Letters From War Wednesday: Civil War – William Kimmell.

Union soldier, William Kimmell, served with Company C, 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the Civil War.  In this edition of Letters From War Wednesday, we feature a note from Kimmell home to his girlfriend, Leah.  It was written on July 6, 1863, 148 years ago today, following the Battle of Gettysburg.

From a camp near Gettysburg, PA – July 6, 1863:

“Dear Leah,

William Kimmell - 8th Ohio Vol. Infantry

“It has been sometime since I have written to you.  It has not been through neglect that I have not done so.  We have been on the move for some time and opportunities to write have been rare.  But it useless my saying anything to you of it because I know you would excuse me were I not to write for three months under present circumstances.  When this reaches you I expect you will be enjoying yourself at home.  I had made big calculations on spending the 4th of July at home.  But I certainly have reason to be thankful that I did not spend it laying cold in death on the bloody field of Gettysburg.  Two more of my companions have given up their lives to the cause of our country, and seven have been wounded.  There is but eleven of us left out of the ninety-eight that came into Virginia two years ago.  My chances are growing smaller all the time.  One more hard battle and there will be no more Co. C.

“I wish I were able to describe the Battle of Gettysburg.  It is not worth while to try it, for I should fail.  If you can get the New York Herald, you will find as good an account as is possible to give.  They have one of the best of correspondents with this army.

“People say that a person gets hardened by seeing suffering.  It is just the reverse with me.  I am getting so that I can hardly bear the sight of a wound.  I never want to look over a battle field after a battle.  I see citizens here that have come over a hundred miles to see the field, and appear to be greatly disappointed because the dead are most all buried before they got to see them.  I must say though that the wounded never were as well taken care of as they are here.  The citizens pour in from all directions with delicacies and comforts for the wounded.  I will have to close my letter as it is not a very comfortable position setting with my back against a fence corner, and stave of barrel on my knee for a desk.  Always give my respects to all enquiring friends and write as often as possible.

“My Best wishes are always yours,

“Wm. F. Kimmell”