Manuscript Letter From James White of Company K, 6th NJV (New Jersey Volunteers) To His Wife

Letter sheet (9 ¼ x 7 ½ ), 3pp. on 4 pp. lettersheet. Folded with nicks on folds, minor soiling, else very good. White was stationed near Washington D.C., and he provides a fair sketch of camp life and soldierly concerns during the first year of the conflict. His wants are few, and he goes to some lengths to let his wife know he is taking good care of himself. “I wash all my clothes regularly once a week, keep my hair cut very close and wash myself clean every morning. I have no fear of getting dirty or lousy.” Camp life is described as quite restrictive with lots of work. “Duty is very hard… we have to drill nearly eight hours every day, except when we are on the move.” He gives his wife advice on finances and other matters, and admonishes her that “above all I do not want you to believe any stories about men being shot” for disciplinary reasons.