This real letter from the American Civil War accompanies the free lesson plan Civil War Letters
Sept. 19th, 1862
Fort Mitchell, Kentucky
Dear Sister, Brother, and Family,
I embrace the present opportunity of writing you a few lines. We arrived at Cincinnati on Wednesday night 12 ock and in camp yesterday afternoon. Our Regt. is in front on the right wing of the Army which is 150,000. Our entracements surround Covington and Newport to the extent of fifteen miles. I had the ague yesterday but feel very well today. There was 500 of our Regt detailed for Picket guard this morning. It took 70 of our co. I was not well enough to go and therefore had to stay in camp. The Pickets bring in a few prisoners every day.
The Ohio River is said to be blockaded below Lawrenceburg by the rebels. Marching Orders came for us this evening - our destination unknown, but said to be Louisburg. The rebels are said to be consolidating their forces under Bragg between here and Bowlingreen.
but I shall have to close as it is late at night. Our forces were all called out in line of battle the evening before we arrived here. We laid on their arms all night but received no attack and the rebels have since been retreating.
I had my likeness taken at Cincinnati and expressed to Enoch G. Yeager, Lafayette, Indiana.
In trust you are all well and hope you will remember in your prayers.
Please write soon and as often as possible one and all of you.
Your brother,
J.J. White
P.S. Direct your letters to 125th Ill. Vol. Co. F. care of Capt Sale
