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Preferred Citation

Donald MacDonald letter from "Minnees Hill," Virginia to parents, 1862 December 29, Special Collections Research Center, William & Mary Libraries.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Gift of Barranger & Company, Inc., 2019.

Biographical / Historical

Donald MacDonald was mustered into Company A of the 141st New York Infantry as a private August 25, 1862. He was promoted to corporal September 11, 1862. He was wounded in action July 20, 1864 at Peach Tree Creek, Ga and was subsequently promoted to first sergeant, August 1, 1864. He was discharged for disability September 19, 1865, at De Camp Hospital, David's Island, New York Harbor. Source: New York State Military Museum, dmna.ny.gov

Scope and Contents

Four page letter informing his parents of his well being and fine accommodations at his encampment. As part of the 141st New York Infantry regiment and stationed among its headquarters, MacDonald states that the shelter and food is as fine as anyone could enjoy or expect. He reports that he heard news of his regiment moving in to Washington, D.C. to protect the city for the winter months and delights at that potential. Lastly, he reports on packages sent to other soldiers and the high cost in postage required in order for them to arrive.

Subjects and Indexing Terms

• American Civil War, 1861-1865
• Barranger & Company, Inc.
• United States. Army. New York Infantry Regiment, 141st (1862-1865)