This collection contains 43 letters. The letters date from Sept. 14,1862 to Feb. 23, 1923 and describe camp life, hospital life, medical care, travel, and small battles during the Civil War. Most of these letters are written by George S. Parsons to his parents or friends. Along with the letters, this collection contains ephemera, postcards, and receipts.
Collection Overview
George S. Parsons (1843-1927) was a lifelong resident of Gouverneur, NY who served in the 1st U. S. Volunteer Calvary from 1861-1862. After his service in this company, Mr. Parsons joined the 11th N. Y. Calvary as part of “Scott’s 900” and served from 1863-1865. He was injured during a training exercise sometime between July 12, 1863 and Aug. 26, 1863. Mr. Parson’s injury occurred when his horse was startled during a firing exercise and fell on top of him, damaging his back and hip. Mr. Parsons returned to duty mid-December 1863 and served until he was discharged in late May 1865 due to medical reasons. He later worked for the Johnstown Cheese Factory as a salesman.
John B. Johnson Jr., Editor and Co-Publisher of the Watertown Daily Times, gifted this collection to St. Lawrence University Libraries.