I cannot write you what I would for Sabbath morn. [morning]. I shall hear of you often and all your moves. May you be kept in security and peace especially of mind which “passeth understanding”. Give my love and adieus to all friends and let us hope for an end to the present trials and a happy reunion. As ever your loving husband, Jerome Peirce. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: The Unit History provides the following information about where the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was located around the time this letter was written. On February 10, 1863, the Regiment moved to Newport News, Virginia, where it remained in camp until March 22, 1863. On March 23, 1863, the men of the 36th went by steamer to Baltimore and then by train freight cars, outfitted with rough board seats, to Parkersburg, West Virginia, and then again by steamer to Cincinnati, Ohio, and on to Lexington, Kentucky. They remained there, except for a short assignment back to Cincinnati to deal with possible riots during an election. Those riots never materialized. 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. 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 22, 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 1863-03-22 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 6.65 X 9.52 11.6 X 9.51 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 #89 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. 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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 Transcriber’s Note: This letter consists of several short letters or notes written by Jerome over the period from March 22, 1863, to March 27, 1863, while the Regiment was travelling from Newport News, Virginia, to Cincinnati, Ohio. They were probably all mailed together. The postmark on the envelope that probably contained all the letters reads Cincinnati, Ohio, and is dated March 27, 1863. Sunday Mch [March] 22nd, 1863 Prospect of clear weather. Snow disappearing. Reading in the moving. Received my “Warrant” of Corpl. dated Aug. 28th 1862. Prepared for inspection. P.M. Orders came to “Pack up” and soon marched to the landing. Eve. [evening] before dark went on board Steamer “Kennebec”. Remained at the pier til morn. [morning] of … Mond. [Monday] 23! Left N.N. [Norfolk News] about 5 A.M. with steamer “Mary Washington” which had on board two or three of the Lieut., Capts. Cold and chilly. Remained a few moments at the Fort and soon got orders for Baltimore. Saw the big “Union Gun” a little way off, outside the Fortress. Towards noon. More mild, very pleasant. Made some coffee, washed up and feel decidedly better. Read in “Othello” this A.M. All quiet on board and prospects of a pleasant trip. A thousand speculations as to our final destination. Tues. March 24th 1863. Arrived at Baltimore at 3 ½ o’clk. A good trip. Remained on board til about 5 o’clk P.M. when went on board [railroad] cars and started for the “West”. So at last we are going “West!” It is said we are to report at Louisville, Ky. The Color Guard Messrs. Whipple, Co. C, Crafts, Co. B, Boyden, Co. E, Hartwell of Co. A, Avery of Co. K and Sergeants Perry of Co. D, and Putnam of Co. C, color bearers. A ‘gay’ time in prospect! An iron [railroad] car and excellent accommodations. 36th on one train. “Relay House”. ”Ilchester” and “Ellicott’s Mills” before dark. All fine views on the “Patapsco” [River]. Beautiful scenery. Retired. Wedns. March 25th1863. Arose at daylight and soon at “Harpers Ferry” where we had hot coffee. Marched thru the ruins of the Armory buildings to get it. Sad looking ruins but one of the finest mountain and river views in all the S. [South] and makes one feel like fighting for the country. High rugged rocks, broad and rapid rivers at this point. Still onward to Martinsburg where I felt indignant at the scenes of ruins of fine bridges and railroad buildings. A fine country and frequent pickets and troops guarding [rail]road. 126th N.Y. Regt. A.M. Soon touched the Potomac [River] again. A grand stream, deep rocky cuts, and wild scenery of the “Blue Ridge”. Next station “Hancock”. Noon. Ate dinner of soft bread (received at Harpers Ferry), molasses and cooked pork. Grand scenery along the Potomac and the mountains. Passed thru the tunnel about ¼ of a mile thru. The other trains in sight. Go very swift sometimes. 20 cars in our trains. P.M. 3 o’clk. Cumberland, Md. Quite a large place. Canal. Flour mills. Several churches, etc. surrounded by mountains. 175 miles from Baltimore. Fair weather. Mailed a letter home. A little past 4 P.M. Continuation of grand mountain valley and river scenery, the finest of the North. About dark. At Piedmont. Had coffee, nice and hot. At “New Creek” a few miles back, and pleasant chat and general good time. 14th Va. Regt. on guard duty, loyal and hearty fellows. Piedmont is near the coal region, quite a town but very dusty. Singing, chatting and taking notes all day. Still on the “Potomac” but the Alleghanies begin here. A solemn mountainous region. River rapid and still quite wide. The four trains have met and a stirring scene, so many troops moving. So much for a grand Rail Road! Shall be detained here for an hour. So ends this day. Shall lose much of interest in night riding. Jerome Thurs. Mch. 26, 1863 Noon, at “Central Station” where we stopped about an hour. At Grafton this morn., where we took the ‘Virginia Central’ R[ail] Road. Snowstorm Cornwallis. Wild scenery and several tunnels. Still snowing 2 P.M. A wilderness. About 5 P.M. We just arrived at the Ohio River at Parkersburg. All well. Love as ever Jerome Fri. Mch. 27, 1863 Co. B Boys sitting about on knapsacks writing, chatting and Ben Edmands nearby reading Shakespeare. A few moments later went on Hurricane deck, boat stops at “Catlettsburg” the first town in Kentucky, at the mouth of the “Big Sandy” River. Sun out but very chilly. Fine deck view of the country. P.M. Closed a letter home. Fri. Mch. 27, 1863 Went on board the steamer “Boston”, a fine large boat last eve. Shocking accommodations on lower deck, horses, and finally a “coaling up” this morn about 4 A.M. drove us into the engine room where dust and racket reigned supreme. Got coffee and went up to the grand Saloon where Co. B are quartered. It is still and where I am writing. Expect to stop at Cincinnati for the present at least. Scenery on the River monotonous, but the stream broad and quite full. Boat moves very swift. Fri A.M. 27th Mch. 1863 Ohio River on board steamer “Boston” Well, my dear ones at home, does it seem as though we are so far separated? What a strange fortune that I should be sailing down the grand Ohio! I have taken a few notes along as I could for in the confusion and excitement of travel we make sad work of letter writing, but you will know that I am well and only a little fatigued from the effects of travel. Had quite a comfortable trip on the [railroad] cars. 380 miles from Baltimore to Parkersburg VA. at the mouth of the “Little Kanawha”. From there to Cincinnati is 280 or so miles. Have been out on the Hurricane Deck this A.M. We are now opposite Portsmouth, Ohio where we shall touch. Quite a large place. (You must follow me by looking on the map). No. [Noon] We passed on amid cheers and a salute from a small gun on shore. The Scioto River comes in here and the union [is] quite wide and picturesque. The banks of the river are hilly and a little ways back from the river but level at the banks. ‘twas quite cool in the morning but a little warmer, nearly noon. I can give you but a poor account of my travels at present. It seems like a dream and I think of you at home constantly and long for a mail. Don’t know when we shall get one. Various rumors as to our destination. I presume the papers at home have it as well as I can inform you. Some think that we shall stop at Cincinnati and others that we will proceed to Louisville. Expect to reach C [Cincinnati] tonight and hope we shall for we hope to be settled and get rested for we need it. Have coffee twice a day and a new kind of hard bread, very nice too as far as that goes. All’s well. I mailed you a letter at Baltimore and a line at Cumberland. A lad kindly offered to put it in the [Post] Office. Hope you get it. J. H. is well. Has not written much since we started. Cannot write, only you for the present, and am out of stamps and money. Hope to see the paymaster soon. The people are glad to see us here and all believe in a speedy close of the war, for the Rebels are in terrible straits for everything. Well Allie what do you think? Are you well? Hope I shall get a mail in C. [Cincinnati] for it seems a long time since I have heard from home. P.M. Have just had dinner and returned to the deck. The drummers are practicing but I thought I want to add a word so to get the letter for mailing. I will write you from the first halt and sometime will give you more. Please tell the friends to be patient. It is hard to write at all, so much noise and confusion from sightseeing. Shall try to keep well and you must keep up good spirits, for I feel as tho’ I should be with you before a very long time. All are in good spirits and have enjoyed the trip very much. Surely I am seeing something of the country. Love to each and all. Write me often, direct to Washington at present and we shall get them all right. Hope you will be able to read my scrawls. I have enjoyed my little Lu’s picture ever so much, if I had yours! As ever you own loving Jerome I send you some pieces of muslin I picked up in Fredericksburg and had them in my dress coat pocket ever since. Perhaps little Lu would like them. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: According to the Unit History, on March 23, 1863, the men of the 36th went by steamer to Baltimore and then by train freight cars, outfitted with rough board seats, to Parkersburg, West Virginia, and then again by steamer to Cincinnati, Ohio, and on to Lexington, Kentucky. They remained there, except for a short assignment back to Cincinnati to deal with possible riots during an election. Those riots never materialized. NOTE 2: Jerome was undoubtedly mistaken as to which unit he observed on guard duty. The 14th Virginia Volunteer Infantry Regiment was an infantry regiment raised in Virginia in May of 1861 for service in the Confederate States Army. It fought with the Army of Northern Virginia from Seven Pines to Gettysburg, served in North Carolina, then saw action in Drewry's Bluff. The 14th participated in the Petersburg siege and ended the war at Appomattox. He likely observed the United States 14th Infantry Regiment, which also served in the Civil War. The regiment was retained after the Civil War and has seen service as a light infantry regiment in the Boxer Rebellion, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and subsequent military operations. During the Civil War, the regiment was part of the Army of the Potomac and saw its first combat action in the Peninsula Campaign. It later fought at Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wilderness, and Petersburg. NOTE 3: The several men of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Battalion mentioned in the letter are all listed in the Unit History as being in the companies which are referred to. NOTE 4: Benjamin B. 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 for promotion as a Lieutenant in the 54th Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers. NOTE 5: 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 he was, therefore, Jerome’s nephew. 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 22-27, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Newport News, VA. Cincinnati, OH. 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 1863-03-22 through 1863-03-27 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 6 X 4 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 3.75 X 5.5 6 X 9 10.75 X 9 6 X 9 3.35 X 8.35 3.35 X 8.35 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 #90 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant En route from Newport News, VA. to Cincinnati, OH. Allie Cincinnati OH Jerome Peirce Newport News VA Newspaper clippings https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/421a3dee1b9a1fed9ae0c5d2776aedb1.jpg 9cb7a04a437ecd56c5c33e89e50b2b07 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/85eb07da7bd988221530ef10f0cee040.jpg 1346bc63964a9e42ce9ee97569d03802 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION “Pleasant Valley”, Sunday, February 8th, ‘57 Dear “brother” mine, I have got a peculiar mood upon me and feel like speaking to no one but your own self. May I do so, and talk just as I am feeling? Am I too late with my offerings of sympathy for the pain and suffering you have known, and of joy, for your release from it? I have cherished both though this poor frame of my own has been somewhat encumbered of late, and defied me most effectually in sooner speaking to you. But I cannot tell you how delighted I really am in hearing you are out again, and a prospect of seeing you soon is possible and probable. But I want to tell you what has been mine the past week. A birthday! Nothing more, except in date, than I have received twenty times before, but somehow it seems differently to me. Perhaps because it has come through some more of “toil and strife” than ever before. The “toil and strife” of weakness of mortality and through some distrust as to its coming to me at all in this world. But it has come, and I accept it with thanksgiving, and pray it may be rightly improved and enjoyed. How, dear Jerome, are not these birthdays sacred landmarks in our journey of life, and as each one successively reaches us, is it not both pleasant and profitable to pause and glance back upon our footsteps and view what our store of possessions has gained by the journey thitherward? If I was to open my little treasure bag, I could show you some pretty flowers pressed and dried, but still fragrant and full of color. Perhaps I have some specimens of roses, even without the thorn. Bright pinks, so delicious to the olfactory system. Darling little violets so full of meekness, and whispering so sweetly of their, and our good Maker. Shall I claim one or two of the pure, white lilies? Oh, I must. But if you see a part, you must see the whole. So, what is this one? “Only a dandelion.” But here is the thistle. What shall I do? It pricks dreadfully, but I must keep it. Then the tiger lily looks so ostensibly that it quite freckles one. This is a mixture, isn’t it? But if the bitter must go with the sweet, the homely must not always be separated from the pretty; and good and all alike belong to life. Is it not pleasant to know and feel that these gatherings of ours, we shall when our journey’s end we reached, be permitted to resolve to the Good [???] again, who will reward us according to our dues? Then, whether flower, or thorn, be scattered in our pathway let us accept and cherish it rightly, for the end will be good, as God ordaineth. Are you at church today? All in “Pleasant Valley” at home except for Father. Have been reading in commentary, a sermon of F.D. Huntington upon “Entrance into the Church.” Looked over some of Channing’s sayings until this head of mine began to feel a little full and pressed and I thought it must take some relief somehow. Have I chosen the right way? Have read Longfellow’s “Golden Legend”. What do you think of it? The beauty of Elsie’s character was the most that gave it interest to me. How purely confiding it was. Do not make very rapid strides in Cowper’s “Track” from the fact that I have not felt equal to it. A headache, not a sensible one, but one insensible has unfitted me for a week’s duty, but am brightening up, though feeling somewhat passive from the usual attending lassitude which always succeeds. Does not this weather seem almost like an approach of spring? Are you anxious to have it come? When cold weather leaves I always lose one of my best tonics, though the changes in Nature are very dear to me; and don’t we love the Golden Robin? Sleighing is getting minus here and the drifts have really diminished their height a great deal. Today we are having a plenty of fog. Not a London fog exactly, but a disagreeable one notwithstanding. Are all well with you now? Do not forget to extend a loving remembrance from “Abbie,” will you? To my good aunts when you see them, carry a niece’s love, which you know should be both dutiful and true, and I hope the article I send lacks not the “genuine.” Have I talked you tired? Well, I am afraid so, but will prevent any further fatigue by a pleasant, “good-bye” from “Sister Abbie” TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: “A Commentary, a sermon by F.D. Huntington…” Frederic Dan Huntington (1819-1904) was born in Hadley, Massachusetts, and at that time of this letter, was Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at Harvard University, a Unitarian Congregationalist and an Abolitionist. He later moved to the Episcopal Church. NOTE 2: “Looked over some of Channing’s saying…” William Ellery Channing (1780-1842) was a leading liberal theologian of his day, instrumental in establishing the Unitarian Church. He rejected the Calvinist doctrine of the moral depravity of mankind, holding that humanity is one with a benign creation. As pastor of the Federal Street Church of Boston, his philosophy became a guiding light to the Transcendentalist movement. Reverend Channing, first in his graduating class of Harvard Divinity School, was an avid abolitionist. He published several volumes of his sermons and aphorisms. NOTE 3: “Longfellow’s ‘Golden Legend’…” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s romantic poetry was favorite reading material of Jerome Peirce. He shared that interest with both Allie and Abbie. This heroic poem tells the saga of the dissipated and deposed Prince Henry of Hoheneck on the Rhine, who is afflicted with a strange and fatal illness which can only be cured with the blood of a maiden who, of her own volition, will give up her life to save him. This is the “Elsie” mentioned by Abbie. Elsie is rescued from both a doctor and Lucifer, who intends to steal her soul, by Henry, who is medically cured and morally cleansed. Prince Henry weds Elsie and is restored to his rightful throne. NOTE 4: “Cowper’s ‘Track’…” Poet William Cowper’s (1731-1800) “The Task: A Poem in Six Books” is a complex, heroic/romantic work in blank verse, published in 1785. This work, by the emotionally and mentally troubled Cowper, was inspired by friend and fellow author, Lady Jane Austin. The conversational, yet extended and deeply reflective work, includes various segments on the goodness of nature and mankind and the evils of slavery and blood sport, which occurred spontaneously to the author. Cowper wrote many hymns and was also an abolitionist. NOTE 5: Golden Robins are also known as Baltimore Orioles. 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 Abbie to Jerome, February 8, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Peirce, Jerome "Pleasant Valley" Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Jerome Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Abbie 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 1857-02-08 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 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 #236 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pleasant Valley Abbie Jerome Peirce Pleasant Valley https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7813956fced0f37f02ebbfd1a182038b.jpg 004107e0b8618f2d5729b8f7995d6bc8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ac58bdbab30e0e03dfb8ad36fda581ab.jpg b6045438a28ffa955125694f28f25a71 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a56b96529e00899a84744e2ce8e667e4.jpg 38372b60a438c3df60239172887e5d05 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/892c8c7c93dcacce1be390cd68fbb772.jpg f5de250392896b2d9900c571cb64d52e https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f8f4a19801a895e35a9a0df9b8323f59.jpg 6e5eb8554668381726e489f6f3671f3f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ec1a3a214419a1bedd10fc1607fb5262.jpg 23817c13e8065c8f3d3bbf093533de8a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION “Hurricane Hollow”—“Pleasant Valley” Feb 12th [1857] My Dear “Brother” I am up spending the afternoon and evening at my “Father’s” and at Allie’s request I have commenced a line to you, hoping you will pardon the liberty. We are having a splendid time, of course, as we always do when together. I wish you could happen in, it would add much to our pleasure; we have eaten an apple for you tonight. I am expecting my folk’s after me soon and must close. I can’t write and talk at the same time. From you friend Mary Eliza Dear “Brother Jerry”, Mary E. is getting ready to go home and I am sleepy a little but must say a word to you, mustn’t I? Allie says so and I want to but what shall it be? First of all, let me offer my sympathy to the dear sick ones who I heartily hope are much better. Will try and send Hatie a little cordial of words as soon as she gets able to receive it. Wish I could only do more. Ask her if I take my harp and play some pretty little ditties upon it whether it would soothe her in her hours of pain. To your dear sister, too, tell her the “Angel voices” which have spoken so lovingly to me, I trust will not fail to whisper something cheering to her. And to you, “brother dear” let me offer much, very much of the good. “Sister Abbie” It is nearly ten o’clock but I must not let the week pass without sending you something, dear Jerome, for Saturday, how different from what I thought when I wrote last, that instead of your reading a poor serial from me , that we should be together listening to each other “face to face”, but so it is, and we will try and be patient, although it may be hard. I must say I was very much disappointed when I read your last, because you were not coming and to hear of the sickness of the dear ones at home. I was in hopes they would not anyone have it, it was so long since you were taken but it is so ordered by the “All Wise” and we will bow in humble submission. I was made happy to know that you are all [???]. Love to “sister Kate”. Tell her I think of her much and wish I could come in and see her. Tell “Katy” that sister Allie wishes she could come and sooth her pain and Abby and Mary will write to her soon. M. has been away since yesterday noon with her school friends. I heard she went a coasting this afternoon. I am very glad you are gaining so fast and trust you may continue to do so. I am writing in the sitting room and the folks are very social and it would not be strange if there were some mistakes. The girls are expected every moment from the singing school. Hattie has spent the day at Aunt Parker’s. Aunt P. had a letter from Aunt Susan from Lawrence, said she heard that you had been sick, wanted to know particulars. She is Father’s eldest sister, a very good lady, one I hope you will like her. She has had many trials but has met them with a Christian spirit. Cousin Thaddeus Jaquith from Andover Is attending school here, wanted me to show him a certain picture I had. Says he should like to see the original. Abby has had a letter from Mrs. Berry. Hatty knew she could not get well, was reconciled and happy. Shall I tell you what I am doing, dear Jerry? Well, I am quilting. Wish you could look in and see me but you shall see it when you come. When will that be? It is six weeks since you were here. Will it be six weeks longer? I hope not but will try and be very patient. I had a letter from Mr. Setty, Tuesday. It is almost eleven and I am feeling tired, so must close. Love to “Lonz”. Write Sunday, good night. For ever loving, Allie P.S. May I not be selfish once in a while. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) Although no year is indicated on this letter, based on the dates of the letters just before and after this one and a handwritten notation on the envelope, the year was almost definitely 1857. 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 Mary Eliza to Jerome, From Sister Abbie to Jerome, From Allie to Jerome, February 12, 1857 Subject The topic of the resource Eliza, Mary Abbie Allie Peirce, Jerome "Pleasant Valley" Description An account of the resource From Mary Eliza to Jerome From Sister Abbie to Jerome From Allie to Jerome Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mary Eliza Sister Abbie Allie 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 1857-02-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Ben Raterman (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #237 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant "Hurricane Hollow"--"Pleasant Valley" "Hurricane Hollow" "Pleasant Valley" Allie Jerome Peirce Mary Eliza Sister Abbie