Charles Roberts U.S. Civil War letters

Collection

Identifier: MS 0377

Staff Only

Finding aid note: Stored onsite at the Woodson Research Center.

Scope and Contents

Roberts’ letters are primarily written to his mother and father (Mr. and Mrs. D.G. Richmond, Glen Falls, Warren Co., New York); several are addressed to his sister, Helen. He also addresses his brother, Amos.

The letters cover a wide range of emotions, from the anticipation of going to battle, to resentment of the war, and finally to anticipation of returning home. Several of the war’s events and battles are mentioned in the letters: McClellan’s dismissal and the subsequent dissatisfaction of his troops; a visit by President and Mrs. Lincoln; the taking of Confederate prisoners; and the cannonade salute in honor of General Sheridan’s victory.

Dates

Creation: 1862 - 1864

Creator

Roberts, Charles (Author, Person)

Access Restrictions

This material is open for research.

Conditions Governing Access

Stored onsite at the Woodson Research Center.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission to publish material from the Roberts letters must be obtained from the Woodson Research Center, Fondren Library.

Biographical / Historical

Charles Roberts served in the Union Army during the Civil War. A New York State Volunteer, he belonged to the 93rd Regiment. He served in the Army of the Potomac from 1862-64 under McClellan and Hooker and was also in the Armies operating against Richmond. Roberts’ service ended December 5, 1864. In these letters, Roberts mainly addresses his family members: father David G. Roberts, mother Martha Ann Clark Roberts, sister Helen Roberts, and brother Amos Roberts. Although Roberts had a number of brothers and sisters, the above names are the ones to whom some of these letters were addressed.

Extent

0.25 Linear Feet (1 folder)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

A collection of letters written by Charles Roberts to his family during his years of service in the Union Army of the U.S. Civil War. The letters cover a wide range of emotions and activities, including his regiment’s movements, his career in the army, and his personal opinions regarding the war.