Following the American Civil War Sesquicentennial with day by day writings of the time, currently 1863.

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

2nd. Mr. Birge told us of Martin Fitch’s death by drowning. God sustain the afflicted. After washing up at the Gibson House, Melissa went to see Ellie Bushnell. I attended to business and then went home with Albert. Pleasant visit. Like Mr. Morgan and family. Al and wife went back with us—ice cream.

Friday, 2d—For the first time we saw mustered-out soldiers leaving for their homes today.

June 2d. Our regiment is the only one left at this post. Details continue to hunt and collect government property. Some western regiments pass through this town on the B. & O. R. R., bound for home, singing and cheering, happy.

Chattanooga, Friday, June 2. Friday morning drilled with Battery for two hours. Very hot indeed. Big mail came in. I received three letters, one of them from Miss Sue J. B. of Ohio, of which I must write before it gets later. About a month ago I obtained a Ladies’ Repository with some other magazines from the Christian Commission, on which was written a note with the above address annexed. Thought it no more than justice to thank the donor, and assure her that their efforts were duly appreciated by the soldier. Contrary to my expectations I received an answer requesting a reply, which of course I complied with at some length, giving personal description. And so here comes two sheets to-day. I think she is a “Methodist sister” in the habit of itinerating with her brother, a minister. She forgot to give her age, notwithstanding I gave her mine, consequently I infer she is an old maid. Not very highly accomplished in letter writing, but a good composer and a fine use of language and a vivid conception of the beautiful. Seems to have received a very favorable impression of me. I did not attempt it. I have revolutionized her ideas.