5 10 273 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5fe5b441aed6db48832791fcf8ac7220.jpg 030723399d3fe36997b71eb2732cfc1f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d75e94fa74a64e9508b9c095f4dec149.jpg d3f3aad4f09e46537c2719e485457965 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/59dbcf14c2acdbc55e9a342ec0eb0e89.jpg 8b33fc1d2834fa4d6f7c293ffc905d34 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 Tazewell, Tenn. 7 Dec 1863 Ever dear wife, In all the uncertainty and confusion of a forward movement I will attempt a line to you. Last Sunday I wrote a letter from the [Cumberland] Gap. Monday morning went down to the headquarters (on the Flat) to see about drawing clothing when lo all was stir and moving. Col. B. put us in the way of moving with the troops and train of Gen’l. Foster’s party who arrived the eve before. So went back to our quarters and with Carter was soon on the road for this place. Fell in with the Commissary Dept. where I live with two others of the 36th and of course have no trouble in obtaining rations. Reached here late Mond. [Monday] eve. Remained till Tues[day] morn about one o’cl[oc]k when we moved forward to within a short ‘bit’ (as the Westerners say) of Clinch River, where the enemy has appeared in force, and a short fight ensued with slight loss, inc. [including] troops and mounted infantry. Remained till yesterday or Sat. eve. Halted over night and reached here early in the morning. ‘Tis about 12 miles from the Gap and Clinch River 12 more from here. This morning another move and we expect every moment to be again on the way to the front (Knoxville). News came last eve that Burnside was relieved and the enemy were scattering in all directions and we hope now to reach K[noxville] before a great while. There are rebels scattered about here and efforts are being made to bag them, but at any rate the way is to be cleared to K[noxville]. Am now situated nicely and have good living and help as much as possible in the Com[missary] Dept. and learn something. “West” Packard of Charlestown is ‘butcher’ so I feel quite at home as I do anywhere. Col. B. is Chief of Staff to Gen’l. Wilcox. Hodgkins is with him, etc. etc. and have treated us with great kindness. We are having fine cool weather but quite warm daytimes. I can but send you a word this morning as I expect a chance in a few moments to mail this at the Gap. I am in “tip top” health and spirits and hope soon to find some way of hearing from you again soon. Give love to everybody and believe me as ever your Ever loving husband, Jerome P.M. Reported just now to Lieut. Crop, Div[ision] Quartermaster. Don’t know exactly what I should do, perhaps some writing. Expect to move tomorrow. Another disturbed Sabbath yesterday but I never forget you. Direct your letters to the Regt. and I trust I shall receive them by and by. J TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Envelope addressed to Mrs. Jerome Peirce, Billerica Mass. Postmarked Barboursville, KY, Dec 12. Handwritten in pencil perpendicular on side Dec 13 1863 on at 7. NOTE 2: Colonel B. is Colonel Henry Bowman of Clinton, Massachusetts. He was on special duty as Chief of Staff of General Willcox, commanding at Cumberland Gap and in East Tennessee from Nov. 21 to Dec. 25, 1863. He rejoined the regiment, along with Jerome, at Blaine’s Cross Roads, Tenn., on Dec. 26, 1863. Bowman was unable to muster as a Colonel, since the regiment was below the minimum size, according to the Regimental History, p. 317. NOTE 3: William H. Hodgkins of Charleston was on special duty as Aide-de-Camp to General Wilcox in East Tennessee from Nov. 22 to Dec. 25, 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, December 7, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Tazewell, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Perice 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 1863-12-07 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 "5.55 X 3.07" - 1st Scan "4.96 X 7.82" - 2nd Scan "9.89 X 7.82" - 3rd 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 #182 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tazewell, TN Allie Jerome Peirce Tazewell TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8f3f9f591dcc62f855811e4c752ecf66.jpg f4a47652189cbe6caa382aac2552fb2a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0051d4f9bc346385db2adfa2d95c20e3.jpg 7aad7f13e830c06dda241b0f11892668 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/169b9a0f3071d9c577f946b1f657a7a5.jpg f49d9a0262e8c02b03f755f72a0d7743 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 Tazewell Tenn. Dec. 13 1863 My dear family and friends, Again ‘tis Sabbath morning and oh how I wish I could join you, instead of attempting to write in this uncongenial scene. But a soldier must be used to everything and I feel like I am having experiences. Have been here since last Sabbath when we returned from the ford near Clinch River. Have been busy with the Quartermaster handling stores as this is a post now where supplies have to be loaded and unloaded, transferred to the post commissary etc. etc. without end and a great deal of night work. But we have good living and sleep under cover which is much tho the weather is warm and delightful for the most part. The Rebels in this vicinity have been compelled to fall back or change their position and the 9th Corps are about 25 miles from here at Rutledge and with others are pressing Longstreet with a view to capturing them in a body. We have a lot of provisions in a house close by and things are decidedly favorable and it is only by a series of unblushing lies that the rebel leaders keep up the spirit of their men. From all accounts I have been rescued from much hardship and even death for if accounts be true, the man who took the colors from me was killed at Knoxville during the late struggle there. Of the future I know nothing. Am trying to get my pay. Whether I finally join the Regt or not I can’t tell. The Quartermaster so far seems satisfied with me and it may prove a permanent thing. He is absent today at the front (at the Corps) and when he returns I shall probably know what is to be done. You must be patient. Everything you well know has to be done “just so” and it takes time. If I remain here shall have a way of getting my pay etc. I know how much you need it, but if I can work into a place here I shall learn more about business and after a year’s hard service with the Regt. I shall do the best I can especially in a pecuniary point. Things are now quiet here and it is a mere depot of supplies. And if the rebels are disposed of and the six months men soon go home for are no others to speak of even this will be broke up and so it stands. The mail was forward yesterday, mine with the rest, I expect, but I hope to receive it yet. It is quite a trial to be away off here not a word from home, yet there is no other safe way yet awhile. Among the number employed here is a gentleman of education from Indiana, in (one of the six months men) a private, an independent character, and we find time to chat books and the better things of home, generally so that life is not quite a blank and with my reading I manage to keep the rust of. Yesterday, you would have been amused I think, mending and making all day what time I had from my duties. Patched my tent-cloth. Ditto blanket, both having holes burned in them sleeping out of doors by the fire. Washed out haversack and other bags. Then made a new box to knapsack, etc. so that I am all in condition to move or keep still. Today I devote to writing and reading. I always if possible try and distinguish someway Sunday. Hope to succeed, better today than sometimes, as the chief is absent and things necessarily are at a standstill. Have just finished a letter to the “Socials” commenced some days since (Directed it to William Finney). How do you all? There are more I ought to write to but positively I cannot. More difficult than when with the Rgt. Will C. and his father and the girls. You must for the present share them as to all. Little Lulu too, but there is little I could wish her to see or know of my life here. The birds are silent and no flowers to send her. All is fear and desolation of season and war’s red hand. You are having, I trust, the good word today with the comforts and quiet of home in full. There are two or three buildings here designed as meeting houses but like the rest devoted to hospital or other army purposes. So we still live within ourselves, or the precious memories of the past and what could we do without them! Have written you but once a week of late. Two weeks ago at the Gap and from here last Sabbath. Life is monotonous and confused. Hope to know soon what I am to do and can feel more settled and contented. Mailed a letter to Fosters the other day. Am reading regularly as possible. Jeremiah, Proverbs, Psalms, 1st Ep[istles], and Corinthians and gleam great comfort therefrom. And so goes life. Tell father and mother I know I ought to have some word especially for them for their care and kindness to mine as the New Year approaches, but they are not forgotten and they must accept a cordial “Christmas” and “New Years” from me with the hope that we may see by and by some compensation for these days of separation and disorder. Dear Allie, I still have yours of the 8th and 16 Nov[ember] to look over and hope for more soon. Can think of no more for the present. May the good Father still keep you in his care, in health and peace till we meet. A kiss for Lulu. Tell her Papie is living in a house a little while just now and thinks much of her. My Ind[iana] friend (Mr. Major) much admires her picture, one of the child pictures. He loves to see so I must prize it all the more. Regards to Mr. Salloway, always and all friends. Once more adieu and ever your loving husband, Jerome Have you heard of late from Mr. Ellis (Walpole)? Tell them if opportunity offers why we or I have not written them. What of the Prestons? Dreamed of them last night. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Foster Peirce was one of Jerome’s older brothers. The 1850 U.S. Census listed him as being born in 1812, living in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and being in the furniture business. It is interesting to note that when that census was taken, Jerome, then 19 years old, was living with the Foster Peirce family, with his occupation being recorded as a “gilder.” NOTE 2: This letter references a number of family friends: Prestons, Salloway, Ellis, William Finney and Will C. NOTE 3: It is not clear what the “Socials” refers to. Mr. Finney appears to be one of their number. 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 "Family and friends", December 13, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Family and friends Tazewell, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Family and friends Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-12-13 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Tom Neubig (trasncriber) 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 "5.08 X 8.08" - 1st Scan "10.08 X 8.08" - 2nd Scan "5.08 X 8.08" - 3rd 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 #183 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tazewell, TN Family and friends Jerome Peirce Tazewell TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/fd109147e43abb50a29c02d74622ed9b.jpg 987a262e44d885c86ed9020c5e2dbffa https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3b4a57357c2def9abdb66b329d5277a4.jpg 0ae3bcbc6be7fbf1f3bf6616e3d34043 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ce8d0fea57a77ade0c77c0415515c4b0.jpg 0d382c173b9b942d53427f3bd1e3328a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a628b6b37205cad21da92336907bce55.jpg c75b0ecc942171a3b76f00c27dcaf52f 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 Tazewell Tenn. Dec. 20 1863 My ever dear wife, A beautiful clear cold Sunday morning. Busy most of last week fixing up new quarters (near the officer’s tents) and last eve. sat down by a nice comfortable fire and thinking what a good time I would have reading and writing to you and others. When lo in the night an order came to move! So here we are just finished breakfast and I have only time to send my love and remembrance in a few lines. No letters from you or friends since the one of the 16 Nov. at the Gap. But now we are heading for Knoxville and we hope once more to reach it. Expect there will be a collision somewhere as it is supposed the enemy have been reinforced by Ewell’s Corps from Virginia. We shall not be in the front probably as the Commissary is kept at a safe distance. Have been kept in uncertainty as to my future. Am still with Lieut. Cross and a little show for a detail but not certain. No favorable opportunity has offered that I could safely join the Regt. A squad the other day started when the train some 20 wagons and most of the men were captured the same night near or at Clinch Mountain a few miles from here. I came near being with them. You no doubt know more of the situation here than us. Lieut. Hodgkins went to the Regt. the other day when at Rutledge. They lost 30 killed and wounded in getting from Loudon to Knoxville. Among the killed was Lieut. Holmes of Co. B (of C[harlestown]) and Corp. Houghton, the one who took the colors from me when I went home. I am in excellent health and spirits, but I want my letters from you. I feel strange and lost without the good words from home. But still I write away once a week to you knowing you will hear from me if I can’t from you. I am acting upon the advice of the officers here in all I do. Hope by and by all will come out well. The Regt. have not yet been paid off so as far as that goes I am as well off as I can be. But I must close to pack up. Don’t know where I shall write from next, but my thoughts are always with you. Adieu with love to all. A kiss for Lulu. As ever, Jerome TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: The Regimental History notes that Lieutenant Hodgkins rejoined the regiment from home leave and detached service at Cumberland Gap on December 11th. He provided news that mail and supplies were at Tazewell. The supply-train arrived on the 13th and mail arrived the following day. (p. 123) Since Jerome wasn’t with the Regiment, his last mail was from Nov. 16th, and he wrote this letter on Dec. 20, 1863. NOTE 2: The Regimental History also references the night of Dec. 13th when during the night there were orders to march at early dawn, but they remained at Rutledge. The History notes that Longstreet attacked the Union cavalry at Bean’s Station, and captured a wagon train. (p. 124) NOTE 3: Lieutenant P. Marion Holmes of Company B from Charleston was killed in action at Campbell’s Station on Nov. 16, 1863. Jerome’s letter of Dec 20th refers to fighting in mid-November as “the other day.” NOTE 4: There is no reference in the Regimental History to a Corporal Houghton killed in East Tennessee. A Private Joshua Houghton was killed in May 1864 at the Wilderness, and an Alfred Houghton who transferred from the Regiment to the Second U.S. Cavalry in December 1862. NOTE 5: First Lieutenant Robert M. Cross was from Palmer, Massachusetts, and he enlisted in Company E on August 22, 1862. He became acting aide-de-camp to Colonel Leasure at Cumberland Gap in 1863 -1864, and was honorably discharged on July 24, 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, December 20, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Tazewell, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-12-20 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 "5.57 X 3.05" - 1st Scan "4.93 X 8.05" - 2nd Scan "9.96 X 8.05 - 3rd Scan "4.93 X 5.29" - 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 #184 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tazewell, TN Allie Jerome Peirce Tazewell TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8b3070655fd8276ae0e101772724ef66.jpg 7eead4eda34844bb82478809e1fe2f96 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c785f5d7471699401a900dfe2aa0afaf.jpg 405d2435373e2e0d8d0fd5c8e500f899 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a9c3bfb44a00dbd9d81df50903954f39.jpg 3433b7e3be8d5351b4ee415ba49ed290 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e7f23e1e176d37bb2f404d6d6dfdded7.jpg 4edd43cd5182aae2d348ea3e80ab4e54 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 Tazewell Tenn. Dec. 23rd 1863 My very dear Allie, Last Sunday morning I wrote you just as we were moving as we all supposed for Knoxville. But again “strategy” prevails and after going to the old bathing place this side of Clinch River, yesterday we returned again and here we are once more in the old building surrounded by boxes and barrels again and I am still forty miles from the Regt. and more uncertain than ever when I shall see them. But I can no longer wait for letters and I write a few lines to have you mail them to me at this place. Direct thus: Name, “Care of Lieut. R. M. Cross, A.C.S. Tazewell Tenn.” Leave off Regt. and company, but “Headquarters of Genl. Wilcox” instead. And I may receive them here and they will be forwarded to me wherever I may be. I can’t tell you how lonesome and homesick it seems not receiving letters from home. The Corps are constantly moving and it is almost impossible to get a letter to or from them here as the mail is not opened here but goes either to Crab Orchard or the ‘Gap’ (going North), but coming this way stops here. Everything is done in a strange manner here. Movements are going forward but there has been so much going to and fro, skirmishing etc. etc. that I cannot pretend to guess what will happen. Great things are talked of, but we must await events. Two of a [???] of three from Charlestown, one young Bailey who I knew in the [???] called this morning. They are after the remains of Lieut. Holmes, killed at Campbell’s Station and which I mentioned. It seemed pleasant to see a face from home. They will remain here till a movement takes place. We are just in receipt of the President’s Message, Proclamation etc., but must await results such as the siege of Knoxville etc. to convince the leading rebels. I have no faith in anything, but bullets and steel and overwhelming defeats towards them and those till they are annihilated and the sooner the Northern people come to that conclusion and act accordingly, the sooner the end will be. The climate here is delightful, some chilly weather but only now and then a flake or two of snow. We have a comfortable building with a stove, cook, etc. inside and get along comfortably enough, but letters. Letters, I call daily. Write immediately on receipt of this and direct as above and I think I shall hear from you soon. Hope to know soon whether I join the Regt, no doubt as soon as the way is clear we shall move on and join the 9th “A.C.” [Army Corp] I often wish I was there but “all’s for the best” is ever my motto and whichever way events point there I go. Don’t intend being captured if possible to avoid it. Such caution is the “better part of valor” I believe. But how fare you all? I hope and trust all is well. We have some sutlers goods stores here and a glove paper with a gold picture dropped out which I send for Lulu. ‘Tis all I can find for her. A desolate war-stained land, not a flower and scarcely a green thing to be seen. The last few days have been terribly confused and dusty (sweeping the room now) and ill adapted to letter writing, but you ever have my love and thoughts with a goodly share to all the Bro[ther]s and Sisters all. Hope soon to hear from you and ever remain your loving husband, Jerome Remember me to the Orange friends. Will write them soon. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE In his annual message to Congress, President Lincoln on December 8, 1863, announced The Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconciliation. Sometimes referred to the “ten percent plan,” the plan allowed the reestablishment of new republican governments in seceded states where at least ten percent of the 1860 voters affirmed their loyalty to the Union. It allowed for a full pardon and restoration of property (but not slaves) to all engaged in rebellion except for the highest Confederate officials and military leaders. It encouraged Southern states so admitted to enact plans to deal with freed slaves as long as their freedom was not compromised. https://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.2849300/?sp=1&st=text&r=-0.237,0.515,0.665,0.691,0 When announced the plan had at least temporary approval of a wide group of Unionists from war Democrats to Radical Republicans. The Proclamation was an attempt by President Lincoln to take the initiative on reconstruction away from Congress. 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, December 23, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Tazewell, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-12-23 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Tom Neubig (trasncriber) 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 "5.50 X 3.07" - 1st Scan "4.96 X 8.08" - 2nd Scan "9.98 X 8.08" - 3rd Scan "4.96 X 8.08" - 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 #185 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tazewell, TN Allie Jerome Peirce Tazewell TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6f36b1510f436e27f1e08e84e0709dbe.jpg 286468235bfc5e83c32a830219a89858 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4f96bb7a9184262177e424c6f01e0e1f.jpg a876035e98c65b98ebdce0260ce407e2 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ebde8f050e49c81ed5bb3477cb6c9be4.jpg a06f6a3250fb2101cc92509072035798 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/21a4270914e5da138ab37004bdf6ce29.jpg 3eda1fc9c6c3641d58e0d501614d99b4 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 Blains Cross Roads (18 miles from Knoxville) Sunday morn 27 Dec 63 My ever dearest wife! Safely again with the gallant battle scented 36th. Sitting beside Bro[ther] Ben. He scribbling a letter in great haste like myself! An opportunity this morning to mail a letter back. A w[ee]ks bundle of letters from home which I haven’t had time to read, only yours of the 30 Nov. and 6th Dec. as I arrived late last night and must mail this soon. Have struggled on the mud and over mountains and rocks across Clinch River since last Thursday, the day I left Tazewell. Wrote you the day before to direct letters to Lieut. Cross or etc. Resume your old direction to the Regt. Your letters and my arrival with the Regiment brings up so much, but I can only say now that I am safe and well. Have seen no fighting or rebel prisons as my letter will assure you. My heart is full this morning and I can hardly think what to write. Shall cherish so much your letters and love. Don’t dear wife question my love for you. Shall have such a delightful time reading and talking over adventures. Joe met me at once and helped me to a supper. He and Ben are great friends. I feel very very much attracted to him. Am glad to know you were at Boston. Hope you will learn of my health and safety and may it add to your enjoyment for Christmas and New Years. The whole prospect is indeed encouraging and indications point to a close before long of the heavy fighting. No one knows where the enemy are. We are in an impregnable position among the Clinch Mountains in a beautiful country. Lulu’s Birth Day yesterday. Came ten or twelve miles with the teams and Col. Bowman Curtin of the 45th [Pennsylvania], and feel once more at home, all that I can away from you. I shall forget many things. Poor Stevens you have doubtless heard is dead. Killed with a bullet thru head at Campbell’s Station. Dreadful! He had 27 letters of mine, but he could not be saved any way as the troops were in full retreat and hard pressed. His knapsack and everything was lost of course. But I must close. Will write again in a day or two. The road is clear to this place and I hope to hear again soon. Have just looked over in haste Alonzo’s letter. Will answer soon. Love as ever to all and ever your own, Jerome Gave Ben your love and he said “bless her heart!” Inspection at 10 o’cl[oc]k, breakfast waiting. Sad for Col. Joslyn! Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Colonel Henry Bowman rejoined the 36th Regiment on December 26th, 1863 with Jerome. Col. Bowman was on special duty as Chief of Staff to Gen. Willcox, commanding at Cumberland Gap and in East Tennessee, from November 21, 1863 to December 25, 1863. He rejoined the regiment at Blaine’s Cross Roads, Tennessee on December 26th, but was unable to muster as a Colonel, since the regiment was below the minimum strength. He was appointed Asst. Quartermaster on Feb. 29, 1864, and served in the 3rd Division, 9th Army Corps in the Virginia campaign until the end of the war. Regimental History, p. 317. NOTE 2: The letter refers to three close friends of Jerome: Ben, Joe and Alonzo. NOTE 3: Edwin Stevens, age 39 of Orange, was killed Nov. 16, 1863 at Campbell’s Station, TN. In the retreat from Lenoir’s, at Campbell’s Station, the 36th Regiment lost one officer and three enlisted men, including Stevens, in Confederate General Longstreet’s attack. NOTE 4: On the last page, there is a side note saying “Sad for Col Joslyn.” There is no Joslyn in the Massachusetts 36th Regiment, but there was a Lieutenant Colonel Ed. Joslyn in the 36th Infantry Illinois Volunteers, who fought in East Tennessee in late 1863. According to Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Illinois (http://www.illinoiscivilwar.org/cw36-agr.html), the Thirty-sixth Infantry Illinois Volunteers Regiment took an active part in the battle of Missionary Ridge November 25, 1863, its colors being among the first planted on the Ridge. On Nov. 28, they started under Sheridan for Knoxville, Tenn., to relieve Burnside. They reached that point December 6. Moving out on the 12th, they marched to different points east of Knoxville until they bivouacked in midwinter at Blain's Cross Roads on the 17th, where Jerome may have heard about the Colonel when he arrived there on Dec. 26th. It could not be determined what happened to him, since he may have been killed or wounded between the 17th and 26th. 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, December 27, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Blaines Cross Roads, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-12-27 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). 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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 Blains Cross Roads, Tenn. Tues Eve Dec 29th Dec 1863 My dearest wife, You will hear of my safe arrival here last Sat[urday] eve, as I wrote you Sunday morning and I promised you another in a day or two. And now ‘tis after lights out (or ‘Taps’) but a chance to mail tomorrow via Knoxville so I send you another hasty scrawl. Now you must know that we changed camp Sunday P.M. and ever since we’ve been cleaning up around building tents and busy as bees and shall not write you as I would like to. But it seemed so glad to see your letters that I will mention the date of them and will read them over more attentively before I can say all I want to. Yours received were dated: Nov 1st (with Frank’s), 22nd (29th by Frank), Dec 7, Oct 22d. Others from Abbie with a word from you. ‘Will’ Haynes and Mother, Lucy, Alonzo and Ellen at different dates and one from Mr. Walker of Worcester which happened to escape the fate of those with poor Stevens. My return to the Regt. brings so much to mind that I must wait more quiet moments to do it justice and you must be patient if I don’t mention items as you would wish. Have been hard at work and the fires trouble my eyes exceedingly as at Falmouth last winter and I write now with the greatest difficulty. ‘Tis fearful terrible what our boys have been thru with since the great retreat from Loudon and Lenore, the fight at Campbell’s Station and the final struggle at Knoxville, the suffering of hunger, cold followed up and harassed by the desperate foe. But they came out victorious. All were heroes and the 36th are on the roll of Massachusetts’ bravest souls, all honor to them. I venerate them and altho spared the terrible trial trust it will make me all the braver to bear. We are now on very short fare, tho plenty of meat, but little bread or flour of poor quality but this is nothing. The sky looks bright. We are in a delightful camp, in good health. I am better if possible since leaving Tazewell. Things were unsettled in the Commissary Department and I yearned for the Regt. as my proper place and made haste to reach it. And such busy times felling trees, clearing away and burning brush right on a hill with lofty mountains still higher on every [???] (the Clinch Mountains), a few rods from the other camp where they were huddled together in line of battle behind breastworks but now in regular camp. I am tented with a good fellow named Colburn from Westminster, not quiet well and evidently homesick somewhat but I see he cheers up a little. I try to attract his attention and do most of the housework. So you have a little idea of how we are. There is much in your letters I would like to speak of but cannot much now. One where you reviewed our life since our marriage was dear to me. I shall send it home soon for you to keep. Don’t feel sensitive now because I have not done this before for I don’t know why I have not. I hope to do better in future for Lulu’s sake, little darling. Your account of her sayings and doings tell me of them all you can. I hope she will be good and learn to love what I have so much. I love to think of you and her looking over and handling our little treasures in pictures or verses and my heart leaps forward to the time when we can all together take comfort and something tells me we should. And then to know the patriotism of the home is rising will cheer up and strengthen the boys in the field more than we can tell. Oh if the folks at home could see what heroism there is here and what a victory makes of men, ‘twould be a lasting lesson to them. Some are missing and many hearts will bleed (only think of Mrs. Stevens). But the great day is surely in store for us which shall in a measure assuage this great and present grief. Just think of my letters among the rebels. Jos. H. tells me there were some from all my different friends, two from Murray, Abbie and many from yourself of course. They will not be [???] will they by the perusal. But with them perished such a good man. They had got beautiful winter quarters at Leonore, and Henry Mayo, Nelson Smith, with Stevens and myself were to quarter together, and were waiting upon my return. I can hardly realize or be resigned to it. Heaven help and sustain her stricken heart. Corporal Houghton was not killed but seriously wounded. Priv. E. was hit on the check leaving a little mark. Have just been chatting with him and it seems to be mutually cheering to meet again as it is. Of course, I haven’t had time to hear or tell all. He always bears you in mind. You must not be jealous about letters I only [write] you twice yet more as often (as I should) as anybody else. Bro[ther] F’s [Foster’s] is headquarters of many friends. ‘Tis late, eyes ache and I must close. Hope soon to receive another mail and as my house is done, a cozy one raised up two or three logs from the ground and quite roomy. If we don’t march soon, shall talk to all of the friends soon. Love to Abbie, Mary, Hattie, all, Frank. Found a letter from Henry P. too. Will write sometime. Of the future, all is uncertain. Camp talk says going North to Western Virginia, to Missouri, etc. etc. etc. Longstreet is still nearby, but doubtful about giving battle, etc. Feel much interested for Alonzo. No doubt he has done for the best. Honor him for continuing in the service in some capacity. For myself will see my term of 3 years closed and then see about the future. Clothes that I left at Columbia were here. A kiss and love always from Your Jerome Jos. H. appears well. Clings to me like a brother. Done finely in the late battles. Carried a rebel flag to the Genl. And game to the “back bone” so I hear. Paid off a few days before I got here. Hope to be again soon. Please send me some thread, white and black linen. I have a little money enough for the present and am comfortably clothed. The boys sadly in need. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Jerome returned to his regiment on December 26th, 1863, after being gone over a month in Tazewell in the Commissary Department. During that separation from his Regiment, he did not receive his mail. NOTE 2: Edwin Stevens of Orange was killed Nov. 16, 1863 at Campbell’s Station, Tennessee. He apparently had 27 letters of Jerome’s in his knapsack, which was captured by the rebels. NOTE 3: Private Augustus F. Colburn, age 21, of Gardner was in Company H and was wounded at the battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse, where Jerome was killed. Colburn was transferred to the V.R.C. on February 6, 1865. (Unit History, p. 370.) NOTE 4: Jerome’s potential roommates at Blain’s Crossing were Corporal Henry Mayo of Orange, who was killed at the Wilderness, (Unit History p. 369.) and William N. [Nelson?] Smith of Orange. He was promoted to Corporal and discharged for disability in Dec. 1864. (Unit History p. 372.) NOTE 5: 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 6: Blain’s Cross Roads was often referred to as the Valley Forge of the Rebellion due to the difficult times during the winter of 1863. 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, December. 29, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Blaines Cross Roads, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1863-12-29 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 "5.34 X 3.15" - 1st Scan "4.98 X 8.08" - 2nd Scan "9.96 X 8.08" - 3rd 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 #187 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Blaines Cross Roads, TN Allie Blaine's Crossroads Jerome Peirce TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e004e21b15a2c39fe0021c3c53e2bcf0.jpg 4fb264e1a9a4e31ad1f951fdd9c4ffef https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ea770d1c3c6d4dada464e0120cb81c0c.jpg 7c2976d000fc4579de22a249545e308f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/b5f4f99d15b3885418591c0b3198a89c.jpg dc7befa04f8cc706e61a84f70fbbdc67 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7fedcb095b682e12e4d22d1a390c2fbe.jpg edb4d877d9ca390a67b8de434fe7ea41 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1864 Letter Collection Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Blans [Blaines] Cross Roads, E. Tenn. Etc. 6th Jan. 1864 My dearest Allie, I wrote you as usual at Billerica on Mond. [Monday], intended to on Sund. [Sunday] but could not, being so very uncomfortable and disturbed by the severe cold weather but if you chance to be at Boston when this reaches you with Ellen’s I knew you would be disappointed if I did not have at least a word for you which I hope I shall always. Here I sit by the fire, paper and writing materials strewed all about me. And what shall I say? Nothing new since Monday only that my tent is more roomy and I expect to take some little comfort reading papers, writing and thinking of you at home. Yesterday wrote a family letter to Billerica and to Jamestown N.Y. Hope to pay my debts in this line sometime. Allie, I always enjoy knowing that you are in “town” and enjoying yourself with the friends and sights and keeping your mind fresh and I trust you will see the brightest side to all things. [Transcriber’s Note: The next four lines of the letter have been heavily crossed out with what appears to be a black pencil to make them illegible.] Your last [letter] with Ellen’s I enjoyed so much. The picture of the friends assembled about you, one reading, Edwd. at the piano, you going to church, Foster’s new book and I always like to know what books he reads. Saw a notice of it and expect it must be very interesting and I think he (and Gen. B. [Burnside]) is one of the institutions of this war. The “Fair” must have been a magnificent affair. Ben and I sat in his tent and read all about it in the Journal. His bro [bother] Isaac is very kind and sends many papers. “Journal”, “Independent” and many from others and forms the Reading Room of the Co. if not the Regt. News from Orange is not plenty, no great change there, but I’m glad you keep up correspondence with friends there for it is appreciated I think as Henry M. [Almost certainly “Mayo”] speaks of it. Had a letter from Charles Smith. Spoke of the gathering etc. I wrote to the ‘Socials’ from Tazewell early so they might receive it in time. Directed it to Finney. You spoke of being pleased etc. that I was in the Com. [Commissary] Dept. We have to learn. I am satisfied that I am better off in the Regt. and besides I should have to report and if you get my last [Insert “letter”] of Monday last, you will see I got help immediately and now you can see the progress and I think for awhile of your little Sergeant and of four dollars a month more although it may be sometime before I can recruit safely, yet I will have a case that you and our darling are remembered. So look cheerfully into the future. Don’t think me thoughtless of how your headaches sometimes and how faithfully you strive. I know all and love you more than I can tell for it and feel that a better day must come by and by out of all this trying and we need only turn to the good book to find comfort and promise. Days are short, but I mean to glean all the comforts I can wherever I am. Did you receive the letter from Tazewell with the little picture of a ‘deer’ for Lulu directing you to send to the care of Lieut. Cross etc.? Be particular and tell me what letters you get. This my second to you this year. Your last was “4th in Dec.” My chimney is built on the front of the tent this time on one side of the end thus [Note: He included a small sketch of his tent.] while my rubber blanket serves for a door. Logs lined with stone and plastered up forms the fireplace and the whole [???] so I can almost stand erect and sit nicely on pine boughs and thus I greet you once more. Do you have any time to read? I wish you could some, just something to cheer and keep in mind something besides work, work for you need it. So do steal a moment once in a while and tell me about it. Some favorite passage in the Scriptures. “Isiah” is a beautiful book full of poetry and comfort and promise. A kiss for Lulu and always for you and the love of your Jerome I enclose a dollar to get some stamps. Have had to get me some gloves, shoes etc. and must keep a little by me. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: “Blans Cross Roads” in eastern Tennessee could not be found on a current map. However, the town of Blaine is located approximately twenty miles northeast of Knoxville, Tennessee. The envelope for this letter bears the postmark of Knoxville, Tennessee. Also, in his letter dated January 10, 1864, three days after this letter, Jerome indicates that he was “Near Blaine Cross Roads, Tenn.” The envelope for this letter is also postmarked Knoxville. Therefore, he almost certainly was located near the present town of Blaine, Tennessee, in early January 1864. NOTE 2: It is interesting to note that he mentions his increase in pay as the result of being promoted from corporal to sergeant on January 1, 1864, just prior to the date of this letter. His monthly pay increased from $13.00 to $17.00 as the result of the promotion. It also appears that as the result of his promotion, he was moved to the Commissary Department of his regiment. NOTE 3: Henry Mayo, also from Orange, Massachusetts, enlisted in on the same date, August 4, 1862, as Jerome. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 6, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Pierce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-06 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #188 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Allie Blaine's Crossroads Jerome Peirce TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2dc485e690a716d6cea52888080d4ab6.jpg 8b52588a424f12cd18ca603a1b2cd769 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4ec5a2d08caf37bd8172d0fc391f8fa0.jpg a197ec14f65fdfe2cf5e5e87b78561d3 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7fc7280ed1bedd7ec899719c0159f834.jpg 4faf66bce7d2d7e90b4ccfa8589ab57b https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5156e5f9108409aaeef5284a1519792f.jpg 775fedadfae76d8e30e18da9eaedf7e3 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 Near Blaine Cross Roads, Tenn. Sunday Morn 10 Jan 1864 My dearest Wife, A bitter cold morning and still quietly in camp. Have just finished inspection as usual, that is of arms and equipments, expecting every moment a visit from the Major and Dr. Prince to look at our quarters and I improve the moments in again addresing you. It seems quite like Sabbath morn. once more. All quiet and so like a New England morning - cold, and we keep close to the fire. Have no news to write you since last week, the last [Insert “letter”] with Ellens. Are you still in Boston and preparing or at church? Life is now busy but monotonous. Our time being taken up in cooking and getting fuel and stealing a few moments for reading and writing. No mail as we expected last eve. Some delay and we shall not probably receive any till next Tuesday. Nothing from Alonzo as yet by letter or person and I imagine he has turned back somewhere. Am sorry now that I ordered you to direct [Possibly insert “your letter”] to Lieut. Cross but [Possibly insert “it”] shall get there after awhile. Last eve. we had a ‘sit down’ in our little tent. Ben E. came in and we chatted over ‘Burns’, his life and work and he repeated “The Cotters Saturday Night”, a beautiful sweet thing, a picture of lowly life in Scotland. Just think of it! Here among the Clinch Mountains of East Tenn., so long after his death, two soldiers at such a theme! He has much of the gems of verse, sacred and secular on his “tongue’s end” and so we pass some of the hours in the wilds. In looking over your letters, I see you was quite particular to know who accompanied me on the journey here, my companions on the train etc. I was not aware that I was more full of particulars to others than to you, and soldiers are so common and differ so little out here that I did not probably mention much of individuals. Suffice it so say, that these various “squads” of “Comradesants” mostly whom they send off their Regts. as opportunity offers. Some of them are rough and deseased[???], while a few are very good men and always press on to their Regts. A Sergt. Perry of the 112th Ills. [Illinois] Mounted Infantry and a Major of 115th Ind. [Indiana], an educated man, a lawyer were the two for whom I shall entertain peculiar regard, good men and companionable. The first is with his Regt. and latter at the Commissary Dept., a six month man. Promised to renew the acquaintance when he got home and furnish me items of western news and movements etc., etc. Like men on a journey, meeting by chance a few we shall remember with special regard and causing us to look with greater respect on men in general and as far as my experience goes. I can say men do not appear as bad as some think, a very encouraging fact to me, for if there be any place where to show up human nature, it is here. Our own Regt. is now reduced to its fewest and best both moral “physique” and all goes on quietly and in order. Very little of the fret and worry of old and all indicating the maturest soldiers. If rations be short, we take it, and hope for more next time. Clothing is scarce and many are suffering much, but still it is accepted with little complaint. It is said clothing is on the way to us. Yesterday each company had (drew) a green hide just from the butchers to make moccasins of to wear over the feet. Expect to make ourselves. Don’t know when I shall have some. Many – everything is exceedingly scarce. Transportation is bad. Sutlers are scarce and only at Knoxville and at enormous high prices can anything be had. Diaries, stationery very high. So we have to be careful. I have a fair supply now but an envelope and sheet of paper will come in play occasionally. I sent you in my last [Insert “letter”] (Wedns.) a dollar for stamps. I fear our pay day is far off. The old Regts. who have reenlisted 21st Mass. [Infantry Regiment] and 8th Michn. [Michigan] are gone. What [Who] did not reenlist go into other regts. to serve their time out. Expect the 21st will have a grand reception in Worcester as it has seen some of the severest service. We shall soon begin to count the months when we shall go back. “Flow swift around the wheels of Time”, and I need not tell you how glad it seems to feel that there is one at home whose heart is constantly reaching out in response to those longings. How I wish I was with you and Lulu in place of these scenes which with our best efforts fall so far short of the good Sabbaths at home. I am much interested in all you speak of at home. Lulu’s progress and development and how much her feelings remind me of my own earliest remembered days when I too wondered why we done so often what we knew to be bad. Does not this show how much of good there is in our nature? How much better the heart is at times than the performance, but we must do the best we can and hope for the influence of all good angels to direct the final end. I have often told you how constantly my mind reverts to you and more than ever the longer I am absent and between you and the anticipation of Spring singing birds, my poor hands go thru their accustomed task. Received this morning my Sergeant’s Warrant dated Jan. 9th by Major Draper etc. and Lieut. Hodgkins gave me a congratulatory nudge as he came along with the rest to inspect our quarters. I hope the future will look a little more promising. If we could only get further North, where we could hear more regular and often, we could cheerfully undergo the cold and exposure for so desirable a change. But I forget for why should I complain? But I must close. If my poor and sometimes fretful seconds do not always meet your fondest wishes, consider my situation and not feel that I am really cold and heartless. I want much to hear from you since I came to the Regt. of my promotion etc. How is the winter with you? Much snow? Little here but so chilly and bitter cold! Quite equal mornings to what we have at home. Is Edw. Haynes still at home? Love to Ben. H’s family. I do not write them quite as often but I think of them equally so and Lucy too. Shall hope to hear from you again soon. Give love to all and tell Lulu that Papie loves her just the same, sends her a kiss always. She must be a good girl and love her Mama dearly as her best friend. My fireplace met with an accident last night and I must do a little repairing. Shall read before sleep. Jos. H. is well. As 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. During this time, the lack of adequate rations, clothing and equipment presented more challenges to the men than did the Confederates. In the Company Muster Roll for November – December 1863, Jerome Peirce was recorded as “Present.” In the following Company Muster Roll, i.e., for January – February 1864, Peirce was recorded as “Present” with the rank of “Sergt.” A notation indicated “Promoted from Corpl. Jan. 1, 1864.” That promotion increased his pay from $13.00 per month to $17.00 per month. It is interesting to note that the shortage of rations, clothing and equipment is mentioned in this letter. NOTE 2: The Dr. Prince mentioned in this letter was James P. Prince, from Lynn, Massachusetts, who enlisted at age 24 in the 22nd Massachusetts Regiment of Volunteers in October 1861. He was transferred to the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment on August 13, 1862. He subsequently served as Surgeon in various units of the 9th Army Corps, and in 1865 he was promoted to Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Volunteers. NOTE 3: The Lieut. Cross that Jerome refers to was First Lieutenant Robert M. Cross from Palmer, Massachusetts. NOTE 4: The Scottish poet Robert Burns (1759 - 1796) wrote the poem “The Cotter’s Saturday Night.” A "Cotter" in Burns' time was a poor peasant who was given the use of a Cot or Cottage by the property owner in exchange for labor as opposed to paying rent. This poem relates how the Cotter and his family take time to relax on a Saturday evening after their week's labor, knowing that Sunday is a day of rest. The eldest daughter, Jenny, who has by now left home, calls with her new boyfriend, and the family eat their peasant meal and join around the fireside to hear the father read from the Bible. NOTE 5: Cinch Mountain is a mountain ridge in Tennessee and Virginia, lying in the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains. From its southern terminus at Kitts Point, which lies at the intersection of Knox, Union and Grainger counties near Blaine, Tennessee, it runs in a generally east-northeasterly direction to Garden Mountain near Burke's Garden, Virginia. Jerome gives his location when this letter was written as “Blaine Cross Roads, Tennessee”. NOTE 6: The 21st Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was organized in Worcester, Massachusetts, and mustered into service on August 23, 1861. It participated in the Battle of Roanoke Island, the Battle of New Bern, the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of Fredericksburg, the Battle of Chantilly, in the Overland Campaign, and in the Siege of Petersburg. By the end of its three years of service, the 21st Massachusetts had been reduced from 1,000 men to fewer than 100. Of these losses, 152 were killed in action or died from wounds received in action, approximately 400 were discharged due to wounds, 69 were taken prisoner, and approximately 300 were discharged due to disease, resignation, or desertion. NOTE 7: William F. Draper, from Milford, Massachusetts, enlisted at age 21 as a Private in September 1861. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant on October 12, 1861, and was promoted steadily thereafter, becoming a Major on July 31, 1863. He commanded the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment from October 10, 1863, until August 10, 1864, except during a time when he was recovering from a severe wound he sustained in the Battle of the Wilderness in May of 1864. He was mustered out of the service on October 12, 1864, upon the expiration of his three years of service. He was subsequently promoted to Brevet Colonel and then Brevet Brigadier General, U.S. Volunteers, for “gallant and meritorious services in the field during the war.” NOTE 8: William H. Hodgkins, from Charlestown, Massachusetts, enlisted as a Private on July 23, 1862, at age 22. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant on October 17, 1862, to First Lieutenant on October 17, 1863, and to Captain on May 6, 1864. He was mustered out with the regiment on June 8, 1865. He was subsequently promoted to Brevet Major for “valuable and distinguished services at Fort Stedman, Virginia, on March 25, 1865.” NOTE 9: The “Jos. H.” that Jerome referred to in this letter was almost certainly 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, and he was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was a nephew of Jerome. NOTE 10: The fact that the men were very short of clothing and rations and made were forced to make moccasins for themselves because of the shortage of footwear is documented in the Unit History (Page 124). It reads, “Very few of our men had overcoats; indeed, they were poorly clothed in every respect. For the lack of shoes many were obliged to protect their feet with moccasins made of raw hides. Rations too were short. A few spoonfulls of flour were served out as the daily allowance, and, had it not been for the corn picked up here and there, sometimes where the mules were corralled, the men would have suffered severely.” Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 10, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Pierce, Jerome Allie Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-10 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 "5.38 X 3.12" - 1st Scan "4.93 X 7.82" - 2nd Scan "9.98 X 7.82" - 3rd Scan "4.93 X 7.82" - 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 #190 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Near Blaine's Cross Roads, TN Allie Blaine's Crossroads Jerome Peirce TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/edd6379018961cd3a3d7c788c3c0f492.jpg 3ba548ba097e8fbe17adc816033da731 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5f56413ec545ec5db4d437c611c9e44c.jpg 1fc7d2227d7f943394ceb5a07d46ead4 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ae04a4f2961985bcc03e4e89189952a6.jpg 77c76ba8fe0aa3660343571747d0ce51 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/fe28471f506ecc4c9b8fcc5f8e98ffe6.jpg 07557c740f0bd82ebed8ba428ae45ab7 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7c2d8be0a73b3770cfe9eba494a3a977.jpg b45453cbbae25c65ed17d81ae73b5716 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2926449121955e8cdde710fbf6e808a9.jpg bf0d636ae40b260322c805215b14a6b4 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 Transcriber’s Note: See the below Transcriber’s Note 1 regarding a possible missing page of this letter, the probable location where it was written, and the missing salutation. Jan 17, 1864 …text was “In my Father’s House are many mansions.” J [Probably refers to John, the Apostle] The value of the human soul, of Heaven, hard to keep the former pure and win the latter. After the sermon he had a familiar “talk” with the men and it would do you good to see the men and officers draw near to him and listen. He spoke [of] trying to explain and reconcile these to the short fame and the general hardships of war. I cannot do justice to it. Spoke of the lovely country, that it was our mission to preserve from the pest of slavery to a higher order of civilization and gave all honor, as did Genl. Burnside the other day, to the “rank and file”, the common soldiers, the “ranks” for they are the heroes of the times, and I am more proud than ever to be [one] of them! And the country can never repay them. Now, Allie, for the first time since I have been out today I could see no mortal means to a dinner. Was speaking of it and one [of the men of] Co. B offered to give me some “sick wheat” as we call it, for it makes most all the men sick who eat it but does not affect me much and so I had four little flitters and a small stup of tough meat and a little coffee and so again I was “all right”. Was on duty this forenoon with a squad of men policing headquarters and with the little I had to do for myself got terribly hungry. But we hope soon to improve as good fare is promised. Reah[???] Fox, a messenger from Gov. Andrew, gave us a good word the other day. So we gave the Gov. three good cheers. Clothing has come and the boys are supplied partly and things look a little better. Weather is lovely and we are in a fine district of country, camped on high land with the beautiful plain between us and the Holstone River, about 13 miles from Knoxville. There is a blue outline of mountains far away and in the summer it must be one of the loveliest spots in all the land. As usual, axes are going and quarters [are] in progress. Don’t know as we should be here long, perhaps not a week. Had two kind letters from Orange same date as yours with four stamps. Do you receive the one with the money, $1.00, for some? Letter from Will spoke of going to B [Billerica?] soon and should see you, as you speak that he has, and took Lulu home etc. Am glad to know that some are coming up to the work. My particular respects to Ed Brown, and I wish him all success! We hear of some who have enlisted and it puts new life into the boys to know it. Let them come on and soon this cruel war will indeed be ended. Everything looks cheering now. The enemy are known to be well nigh used up in this Dept. and the boys are hoping and bearing everything patiently. Have looked once again [at] yours [your letter] of the 27th. What a happy scene with the little ones! I am sure little Lulu is not forgotten or considered all unworthy. Can you expect her to be without faults? Do not worry about her but feel that our best efforts will not go unpaid sometime. A short time more and we can hope to be again at home. Time flies rapidly and surely we can wait and hope on for awhile longer and I shall feel that my whole duty is done and you will be better satisfied with me and yourself for it. So don’t repine, for I am well and cheerful, notwithstanding all the little deprivations of the present. Am very glad you went to Finny’s. I think very much of them indeed and should have been glad to meet his brother again for I like him much. Glad my letter was read and shall be glad of the answer. Will answer Charles S’s soon. Tell them I am so fixed that I have constant interruptions or I could be more prompt in reply for their letters are fully appreciated. Paper and ink are almost impossible now and at a high price. Envelopes I need or shall soon very much. You speak of deaths. Mr. Whitford, E. Walker’s child and Mr. Draper of C [Charlestown?], Edwd. D, the brother of the Dr.’s girls? A great loss to them each and all. Mr. W must have been a great sufferer. My regards to Mary. Our friend Ben E is the same as ever, good and well. Saw him today. Of the others, remember me always joyful times in view may they be more in realization. Alonzo at home as I expected. My regards to him. Will write as soon as possible. Hodgkins is to be the Adjt [Adjutant] I believe. He’s acting at least already. Col. [Colonel] B has gone on to Genl. Foster’s staff “as they say” and rumor has it that Genl. Burnside’s coming back soon, etc., etc. Well, Dear Allie, I must close as the mail goes soon. I have tried to write something, but could you see how I am surrounded, noise, cooking, talking all around, you would forgive much. Have got to go clear to the river half a mile to get supper water. The Orange boys are well. Did you ever get a letter with some green leaves in it from “Cumberland Ford”? And have you got the glove band for Lulu? You did not tell me whether “Outward Bound” was pretty. You see, I catch you once in a while. My love to the friends one and all. I want to have the girls write occasionally. I miss Abbie’s letters much. As ever your Loving husband Jerome Love to Lucy. Will write her soon. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: This letter apparently has one page, or possibly more pages, missing. The first page shows the notation “Jan. 17, 1864” written sideways on the margin on the top right section of the page. It is not clear whether or not Jerome wrote that date. The envelope includes the notation “Jan. 17, etc. 1864”. The postmark reads “KNOXVILLE TEN Jan 22 ‘64”. Based on the postmark and his locations for the letters written just before and just after this letter, he was in the Knoxville, Tennessee, area when this letter was written. Further information as to his exact location is obtained from the following excerpt of the Unit History (p. 125). It also mentions that the men had received new clothing and that they were building “houses.” “January 15th [1864] clothing arrived and was issued. Though the quantity was small, there was enough to be of much benefit to our shivering men. On the following day [January 16, 1864] the 45th Pennsylvania started home, its terms of service also having nearly expired. At ten o’clock we broke camp and marched to Strawberry Plains, about 16 miles north of Knoxville. It is at this place that the railroad crosses the Holston River. We went into camp and on the following day and built houses. But on the 17th there were rumors of an approach of the enemy, and we had orders to march the next morning at seven. When the morning came, these orders were countermanded, and we were then ordered to hold ourselves in readiness to march at a moment’s notice. That night two or three inches of snow fell.” NOTE 2: The quotation in the first line of the letter is from John 14:2 of the Bible. NOTE 3: “Flitters” is probably a word used at the time to describe what are now called “fritters.” A fritter is a fried food, usually consisting of a portion of batter or breading, which has been filled with bits of meat, seafood, fruit, vegetables or other ingredients. NOTE 4: The Holston River is a 136-mile river that flows from Kingsport, Tennessee, to Knoxville, Tennessee. Along with its three branches, it comprises a major river system that drains much of northeastern Tennessee, southwestern Virginia, and northwestern North Carolina. The Holston's confluence with the French Broad River at Knoxville marks the beginning of the Tennessee River. NOTE 5: During the Civil War, a department was a geographical command within the Union's military organization, usually reporting directly to the War Department. Some of the Union's departments were named after rivers, such as the Department of the Potomac, Department of the Ohio, Department of the Susquehanna, and the Department of the Missouri. In this letter, he is most likely referring to the Department of the Tennessee. The geographical boundaries of such departments changed frequently, as did their names. As the armies became larger, Departments began to be subordinated to Military Divisions, and the Departments were often sub-divided into Districts. NOTE 6: In his advice to Allie “So don’t repine…” the word “repine” means “to be discontented or low in spirits” or “to complain or fret.” NOTE 7: William H. Hodgkins, from Charlestown, Massachusetts, enlisted as a Private on July 23, 1862, at age 22. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant on October 17, 1862, to First Lieutenant on October 17, 1863, and to Captain on May 6, 1864. He was mustered out with the regiment on June 8, 1865. He was subsequently promoted to Brevet Major for “valuable and distinguished services at Fort Stedman, Virginia, on March 25, 1865.” NOTE 8: A military adjutant is an officer who assists the commanding officer with the unit’s administration. NOTE 9: The “Col. [Colonel] B” 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 and served at Baltimore and Philadelphia until the close of the war. NOTE 10: John Watson Foster (1836 – 1917) was an American diplomat and military officer, as well as a lawyer and journalist. His highest public office was U.S. Secretary of State under President Benjamin Harrison. In 1861, Foster was commissioned as a major in the Union Army, and he rose to the rank of colonel, serving with several units. Foster's troops became the first to enter Knoxville, Tennessee, after the successful campaign there by General Ambrose Burnside. NOTE 11: Jerome sent flowers or leaves to Lulu on at least seven occasions, as evidenced by the dried remains of this foliage that were found in seven envelopes when they were received by the National Park Service. In this letter, he asks Allie about the leaves he sent while he was at Cumberland Ford in Kentucky. His letter Number 176 was written from Cumberland Gap, Kentucky, on November 15, 1863, and the envelope for that letter includes a notation that reads “Leaves from Cumberland Ford”. The dried leaves that were found with this letter are shown below, and they are obviously the ones he referred to in the letter transcribed above. The November 15, 1863, letter has stains that match exactly the leaves shown below. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 17, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Knoxville, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-17 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 "5.60 X 3.15" - 1st Scan "5.05 X 8.05" - 2nd Scan "5.05 X 8.05" - 3rd Scan "5.05 X 8.05" - 4th Scan "10.03 X 8.05" - 5th Scan "5.05 X 8.05" - 6th 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 #191 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Knoxville, TN Allie Jerome Peirce Knoxville TN https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d7e32fafe2d0ede39708005c7599bcc6.jpg 258efafaaf2d66409cf6cb35a85d81c6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/497d32a7f579063f75180fb2ec783175.jpg cea7cd80adf5b31e3c01a574f1ff67b7 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3001d3097b87eb9f4290188b06c3c06e.jpg d0d7c8a18c58163562edb517afb1771e https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3faee30fcde0f51121b502d6c1885a0d.jpg 3923e43afacc8783909d4f6cade089f3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1864 Letter Collection Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document “Erins Station” near Knoxville Tennessee January 30th, 1864 My ever dear wife, Your letter of Jan. 10th came last eve and altho of late I write Tuesdays and only once a week for the reason that stationary is so costly and there is little variation of late in our life. But the time seems favorable this morning and I feel so thankful for your preservation in the late accident and you confiding feelings in the Great Hand in the hollow of which we all rest. How much indeed, do we owe to this each day of our lives and who more than we soldiers? You spoke of thinking of so much in a moment, you can know something how I have felt more than once since I have been in the army. I can never tell you how much it is [“is” should probably be deleted] has strengthened my faith and hope that our lives here are no chance or accident but have a meaning and end which if we do our part will issue well whatever betide. It is a little singular in regard to your late escape that I had a presentiment a few days ago that you had passed that same peril. It came first in the night while in a half wakeful state and impressed me so that I thought much about it for sometime. Was it not strange? It seemed so pleasant that you were all once more at home! How gladly would I too join you! But as that cannot be I can only send these poor epithets to assure you of my constant remembrance. Your letter was very pleasant, as you seemed I thought more cheerful. I have seen a notice of the book you spoke of. Am glad you read it and could tell me something about it and I trust it served to fill your mind profitably for awhile. I know how much you think of me, but I love to know that you can turn for a little while and divert your thoughts and share them at least with anything that will keep away sadness. I must give you an idea of how we are situated. In health I never was better, but we are short of food and were it not for a few cents, I should go really hungry. Little biscuit, such as we could eat half a dozen at home, with the other fixings, we have to pay 50 cents per doz. For corn “Dodgers,” is corn and water baked, cost 20 cents and more apiece. Flour and meal are in proportion. The country is almost cleared of everything and many of the people are emigrating to the west, Ohio and thereabouts. The Government does all they can to feed and clothe us, and there is much improvement, but still we don’t have enough to keep from being faint only by private expense. I mention this not to complain but to explain. I made out to raise a little extra from sale of my sack and old blouse as my dress coat came while I was gone, so I keep along so far. My trip home caused me to miss two paydays so I have not of course been able to send you money as I wished to, but I hope you won’t allow yourself to suffer. You mentioned the need of flannels, etc. We hope soon to go North and probably we shall not be paid off till we get there and then six months pay will be due me, and I hope to send you the entire or nearly the whole amount. Two months or perhaps more will be sergeant’s pay 17 dollars instead of 13. Was surprised that you had not heard from me later than the 13th Dec. [letter] but by this time you have and you will find many things mentioned and explained. I speak of all this because I thought you did not make allowance in some things for the “chances of war”, such as missing pay days, etc. I certainly have tried to do the best I could for you, and we must be patient and have faith in the future a little even while the present seems dark and stranger. Am glad people are feeling encouraged about the war, and Fosters sentiments give me much encouragement. Mr. Lincoln, like Gov. Andrew, took the war in the beginning and I hope he will be allowed to finish it. I saw a short sketch in the paper of a speech by Mr. Arnold of Ills. [Illinois] in which he made a fine point in regard to Mr. L [Lincoln], and the whole subject. Many of the old regts [regiments] are reinlisting which will have a good effect, particularly in discouraging the rebs. A hundred prisoners came into K[noxville] yesterday from General Anderson’s force taken at a fight of two days near here, a part of Longstreet’s. Some secesh families too were to be sent to the Rebel lines today which made “weeping and wailing”. Ben E. was in town and informed me of the above. The work of preparing us for moving is going on. Today we expected an inspection of knapsacks, haversacks, canteens etc. to be replaced by new ones etc. You would have been amused to see me for the last few days. Have been busy sewing till my thread is gone. Mended haversack, knap’k [knapsack], and yesterday covered my canteen with blue pant cloth and succeeded finally and this morning boiled out my hack bag and darned socks so I’m ready for a start. It rains now for the first time for sometime and most of us are in the tents writing etc. Weather since we left Strawberry Plains has been delightful and we could sit round with our coats off. Cooking takes up a good deal of time even with short rations from the fact that we “extend” everything by boiling, frying, etc. I wrote a letter to you in ones to Ellen while you was there which she will send you I presume. The rest I have sent to B. Wrote the family on Thursday, also Sister Lucy. Sent you a “Knoxville Whig and Rebel Ventilator”, Brownlow’s paper. You must share it with everybody. Cost 15 cents apiece. [???] letters [???] all up now [Part of letter missing] [???] well already which [???] us [???] [???] deal and by and by I expect we shall appear up North, quite transformed from the war-worn looking men we were of late. We’re to have “East Tennessee” inscribed on the flag, and it will have a meaning to us at least! Saw Ben E last eve. Had a letter from Mrs. Finney spoke of your call there and of reading a letter from me written at Tazewell. I wish you would always mention the first thing, what letters you receive from me. You may think you do but I can’t tell from what you say what ones you get. Till now, the 13 Dec. I wrote, the 27 Dec., the morning after I reached the regt., and regularly once a week since and a little oftener. The 27 Dec. letter was written in a great hurry and perpendicular instead of cross ways. I thought you would smile when you got it. I have inquired several times about a letter from Tazewell with a little picture of a deer for Lulu. I want her to receive all the little things of the kind, for such things impress her little mind and she will feel I do not forget her. Shall be glad when she can realize that I did not go from home because I did not love you and her, but for a great good cause which will affect many like her in the future, more than we can calculate now. I manage so that a day seldom passes but I read even a little in my Bible. Did you ever realize what a beautiful book Isaiah is? The 26th and 36th, 41st and 42nd, 53rd and 55th chapters and many others! Ben and I often get to reading and talking over it. His wife is still in Wheeling, Va. learning music, etc. quite brave and happy. [Part of letter missing] Remember [“me” should probably be inserted] particularly to Father and Mother. I do not forget them in the advancing years, and I trust time will only lend health and cheerfulness to them, and that the “family” will yet all gather about them and increase, not diminish, their happiness. Give [???] sons and brothers love to each and all and still believe me ever your loving husband Jerome Kiss for Lulu. Shall need some envelopes soon. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: Parts of 3rd and 4th pages are missing and appear to be cut out. NOTE 2: The regiment went into camp at Erin’s Station, about five miles from Knoxville, on January 26th, 1864. It was there until Feb. 15, 1864. NOTE 3: On January 16th, the regiment made camp at Strawberry Plains, 16 miles north of Knoxville, where the railroad crosses the Holston River. The Regimental History indicates that they built houses there. (Regimental History, p. 125) NOTE 4: Tazewell is a town in East Tennessee near the Clinch River. The Regiment History states: ”December 11th, while we were still near Rutledge, Lieutenant Hodgkins, who had been home on leave of absence and detached service at Cumberland Gap, rejoined the regiment and brought not a little cheer to all hearts by the announcement that a large mail and supplies were at Tazewell. The supply-train arrived on the 13th and once again we had a taste of bread, coffee and sugar. That reached us on the following day.” (Unit History, p. 123) NOTE 5: Brownlow’s Knoxville Whig and Rebel Ventilator was a pro-union newspaper, which was reestablished between November 11, 1863, and February 21, 1866, after General Burnside’s army returned to East Tennessee in September 1863. Brownlow became governor of Tennessee in 1865. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brownlow%27s_Whig NOTE 6: John Albion Andrew was a U.S. antislavery leader who, as governor of Massachusetts during the Civil War, was one of the most energetic of the Northern “war governors.” https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Albion-Andrew NOTE 7: The reference to Mr. Arnold of Illinois likely refers to Congressman Isaac Arnold. http://www.mrlincolnandfriends.org/members-of-congress/isaac-arnold/ In a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in March 1964, he said “Let Abraham Lincoln finish the great work he has begun. He has borne censure and denunciation for acts for which others were responsible, with a generosity which has extorted from his rivals the declaration, ‘Of all men, Mr. Lincoln is the most unselfish.’ I ask the ardent and impatient friends of freedom to put implicit faith in Abraham Lincoln. If you deem him slow, or if you think he has made mistakes, remember how often time has vindicated his wisdom.” It is possible that he made similar points in a speech prior to March 1964 and prior to Peirce’s letter. NOTE 8: Richard Anderson was a Confederate General who took over command of the First Corps when General Longstreet was wounded by friendly fire during the Wilderness Battle. Anderson and his Corps did an all-night march from the Wilderness to Spotsylvania Courthouse to prevent the Union troops from occupying a key crossroads. He led the First Corps in heavy fighting between March 8-12, 1864, at Spotsylvania Courthouse, where Sergeant Peirce was killed. NOTE 9: Reference to Foster’s sentiments about the war reference to Major-General John G. Foster who relieved General Burnside of command of the Army of the Ohio on Dec. 11th, 1863. Around January 31st, 1864, Foster asked to be relieved due to a reopening of old wound, and was relieved on Feb. 9th, 1864 by General J.M. Schofield. NOTE 10: Corn dodgers are fried corn meal, commonly called hush puppies currently. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 30, 1864 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Erins Station, TN Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1864-01-30 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Tom Neubig (transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource "5.46 X 3.12" - 1st Scan "5.02 X 8.01" - 2nd Scan "10.12 X 8.01" - 3rd Scan "5.02 X 8.01" - 4th Scan (JPG) Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #192A Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Erins Station, TN Allie Erins Station Jerome Peirce TN