1863 Civil War Letter by 24th New York Soldier - Columbian Hospital, Washington

Description

In this April 1863 letter to his wife, Private Francis W. Baker of the 24th New York describes conditions at the military hospital at Columbian College in Washington, DC, where Baker found himself after an undetermined ailment. Having come from the field, Baker seemed pleased that his new quarters, though a tent, had a floor and a stove and was "quite comfortable." "They have good beds in them," he added. He reports that he had left camp two days earlier, but that "the boat got stuck in the mud and we had to stay there all night until tide came in." The 24th New York's two-year enlistment was nearly out, causing Baker to close that "like everything, our time will soon be out and then we shall see each other if the Lord is willing and I hope and pray he is." Baker mustered out with the regiment at Elmira the following month.
The letter was written in pencil on two pages of a 5" x 8" stationery sheet that features a patriotic decoration of a Union soldier next to the New York State seal, camp scene, etc. Excellent condition with light foxing and toning. Creased where originally folded. The letter reads:
April the 23 1863
Columbian College Hospital
Dear Wife
I take this opportunity to write a few lines to let you know how I get along and to let you know where I am. I am in the hospital of the above name. I came here yesterday about three o'clock. We are in tents but they have floors in them and stoves and are quite comfortable. They have good beds in them. I am getting better slowly. My side is quite lame yet and my hips and back too, but I think I shall get over it after a while. All but the rupture and that I never expect to get over. I started from camp day before yesterday. The boat got stuck in the mud and we had to stay there all night until the tide came in. Then we got off. I have no news to write or much time to write if I had. I write this to let you know how I am and where I am. The next time I shall have more time and more news too, so you must excuse this short letter. It is raining. Like everything, our time will soon be out and then we shall see each other if the Lord is willing and I hope and pray he is. I hope this will find you and the children well. Give my love to all. I shall not got your last letter until the boys send it to me. This from your true and faithful husband Francis W. Baker
May God Bless and protect you all good bye.
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