22 June 1863: “We are going into Pennsylvania is the general impression part of our troops are in Maryland now.”

Item description: John Caldwell served in Co. E, 33rd Regiment, North Carolina Troops. In this letter, dated 22 June 1863, Jonny tells his father about his unit’s movement through Virginia. Caldwell believes they are headed towards Pennsylvania.

Item citation: From the Tod Robinson Caldwell Papers#128, Southern Historical Collection, The Wilson Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Item transcription:

Northern Va 12 Miles from Winchester                                                                                                   Sunday June 22nd 1863
 
Dear Father
As I thought you would be uneasy about me I have have concluded to drop you a few lines to let you know that I am well and standing the marching very well we have just halted from a march of sixteen miles and wading both the forks of the Shenandoah I am in Pender’s division there was a great deal of straling last Tuesday & Wednesday we have ten thousand men (or about that) in this division about 6000 were straglers thank God I have stood it well so far. John Happoldt gave out the second day but is with us now and stands it well. We are going into Pennsylvania is the general impression part of our troops are in Maryland now. I have had command of my company through this long march and suppose will keep command for some time yet. John Happoldt has command of his Will Avery also.I caught my first confederate just now dont be uneasy– Will Avery says if you see any of his folks tell them he is well I wish you would send me a boy by Jink if you can spare one dont send it without you think he can be trusted it is getting dark I must stop Give my love to all Dont be uneasy about me. How is every body getting on I will write the first chance. Write soon
 
Your affectionate Son
J Caldwell
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