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CONFEDERATE SOLDIER DESCRIBES THE WHIPPING AND BRANDING OF A SOLDIER

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Militaria Start Price:200.00 USD Estimated At:400.00 - 500.00 USD
CONFEDERATE SOLDIER DESCRIBES THE WHIPPING AND BRANDING OF A SOLDIER
"He was branded on the forehead with the letter D. He screamed, prayed, and reared around…"

Incredible content A.L.S. of Pvt. Hiram Talbot Holt of the 38th Alabama, 2pp. 8vo., written from camp, Sep. 8, 1862 to his wife. In part: "...I have just returned from seeing a deserter dealt with. His shirt was taken off and 39 strokes with a cowhide applied to his back, which brought the blood freely, then he was branded on the forehead with the letter D. He screamed, prayed, and reared around generally. I felt sorry for him...I am still well save the itch. The Doctor says for me to rub it with sulpher & lard...Health of the regiment is greatly improving...furloughs are stopped awhile on account of new orders...How goes our little girl? Is she getting well?...". Holt, who had enlisted on Apr. 1, 1861, was killed in action on Feb. 24, 1864 after having participated in all of the regiment's major engagements. His letter is accompanied by a partial A.L.S (from the correspondence) from Chaplain Alexander D. McVoy of the 38th. He eulogizes Holt: "...A true and excellent soldier...he is gone to a better land where cruel war shall not disturb him more. I pray God to comfort you...I shall write his obituary if I have time tomorrow...". Talbot's letter bears a few minor professional mends, McVoy's shows folds and spotting. Fine content, with transcripts and extracts of their records.

Estimate: $400 - 500.

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