REMARKABLE HOSPITAL LETTER ON BEHALF OF WOUNDED 5th MAINE SOLDIER – US CHRISTIAN COMMISSION STATIONARY

$175.00

Quantity Available: 1

Item Code: 2023-472

Shipping: Determined by Method & Location of buyer

To Order:
Call 717-334-0347,
Fax 717-334-5016, or E-mail

Private Joseph Leavitt enlisted at age 19 in Portland, Maine in June of 1861 and mustered into Company G of the 5th Maine Infantry.  And the end of his term, he re-enlisted in December of 1863.  In the Spring of 1864, the 5th Maine fought its way south during the Overland Campaign, and records indicate that Joseph was wounded in action at the Wilderness or Spotsylvania.

According to this letter, while recovering from his wound his condition deteriorated and he was seized by chronic diarrhea.  The author of the letter talks very frankly of Joe’s condition and spirits, apparently in contrast to the positive news received previously by the recipients of communications concerning their loved one.

The author says, “I write this in the Hospital. Joseph is so weak and seems to want me here and I don’t feel like writing much as I cannot write anything encouraging… Joseph still has the diarrhea and it has worn him down much. I don’t want to flatter you in the least nor discourage you, but I must say that Joseph feels some how it will terminate. We cannot tell but I see nothing favorable… I stayed here in the hospital last night until ½ past nine and he had several uneasy times. He is almost discouraged and it makes it harder for him. [I had] taken him up and fixed his bed, clean shirt, dressed his wound, but after all he seems discontented. Afraid of his diarrhea more than anything else.”  The author then mentions a respected Chaplain who offered formulaic words of comfort but wants the recipient to understand the gravity of the situation and goes on to say, “Jospeh is dreadful cross at times and it is hard work to get along with him. His memory is poor occasioned by discouragement, impatience, and long confinement. He says he has lain on that cot long enough. That is all true but we can’t help that. Our little Doctor I have every reason to believe is trying his best and hope he will succeed… Joseph said to the man on the other cot you will be up before I do. The other one replied, your bones have been knitting and mine has not begun and so you will be a month ahead of me. Jos. Replied, when I want any of your talk I will let you know it, he don’t feel right and every little objection or contradiction makes him o how cross, but I don’t mind it, but I was afraid the nurses would get out of patience, but they seem to understand the whole matter and are as patient with him as can be expected. These hospitals are glorious institutions and the Sanitary Commission furnish a great deal.”

Joe went on to survive his wound and his sickness, later being transferred to the 1st Maine Infantry to finish out his war service.  This very candid letter about the struggles of a man post-combat would make an excellent addition to any Civil War collection.   [cm][ph:L]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

CLICK HERE FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS.

THANK YOU!

Inquire »

Inquire About REMARKABLE HOSPITAL LETTER ON BEHALF OF WOUNDED 5th MAINE SOLDIER – US CHRISTIAN COMMISSION STATIONARY

For inquiries, please email us at [email protected]

featured item

EXCELLENT CONDITION EARLY MARINE MAMALUKE WITH IVORY GRIP AND ENGRAVED SCABBARD

Manufactured: U.S.  Maker: Unmarked  Year: C1820-25  Model: Mamaluke Size: 29.25 inch blade 1.30 in. wide  Condition: Excellent+ Sharply curved, single edged, blue and gold engraved blade decorated with ships mast, Indian with headdress, arms,… (870-72). Learn More »

Upcoming Events

25
Mar

MARCH 29-30: ANTIQUE, MODERN & MILITARY GUN SHOW - REDDING'S AUCTION HALL, GETTYSBURG Learn More »

Instagram