This travel-stained letter is from likely a friend or relative of the officer it is addressed to. As I found researching another civil war cover and recipient, it might also be correspondence between the officer and some other person regarding where the officer will settle after their Civil War service has ended.
I make this to be a Lieutenant in the 79th Ohio Infantry. While this infantry did not fight in the battle of Chattanooga, they may have passed through there on their way home.
Because it is going to Chattanooga, it would have only gone there once the town had been liberated by the Union in November of 1863. This I believe this letter to be dated October 5, 1864.
Most of the (few surviving) men of the 79th Infantry were mustered out in June of 1865.
The name I make to be T E Smith. The last name might also by Smirtz.
I have searched the roster of the Ohio 79th but am unable to find this name.
re: Researching a Civil War Cover. - Assistance appreciated
Lars, thanks so much!
David,
Well, the poor thing was sitting in the 20 cent box. It was lonely and a bit abused. Most people see the 65 stamp and leave it be. He had been picked over and left behind by many others before me.
re: Researching a Civil War Cover. - Assistance appreciated
it's rare, Antonio, to see a cover to a federal soldier sent to an active area. There are tons to Washington DC and Fortress Monroe, but these are either garrison troops or convalescents. Our 79th Ohio was on active campaign with Sherman, in Slocum's Corps (formerly Hooker's), and the boys were moving with speed and purpose.
I, too, find most of my CW covers in the dollar box, likely from the same disdain for the workhorse 65.
David
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