Civil War Blog

Bowdoin Class of 1853

December 26, 1863

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West Point

Dear William,

I received your letter of the 18th inst. You asked me to write as soon as I got my box. The box got here today, it contained a turkey cake, apples, etc. also a dressing gown which fits me exactly and is a very nice one. Christmas we had a very good dinner of turkey, etc., at the Mess Hall.[…]

The standing for Nov. is made out. I came out in Philosophy 58, Chemistry 67, in Drawing I had no standing made out. I did not draw any for November.  I have not been well for a few months past. I was taken with a lame ankle, it swelled up and was very painful, there did not seem to be any cause for it. The Doctor called it the rheumatism. I went to the Hospital on 29th Oct. and was there little over three weeks. I was out about a week when I got worse and had to go back again, stayed there over a week, got better and came out for good 8th December. I have not done Military duty since but think I shall be able to return to duty in a few days.[…]

I was sorry you was not promoted to Major but perhaps there will be another chance soon. […] I should like to have you write as often as is convenient.

Malcolm McArthur to his brother, William McArthur [McArthur Family Papers]

September 29, 1863

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Augusta

Dear Sir

Having received intelligence that my son was wounded, Orlando Staples, I though it best to write to you thinking perhaps you would know all about it, as there is not any one of the privates that I know in his company.

I want you to write all that you know about him for I shall feel very anxious indeed. Tell me all, let it be good and bad for I want to know the worst, nothing but the whole truth will satisfy me. Please write as soon as possible and oblige your friend.

Sophia Staples to William McArthur [McArthur Family Papers]

August 30, 1863

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Office Prov. Marshal, Hilton Head, S.C.

Dear Mally: …

I am still on duty here as Provost Marshal far from the glories and dangers of the siege of Charleston.  Our regt was not [illeg. word] to go, there were so many vacancies in it.   Only one field officer for duty, the Col. being under arrest.  It was a great disappointment for us not to be allowed to participate in the only important service that has been or will be in the history of this Department. …

I have three companies here numbering about 270 men, and about the same number of prisoners of all sorts.

It is quite healthy here considering the latitude and everything, and if the yellow fever does not visit us we shall not lose many men.  Company “I” has lost but one man by disease since last fall, nearly a year ago.  I take some pride in stating this as I believe it is in part owing to the rigid enforcement of cleanly habits, attention to their kitchens, &c., &c. …

William McArthur to his brother, Malcolm McArthur [McArthur Family Papers]

June 8, 1863

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Head quarters 11. S. Forces

Hilton Head, S.C.

Capt. Wm. M. McArthur, Judge Advocate

Captain –

Upon looking over the Records I find that the charge against Sergt. R. Sulton, 1st S.C. Vols. were received and forwarded to you from this office June 2nd 1863. They must consequently be in your possesion.

Very Respectfully, Your Off. Servant , S.S. Stevens

S.S. Stevens to William McArthur [McArthur Family Papers]