Beschreibung:

Lot of 38 letters to George Dunham. Most are addressed Care of J.E. Parsons, Act. Ass't Surgeon, USS Cayuga, Western Gulf Blockading Squadron. 33 letters are from W.H. (Billy), a brother who seems to be close to George in age. There are 3 from Eddie, a younger brother. One is from Adella, and one from John Parsons, a cousin. This could be the Asst. Surgeon on the ship, since that letter is the one from 1866. The letters date primarily from Nov. 23, 1863 to June 12, 1865, with one from 1866 and one from 1862. Most include covers, and the recipient has dated the end of the envelope when it was written and when received. Most of the news is homefront. Billy and George exchange a number of price lists, since both seem to be or were merchants in civilian life. One can guess that news getting to ships was a bit slow. On Feb. 2, 1865, Billy writes: "No news of importance except that Rebel Peace Commissioners are in Washington trying to make peace terms. They have just arrived so that no news is given of their doings. Tis not expected that Lincoln will compromise with rebels at this late day. So nothing is looked for as towards peace except but by fighting it out. The Amendment to the Constitution abolishing slavery throughout the U.s. has passed and been signed by the President. The bells were rung this forenoon for an hour all over the state. Flags were hoisted, salutes fired and great rejoicing everywhere." Condition: Most very good, having been protected by covers.