An exceptional two-page letter dated June 1864 from a Civil War soldier stationed in New York City, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the experiences and sentiments of the era. Written by Ettie H. Bogert to her brother, the letter is filled with personal details, including updates on loved ones, the realities of wartime correspondence, and notable mentions of soldiers having their portraits taken—a culturally significant nod to the importance of photography during the Civil War.

Ettie poignantly describes the challenges of communication during wartime, including her longing to hear from her brother and updates about soldiers from her community who were wounded in action. Notable individuals and their conditions are detailed, offering historical value. The mention of soldiers’ photographs highlights the role of imagery in preserving legacies, even during turbulent times.

The letter is written in clear handwriting on two sides of cream-colored paper, with folds and minor wear commensurate with age. Its content makes it an invaluable artifact for historians, collectors, or Civil War enthusiasts seeking personal accounts of life during the conflict. A deeply humanizing narrative that connects us to the emotions and realities of the past.

Rough Translation

241 West 4th Street
New York City, June 6, 1864

Dear Brother

We received your letter if the 3rd today, by your letter is the only way I have heard from John in more than a month. I wish he could write but it seems he is where they are not allowed to write, I was down in Kate Davies’ Saturday and while there in came one of the 1st Cavalry boys to have his pictures taken. Jennie Blauvett was there, and we were all inquisitive to know how he got here just this time, so Jamie went up to him and asked him when he came to the city from the Army. He said he was of Co. F. I think his name is Chamberlain. He said he was wounded in the battle of New Market through the shoulder, taken prisoner, escaped, received a furlough, left the Regt. The 24th at Shamburgh, I think it was, and he expected to return again Friday of this week to go to Martinsburg first, then to eh Regt. He knew being with Capt. Alexander. Ton Rhodes of the 6th ? is wounded Capt. Schonord & Fred Devue also of the same Regt. and C. P. Burnum. Capt. N. J. Cave from Tappan Station& Frank Turfler wounded in the arm, Charley Jones also of Middleston Billie Hennion is reported a prisoner ain’t it awful these few names make quite a change & there is I the country and many anxious families Burnham’s oldest son was also wounded in the first of this last battle, so both brothers wounded! Is there any of the boys that we knew killed, wounded or taken prisoners, where is Bob Clark, who is left of Co. H now, where is Col. McReynolds. Sergio O’Connion is here. I went to Jersey City today to meet her so she is going to pay us a visit after so long a time. We are all very well. If nothing prevents I will go up to the country Friday next so please write to me soon and direct to Tappan for two weeks about then to Nyak or I’ll write to you again when I intend to have the Farm when have you seen John & Jimy I wish the soldiers were allowed to write home again so I could hear from John again , but as long as I can hear from him when you write I’ll try to be contented for the present, but about those papers you expect. I mailed to you it is a mistake. I have not sent you any papers lately, but I think it was either Jamie Blawodt or Watson, as Jamie told me she had mailed a letter to you last Monday. Suzie says she has not forgotten you or the mutton you gave either get one night, she tells me to hurry up then she will name the form comes of the Bell hits and go to bed - write soon as you can to me when you se John tell him to write as soon as he can – so good night.

Remember me. Truly yours,
Sister Ettie H. Bogert