The Calvin Shedd Papers

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Transcripts of Letters

December 5, 1861 Camp Hale, New York	Shedd relates that he has received his Certificate of Enlistment and describes the drilling and other activities at camp. He feels the regiment looks splendid on parade and discusses rumors about their future assignments.
February 9, 1862 New York City	The regiment is due to leave New York on board two ships. The health of the regiment is suffering and Shedd relates that they all feel anxious to get out of the barracks.
March 2, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd writes this letter on board the Tycoon as the ship anchors off the Florida coast. He describes the voyage from New York to Fort Jefferson and the death and burial of two men.
March 6, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd relates concerns about the ship containing the other companies from the regiment. He describes various stations thus far in his service and then details life at the Fort. Shedd concludes with a separate note to his oldest daughter describing natural life on the island.
March 15, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Small pox has broken out among the regiment, but Shedd reassures his wife that his health is good. He closes with a note to his two younger daughters relating humorous events.
March 24, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Men are dying at a rate of one per day of small pox. Shedd is on sick leave but has not contracted the disease.
March 26, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd describes the routine of his days and the progress of the disease at camp. He provides advice to his wife about affairs at home.
April 2, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd writes an update on the deaths in camp due to small pox and answers questions about the farm at home. He describes the catching of a shark and laments the poor food quality at camp.
April 7, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Now back on guard duty, Shedd reports that his health has improved. He describes the demoralization of death in the army, "men are forgotten so quickly."
April 19, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd describes a trip to gather bird's eggs on a nearby island. He reacts to news of a battle on the Mississippi and describes in more detail the island and his life.
April 25, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Colonel Putnam reviews the troops at the garrison. Shedd details this visit and describes some of the other officers and their wives.
April 30, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd writes that the men are ravenous for news of the war. He describes an egging trip and the capture of a big turtle.
May 4, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Newspapers have finally reached the fort by mail and Shedd is happy for news but sad for the casualties. He discusses the plight of am officer attempting to resign after the death of his child. There is no sign of a pay day.
May 13, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd laments that he and his group are anxious to fight in the war. He details some events and less than appetizing food.
May 19, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	The weather has changed to very hot temperatures and Shedd describes the difficulty with drills. Shedd complains of homesickness but also tells that he passed the best examination in the company. Rumors have the regiment leaving the post soon.
May 25, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd and his regiment are involved in unloading guns and cartridges from a supply ship. He includes news about several friends.
June 1, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	This letter is written over several days as Shedd describes the heat, the company's difficulty with an officer, and his general homesickness. Several men have died of typhoid and sunstroke.
June 7, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	In this short letter Shedd describes the great heat, shipping activity around the island, and his concern over the spread of disease.
June 9, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd describes the great heat of the tropics in June; several men seem to have dropped dead from the heat. He describes a mishap during a gun drill that almost injured men and officers.
June 14, 1862 Fort Jefferson, Florida	Shedd writes his last letter from Fort Jefferson with hopes that he will see some action further north. Men are dying daily now and his fears for his health are great.
September 29, 1862 Fernandina, Florida	Shedd describes the trip from Beaufort to Fernandina. His health has not been good, but he is in charge of 50 men on board. He gives some details about Fernandina and finishes his letter with a description of his arrival in St. Augustine.
October 10, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	His health improving, Shedd returns to duty but is still affected by the weather and fatigue. He details purchases of clothing and the prices of food. The regiment was under arms a few evenings before when some riderless horses rode near their picket area.
October 12, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	In this lengthy letter Shedd wrote over a period of five days, he describes St. Augustine, the fort and its history, and some of the local flora. Shedd writes about the relations with the local citizens, both black and white, and comments on Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. He closes the letter with some advice to his wife about their house and his constant worries about money.
October 19, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd tells of the ponies they are issued and his riding exploits. He comments that there are no rebels around. The letter also describes St. Augustine and Shedd's views of how "slavedom" has affected the South.
November 11, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	In a short note, Shedd sends a check for $55 to his wife with instructions on how to cash it. He is glad to send money and advises her to live as comfortably as possible.
November 12, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd sends this hasty note by the Captain's clerk as the mail has already left. He asks his wife to send him several items from home and details the size and type of boots he wishes her to purchase for him.
November 25, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	The short letter is written on "Government Paper" which is a larger sheet than he usually obtains. He sends another check to his wife and cautions her that he does not know when they will be paid again. Shedd feels they may be ordered away from Florida soon as the regiment is being reinforced.
November 27, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd writes home on Thanksgiving wishing he could be with his family. He relates a story of an accident where a soldier is shot and not expected to live. In another tale about shooting, he tells how he was close to being shot while drilling the soldiers in target duty on a foggy morning.
December 5, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd reports that he is still on the sick list but hopes to be back on duty soon. He tells how happy they all are when a steamer arrives for the mail they receive means so much to them. Shedd turns philosophical as he comments on the fleeting nature of happiness in life. He worries over his wife's illness and cautions her and the children not to expose themselves to diphtheria.
December 6, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Still on the sick list, Shedd hopes to be on duty the next day. He also comments on a friend returning home. Shedd describes the difficulty of getting good food and asks again for some items that are too expensive to purchase in Florida. He closes with some comments about people at home and sends his love to his wife and children.
December 6, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	This letter was most likely misdated by Shedd, as he wrote the year as 1863. In the short note he writes that he is feeling fair, though is lonely and depressed. He wishes his family well and closes with his usual concern over pay.
December 11, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd is pleased to be back on duty and relates some details about new officer appointments and rebel soldiers coming in to the fort to take the oath of allegiance. He comments on Lincoln replacing General McClelland with General Burnside. A steamer approaches the fort but sails on, much to Shedd's disappointment.
December 14, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd relates the story of two men who deserted; one had been under arrest for forgery. He acknowledges receipt of several letters from his wife and cautions her to keep quiet about the amount of money he sends home. He is still unhappy with his boarding arrangements and may change to another mess.
December 21, 1862 St. Augustine, Florida	Several other soldiers have sent for their wives, but Shedd feels that his family would not be comfortable at the fort. He complains that he has had nothing decent to eat for a week and still wishes to change his mess arrangements. The chaplain is attempting to enlist some of the black citizens into the regiment. Shedd asks his wife for news about soldiers from Enfield.
January 1, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd wishes his family a Happy New Year and details his feelings about the war and the state of the country. He comments that there are no fond feelings for the North in the South. He asks his wife to ask the opinion of gentlemen in the North and write if they agree with his sentiment. Shedd is on the sick list again and is feeling lonely for those at home.
January 4, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd writes that the regiment may move soon. He cautions his wife to be prudent with purchases as it is uncertain when he will be paid again. Shedd closes with descriptions of the foods available in the south.
January 15, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Illness, death, and discharge have affected the regiment so much, that Shedd says they are now barely a squad. He reports that the rebels are now hanging Negro men to discourage others from joining the Union force. Shedd tells of a small skirmish with some local rebels and finishes with a description of the weather and the produce growing in the area.
January 25, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd again complains about his health, but reports he is still on duty. He has changed his boarding arrangements and tells his wife how badly he wishes to see her and that he would be overcome with homesickness if he didn't sink everything into his duty to his country.
January 31, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In this lengthy letter, Shedd is in better spirits as he has received six letters from home. He revels in the new orders that send the families of the rebel soldiers to Hilton Head by steamer. He describes their leaving and comments that he feels badly for the children but has no pity for the women who treat the Union soldiers with great spite. Shedd answers his wife's inquiries about his promotion saying that it is unlikely. He closes his letter with contemplation about their leaving Enfield when and if he returns from the war.
February 4, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd reports receiving a box sent from home with boots, shoes and other needed items. He comments on the fine workmanship of the footwear and how much the items sent remind him of home. He discusses the reinforcements at Hilton Head and predicts that Charleston may go the way of Richmond.
February 8, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd again comments on the comfort he has received from the box sent from home. Some feel that the fort will be attacked now that the rebel families are gone. Shedd laments that they hear more rumors than news about the war. He closes the letter with comments about events at home.
February 13, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In a long letter, Shedd comments on his patriotism and the current state of the war. He is very pleased with his new "glass" and hopes to spot some rebels with it. He anxiously awaits the return of the sutler, as he has ordered a new hat and the colonel has commented on his lack of a full uniform. Shedd reports that he and others are dissatisfied with their appearance, equipment, and poor drilling.
February 17, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd relates the story of the murder of a Rebel deserter who left the fort to visit his family. He concludes this short letter saying that his health is good but he tires easily.
February 21, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd is very disturbed to hear of the illness of his wife. He comments on some matters at home, including the possible foreclosure on their property. His health is better but he dreads the southern "10 months of summer."
February 22, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In a short note, Shedd relates a humorous story about his friend Sam and a run in with the colonel about the quality of pork. He discusses more rumors and his usual money concerns.
February 26, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd disputes the "grumblings" of some that the Negroes are being treated better than the whites. He argues that they are much worse off and get no breaks at all. Those complaining are just homesick and lacking of any stamina or sincerity. He closes by saying that the letters from home and his family's good spirits are helping to keep him alive and well.
March 11, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd writes home in anguish upon hearing that his wife is too ill to write. Shedd himself has been sick, but is back on his feet. He gives some advice on the threatened foreclosure of their property at home. He tells his wife to do as she sees best and not to worry; he is helpless because there is no money to send.
March 11, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In a lengthy letter, Shedd relates the story of a trap laid to capture a company out on picket. The rebel attack failed but the company soldiers disbanded and fled in fear. That same day, three other companies went out on patrol and several soldiers were captured, reportedly without a fight. Shedd asks his wife not to broadcast her knowledge of these affairs as the officers are worried about the image of the regiment.
March 13, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In a short, lighthearted letter, Shedd describes falling off of a pony and spraining his hand. He asks for details of the elections in Enfield.
March 14, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd acknowledges receipt of letters from home and hopes the money he has sent will arrive safely. He feels that something is up, as a brigade has entered Jacksonville. Shedd complains bitterly about the flea problem and in a humorous note he answers his oldest daughter's complaints about her siblings saying that he will have to throw them in the "Guard-house."
March 26, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd has been on a fatigue party and will have to stand picket duty for 24 hours. He feels the regiment may stay as the officers are planting a garden. Two men from Company G deserted but were caught. He expresses his pain over the death of an acquaintance at home.
April 2, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Five companies have left the fort after a storm delayed travel plans. Colonel Abbott fears attack though there seem to be few rebels in the area. Shedd comments on New Hampshire politics and on letters he has received from his daughters.
April 14, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd laments the "fizzle" at Charleston and wonders if it were some kind of cover up for another operation. He describes the produce growing in the area and comments that he is almost convinced to come and live where so much can be grown.
April 17, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	Shedd relates that there is no news -- garrison life is quite boring. He almost wishes some rebels would come and give them a scare. He tells of some that have traded and sold items for high value in Confederate dollars.
April 26, 1863 St. Augustine, Florida	In this short note, Shedd says that some soldiers have been ordered to Charleston, but fear of a rebel attack kept them from leaving. The paymaster is expected soon and Shedd asks his wife to let him know if they are in need of anything.
undated fragment St. Augustine, Florida	In this undated fragment of a letter, Shedd consoles his wife about the prospect of having her teeth out and gives some advice about other domestic problems at home. He comments about an expedition involving Colonel Putnam and expresses his sorrow at the illness and death of several family members of other officers.
October 28, 1863 Concord, New Hampshire	Surgeon A. H. Robinson reports that he has examined Calvin Shedd and finds him unfit for duty. He recommends Shedd's application for leave of absence and states that Shedd should not resume duty in less than twenty days.
November 16, 1863 Enfield, New Hampshire	U.S. Assistant Surgeon Alfred R. Bullard reports that Calvin Shedd has applied to him for a certificate for a leave of absence. He certifies that he finds Shedd unfit for duty or travel for at least a period of twenty days.
December 7, 1863 Enfield, New Hampshire	Alfred R. Bullard M.D. again reports that Calvin Shedd has applied to him for a certificate for a leave of absence. He certifies that he finds Shedd unfit for duty or travel for at least a period of twenty days.
December 22, 1863 Concord, New Hampshire	Surgeon William Henry Thayer reports that Calvin Shedd has applied to him for a certificate for discharge from the service. Thayer certifies that he has examined Shedd and certificates from other surgeons and finds that Shedd has been unable to perform his military duties for the last five months. The illness Shedd contracted was contracted in the line of duty at Morris Island, South Carolina. Thayer concludes that in his opinion Shedd will not be able to return to active duty in a period less than four or five months.
December 22, 1863 Concord, New Hampshire	Shedd sends this cover letter to accompany Surgeon Thayer's medical certificate. He writes that he regretfully must resign from his duties as 2nd Lieutenant of Company A as his health prevents him from being of service to his country.
December 28, 1863 Enfield, New Hampshire	Alfred R. Bullard M.D. again reports that Calvin Shedd has applied to him for a certificate for a leave of absence. He certifies that he finds Shedd unfit for duty or travel for at least a period of twenty days.
January 13, 1864 Enfield, New Hampshire	Shedd sends a copy of Special Order No. 580 to the paymaster in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and requests a certificate of the time of his last payment.
January 13, 1864 Enfield, New Hampshire	Shedd sends a copy of Special Order No. 580 (discharge from the War Department) to the Chief paymaster in Hilton Head, South Carolina. A second section dated January 24th from Hilton Head, South Carolina, summarizes Shedd's service record and hospitalizations.
January 23, 1864 Ordnance Office, War Department, Washington	George T. Balch, Captain of Ordnance, acknowledges receipt of Shedd's letter of January 13th. He states that Shedd's request for a certificate cannot be fulfilled until Shedd's Company letter is received.
March 21, 1864 Ordnance Office, War Department, Washington	George T. Balch, Captain of Ordnance, acknowledges receipt of Shedd's letter of resignation from his commission as lieutenant. Before he can comply with Shedd's request for a certificate of non-indebtedness, it will be necessary for the commanding officer of Shedd's company to complete Form No. 47.
April 2, 1864 Dover, New Hampshire	Captain Jonathan F. Cotton answers Shedd's request and sends him the necessary papers. He mentions that he was in Concord and tried to see Shedd there.
January 8, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd acknowledges receipt of a letter from his wife and is glad to hear of her improved health. He tells her about the long hours he is working and about some of the carpentry projects he is involved in. Shedd mentions purchasing several government bonds and comments on the income he hopes they will bring. He also mentions his hope of continued carpentry work the next summer.
April 23, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd writes an agonized letter to his wife about the news of her illness. She has been diagnosed with "cancerous tumors," a malady that also affected her mother. Shedd laments about the future for himself and their children, but also consoles her and praises her for being so calm. Shedd also discusses the assassination of President Lincoln and comments on the weather in Waverly.
April 25, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd responds to the good news that his wife is in better health and the doctors think they can help her condition. He advises her to plant the garden if she is able, though it will not pay to hire out work. He sends no news about himself and concludes with some advice for a friend who is considering joining him for work.
May 4, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	In a short note, Shedd acknowledges the news that his wife's health is improving. He complains of pain in his back and hip and tells her that he is working hard.
May 7, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd relates that several families are planning to move on to the mining areas of Idaho and comments that it seems to be characteristic of the western population to move often. The weather has been very dry and the crops were not planted in time.
June 7, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd congratulates his wife on her complete recovery, but complains that he is losing weight and getting weak. The weather continues very dry and the crops are suffering for lack of water. Shedd sends home twenty dollars and promises more soon.
June 13, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd acknowledges receipt of a letter from his wife and sends twenty dollars home to her. He mentions the extremely dry weather and the poor crop situation. Shedd comments on Generals Grant and Sherman and some discussion of events in Chicago.
June 20, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd describes a great storm that finally brings some rain to the prairie. He discusses the agriculture in Waverly and the price of various foods. Shedd answers his wife's question about moving to South Reading by asking her where the extra money would come from.
June 27, 1865 Waverly, Iowa	Shedd writes a short note acknowledging receipt of a letter from his wife and briefly describing the July 4 celebrations planned in Waverly. He encloses a paid tax receipt and tells his wife to show it to whoever needs to see it.
January, 1867 Boston, Massachusetts	Shedd writes that he has purchased a ticket to Chicago by way of New York, Pittsburgh, and Fort Wayne. He mentions visiting his father and sends an insurance policy with instructions of what to do in case of his death. Shedd relates that he is sorry to be leaving home so soon, but since is health is good, he needs to be at work.
February 21, 1867 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd expresses his sorrow upon hearing that his family at home is not well. He writes of his problems with work this month; his tools did not arrive on time, and the work is very dirty and tiring. He reports on the weather and the cost of living in Bloomington.
March 14, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd writes that his health is good, but the work he is doing is very hard and dirty. He comments on the food he is eating and sends a request from a fellow worker to an acquaintance at home. Shedd describes the town and his lodging arrangements and writes that he hopes things will go well there for him.
March 16, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	In a short note, Shedd sends home some money, complaining about the amount of pay he is receiving.
March 28, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd acknowledges letters from home and describes the work he is doing. He comments how he passed his birthday and describes the weather. He complains that the money he is making is not much better than he could make at home and says he may move on to Chicago or into Michigan.
March 31, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Work continues the same for Shedd and he comments that he is content for the time to remain where he is. He reports that there are more workers than work and he may have to move on for a good job in the summer. Shedd discusses railroad work and concludes it is not for him. He closes his letter with a description of the mud in Bloomington and admonishes his family not to sleep three in a bed.
April 5, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd reports that he is well and has not lost any work time lately. He reports that he may look to move on soon, perhaps to Chicago or St. Louis. The mud in town has dried up some and the price of food is lower. Shedd laments that though he is now good at his work, he must leave it soon for better pay.
April 10, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd writes home that he is glad the family is taking in boarders to help with support. Things are brighter where he is, but he feels that soon there will not be enough work to support him. He talks of moving on to Missouri or Kansas. He contemplates looking for a good place to settle down and live instead of constantly searching for the best wages. He closes the letter with some comments about affairs at home.
April 18, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd comments on two acquaintances who came west looking for work. They should have taken better heed of his warnings that work is very scarce now. Shedd thanks his daughter for the ornament she sent him to help with his collar, though it is not working as expected. He reports again that it seems that the best future may be in Missouri or Kansas.
May 2, 1869 Bloomington, Indiana	Shedd writes as he is packing his trunk to move on to Kansas City. He will stop first in St. Louis and remain there if the prospects are good, otherwise he will continue to Kansas.