12 NY Battery Light Artillery Soldier Details Promotions, Rebels Deserting

  

The 12th New York Battery Light Artillery had detailed service in the Civil War, engaged in the campaigns of Bristo, Mine Run, Appomattox, Battles of Spotsylvania Court House, Cold Harbor, Jerusalem Plan Road, First Battle of Deep Bottom and Second Battle of Ream's Station. LEWIS, 23, enlisted on November 28, 1861 at Amsterdam, NY, as a Private. On December 3, he was mustered into the NY 12th Light Artillery.

He re-enlisted on December 26, 1863 and was mustered out on June 14, 1865 at Albany, NY. Very nice two-page letter sent in a cover containing a pre-printed address, either created by Lewis or his sister.

The cover is orange with a fine Washington, DC, January 21st, 1865, postmark. Camp near Petersburg, January 16th, 1865. I now take my pen in hand to write you a few lines.

The weather here is very pleasant and we are very busy. It takes me the most of the time to keep the battery in wood.

The battery was fetched up this afternoon they suspected an attack from the Johns. There is a great many of the Johnnies deserting and coming into our lines. We are in camp near Polick Station. I see Dave Staris a few days ago. His regiment is guarding the fort where we dwell. Our Captains time is out and he has gone home.

Deouchy's time is also out and he has gone home. He was borned in top notch.

Conkling from Amsterdam is promoted to 1st Lieut. Liddle from Schenectady to 2nd Lieut.

Conklin is paroled prisoner running around Amsterdam on a thirty day leave of absence. I don't know as you can read this so I now close so good-bye.

The letter is in very good condition as is the cover with a fine postmark. Nice example from an active regiment. Our goal is to please every customer. We are pleased to be members of The Manuscript Society, Universal Autograph Collectors Club and The Ephemera Society.