Franklin County: Sam Taggart to Captain John
Taggart, April 22, 1864
Summary:
Taggart talks about regimental organization and the sighting of Confederate
pickets.
Captain John Taggart, 9th Penn. Reserve Infantry
April 22nd 1864
On Picket near Mountain Run,
Dear John,
I wrote while in Washington, but neglected posting my letter till I arrived at
camp. I overtook Col. Dale in Washington, and we
both went to Brandy Station together on Tuesday. Our camp is about four miles
from the station. The boys were rejoiced to see us, and the regiment begins to
assume the appearance of a complete organization. Recruits are arriving daily;
and I fear we will be compelled to move before we are quite ready. I remember
seeing the 116th at Chancellorsville. It was the regiment
that dropped their muskets there to save a battery, when nearly all its horses
had been killed. The boys dragged out the guns by ropes; and I remember how we
cheered them as they passed us. We have a jolly set of Irishmen in our brigade.
I
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have a detachment of the 88th &
69th N.Y. under my control on picket, and their
conversation is amusing. They are very friendly, and if any of them draws a canteen of milk, I must have my share of it.
Yesterday afternoon and last night Rebel pickets were seen a short distance in
front of our posts; but they have not attempted to molest us yet. We have had
most beautiful weather for the past few days; and so far as the condition of the
roads is concerned there is nothing to prevent an advance of the army at any
time. Bob is well and is getting along first rate. I haven't got my company
organized yet, I was only one day in camp before being ordered on picket; but I
will have things fixed as soon as we return. All my men have not yet joined the
regiment. I have distributed what postage stamps I had to others who needed
them, and want you to send me a supply. I promised Mary Jane to go out to Your
house before I left; but as my departure was sooner than I expected I couldn't
go...I looked for Bob as we passed Manassas junction but did not see him.
Give my love to all at home
Your Affectionate Brother
Sam
Apr. 25th We returned from picket yesterday, and have been issuing ammunition and making other preparations. All well so far. I wish you would get my "Oriental Glee and Anthem Book" from Mr. Sherratt and send it by mail. Also a copy of "Columbia's Guardian Angels." The latter you can get at Mellon's, or if they haven't a supply yet Mr. Sherratt has a copy he doesn't use. Your Affectionate brother, Sam
