Letter, Alex Spence to father
Object number1998.044.36
DateJuly 18, 1862
Mediumpaper and pencil
Dimensions9 5/8 x 7 7/8 in. (24.4 x 20 cm)
Credit LineOld State House Museum collection
Terms
Born in 1838 in Alabama, Alexander Spence served in Co. B of the 1 Arkansas Infantry (Colquitt's). Company B was known as the Clark County Volunteers. He enlisted in the Confederate Army in Little Rock on May 8, 1861. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant in April 1, 1862. Five days later he was wounded at Shiloh. He was promoted twice more, to 1st Lieutenant and then rising to the rank of Captain. Alex was killed at the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. He is buried at Rose Hill Cemetery in Arkadelphia next to his brother, Tom, who also served and was killed during the war.
Monticello, Ark.
July 18th 1862
Dear Pa,
We are this far safe en route to the army. Are getting along very well. The old gray stands it fine. There will be no difficulty I think in crossing the "river" as we meet up with someone every day that has just crossed. It is only 40 miles from this place to the landing and we shall probably cross tonight. Yesterday we met up with a gentleman just from our regiment who tells us the regiment left Tupelo last Tuesday was a week for Chattanooga, Tenn. We shall have to go by way of Mobile & up through Georgia to get their [sic]. I do not know whether I will get to see Col. Flanagan's Regt or not, shall go to see them if they are (?) when near & I can hear of them. The whole army of Tupelo have left for various places.
We still hear of the Richmond (?). There is no doubt but what we have whipped them badly but McClellan having surrended [sic] his whole army is all stuff.
If I have another chance, I shall write you again.
Tell all the folks that want to write to their friends east of the Miss. To send by way of Monticello Ark. As their [sic] is an agent here making arrangements to (?) the mails across the river. You all write and direct your letters to Chattanooga, Tenn.
I am in hopes all are well. My love to all.
Your son,
Alex E. Spence
Status
Not on view
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