Franklin County: Benjamin S. Schneck to Margaretta
S. Keller, September 12, 1862
Summary:
Schneck writes to his sister, Margaretta, about his trip west through Ohio, and
how he was forced to turn back after rumors of an imminent Confederate march
into Pennsylvania.
Mrs. Margaretta Keller
Boalsburg, Centre Co.
Sep 12, 1862
Chambersburg
My Dear Sister-
Lest you should be alarmed at our safety, I write to say that we are indeed in the midst of a frightful panic, but I myself do not yet apprehend any immediate danger. But more than half our people have left and are leaving. Just think, I left for the Far West a week or 10 days ago -- got to Cincinatti in a similar confusion -- and on Tuesday night last at Dayton, I heard of the contemplated (or rather, expected) march of the Rebels from Hagarstown to Chambersburg. So I just took the cars at midnight [unclear: east] and came here yesterday at noon. I found our folks packed, ready to start with Mr. Kennedy in carriage and baggage wagon. But the night has again passed, + now nearly the day, + things look rather more favorable. Indeed, I doubt whether the Rebels will come here at all. I think it's a feint to draw troops from Washington. Should they come, we must just submit -- we are defenseless -- I myself will stay, but the females will go first to Carlisle, + if things prove worse, across the mountain into Perry County. These are sorrowful times. Where is our boasting and glorifying now?
I was so sorry I did not know that Daniel (your son) was at Harrisburg last week
when I was on my way West.
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I had to visit 1 1/2 hours there + might
have gone for half an hour to see him. But I only found it out when it was too
late first from Lieutenant Edwards, and then from
good Mr. Kelker, who told me that he had seen him at Church + Sunday School +
was so well pleased with Daniel + in speaking with him found he was my nephew. I
felt proud to hear him speak so kindly + well from a sisters son of mine. Mr. K.
is a most excellent and prominent officer in the Reformed church in Harrisburg.
I must close -- all confusion around us. Let one of the girls write to me and tell me the Company, Regiment + place of address of Daniel. I will then occasionally write to him + send him papers etc.
Rebecca and Kate send much love to you all, while I remain
Your aff. Brother
B. S. Schneck
