Tag Archives: Camp Life

gamblers unanonymous

Posted on November 7, 2013 by SUMPTER

150 years before New Yorkers voted for a constitutional amendment that allows as many as seven non-Indian casinos in the state, the Provost Marshal of the Army of the Potomac was actually trying to discourage gambling among his men (the … Continue reading →

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“torch-light procession”; layin’ a keel

Posted on October 25, 2011 by SUMPTER

In Lieu of Radway’s Ready Relief? Given the Radway Company’s strong Union stance in yesterday’s post I doubt it is sending any of its wondrous elixir to Confederate soldiers. Here’s a story about a substitute in one Rebel camp. From … Continue reading →

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Fort Ellsworth: Death and (Un)Discipline

Posted on August 3, 2011 by SUMPTER

From The New-York Times August 3, 1861: REPORTS FROM ALEXANDRIA. ALEXANDRIA, Friday, Aug. 2. The execution of private WM. MURRAY, of Company F, Second New-Hampshire Regiment, for the murder of MARY BUTLER, on Saturday last, took place this afternoon. In … Continue reading →

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Papers, Rock, Scissored

Posted on July 30, 2011 by SUMPTER

We found out a couple days ago that the 19th NY Volunteer Infantry had arrived in Pleasant Valley, Maryland. General Nathaniel P. Banks, having taken command of Robert Patterson’s Union army, decided to move it north of the Potomac River. … Continue reading →

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Cat Stevens Could Relate

Posted on June 28, 2011 by SUMPTER

A hot day in June. What a great time to get out of your tent and walk to the shade and relative coolness of a peaceful woods in the District of Columbia (?) and write a long letter home. From … Continue reading →

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No Saloons In Sight

Posted on June 18, 2011 by SUMPTER

Sorry About That, Allen From Cayuga In The Field by Henry Hall and James Hall: June 18th [1861], a very important event occured. The Pay Master arrived to pay off the men. Privates received $5.50 a piece. Nothing creates more … Continue reading →

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