John David McGeachy enlisted in the Scotch Tigers (Co. D, 51st Regiment North Carolina Troops) on April 26, 1862. The 20-year-old farmer had served in the militia, probably the 59th, the previous year. He remained with the 51st Regiment until Company D went home on April 25, 1865. McGeachy was not wounded during the war, but he suffered from various diseases during his enlistment, including mumps, malaria, the “itch”, dysentery, and an eye infection.
Most of the letters McGeachy wrote during the war were to his oldest sister, Kate. The original letters are part of the Catherine McGeachy Buie Papers, Rubenstein Library, Duke University. Images are available as part of an online exhibit of the Buie papers. The numbers in bold preceding each letter indicate the folder and image(s) in the online exhibit.
NOTE: These transcripts are heavily edited versions of the original documents. Most misspellings have been corrected, punctuation has been added, and the page layout has been altered to improve readability. Transcripts by Kirk Ward.
Folder 1863/Images 45-48
Camp Hill Va, Feb13th 1864
Dear Sister
This will inform you that I have the fever and chills, but I can cure them by one dose of medicine. I found the boys at Petersburg at the old camp and carried everything safe there. They have come out to camp right. You have learned by this time that I got safe to Wilmington. I got to Weldon and had to stay there one day, but I did not mind that for I seen Pat [Brown, cousin] and he stayed with me till the train left. I then got to Petersburg at three o’clock, and then we wandered all over town, but we got lost and had to lay out till day. We then got to camp and found the boys in good spirits.
What you seen in the papers was the truth. You must excuse a short letter, and I will write soon. I get some quinine in the morning. It was working me all the way here. Don’t be afraid about me.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/31-34
Camp Hill Near Petersburg Va, Feb 16th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am better than when I last wrote you. I have the Chills every other day. The Chills do not work me as bad as the fever afterwards. I did not have one before I got here but came very nigh it the day I started there.
Mr. Gilbert G. Currie is going home today, perhaps. Please send me my books by him and I carried home a screw wiper. You may perhaps have found it ere this. Send it, too.
I had a very pleasant time on my route. I had Alex Patterson most all the way, who was a very agreeable companion and a good helpmate. When we got to Weldon, we had to lay over one day. I did not regret it in the least. I found that the Highland Boys [Co. G, 24th Regt. NCT] were near, and I went out to the camp, found all my friends looking well. I stayed part of the day with them then Pat came to Weldon, and we talked over all the good old times. And I gave him some to eat out my box, and we had a very good time. He stayed with me till 9 o’clock till the train left.
We then started for Petersburg where all our mishaps lay. We got to Petersburg at 3 o’clock, and we made a start for camp, but we made a wrong move and lost a goose. We rambled through town some time, and we got out at last. Where the camp was, no one knew. Twas too cold to stop so we went ahead and at last we lay down to wait for day to come. That was not long, and we worse than ever, no telling which way was right, but by asking everyone we met and getting many funny answers, we at last found the camp. We had gone round the camp and came next morning in the rear.
I will get $15 commutation money for rations while on furlough. We had snow yesterday, but it ended in sleet and rain and did not stick much, and it is nearly all gone today.
Kateison, I have a secret to tell you. I have a notion [to] stop short off and not write to any of my correspondents. I have some 6 with home and that will be raised to 7 if I write Ala. Some of them are very good but others are not, but perhaps I had better keep on a while yet. Dear Sister, I do not think I can write good enough to write to Ala. I must bring this foolish nonsense letter to a close.
Dan McColskey [Co. H] is not rejoined his company yet. I’ll not send any word to any of the fair but some of them made me sick. Think ye, I could not fly round to keep me warm so I went to shaking. I expect you all was scared when you got my last “case why”. It was written so bad, but one day I am as well and next I’m shaking.
Dr. Wellons [Co. K] returns his thanks to Sallie, and Lieut J D [Malloy] say that the silk is just what he needed, and he will play Old Bob for you with pleasure. Nothing of importance in camp. All the boys are rested from their trip to Newbern, which was represented to be a severe one. They said the paper gave a good account of the whole affair.
I will send this by Gib. He will take my box back home. You must write soon and give me a good long letter for it is sweet to get a letter from Kateison. I will close.
I Remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
To Kateison
1863/81-82
Camp Hill Petersburg Va, March 5th 1863 [1864]
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter. This will inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you enjoying the same blessing.
Kateison, since last Tuesday night I have been so that I could not write. Last Tuesday night Co. B and 25 of ‘D’, and I was one of that number, got orders to march. We went to Petersburg that night through snow and rain and it was so dark that we could not see the man in front of us. By slipping and falling, we at last got to town and it was to relieve the City Battalion. So we went into quarters at the Poplar Lawn in a house which would have been very comfortable only they were taken the chimney to put them to another house.
We stayed there two days and then we started for Richmond and we got there that night and went some six miles the other side of it, and we went into camp to wait further orders and in the evening we came back through the city to the depot and got back here last night.
I did not see Rod but seen Tom McNeill on his way from home. His mother is not expected to live.
I never did see so many persons in one town. Our Regt was a sight to everybody. They said it was the largest one they ever saw, but I have seen larger.
The 4th of March, 1862 [1863] we were at Savannah and the next, 63 [64], were at Richmond. At the former it was spring and the other it was cold winter. One was sunny lawns and the other was bleak hills. I seen some very high hills sometimes on the rail. We were dashing through the tops of the trees and the next among the roots.
I got all the things you sent by Gib L. [Little] I never had but one chill in good health now. I have written a piece to send to Miss Mag Doggrel copied from what you sent, 17 verses. I would like to get my other book, but I don’t care. The sergt read some for me this morn. I must not go to the party but much obliged for the invitation. I must close.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1863/91-92
Camp Hill Petersburg Va, March 14th 1863 [1864]
Dear Sister
This will inform you that I am sick again with the chills. I have a chills now every day. This is the worst spell that I have had yet. The doctor has begun to pour quinine in by wholesale, and I hope I soon will be well again.
I am so mad with Rod [Roderick McMillan, cousin] for not coming to see me. He might have come. Since he is going to stay at home, he might not been in such a hurry.
Dear Sister, there is no news in camp. Sometimes we hear the rumor that we will go back to Wilmington, but I do not look for that.
All the genl are gone to the city of Richmond. I cannot imagine what for, but I rather think it is to see something about invading Yankee soil, and if that is what it is, we may look out for hard times and worse acoming. I do not think we can go to any worse place this summer than we were at last.
Dear Sister, I am looking for a letter from you every day. You, though, are exonerated from blame because I was so long in sending my last. Lieut J D [Malloy] told me you were all well. You perhaps have seen Mr. [Pvt] D A McGoogan. I told him to bring my other book, the English, but I’ll not grieve if he don’t bring it.
Got a letter today from Cousin Carrie. Archie told me to be a good boy.
Kateison, I will write again as soon as I get your letter and let you know how I am getting along. You know it does not take much quinine to stop the chills on me, and I have taken two doses this morning. I hope I will miss the chill today. I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close.
I remain your Bud, John D. McGeachy
1864/103-106
Camp 51st Near Ivor Va, May 8th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. Since I wrote last, we went back to Peterburg last Tuesday and then Saturday at daylight, we came here again and marched some ten or more [miles] that day, when we took up for the night and stayed till three o’clock when we started again and in about 2/3 of the day, we went to Suffolk, stayed there some three hours and then came back some of the way that evening, making 24 miles, and we had right smart of rain that day, and the road was very muddy and in bad fix for marching. I cannot tell what we went for. We could see the picket below the town.
I cannot see why the Yanks do not empty the town. It looks as if they might hold it against any force that could be brought against it. The people are badly treated by the Yanks. When they come in the town, the Yankee negro, when they come just demand the keys and take what they please.
I was where Genl Peck’s Headquarters was and seen a flower that I had never seen before, so by permission, I took it, and I will send it to you. The men did not know the name.
We had three days rations of meat and two of bread, and the third day was the meanest rations I ever had.
Oh yes, Kateison, I have taken it on myself to write to somebody in Fayetteville, Signature Violetta. She made a proposal in the Observer, and I took it up. Mayhap I will not hear from it anymore. I sign my name Napolean, told how to direct, and all. Some that pretend to know say it is Elda Pierce. I will send it. You see what you think of it.
We have not received any money this year but will get some before long. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon.
I remain Your Buddie, John David McGeachy
[TWO-PAGE POEM]
1864/117-120
51st Regt N. C. T., May 19, 1864
Dear Mother
With pleasure I seat myself to tell you that I am still safe and unhurt. We have had a hard time here. Our company has lost 19 men since the fight began. We lost all our officers but the Capt. Lt. Malloy was captured, McCallum was killed, and McEachern wounded and taken. R. Mc. Patterson, J. C. Conley, D. J. Currie, M. Humphrey, James A. Little, James Burney, Robert Graham, R. S. McRae was wounded, and A. L. Rozier and T. J. Conley supposed to be wounded and captured. We made a gallant charge but were unsupported and had to fall back or be all taken, but the Yanks were forced from their position and we to the field. We did capture lots of good crackers and bacon, and we have been feasting ever since.
Then yesterday, Co. D was sent out to skirmish with the enemy, and James R. Cameron was killed [wounded, died six days later]. J. Mc. Council was wounded. [Also wounded:] Hugh Hardin, George A. Graham, S. Mc. Mercer, E. S. Davis. It was a hot day’s work. We have pretty good breastworks here and lots of troops. If they come on us here, I feel confident of success.
My friend Jim is very slight, did not go to the Hospital but is at our old battleground. I have been under fire a good many times, but the smell of lead has not touched my clothes thanks to the All Powerful. You must excuse this note. I will write again as soon as I get a chance. I remain your son.
1864/113
Camp 51st N. C. T., May 24th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter. It found me in good health and safe. We have had no general engagement yet. We had three more wounded last Friday. R. F. Little was wounded in knee, Henry Green in face & Henry McCallum very slight. The Yanks are working in full sight and us, too. No telling when the battle will come off. There is more or less skirmishing and shelling every day.
Gib says to tell Mrs. Little that he will write in a few days, as soon as he finds out if the Dr. cuts off Frank’s leg or not. I do not think they will. It was not [?] deep.
The Highland Boys are not far from here, but I cannot go to see them. We have lost 23, 20 wounded and two killed. We have advanced nearly a mile from the first, and we have made other works. I do not know what the program is, defense or not.
Just got news from Jim and Frank. Jim is in the South Carolina Hospital doing well. Frank is in Popular Lawn, can move his foot, but the Dr. is afraid he will lose his leg. [Robert Francis Little died in a Petersburg hospital on June 12, 1864.]
Dear Sister, I cannot write a long letter this time. I will write soon again. God is just and we must be resigned to his will. Let us pray that come what may, we may be prepared to meet it. Write soon. Give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McG
1864/115-116
Clays Farm, May 29th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you enjoying the same blessing. I have the news to tell. The Yanks are not gone yet. We have them in a corner between the rivers, and they are protected by their gunboats and have good works within 800 yards of ours. Our rifle pits are most together. The pickets have got orders to not fire. They exchange papers, but the genl says that must be stopped., and swap tobacco for coffee.
We have been relieved for a few days and our knapsacks were brought to us, and we all have clean clothes on but had to put dirty ones in them. I have seen all my Kinsmen but Neill R. [McGeachy, cousin] He has not come up yet, and Cousin Edward [McGeachy] passed through on his way to Richmond. I did not see him but Ed Currie did.
I seen a letter from Cousin Little Sallie the 28th and you heard right about me that far. We have not had any wounded since I last wrote. We had a good position on the line. I do not know whether we the same or not when we go back. If the Yanks come here, we will try and give them a drive back. This is the same Yankees we had on Morris Island.
Dear Sister, you may tell Miss Kittie that was a real name and his officer says he is a good soldier and a good man, sober and reliable.
It does seem that when we meet the foe, we can’t drive them away. We drove them to their gunboats in a hurry, sure.
Dear Sister, I have nothing more of importance to write. I heard from Jim and Frank. They were getting along well. Gib is gone to town, went some days ago, has not come back yet. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
P. S. Jim will give you the news. He started home today. I did not think to take stamps out of my book, but it don’t differ. Write Soon. I remain your Bud, J D McG
1864/137-138
Cold Harbor Va, June 7th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind and encouraging letter which came to hand last evening. It found me in good health and still safe. We left the south side of the river the last day of May and came here, made an attack on the enemy but we were too weak and had to fall back to another hill where we threw up some breastworks. Then the next day, the Yanks came on us. We were slaying them, but the first thing we knew, the Yanks were all around us, and we could do nothing but leave, all that could. We had 1 killed, 6 wounded, and 11 missing. R S McRae killed & the Capt was wounded. [Captain Robert McEachern was wounded on May 31, 1864, and died from his wounds on June 21, 1864.] Malcolm & Daniel Shaw, S J Cobb, M V Mercer, [John] Wesley Willis, and among the Missing is A N McDonald, 2 Mercers [John and Saul], J Carver, E C Rozier, E Q Davis, P Livingston, D J McMillan, M Galbreath, M W McRae, Sergt McPhaul.
Last night, Corporal Kinlaw went on an expedition and has not returned yet. Lieut Hartman [Company F], attached to our company, went too, and he is gone [Kinlaw and Hartman returned safely]. It does appear that we cannot keep an officer. Lieut Taylor of Company I is in charge and a very fine officer. Our Regt has lost since we began 60 killed, 240 wounded, 130 missing, and 1172 in the Brigade.
We have 4 companies on the front line, and we may have to relieve them soon. I had the pleasure of seeing my friend H [Henry] H Davis but could not stay with him long. I seen the [?]th, did not know anyone but John McArthur. Edward is near here, but I do not know where to find him. R M Currie was wounded yesterday by a stray ball, left arm, did not break the skin, bruised it.
I have no need of money. We draw tobacco, coffee, sugar and bacon, corn bread, any amount. We have two lines of works and both filled with men. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon. We must rely on a strong arm for He alone can save. My purest love to Ma and Sisters.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
We are in Hoke’s Division, better direct to that
1864/145-146
Petersburg Va, June 22nd 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you all enjoying the same. We are seeing a hard time here now, where we seen so much good times last winter. Our first line was where we went on dress parade, and we had to fall back, but we are well prepared for them here.
We fought the 16th [and] 17, and again we have to mourn the loss of two more of our company. Robert Graham was killed the first day and Hugh Dallas the next and James A McDonald, Sergt [William R.] Boon, Neill D White, Daniel A McGoogan, James Humphrey, Nathan Musselwhite, Willis Malone was wounded. When we left the other side of the river, we left R A Rozier, John A Shaw, Archie J Shaw, and William Scott on Picket, and the Yanks came and took them all.
Dear Sister, I have not got a letter from you in a long time, but the mail is out regular. You must direct to Hoke’s Division. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon and often, and I will do so, too. Cousin Dan McCoelsky was killed 31st May. My love to Ma and Sisters. I seen all my Cousins in Co. G [24th NC] yesterday. I believe I have told you all the news. So I will close. Write soon.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/159-160
Front Lines, Petersburg Va July 6th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am still safe. The Yankees are still in our front, shelling us with all kinds of guns, but not many of us have been hit. None of our Co. have been hurt since I last wrote. We are well entrenched but have lots of hard duty to do. I hope that this will end before long.
We get plenty to eat, although the Yankees did cut the road. We still get plenty of tobacco and sugar, coffee and cornbread.
I have not got a letter from you in a long time, but the road is open, and I hope to get two or three.
Dear Sister, we are going out today to wash and get paid off. Poor Frank Little is no more. He died in Petersburg about the 18th of June. He was a good boy and a good soldier. Gib and Dunk are well.
I have no news, only to tell you that I am safe. You must excuse a short letter.
[July] 7th: We got our pay yesterday, two months. I must close, the mail is ready. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/167-168
Petersburg Va, July 18th 1864
Dear Mother
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well. We are still on the front line and has been since the 16th of June. I have sent some letters to you, but I expect you did not get them, and as I have a chance to send one by Riley, the Col’s cook. He will carry it through, and I hope you may get it. By the blessing of God I have not been hit yet, for which I am truly thankful. In Him alone we must put our trust, knowing He doeth all things well.
We are well prepared for the Yankees should they come upon us. They shell and sharpshoot a good deal, but they have not killed but one of our company since we came here, Daniel A. Morrison, he was a good soldier.
Dear Mother, I am faring very well for something to eat. We get bacon, coffee, peas, rice, tobacco, cornbread plenty and sugar occasionally. I was to see the boys in the 24th yesterday. They are out resting.
Perhaps you have not heard of Frank Little’s death. He died the 13th of June. Gib is well, but Dunk is a little sick, but a good deal better this morning.
It has been a long time since any of the company got a letter from home. Colonel McKethan got back to us yesterday. I am in hopes that this will soon be over. The last letter I got was the 16th of June. All the boys from the neighborhood are safe yet.
You must [write] to me as soon as you can and give me all the news from home. We have very dry, hot weather here. Dear Mother, I must close. I have told you all the news, so I will close.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/173-174
Petersburg Va, July 18th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter. It found me enjoying good health, hoping this may find you all enjoying the same. We are still in the ditches and expect to remain here while the Yanks do. I have no news of importance at this time.
A B Wood was wounded the other day. Lt. Hartman, commanding our Co., was wounded in the leg. Tomorrow we are to elect new officers in our company. I expect to get a pass and go with the Highland Boys to wash, that being their day to go to the rear.
Dear Sister, I did not get my pass today as I expected. F S Currie will be our Lieut by a large majority.
Old Grant is still in front but we are able to keep him there. H H Davis is a prisoner, taken on the Wilson raid.
I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/175-176
Front Lines Petersburg Va, July 22nd 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well and still safe. And as Uncle Norman is going home I will send a short letter. I have no news, though. No casualties to report in the company since I last wrote.
We are still on the line with Yankees plenty in front. We are all faring very well, get as much sugar and coffee as we want and bacon. I have not got a letter from you since the 2nd but have heard since that date all the neighbor boys are well. Gib and Duncan are well.
Dear Sister, you must excuse a short letter as I have nothing to write. Write soon and give me all the news. So I will close.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/177-178
Private J D McGeachy has permission to visit a cousin in Finegan’s Brigade whom he has not seen for four years.
July the 29th 1864
F S Currie, Lieut comd [?]
Approved, H M McKethan, Col.
[REVERSE SIDE]
July 30th
I did not get to send my letter off yesterday. This morning, the Yanks blew up our works, but they were taken back, our men killing lots of Negroes. We were not in the fight.
1864/183-186
Petersburg Va, Aug 6th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter. It found me enjoying good health and yet unhurt. I was very glad to hear that you were doing so well. We are still faring as good as soldiers could. We draw beef, some of Mr. Early’s Maryland capture. They are the best and fattest and part bacon.
I expect you had a jolly time going to hear Gov. Vance. I expect you also hear a good many reports about us, but you need not believe till you hear it straight.
Dear Sister, I have not seen your new friend, but I seen one of the Regt. They were in the last fight the other day and was badly cut up. Our position is on the banks of the Appomattox with a deep ravine in front so the Yanks cannot undermine us, but it is other parts of the line I fear.
Oh, how I wish it was over. Then I would love you all the better and try and be more devoted for you so loving me. I cannot tell you what to send me if you get a chance. You might send me some fruit and something sweet to eat and that is all I can take charge of at this time. I don’t want any clothing except my socks.
Puss did not say anything about my letter and did she hear Henry [Davis] was taken prisoner. I am truly sorry to hear of poor Nannie’s [Nancy McGeacy Davis] fate.
I will not dictate what you should do as to teaching school, you knowing best and I am glad to hear that Cousin Steve is ahead yet.
Dear Sister, I have been blessed with health all the campaign. I have not missed but one tour of guard duty. Our day in rear will be tomorrow. I will see Neill R. He sent me a letter that he got from Cousin Edward. He was still sick but a good deal better in Howard Grove Hospital, Richmond. All the boys you sent love to are here. Well, except Archie M. He has been puny a long time.
I am truly sorry to hear of Cousin John A’s death. He was a good boy.
Kateison, you need not make any long apology for even the sight of one from you is enough.
[POEM]
Aug 8, Dear Sister, two days to write one letter. I was with Co. G yesterday. Sandy and Pat are both sick a little but not much. I have seen George A. Graham just from home. Glad to hear such good news from old Robeson.
The Yankees are getting more quiet here than they used to be. I expect they think to go to Petersburg by blowing us up, but we got too many lines. We can fall back to another if they do tear up one.
I believe I have told you all, so I will close. Write soon.
I remain your Bud, John D McGeachy
P. S. All the boys send their love and respect back.
1864/191-192
Petersburg Va, Aug 14th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter, which came to hand yesterday. It found me enjoying good health. I have had the headache a day or two, but it is not bad.
The Yankees are very quiet in our front. I cannot understand what they mean. I rather think that they are leaving, but I cannot tell what they are doing. It may be some feint.
I am truly sorry to hear that old Selim is such. If he will die it will be a great loss, but I hope he will get over it.
I long to see Jim come, not that I want him here, but he will tell me some good news from home and will bring me some goodies.
I will send you a short letter this time but will try and do better next time.
Cousin Ervin is well and cooks very well. J, G, & Dunk [Little] are well. Archie M was sent to Richmond very sick yesterday. We have lots of hard duty to do, but I hope it will soon get lighter. I seen Sandy and Neill R last Monday. Pat was well and Sandy was a good deal better.
We will be out again tomorrow. The Yanks respect the Sabbath. They do not shoot near as much. I do wish they would leave here, for they have the best position by getting here first. They have not shelled the town in some time.
Dear Sister, I believe I have told you all the news I can think of, so I will close. You must excuse a short letter this time.
I remain your Bud, John D. McGeachy
Co. D, 51st Regt N. C. T., Clingman’s Brigade, Hoke’s Division
1864/197-198
[BADLY FADED]
Front Lines Petersburg Va, Sept. 3rd 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. I have not got a letter from home since Jim came, but I know that it is forthcoming and will be here in a few days.
The war news is that our position is still unchanged, and now and then a heavy artillery duel and the pop of the musket all the time. Last night the Yanks had quite a lively time and such Huzzahs I never heard. They hollered that Atlanta had fallen, but I don’t think there is any such good news for them.
John M Council [?] the [?] but has not come into the ditches yet. I have got my spirits up but not by pouring spirits down from the disappointment I met with by the Yanks cutting the road. The Lassie did mighty good but made our teeth very black.
Dear Sister, I cannot think of anything to write on this big paper. Our men are deserting pretty fast. Four of our company and I hope no more will go. Our Regt is recruiting up [?] by the wounded returning.
Pat was here the other day, and all the boys are well. Bob is in a good detail now, Butcher. Andrew McKinnon has been assigned to the 8th Regt but will get a transfer to the 24th, if not to our company. Jim and Gib are well. Our boys have been sent away from the Division Hospital back to the trenches or to Richmond.
Dear Sister, it is not for want of your love that I cannot write a long, interesting letter to you. I have dropped all my correspondence because I could not write them good, nice letters in return. There was Cousin Em, one of my best, thinks that I have forsaken her, but let her wait till I can [?] over and I will save a sheet of [?] and give her a good one and Cousin Mary Bell and Caroline had to share the same fate.
The nights are getting cold enough here to begin to look for frost before long, and I think the old Yanks will leave here when that begins to pinch them, but I hope something will turn up to send them home in peace before long. I expect my Puss letter was lost and somebody else is looking over it before now.
I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close. I remain your Bud.
1864/203-204
Petersburg Va, Sept 8th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter by Dunk. It found me still enjoying good health and still safe. The Yanks appear sometimes to get mad with us and shoot pretty sharp. They have a train on the City Point road. We can hear it blowing any time, but that will not do them any good long.
The good things were received. Very thankful am I indeed.
I do not like to hear of anyone’s going to war, but I think this trip will do the old melish some good. I don’t think there can be much need for them there.
I seen in town one of Mr. Coe’s Brigade yesterday. They are in the line now. I will try and find him sometime soon if I can, but it is rather hard to get a pass. Since he is most Kinfolks, I will be proud to find him out.
Kateson, I am ashamed of my letters. They are so no count. I do not know what to tell you about buying a horse. I do not know whether Mc A’s is too high or not. I know horses are very few for sale and very high, but maybe you can’t get one next spring.
Oh, may God grant that peace may soon bless our efforts. Our horizon is very dark now, but let us hope and pray for better soon.
I am sorry that Neill R is going to the front. He is ordered in, all the drum corps of the army is got to come in.
I don’t think I need anything I clothing. My black coat stayed in Petersburg all the summer. I will take charge of it now the nights are cold here. I believe I have told you all, so I will close. Buddie’s best love to you all. I will save some money to help you buy a horse.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/219-222
Petersburg Va, Sept 13th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which came to hand yesterday eve. Found me enjoying good health and in fine spirits, hoping this may find you all enjoying the same. This is a dark time for us, but we must not despond, rather “go it” with renewed strength and faith knowing that there is brighter days ahead,
There is any amount of Yankees in our front, but what they can mean by being so still, I cannot see. There is a little sharpshooting but hardly any cannon firing, only two or three fired at the city last night. Our men are looking for a hard fight on our right, but there is no telling when they will break out, but we are prepared for them at any point, and I hope we can give them what we ought to give them.
I will keep my mouth watering for some of that syrup. The cider did first rate. I have plenty of clothes. My old knapsack was so bad looking that the rogues did not think there was anything worth having in it, and I took my black coat out of a box where it stayed all the summer.
There is need of deserter hunters now. I am glad to say that I do not think any more of old D will leave. We are still getting the best of rations: beef and bacon and flour bread mostly with sugar and coffee.
It was me that made the piece about Franks, but I did not like it much. The way it was head was not full enough, but it was not me that did that.
I had the pleasure of seeing a Miss McGeachy’s name in the paper but did not know who it was. Thought twas you. You out to find out who carried it to Hale [editor of Fayetteville Observer], if you could easy.
There is no chance to get home now. D McG has been here most two years and no chance yet. The Col did him wrong, or he would have went with Dunk McG.
All the boys are getting along pretty well in the 24th. Sandy is in the hospital yet but improving. Pat was to see me the other day and coming back, the guard took me up and sent me into the Col. That did them no good. The Col knew I was all right. I do not feel any more like a poor soldier now than before but felt bad when the guard followed me with a gun. That was the first arrest, but you may know I was not out of the way, only outside the guard without the Brigade commander’s signature.
Today is a real winter day. It is pretty cold. I do not believe this campaign will ever end. The Yankee’s train runs right up here. Our men don’t mind it though.
I have been truly blessed this summer, for which I am very thankful and pray for a continuation of the same. I look for four more years of war or more.
How does Mollie get along? Is she as good as ever? Cousin Ervin is at the Hospital but is improving.
I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close. Write soon. I sent a letter a day or two ago.
I remain your Bud, J D McG
[ACROSS TOPS OF PAGES]
I have with me two good shirts, two pair of pants, three pair of socks, two coats, and pair of gloves, two pair of drawers. And they are all good, and I can draw anytime that I want. I have my good blanket and a captured Yankee tent fly, small one to carry along. I think I am pretty well off, as much as I can take care of.
1864/217-218
Petersburg Va, Sept 19th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you all enjoying the same blessing. Last Thursday, we were relieved from the trenches and went to the right of the line, where we stayed two days. They made us drill one day, and we were a green set, we having forgotten all commands but forward and shoot. We then came here. It is some distance in rear of the line. They have not shelled us any yet. I do not know whether they can or not.
I seen P D Brown yesterday. He brings bad news from our Commoner [State Representative], J Bethune. The trains ran together and he had one leg broken and the other badly bruised and bruised in the breast I believe, and he is now in the Hospital in Richmond.
Old Grant does not show any more signs of leaving Petersburg now than before. I have come to the conclusion that he will stay all winter. We can stay here as long as he can.
All is quiet on the line this morning. We went to the right to stop a cavalry raid, but before we got there they had went back. So we came to a halt, too. There is no war on the right of this line, no cannonading or sharpshooting. Lane’s skirmishers, one morning while we were there, charged and took the Yankee’s Picket line and Pickets, about 60 in number.
We have no duty to do now. They ought to rest us a while, but what I hate we will not get our good old posish on the bank of the Appomattox anymore. We boys had got married to that place, so we liked to stay there very well.
Dear Sister, I have got my letters mixed up so I do not know whether I answered your last letter or not. I tear my letters up after I read them two or three times, so I can’t tell which I answered. I have not seen your friend yet and no passes being granted. I do not expect we will get to one another in a while. We still send a company a day to cookery to get clean clothes and wash.
All the kinfolk was well in (G) when last heard from. I have not seen any of them in a week. Our Quarters are now in a deep ravine beside a nice running brook, looks quite romantic, but this is no place for romance.
Dear Sister, all our friends in old (D) are well at this time. I do not think the Yanks shell Petersburg much now. They used to throw the shell over our heads. Now I do not know what is going on up there.
My pen is good, my ink is black, And I’m your no count Brother Jack, Who cannot write the news or fun to his own Darling Kateison. The old 38th passed us one night, but there was no one that I could inquire for. D A McMillan is wounded. I do not know where old Finegan’s Brigade is now or where Cousin Ed is. Some say it is gone back to Fla.
Dear Sister, I believe I have told you all the news I can think of, so I will close. Write soon and give me the news, and I will still continue to give you my imperfect notes as often as I can.
I remain your Bud, John D McGeachy
1864/227-228
Petersburg Va, Sept. 27th 1864
Dear Sister
I seat myself to answer your kind letter which found me enjoying good health, hoping this may find you enjoying the same blessing. We are still in reserve, drilling and having big reviews. It appears that all the Genl wants to see how we look. We had Brigade review last week by Genl Hoke, and yesterday, we had Division by Genl Lee. There was quite a crowd of spectators to see us, and with all, I think we made a very good turnout and show. Lots of ladies that live in the parts of town that is not shelled were present to cheer us on, and we had the pleasure of seeing the hero of our glorious Cause, Who is a fine looking old [?], looks young and fresh but is gray. I think from study and not age, I cannot think of anyone he reminds me of.
This is by no means a safe place. We have had two men wounded since we came here of the Regt. We send part of a Regt on the lines every night. The Tigers, being in the left of the Regt on the left of the Brigade, will not have to go until next Saturday night.
Dear Sister, we have rather bad news from the Valley. It appears that the Yanks outflanked Mr. Early, and he had to retreat, but last night we had news that he had given them a good whipping in another fight, and from what I can learn, he had a very strong position, one easy to defend.
The rumor is that we will be paid in a few days the sum of $62.80, which will be up to the present time. 18 per month for part is what makes it so large.
Last Sunday I was in the city with Friend James [?]. I had the pleasure of taking dinner with Cousin Bob who is a butcher, and he has plenty of beef that was good and[?], so we had a good time. Our rations are better than the 24th. We get half bacon, they get all beef. I did not see any of the boys but Bob in a long time.
All is right in our front, but sometimes they pitch in and shoot like forty but no danger of a charge. They know if they do, they will get hurt. They are shelling pretty heavy over the James.
Dear Sister, you asked how we live in the ditches. I try and tell. The portion of the trench we defended was on the bank of the river, and we could get under cover of the bank and go to the spring without being in danger of the balls. The ditch was dug some 7 or 8 feet deep where we stood. Then we had a Banquet to get on if the Yanks would come. Then the head and breast would be over just enough to shoot to the rear side. We had places cut to build fire and cook. You see, we could stand, sit, or do anything without being seen. When night came, all firing ceased and we could get out and go where we pleased. Then we would all lie down in ditch, side by side, and sleep till morning.
We are having a gay time now. We have good rations, a clear crystal spring and an hours drill morn and eve, enough for exercise. I intend to take up my old correspondence again with my cousins. I had almost began to despair of getting a letter, yours was so long coming. Any mistakes in letter writing, I will like to have them corrected by you, and I will try to mend. I believe I have told you all. It is time for the mail so I must close. I would like to know the Cousin McKay’s very much. Write soon.
I remain your Bud. J D McG
1864/233-234
Oct 2nd 1864
Dear Mother
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am still safe and unhurt. We had a hard fight the 30th of Sept. I do not know whether we will try to take the fort any more [or] not. I hope not. We lost 5 wounded. R M Currie, D McG Currie, and H H McCallum are missing. G G Little, J Overton, J Musselwhite, Liet. Currie, [and] H McGoogan was wounded.
I will write more as soon as I get a chance. We are on the North Side [of] the James at Chaffen Bluff.
I remain your Son, J D McGeachy
1864/243-246
Front Lines below Richmond Va, Oct 14th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to write you a few lines to let you know that I am still safe. We have been on the North Side [of] the James three weeks, and we have been on one charge, that of Fort Harrison the 30th of Sept. Then we were in reserve twice since then. On the 7th we were supporting Field’s Division. We took a very hard shelling but did not get any of the Regt hurt. Then yesterday the Yanks made an assault on our works on front of Field’s Division but were sent back faster than they could come, only some who are left to rot in the field. They went back to their works and all is quiet again this morning as if not a Yank was on this side the Dixie line. I went on the field and saw some dead Negroes.
I cannot hear any news today. D Shaw has some letters that Mr. McGoogan brought. I would like to see him very much. We drew $62.80 the other day, and I would send you some if I could. It has been some time since I got a letter in some time. You must direct to Petersburg as before. We get our mail very seldom now.
Fields, on the 7th, gave the Yanks a rout, took 200 horses, 12 cannon, and some prisoners. You have heard the particulars of the Fort Harrison affair before now. Our Brigade went ahead and was cut down. Then Colquitt’s Ga came with the same result. We lost all our flags. As fast as men would take it up, they would fall. Our Regt lost 105 in all, mostly wounded.
If you could do it, I would like you would make me a cap. I think it will do for winter time. Best make it if you think best, or a hat. This is passing away with holes in top. You can get the measure by one of them old Confederate caps, they fit.
15th All is quiet this morning. I want to get some of that lasses but you need not think of sending me anything much when we are marching so much. I drew one pair of pants yesterday.
The mail is about ready. I believe I have told you all, so I will close. Write soon.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/259-262
Darbytown Road Va, Oct 31st 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. I seen your [?] on a letter and knew you were at Dundarrach.
Last Thursday the Yankees made an assault on our lines but they were sent back in a hurry. They thought to outflank us. They began skirmishing in our front soon in the morning, and the main force started round, but when they thought they had gone far enough, they made a charge, and our men made it too hot for them, took a good many prisoners and killed a good many more. They then made a charge on the other end with like result. They found our men prepared for them everywhere. They made a charge on each [?] of us but did not come near enough in our front for us to get a shot. That night they fell back to their old position and next day we sent out men but could not find any on forbidden ground. Then Saturday some few volunteer scouts went down and ran their pickets as [?] [?]. Our skirmishers fought them all day, did not get a man hurt in our Regt. One of the Brigade killed. The loss on our side was nothing.
We are back in our old position now, faring as well as can be with good breastworks that cannot be charged, with the abattis and felled timber, while we are behind it.
For a long time I was [?] as I could be because I was not getting any letter from home, but I am well pleased now. I cannot hear anything from our friends at Petersburg. I would have written to Cousin Sam but it was the 20th I got the letter, and it said he would leave before, but I should like very much to correspond with Sam if there is any chance.
We are now some 5 or 6 miles north of the James River and about the same below Richmond. I would much rather stay on this side the river. We can get anything much cheaper and so much more privilege. I have eaten all the good things you sent me. The “Lasses” was the best I ever saw. It was a long time before the most competent judges could tell whether or not there was honey in it and the [?] was mighty good when coming off of Picket. I have to go on Picket pretty often, but we have big fires so it is not so bad after all.
Dear Sister, tell Cousin Mary to not get out of hope for I will write to her some of these days before long. I have plenty of stamps yet, but I am much obliged to Cousin Kate for her kind offer for I may be out some day and I must keep a few to write to my _. Since the yanks do not keep us so [?] I may take a notion to begin a love correspondence with some lovely fair.
I believe I have told you all, so I will close. You must write to me soon and give me a good long one. I remain your Bud, John D McGeachy
1864/267-270
Darbytown Road Va, Nov 15th 1864
Dear
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which found me enjoying good health, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. I have no news at this time.
We are doing as well as soldiers can expect, getting as much to eat as we want and having as much hard duty to do as we can do. We are making a second Chinese wall between the Yankees and Richmond, one that they cannot get over if we were behind it to shoot them.
I have drawn a nice flannel shirt, and I tell you it is a great friend this cold weather, and I would like if you could send me another for a change. This one is red.
I have heard just now that Sherman has burnt Atlanta and is marching on Charleston. If that be the case, I expect we will have to move some way or other. I wish we could move clean away from old Virginia, but this pace has been so good for me as any other, but I want a change and I think South is as good as any.
A letter came here for Alex C [McGeachy], and I thought it was someone had made a mistake in my name so I broke it open, and it was from Sam [Davis]. He was then at Macon, Ga and was on his way to his command.
I am truly sorry to hear of Poor Nonnie’s misfortune, and I wish she could come back to N. C. where you all could do something for her, but I am in hopes that her Ark. neighbors will do a good part by her. I know that she must feel sad and lonely away of there, cannot even from Sam or Kindred.
S J Cobb came here last Sunday and is gone today to see the Dr. to be retired, and I hope he will. [Cobb was retired two week later.]
Dear Sister, I sent a letter to Kate and did as she told me, Franked it. I do not think she got it yet. I have got my knapsack from Petersburg, and all my things was not touched, and now I have three coats, two short ones and my black one. I drew a nice blue one the other day, and now I have two complete suits which will stand me through this winter.
We have gone into regular winter quarters here. We have a good house wall covered with a fly and a good chimney and good bunks, and we are alright for the winter.
I am truly sorry to hear of Mr. Lamont’s bad luck, but I hope he will soon get well and be joined in the delightful bond of matrimony.
I think I will take up courage and write to Dr. Malloy one of these days, but I believe I am getting worse in writing letters for I have to tear up some after I write them.
I will be looking of some “taters” but you need not send them unless you see a good chance to send with someone. It will be apt to be lost or robbed.
Steve says that Co. G. I wish I was at Petersburg now, and I would go over and take dinner with Pat. I know I would get it. Peter [Brown] is here and makes a very good soldier, but the train turned over with him on his way here and hurt his side, but he is most over it now. The furlough system is rather dull on this side of the James. We do not hardly know that anybody is getting furlough.
Dear Sister, I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close. Write Soon and give me all the news and tell me how the crops turned out. I remain your Bud.
1864/289-290
Darbytown Road Va, Dec 7th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which came to hand yesterday eve. It found me still enjoying good health and you may depend it gave me joy to find so many goodies mentioned therein. All the things came safe: taters, bread, peas, possum, ground peas, and eggs. Tell the Aunts and Aunt Suzy that I am truly proud to be remembered by them so kindly and give them thousand thankyies.
My hat fits very well and is the very thing to close my shirt. My wardrobe is now complete, wanting a pair of socks. I only have two pair, and one of them is failing. My gloves are good as new. If Duncan Little has not got my pin cushion, please send me a needle the first chance with some thread. I need them things very often.
I must tell you my little camp sorrow. Sorrow often walks side by side with Joy. When I came to my tent last night [TORN] a lot of soap, two plugs of tobacco, two rations of nice cooked beef, a table knife, spoon, and a canteen fixed for the purpose of carrying my meat, which was very valuable. I asked round but none knew. “I asked of the blast that hollow blew And echo answered where.” In my absence, some rude hand had plucked it from its peg, and it was gone, and I was left to “revel mid rosy dreams” with an empty stomach, had it not been for the barrel. I have an old knapsack that will make a far better one, so the rogue made a raise which did not sink me very much.
We cannot hear any right news from Ga. Sometimes it’s good and next hour, it is bad news. I am rather afraid it is not all well there.
Tell Caroline, Bob, and the rest that I highly appreciate their kindness to me and that I kindly remember one and all and hope that they all [TORN] of me.
I don’t think that I would buy a horse, yet. I rather think the oxen will supply the place, and you might have him pressed right off. Glad to hear you made such a good crop. When you go to teach, don’t whip the babies.
I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close. All is quiet in our front. I am still [TORN] and having an easy time. Write soon and give [TORN].
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1864/291-294
Darbytown Road Va, Dec 13th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which found me still enjoying good health, hoping this may find you enjoying the same.
In this country we have some of the coldest kind of weather. It has snowed last Friday night, and it has not melted away yet, and the “aerial drapery” shows signs of more on hand.
Last Saturday our army made a big move. They went through the snow some mile or more in front of the battery, found plenty of Yanks but were not mad with one another. They were within 200 yards of the Yanks in an open field and neither side fired a gun. They stayed out there till that night and then fell back to the works again. I did not have to go with them.
My position is in the rear some mile or ¾ and I do not have a thing to do but cut wood and load wagons. We start after breakfast, stop a while for dinner, and then leave off sometime before sunset. There is Dunk Graham and I from our Co. We have four men from each Regt under a sergt. We draw the same rations of the men in front, only every time they throw in a little to help out, and you may depend we had a good time eating goodies. I did enjoy my barrel glorious.
Dear Sister, my hat is the very thing. It fits well, looks well. It is light and it is a present from you so you may depend I am proud of it. My good things are not all gone yet. I was mighty proud of my eggs that the Aunt sent me and the ground peas Aunt Susy sent. I am truly oblige to them.
I have got nearly over my grief for my missing things, have bought me a much better knife and my many friends came forward with plenty of tobacco to last me till draw day, which is the 26th of each month. My Detail is permanent, and I will stay on as long as the brigade stays here.
I think Miss Regan is brave. She intends to strike at the root when she makes the blow.
I have set my pegs for four more years, but I hope I will not have another campaign as hard as the last one, and it’s not over yet. The big men are not serving us right about furloughs. We can’t hear any talk, say nothing of getting them, and I think some of old Dad’s [Clingman’s] boys have been as brave and true this summer as any.
I am truly obliged to you for the paper. Our Co. gets about two copies, but I will be more apt to get it now. I got one Number, and it is truly a welcome visitor.
We are in the dark as to news from Ga. I have no news at present. I don’t care to hear war news so I get good letters from home.
You must excuse this dull letter. You might think I would not be afraid to write to anyone when I practice on two “steel schochers” but you see how many words are wrong in this, and it makes a difference who the persons are. I believe I have told you all, so I will close. Write soon, and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
[POEM]
If you will sanction I will send this to my gal, see what she will say to it, and maybe I get a thirty day furlough by the operations but I must get a kick though.
J D McGeachy To Darling Sister Kate
Camp 51st Regt. N. C. T.
Near Richmond Va, Dec 13th 1864
1864/301-302
Camp Lamb, Wilmington N. C., Dec 28th 1864
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I am well and back in the good old North State. We left the lines below one week ago and have been on the route ever since. The news is here that the Yankees have all gone back to their boat and everything is quiet below again.
We are in Camp Lamb at the edge of town, but I do not expect we will stay here long. We will have to go out to the front. I have told you all the news, so I will close. I will write soon again.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1865-1867/1-2
Camp Whiting Near Wilmington N. C., Jan 6th 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which came to hand yesterday, two at a time. Old Dad’s [Clingman’s] Brigade came to Wilmington just as all the work was done, and we were sent to some old winter quarters in this mighty good old camp.
As I have nothing of special interest, I will give you a description of my travel from Richmond here. We left the lines below, relieved by Kershaw’s Division, about three hours before day, and we arrived in Richmond, about 6 miles, just as the sun was rising, and we stayed there all that day till dark when we left for Danville. We got there next day and went into camp. Moved next morning to another camp and next morning we took the line of march for Greensborough, and that was Christmas Day. We marched all day on the railroad, and it was not bad. The ground was frozen and icy. We went 15 miles that day and camped for the night. The mail train came by with lots of big folks on it. We called on Genl Joe Johnson and had a speech and some lot of Senators, and they all gave us a short talk.
Next morning we started again and went 9 miles that day. At night we took the cars at a station and went to Greensborough and next morn before day, we took the cars for Goldsboro, got there sometime in the night and took the train again for Wilmington, got there next morn and got a powerful dinner.
We hardly know what to do, whether to fix up or not. I did not have a very merry Christmas, but I made it. New year day, I just got my barrel by D Little in time to mind me of one of old fame. I would like to be one of your scholars, sure, but would rather see them long curls. I fancy them.
At last, one of our Company will get a furlough, M Baxter, after being in the war most two years.
I am truly sorry to hear of Cousin Sam’s misfortune. I am in hopes he is over the Miss[issippi] before now. I was glad to hear that A McGoogan was not hurt.
Anything that Kateison says to me, I will not take as a scold, but I love to have your say so, for I would rather take your judgement than anyone else. So any time you see me wrong, let me know it, and I will thank you for it. I was mighty proud of my Christmas present from Aunt Sallie. I must send her a lot of thanks by you to her.
I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1865-1867/3-4
Camp Whiting, Wilmington N. C., Jan 8th 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter. I had the pleasure of meeting with D Little in here and have been faring as well as heart could wish ever since. You must tell Aunt Sallie that I am a heap of times obliged to her for her Christmas present. All the things you sent in my barrel came safe, and I was very glad to get them. The soap was very much needed for we do not draw enough to wash our hands hardly. We have so many goodies we hardly know what to eat first.
I have no news from below. We heard that the fleet had came back, but I do not know how true it is. We do not what we are going to do. We are looking to move to another camp but no telling when or where. I am in hopes that we will be allowed to stay about here all this winter at least, for I had rather stay here than in old Va.
I sent a short letter home when we came here. I am now a well-clad, well-shod soldier. I drew a new pair of shoes and on that march my feet fared middling. I believe our men are beginning to get furlough. At least one of our company is to get one.
Dear Sister, I seen Dugald Currie, and he said he would tell you all about how I was getting along. I am looking for Uncle Sandy every day, and I am in hopes he will come out to see me.
Dear Sister, I have no news of any importance so I will have to close. You must write soon and give me all the news and I will try and do better the next time. I believe I have told you all the news, so I will close.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1865-1867/17-18
Sugar Loaf, Jan 17th 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which I received yesterday eve. I am sorry to inform you that Fort Fisher is gone, but I have not heard any of the particulars yet. It fell Sunday at 3 o’clock. We have not been in any regular engagement yet but have been under some very heavy shelling. We are about 19 miles below Wilmington, fortified, waiting the move of the enemy. They are in the river and in the sounds, but they do not shell us much.
I wanted to see uncle very much. I have not seen Mr. Taylor since I came nor any of the boys from below.
It is a sad blow to lose Fort Fisher, but I suppose it could not be held. Some of Hagood’s Brigade was in the Fort, and I reckon all was taken. Our lines extend from the river to the sounds. I suppose the men would not come out of the bombproof when the Yanks charged.
I will write again soon as I get my knapsack. It is at Wilmington. When I write again I will tell you where to Direct.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeacy
Miss Kate McGeachy, St. Pauls, Robeson County, N. C.
1865-1867/19-20
Sugar Loaf below Wilmington N. C., Jan 29th 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which found me still enjoying good health, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. I have no late news.
The Yankees have come up here and had a skirmish but went back again. They do not shell us much, but they are shelling today. Before we could get from Wilmington the Yanks had landed so we could not get them away without too much loss of life, but Sunday we went down towards Fort Fisher with, I think, the intentions of charging them if they would charge the fort, but before we got into position the fort was taken, and that night we fell back here where we have been ever since.
We are strongly entrenched here in a line from the river to the sea in a good position as we could get anywhere. Fort Anderson is on the opposite side of the river, and it has made the fleet back off. As yet, they cannot or has not yet brought any ironclad up the river. Unless they land away up above here, they cannot do anything with this line.
I cannot hear one word from anyone who was at the forts. We know that Caswell was evacuated, but we cannot learn who was there. The tale of Yankee deserters is that all the men have gone round to help old Sherman capture Charleston, but what they say is not to be relied on.
Milton [Baxter] has not come yet, but we are looking for him strong [Baxter returned from furlough, late, a week after this letter was written]. The boys get boxes here. I sent my canteen and knife by Archie G, which I hope you have got before this. I could have fixed the canteen myself but thought Crack could do it better. You need not be uneasy that I need them for I have a good knife and do not want water often this cold time. We have the coldest, windiest weather that I have ever felt, I believe. I do not think it would be so cold if not for the wind.
I have just heard that Fort Harrison was taken. I do hope it was so. It was taken by Hampton’s cavalry with 1500 negro troops in it. There was more than that in it when we tried it.
James A. Little will put a sheet in this. You can send it up there. Envelopes is scarce. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, J D McGeachy
1865-1867/37-38
Camp 51st Regt N C Troops, March 2nd 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to answer your kind letter which I received yesterday eve. I sent a letter home some days ago to let you know that I was well. I wrote two or thee times but could see no chance to send it off.
I was truly sorry to hear of Cousin John’s death. It is a sad, sad blow, but I hope he is happy in a brighter and happier world where there is no sorrow or pain.
The men are leaving the army at a sad rate, but I hope that they will see the error and not go any more.
I hear that there is in Richmond more commissioners from the U. S. and I hope they will do something better this time than before.
We are on the railroad some 13 miles from Magnolia, and it is some 37 miles to Wilmington. There is no Yankees advanced any farther than the Northeast [Cape Fear River], only a few Pickets and that is 10 miles from Wilmington.
It will be a long time before my time to go home, and I do not think you can send me a box but perhaps there will be some way opened before long. The times looks rather gloomy just now but let us hope that behind the clouds the sun is shining and trust all to that strong arm who is able to save to the uttermost.
We cannot hear what is being done in the west. We hear of old Sherman here and there but so many reports, we do not know which to believe.
I was sick a day or two below Wilmington but soon got well again. I had something the matter with my hands that I could not account for. It was like a burn, but if it had been burned, I would known it and it did not act like a burn but now it is entirely well, did not hurt me any at all.
The Regt is being paid two months wages today, but money will not do much good. There is nothing to buy here. We get one pound of cornbread and the same of beef.
Please make me two more shirts and hold them in reserve. These are getting thin and will be worn out. Then I will let you know when to send them.
Cousin Ervin says to tell you he is well. Give Aunt Sallie my best love and tell her that I kindly remember her for all her kindness to me.
You must Direct to Magnolia as heretofore, and it will get to the Division. I believe I have told you all the news so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news, and I will write as often as I can.
I remain your Bud, John D McGeachy
1865-1867/41-42
Camp 51st Regt Near Smithfield N. C., March 26th 1865
Dear Sister
With pleasure I seat myself to inform you that I still enjoy good health, hoping this may find you enjoying the same. I have heard that the way is opened between here and Fayetteville, so I have concluded to give you a short letter to let you know that I am safe. I am truly anxious to hear from you, to hear what has been your fate.
We have been near some very hard fighting but were so blessed that we did not have any of it to do.
I got a letter from Cousin Alex yesterday dated the 17th. They were all well, had been relieved from the ditches, and was nine miles south of Petersburg.
I have no idea what Sherman will do next, but I know he is well watched, and if we can, we will stop his course. He is not pressing us here.
I got the letter you sent by Archie C. I believe I have told you all so I will close. Write soon and give me all the news.
I remain your Bud, John D McGeachy
Copyright © 2021 – 2025 by Kirk Ward. All rights reserved.