My Dear Parents
Yours of the 30th inst. was duly received – was very glad to hear from home once more. We are now staying near Gauley bridge, some 30 miles above Charlestown; have been here about one week, do not know how long we will remain here. The Rebels still continue to keep 25 or 30 miles in advance – are now stationed on New river.
We have some pretty hard times, have had no tents since we left the Point, although we have had considerable rain and two or three snow storms. We have been on half rations for nearly one week, but I believe I feel better than when we drew full rations. I am very well and have been with the exception of a slight cold now and then.
That pepper which you sent is a great addition to my grub; as we get none in the army and cannot buy it here it is doubly a benefit.
You say you have not much to write but will write for the “ sake of inducing me to write more often”, I think I have been very prompt in writing, for I have written three letters since I have received one from home. (Ed. note: This complaint will be a regular feature in David’s letters. It is obvious that mail delivery was highly unreliable during the war even when the distance was not great)
I congratulate “Julia Ann” in her matrimonial career.
We are now encamped on the battle ground where Lightburn fought the Rebs in his retreat; here he made a halt, burnt the wire bridge which spans the Gauley river, he also burnt many government storehouses and exploded two magazines; There are many balls both cannon and rifle lying about on the ground, and shells are about as thick as hops.
The 36th, 28th, 11th and 30th O.V.I. regiments passed down the river toward the Point this afternoon- they have been through Md. – were at the late battles in that state. (Ed. note: All of these regiments were involved in the battle of Antietam on Sept. 17 and the 11th, 28th and 36th were part of Burnside’s force that attacked across the famous bridge over Antietam Creek late in the afternoon. This spot is a high point of any visit to the battlefield).
I will draw a gum (sic) blanket soon, but there is no provision made for boots – would like to have a pair if I could get them from home, large No. nine & especially at the instep. Mat. Scott ( Ed. note: Matthew Scott, another Company A private from Athens County, who remained a private until his discharge in June, 1865) says he would be glad if you would tell his folks to send him a pair at the same time. Also Cal Wells wishes his folks to send a pair at the same time. He has written to Mr. Wells to that effect, or that he would send him a pair but did not mention to him to send them with mine - would be glad if you would let them know.
The cousins are all well and send much love to the friends at the Glade (Ed. note: This shows up later as Hickory Glade, evidently the name of the Putnam farm). I would love to call in and take a drumstick and a little currant jam at your thanksgiving dinner but it is vain to wish: hard bread, pork, beans and coffee are not to be scoffed at. Those grapes which you sent were a great feast among the boys, they have been passing around ever since they arrived.
Much love to all,
Your affectionate son D. Putnam
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