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Folder 1: Letters, 1861

 File — Box: 1, Folder: 1
Collection number: Folder 1

Scope and Contents

  • 1861 Letter 1: Knight, William W., Letter to Mary Knight, October 12, 1861. Camp Spaulding, Sapelo Island, McIntosh County: In this letter, W. W. Knight writes to his wife about his recent travels and the conditions of their camp. He mentions arriving at the camp and immediately traveling to Blackbeard to check on a hospital housing some of their men. He describes the roughness of the journey and updates on the health of various individuals, including his father, who has been quite ill but is recovering. The camp is described as a lonely place near the Atlantic coast. Knight addresses rumors about the command of the regiment and ensures that Col. Hiles will not command the Thomas and Berrien men. He mentions that no elections for officers have taken place yet but anticipates one soon. Knight expresses his longing to see his wife and children and hopes to visit them soon. He also mentions arrangements he's made for her with Mr. Milican. The letter concludes with mailing instructions. UUID: 0D92366B-2D6E-FFAB-461A-A5F0832571B9
  • 1861 Letter 2: Knight, William W., Letter to Mary Knight, October 22, 1861. Camp Spaulding, Sapelo Island: W. W. Knight writes to his wife about his current health, noting a minor bowel complaint but is otherwise well. He updates her on the health of their father, who has been very ill but is now recovering. Knight mentions several new recruits who are sick, with five in particularly poor condition, as well as some members of the old company who remain unwell. He expresses his desire to return home and emphasizes his concern for her well-being, suggesting that if she is alone, Pender should stay with her during the nights. Knight expresses a deep longing to see his family and urges his wife to write back, updating him on her situation. He closes the letter hastily. UUID: 74141A2C-DF33-DD90-439E-6D8E4CF16C95
  • 1861 Letter 3: Knight, William W., Letter to Mary Knight, December 01, 1861. Darien, Georgia: William W. Knight writes to his wife, Mary Knight, informing her of his recent receipt of her letter and expressing relief that she and the children are well. He notes the presence of sickness in the camp, including cases of measles, but hopes it doesn't spread. He provides updates on the health of family members, including their father, who is recovering, and Brother John, who has had a severe cold. William stresses the importance of frequent communication, inquiring about the state of their affairs, the potential hiring of a worker, and the loyalty of Isaiah Kirkland. He mentions the imminent payment by the paymaster. Despite a cold and cough of his own, William reports his general well-being and comments on the unusually hot weather. He sends his love and asks Mary to kiss the children on his behalf. UUID: 393BE1D4-9712-9097-465C-18D74165A7AE
  • 1861 Letter 4: Knight, William W., Letter to Mary Knight, December 18, 1861. Camp Security, Georgia: William W. Knight writes to his wife, Mary Knight, updating her on his health, which is currently tolerable. He conveys concern about a widespread outbreak of measles within the camp, affecting nearly the entire company, including Captain James. He reports a mere eighteen privates fit for duty. William mourns the loss of Reddin B. Parrish, a commendable young member of their company and son of Ezekiel Parrish, who died due to the measles. William notes the decision to send Parrish's body home for burial. Updates are provided on several men, including Brother John and others, who are suffering from the measles but are seemingly on the mend. With around sixty cases in the camp, William advises Mary to stay away from the disease and remain positive. He expresses a strong desire to hear from her, mentioning previous letters sent without receiving a response. UUID: 39EC7123-1F3E-F297-4057-83476BFA1596

Dates

  • 1861

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Extent

From the Collection: 1.00 Boxes

Language

From the Collection: English

Digital Objects

Physical Storage Information

Repository Details

Repository Details

Part of the Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections Repository

http://www.valdosta.edu/archives/
Contact:
Valdosta State University Archives, Odum Library
1500 N. Patterson St.
Valdosta GA 30601 United States
7063728116
229-259-5055 (Fax)