Tools of War
From a Seneca County, New York newspaper in 1863:
From the 1st Veteran Cavalry.
CAMP STONEMAN, D.C.,
Nov. 21st, 1863.
FRIEND STOWELL: – Although nothing extraordinary has transpired to disturb the even tenor of our camp-life during the two or three weeks past, yet several incidents have occurred that may be of interest to our friends at home. Presentations have been the order of the day, and not long since Capt. Brett was the recipient of of a very fine sabre, sash and belt from the members of Co. K. The presentation was made by the 1st Lieutenant in behalf of the Company. Capt. Brett responded in an appropriate manner, and the whole affair passed off “in due form.”
In true soldier style, the boys have been hard at work digging cellars, logging up their tents, and preparing for the winter; planting cedars, pines and firs in the company streets, and otherwise decorating the camp, until now it looks like a forest of evergreens, interspersed here and there with hung wreaths and immense triumphal arches, presenting a beautiful appearance, and adding much to the comfort of the inhabitants of our cotton city. It is proverbial how invariably our soldiers set about preparing for a permanent abiding place, although morally certain that a few days will find them on the march again. No sooner is the camp located than axes and shovels are in demand, and hundreds of busy hands are immediately, as a novice would think, preparing to settle down for a term of enlistment. But to-morrow they are off again. No matter, the experience will be repeated; and so they go.
The health of the company has generally been very good. Charley Wisewell has had a slight turn of camp fever, but is out again “right side up.” Our Regimental Hospital Steward, Columbus R. Deppen, is winning golden opinions by his untiring fidelity to the duties of his office, and the kindness with which he cares for those under his charge. All speak well of him, and the sick appreciate his good offices in their behalf, I assure you.
“untiring fidelity”
Capt. Brett has been sitting upon a Regimental Court martial for some time past and Lieut. Guion has been in command of the company, but now he is detailed as Judge Advocate of the Court, and the command devolves upon Lieut. Bacon.
Yesterday quite an addition was made to the regiment, consisting principally of those who forgot to come on when we left Geneva, among them were seven for Co. K, leaving only two more to be “accounted for.”
Since I wrote you last the U.S. Paymaster has given us a call and paid the advance upon the U.S. Bounty, from which our company has forwarded home over $2500, making in all the handsome amount of nearly $7000 sent to those “we left behind us.”
SENECA
“Unidentified soldier in Union cavalry uniform, on horse, with cavalry saber, in front of encampment with winter chimneys” (Library of Congress)
