27 October 1863: “Consequently, the hard and long marches broke them down, so much so, that they were discharged. “

Item Description:  Letter dated 27 October 1863, from Thomas D. DuBose to Lieutenant Hamilton, in regards to the possibility of young men discharged during the Civil War, serving in Hamilton’s guard.  DuBose would like for Lieutenant Hamilton to give special consideration to his younger brother, Henry DuBose, in regards to joining the guard.

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Item Citation:  [Identification of item], in the Ruffin, Roulhac, and Hamilton Family #643, Southern Historical Collection, The Wilson Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Item Transcription:

Mechanicsville Oct. 27th 1863

Lieut. Hamilton

Dear Sir
The object of this not is to ask for information in regard to increasing your Prov. Gaurd. There are several young men in this Neighborhood who are between Sixteen and Eighteen years of age, who entered the service at fifteen years of age fought through the Battles of Shilo[h], Farmington, Per[r]yville, others, when they were too young. Consequently, the hard and long marches broke them down, so much so, that they were discharged. They having recruited to a great extent are very anxious to be doing something for their Country and wish to become members of your Prov. Guard.

One is a Brother of mine, that I would be more than glad to have with me, if you expect to increase your Guard, which I think more than probible [sp] you will do. I wish you to enquire if such men will be allowed the privilege of volunteering in your ranks. I assure you it is not to think better in the least, for each and every one can get a certificate from their Capt. that they were good soldiers , as he had, furthermore that they fought as brave if not braver through the above named Battles than any man he had. I know this to be so, for I was conversing with Capt. Richburg upon the subject the other day, when he said if anyone doubted their bravery, he would certify to it and if that would not satisfy, the dissatisfied could but try them and find out. If you will admit them, simply drop me a line when you want them. My father’s family is something better. I returned just in time to see the last of my youngest sister it seems to me that one or two more of the children will die in spite of all that can be done. Lieut. I shall allways feel ever grateful to you for your kindness extended to me in this my time of distress and affliction. I hope from the bottom of my heart that it may eventually be in my favour to confer as great if not greater favour upon you (don’t misunderstand me to wish you any bad luck in any way, not in the least God forbid anything should ever cross your path. Hoping to hear from you soon in regard to the above questions. I must come to a close (excuse all mistakes bad writing as I am still in great distress. I am Dear Lieut. Your respectful and most obedient servant
Thomas D. DuBose

P.S.
Address me as follows
T.D. DuBose
Mechanicsville
Sumter Dist.
S. Ca[rolina]

If there is any possible chance to get my Brother in your Guard please have him in it and oblige and[sp] ever grateful Friend, Thomas D. DuBose. His name is Henry Y. DuBose.

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