A Guide to the Joseph J. Baker Correspondence, 1863-1864 Ms.2011.046
A Collection in Special Collections
Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech
Special Collections and University Archives, University Libraries (0434)560 Drillfield Drive
Newman Library, Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
Business Number: 540-231-6308
specref@vt.edu
URL: http://spec.lib.vt.edu
Jonathan Grunert
Administrative Information
Use Restrictions
Permission to publish material from Joseph J. Baker Correspondence must be obtained from Special Collections, Virginia Tech.
Access Restrictions
Collection is open for research.
Preferred Citation
Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: Joseph J. Baker Correspondence, Ms2011-046, Special Collections, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.
Acquisition Information
These items were purchased by Special Collections in April 2011.
Processing Information
The processing, arrangement, and description of the Joseph J. Baker Correspondence was completed in May 2011.
Biographical Information
Joseph J. Baker was born about 1841 in Wythe County, Virginia. He enlisted with Company K, 54th Regiment, Virginia Infantry, in April 1862. In October 1863, he was promoted to Corporal. Shortly after one of the letters in this collection was written in June 1864, Baker was taken prisoner outside Marietta, Georgia. He was released from Camp Morton, Indiana, in June 1865, and returned to Wythe County. Some time between 1865 and 1871, he married and he and his wife, Sarah, had at least four daughters. Baker died in 1931.
Scope and Content
This collection consists of letters from Confederate soldier Joseph H. Baker of the 54th Regiment Virginia Infantry, dated October 2, 1863, and June 15, 1864. In addition to battle descriptions (Chickamauga and Marietta, Georgia), including estimates of wounded, killed, and captured soldiers, Baker writes of food resources and sends sentiments to his family.
Collection includes transcription.
Arrangement
Collection is arranged chronologically.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
- Atlanta Campaign, 1864
- Chickamauga, Battle of, Ga., 1863
- Civil War
- Local/Regional History and Appalachian South
- Polk, Leonidas, 1806-1864
- United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865
Significant Persons Associated With the Collection
- Baker, Joseph J., abt.1841-1931 (54th Regiment, Virginia Infantry)
- Polk, Leonidas, 1806-1864