183. Rush Kelley.
Civil War Letter Regarding African-American Soldiers.

Rush Kelley is the brother of D. O. Kelley. He also very diligently corresponded with his sister, Mary Daggett, and her husband in their home state of Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, Rush became ill with rheumatic fever shortly after his enlistment in the Union Army in August of 1864 and died in October of that same year. This September 8, 1864 letter is especially poignant in that Rush is still healthy, enjoying life, and trying to become a better Christian. He writes: "I enjoy the life very much. There was some hard fighting while I was at the Front I could see the shells passing through the air on their way to the Johnnies. Twas all excitement when they heard of the Victory at Atlanta. Every Thing is progressing favorably. We hear them saying the Niggers won't fight. Tis all a mistake. They have done deeds that would reflect on the oldest Veterans of our own Color the greatest honor. I saw just as hard fighting by the Niggers as could be by our own boys." For his brother's view of slavery/African-Americans, see Lot 183.

200/400     SOLD: $230.00

Condition: Very Good