Andrew Brooks reports on the recent election in Lexington, Virginia, in which two Union men were elected to the state convention. Despite this outcome, Brooks predicts that Virginia will secede.
Andrew Brooks writes about his fellow students' unsuccessful appeals to the governor to call out their company from Washington College. He also asks his family to send money to help outfit the company.
William Brooks tells his sister that their brother, Andrew, is suffering after a difficult eleven mile march yesterday. He also describes a battle near Martinsburg, West Virginia, and expresses his confidence in General Joseph Johnston's leadership.
Andrew Brooks writes to his mother to inform her of William Brooks' difficult recovery from an illness.
White writes to inform James Brooks that his son, William, died after an illness of several days. He mentions that the cause of death was probably "conjestion of the brain."
Andrew Brooks describes his surroundings in northern Virginia and comments on the general "confusion" there. He also reports on the pay owed to his family following his brother's death in the service.
Andrew Brooks writes to his mother that he expects his brigade to be called to Winchester the following day. He also expresses concern that he does not know General Jackson's plans and that the government has been "negligent" in paying southern soldiers.
Moffett Brooks writes that enemy fears of Stonewall Jackson's forces can explain why Staunton has not been invaded. He goes on to say that the South will not be "whipped," and that southern forces need to act now.
Charles Brooks updates his brother on his regiment's movements in Virginia and expresses his desire to leave the Valley and go to Richmond.
Charles Brooks describes the casualties and destruction he saw after the battle at Gaines Mill, one of the battles of the Seven Days' Campaign.
Schyler Trible calls the battles of the Seven Days' Campaign "thrilling and complicated," and explains that the resulting confusion has prevented him from learning about the welfare of James Brooks' sons.
Charles Brooks tells about his regiment's movements and participation in skirmishes in the days leading up to the Second Battle of Manassas. He also describes various attempts by soldiers to leave the service.
Andrew Brooks assesses the profitability of selling skillets and mentions the court martials of several soldiers in his regiment.
Andrew Brooks discusses the possibility of his receiving a detail from the service and describes the preaching he heard in camp.
Return to the War Years Personal Papers