This letter written was by Rachel Young King Anderson ( born in 1818). She made no oath of allegiance to the federal government, like her husband did, so was made a prisoner in her home, in MGreene County, Missouri. Her husband ( whom she refers to as "Mr. Anderson"), though too old for service, was made to haul supplies whenever they required. After the war they moved to Morrisville, then after her husband died in 1887, Rachel moved to Springfield to live with one of her children, till she died in 1898.
"May 28, 1862"
"Mr. Anderson left home for Fayetteville, Arkansas. Got off by 7 o'clock..had to go alone, risking guerilla bands and squads of robbers. God grant him a safe and successful trip. Tis the frst time in his life he has got home. This terrible war that has been raging since the 12th of April, 1861 seems to be just begun. During last year the South was successful in mostof the battles. That is, at Fort Sumpter, Manassas, Leesburg, and many others. This year the tide has turned. The Norhhas been victorious in most of the important engagements; they hnow have possission of all the Border States, and of many important points on the coast and rivers. This state is in an alarming condition. Towns, farms, houses, are being burned, men hung or shot, women accidentally killed and wounded, children crippled or killd by careless soldiers. Oh for help."
( from Civil War Diary Quilt, by Rosemary Youngs)
No comments:
Post a Comment