Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

Collection is open to research.

Use Restrictions

There are no restrictions.

Preferred Citation

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: Robert J. Wells Civil War Letter, Ms2009-066 , Special Collections, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

Acquisition Information

The Robert J. Wells Civil War Letter was purchased for the Civil War collection Special Collections in 2006.

Processing Information

The processing, arrangement and description of the Robert J. Wells Civil War Letter was completed in May 2009.

Biographical Information

Robert J. Wells enlisted in Company H of the 24th Virginia Infantry as a Private in Lynchburg, Virginia on June 5, 1861. His residence was not listed. He was hospitalized in Richmond and Lynchburg in 1862. Wells was paroled on May 13, 1865.

Scope and Content

Letter is written to "Cousin Louise" by Robert J. Wells on November 30, 1864. Wells writes about fighting a "Negro" regiment on the 28th of November and being shelled by "yanks." Wells also complains of his "Sweetheart" who has "been punishing me too greatly," saying she does not write to him often enough. This is too much to deal with among the other privations of camp life. Wells also mentions attempts to secure the effects of Cousin Louise's brother who was killed in battle. Wells discusses some expectation of getting his knapsack and sending it from Richmond. Wells closes the letter asking Cousin Lou to tell his "Sweet" that he has "always carried her with me." Wells mentions receiving a letter from Cousin Charley and gives his regards to Cousin Shug.

Arrangement

The collection is arranged by material type.

Index Terms

Subjects:

• Civil War
• United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865