Leverett Bradley: A Soldier-Boy’s Letters (1st Massachusetts Heavy Artillery.)

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 20th. Rec’d a lot of letters; getting to have lots of correspondents, must appreciate my letters. Of course I do my best; but I think they are dry. Lieut C. has any amount, he is a fine fellow.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 17th. Copied barrack rules. There are skaters on the river.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 16th. Were inspected by Major It. today. Any amount of growling, mud knee deep. Expect to be inspected again tomorrow. Vets are beginning to resign to their fate. Some thoughts of re-enlisting.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 14th. Gillmore is still knocking at the gates of Charleston. Jere went to the city today. The first lot of Vet. Vol. on furlough have returned today; most all have seen father and say he is looking well.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 12th. Major Cole whipped the guerilla Mosely in the Shenandoah valley. Have worked all day copying orders. Saw a palmetto leaf for the first time.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 11th. No news of importance. There was a grand dinner given at the Fort by Genl. Barnard to his friends. If I could judge by their faces, should say they had a good time. I issued clothing today, and got through it very well.

Fort Whipple, Va., Jan. 10, 1864.

Dear Friends:

Yours of last Sabbath duly rec’d found us well. We have been having very cold weather, but Jerry and I have got straw now and sleep very comfortably, and as that is one of the most essential duties of a soldier, and among them all the one he likes best, I guess that we shall, if divine providence favors us, this winter. Have been trying every opportunity to get over to Corbets but as yet have not succeeded; he lives the other side of the line of rifle pits, and in order to visit him I shall have to obtain a pass from Brigade Head Quarters. Will certainly seize the first opportunity. It is not very comfortable writing this, they are beating “tattoo” right under the window, and they are soul stirring strains; but then I don’t fancy them. I expect Jerry has written a long letter and as I get enough of that business just this time of the year, you will please excuse this abrupt leaving off. We only have an hour between “tattoo” and “taps.” Much love to all. Good-night.                                                            From

Lev.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 8th. The Potomac has frozen over, consequently un-navigable. Today is the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans.

The Co rec’d 22 recruits, none that I knew. Steamers passed down the river today; but it was hard work.

Diary And Memoranda, 1864

Jan. 7th. No new army movements. Reports say they have gone into winter quarters. Two months ago the “Astor House” dissolved itself! passed the day reading ” Under the Spell.”