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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC08913.09 |
| From Archive Folder | Letters from Grove Bell |
| Title | Grove L. Bell to his sister regarding fountain pens and his new commander |
| Date | 1 March 1863 |
| Author | Bell, Grove L. (1844-1863) |
| Document Type | Correspondence |
| Content Description | Borrowed a friend's pen to write with, although he has practically forgotten how to use one. Has very poor ink. Wishes he had his own pen so badly that he is thinking of sending for one in his next letter home. Afraid he would ruin the pen while down in camp. Understands he would need a good bottle of ink along with the pen. Hopes she saw Gaston before he left. Hopes she will get to see John at some point. Has a new commander of the company. Seems like a "grand good fellow." He is the best officer in the regiment. Has received every paper she has sent so far. Has read them with the rest of the boys. Sorry that Hetty Hall is so sick and hopes she will recuperate soon. |
| Subjects | Civil War Military History Soldier's Letter Union Soldier's Letter Union Forces Women's History Children and Family Journalism Military Camp |
| People | Bell, Grove L. (1844-1863) |
| Place written | Stafford Court House, Virginia |
| Theme | The American Civil War; Health & Medicine |
| Sub-collection | Papers and Images of the American Civil War |
| Additional Information | Private Bell enlisted in the 20th Connecticut Infantry on August 4, 1862. He was mustered into D Company. In 1862 and 1863 the 20th Connecticut fought as part of the Army of the Potomac and saw action in Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Although Bell survived extensive action in both these battles, he died on December 4, 1863. Highlights of the collection include a letter describing his action in the battle of Gettysburg, including a harrowing experience where a shell landed within inches of his leg and descriptions of some of the wounds his comrades suffered. The letters also include Bell's doubts about the course of the war: "There [are] a few big men with scraps on their shoulders that are making all of the money. They are the ones keeping this war going." |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Civil War, Reconstruction and the Modern Era: 1860-1945 |
| Civil War: Recipient Relationship | Sister |
| Civil War: Theater of War | Main Eastern Theater |
| Civil War: Unit | 20th Connecticut Infantry |