Centre County Library and Historical Museum - Keller Letters

Daniel received word from the Provost Marshall General's office that his desire for a discharge from the army to finish his education cannot be granted. As an invalid soldier Daniel can still be of service at garrisons or hospitals in keeping an 'able-bodied man' in the field thus 'available in crushing the rebellion'. Daniel's service is just as important.

The dampness and cold are causing pain from his war wound but Daniel notes that he is better off than others. Daniel has 18 months more to serve in order to get his Certificate of Conduct from the Invalid Corps. Daniel got one while in the 148th PA Volunteer Infantry. The army will not give him an honorable discharge before then. Daniel therefore will serve out his term 'like a man and a soldier and to leave a record that I (he) shall never be ashamed to refer to'. He is sending along his answers to problems that Sallie gave him involving grammar and arithmetic.

Boyd writes that he was struck by a canister shot that was nearly spent. It did not penetrate the flesh but it is 'swelled up and sore'. Others in his company were wounded. Boyd told his wife, Ada, 'don't be afraid or anxious'. Boyd noted that 'Providence' took care of him. Boyd was at headquarters and could not get to the front lines due to the 'enemy's sharpshooters'. Boyd reported that they (Union army) captured guns and nearly a thousand prisoners and noted that they (Union army) were nearly at the point that they were at 2 years ago. Boyd mentions that 'Cold Harbor' is the name of an old tavern.

Louisa eloquently apologizes for not writing back for almost a year. Louisa stated that she wanted to visit in person instead but 'color in my limbs' to her, her daughter's convulsions and fever, and her little girl's whooping cough prevented it. Louisa's daughter, Lizzie, truly misses Ellie.

Louisa thanked Addie for copying the manuscript. Louisa acknowledged Addie's good penmanship saying she writes like 'copperplate'. Louisa congratulated Addie for being a mother, and provided her thoughts of a mother.

Louisa wrote about missing their mother and provided a quote (in German) that Louisa attributed to their mother. Louisa stated that she is dejected and distressed because of family trouble, health and temperament. Louisa wants to see Margaretta badly.

Benjamin writes that Chambersburg, PA is in ruins after elements of the Confederate army set the town on fire. Benjamin writes that 'every house down on both sides of 7 squares is gone' including his own home. His family is moving to a small home on a lot he owns. Gov. Curtin visited on Aug. 2, 1864. Benjamin notes Gov. Curtin said that 'it looks dark for our Country'. Benjamin states that some rebel soldiers would not start fires and even helped people with their belongings; some rebel soldiers felt that the burning was 'outrageous & wicked'.

Daniel tried to get work for someone but was not successful. Daniel mentioned that two Centre County men 'showed their courage well by sneaking off to Canada' and therefore there will be 'two votes less against "Father Abraham"'. General McClellan is losing support from his men.

Ada does not stay at places for any length of time due to Boyd's regiment movements. Ada misses her family. Boyd and Ada may get home for the holidays but very uncertain.

Susan just heard the 'sad, sad news' of the assassination of Lincoln, 'our President and second Father of our Country'. The Illinois towns of Warren and Nora were draped with black in mourning. All the stores were closed. A woman who praised Lincoln's death was asked to leave Warren and then from Nora. Susan stopped talking to a gentleman because he was a Copperhead who 'wished Old Abe and all his Cabinet were hung'. Also wrote about the price of labor and goods.