Father-
I confess I cannot fathom what manner of creature a “Steeler” is. By their swagger, I take them for a band of blatherskites, mighty in boast but poor in courage. I expect to send the whole lot home humbled, whilst bringing victory to our beloved city. Love to Mother.
-Joe
10
54
848
13,241
Father-
We march next to the confluence of three rivers, where we shall meet the Tin Men in battle. They are led by a cantankerous old veteran on his last legs; his sidearm is no longer in the best of working order. We shall return victorious. Give Mother my fondest love.
-Joe
11
78
1,129
18,869
Father-
We have delivered the victory at Houston! Allow me a moment for reflection, and give heed to my words: our defense is both cunning and dangerous. It warms my heart beyond measure to tell you how dearly I love them.
-Joe
7
135
1,681
19,018
Father-
I rec’d your letter regarding my name on a casualty list with a lame back. Please tell Mother I am fine. The Texans deceive themselves to think otherwise. I shall take to the field a day hence and am quite serious when I say any suggestion otherwise is pure rubbish.
-Joe
2
67
890
46,147
Father-
You might find it interesting to learn a peculiar band of Texans awaits us on the morrow. They were unable to stop a herd of buffalo but seem perchance to try and have their way with tigers. We shall see to it that is not the case. Pray good fortune.
-Joe
3
56
992
14,862
Father-
I write with the great news of victory! A band of pirates led by a pastry chef assaulted Fort Paycor on this day. We sent them away quite discouraged. Upon the whole the day was most fortunate. I feel more alive than I can recall in recent years. Love to Mother.
-Joe
8
167
1,997
59,619
Father-
Another fall campaign looms. Anticipation, high. Morale, excellent. Let us do what we must at this place.
It’s go time.
-Joe
12
135
1,431
22,708
Father-
This missive comes from the Nevada Territory where I’ve been dawdling. I learnt whilst our Commanding General was retained, some highly decorated ones were relieved of command. It should be understood our headquarters persists in considerations most find bewildering.
-Joe
2
16
319
12,123
Father-
The president announced the retention of our commanding general and recruiting officer. I shall delay my return to meet with them and convey my pondering on how this enterprise can improve markedly. I endeavor without hesitation to have no further failings.
-Joe
5
10
265
7,358
Father-
We suffered defeat to Shedeur, with whom I was unacquainted. Now we must convey urgency in refitting this regiment for future campaigns to win glory and no longer appear lost and miscast. I extend my best wishes; please tell Mother I’m coming home. ‘Tis a damn shame.
-Joe
3
26
348
9,303
Father-
Critics and naysayers are asking why I’m on the battlefield during a lost campaign after suffering another terrible wound. As I told the papers, I just wanted to come back and go to war with the men. I hope Mother understands.
-Joe
5
22
366
6,832
Father-
Today the regiment had more fun. My sincere hope is next campaign has more fun than not.
-Joe
1
24
501
10,848
Father-
Merry Christmas to you and Mother. Tho I remain at my post at Fort Paycor this Christmas, enclosed is a daguerreotype for you and Mother to love in my absence. At some risk, I had it taken with the regimental mascot.
-Joe
9
48
602
16,396
Father-
Ruffians built a large sign outside Fort Paycor. They call for the relief of our commanding general and recruiting officer. This campaign has devastated many hearts. Change is needed. Whether it occurs I know not. I only know I will do my duty til the last.
-Joe
7
84
830
91,643
Father-
You may have seen in the papers I’ve been thinking about things. Our regiment needs better provisions: new weapons; and some shovels to entrench and improve our defensive posture. We must better screen recruits for proper fitness. I have many more thoughts to share.
-Joe
1
20
414
34,503