This collection consists of 62 original letters, most of which have typed transcripts. The letters date from 1862 through 1867. Julius, Marcus, or Matilda Crossman wrote the majority of the letters to one another. These letters discuss the state of camp life, how the soldiers are fairing, hopes for when the brothers plan on returning home, and the state of home life for Matilda.
Transcript of a letter from Julius Crossman to his wife while in Fairfax Hospital, March 1863.
Collection Overview
Julius and Marcus Crossman were residents of Pierrepont, NY during the outbreak of the Civil War. Both men enlisted on Aug. 29, 1862 into the 142nd Regiment of the New York State Volunteer Army. At the time Julius was married to his wife Matilda and had a son of about a year old named Eddy. Both brothers were stationed all over the state of Virginia during their duty, along with other men from Pierrepont. Julius Crossman died in April 1863 in Fairfax Seminary Hospital, Virginia, of Typhoid Fever. Marcus Crossman was eventually moved to David Island Hospital in New York City where he appears to have helped with situating incoming patients. He survived the war, married and had a large family.
Beulah Crossman White was a descendent of Julius and Marcus. She was born in 1921 in Canton and attended local schools. She married Frank White in 1946 and operated a flower shop in town for many years. Beulah passed away in 2011.