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Letter by James W. Vanderhoef, Jan. 31, 1863
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Letter by James W. Vanderhoef, Jan. 31, 1863

Transcription of letter written by James W. Vanderhoef, from Williamsburgh, Brooklyn, who fought in the Union Army from 1861 through 1865. Please note spelling variations and errors are his.

"Camp near Potomac Creek Station Va
Jan 31st 63

Dear Sister
Haveing just rote to Cad for Henry I will now answer yours which came in company. As you say dear sister we have been marching around for the last two weeks until at last a snow storm some fifteen inches has put a stop to it for a few days. and no body is sorry for it you can emagin. We was sorry dear Sister to hear of Guillan being unwell. I hope this will find him better. We are in good health although so much exposed to hardship.

Dear Sister I am intirely unable to say if I will be able to get home this winter, for they so far have refused all applications for furloughs I shall be as much disappointed as a man can possably be if I cant. but of course must submit.

I am happy to hear of your visit to Aunt Sarah's. You will please return my love when a chance returns. Give my love to the children God bless them I wish I could see them once more.

Dear Sister since I last rote all has been quiet on the Potomac as they said last year. But who knows the hardships of marching this time of year. Except those who indure them. It is easy to publish things in the papers. when we read some of the editors get fitts you can bet. Now we have five months pay over due and can't get one cent for all the appropriation has been made of congress to do so. Things can't stand long so if the North would win

Dear Sister I will now close by sending our loves to you all hope this will find you all well as it leaves me. My best respects to all who inquire for the absent one.

I am dear sister
as ever your affectionate
brother until death
James

Private
I am thankful for Mrs Shaws address, but fear I shall not need it my love to boath when you rite. I have no word of John. Did he ever rite to Bell since he left. Dose he send her his wages. Excuse my inquisitiveness but I can't help feeling and interest in her welfare.
James
Yours in love"

Citation - Document 48
Letters of Captain James W. Vanderhoef
January 31, 1863
Brooklyn Public Library – Brooklyn Collection
www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/civilwar

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