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Civil War Union Letters Home 19th Mass Vols - A pair of letters written by Union soldier, George H. Patch, 19th Mass. Infantry. The unit fought in the Army of the Potomac 1861 to 1865 and earned Note at Ball's Bluff, The Seven Days Battle, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg (at the Stone wall which repulsed Pickett's Charge), Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Petersburg and Appomattox, losing 294 men. 1) First letter: Pickets post #22 dated January 30th 1862 five and a half pages in ink to parents with imprinted cover (soldier letter; 19th Mass. Vols. (3-cent rose stamp, Rockville, MD. February 1st postmark. “I myself do not believe the war will be over in six months but some do. There was a report prevalent around here that the Rebels were driven out of Manassas, and that the war would be over in 30 days but that like all other reports has blown over. Privates can't get furloughs. McClellan is expected to make an advance.” More interesting content about slaves, their officers, the shoddy new uniforms, and how privates are treated like dogs, very newsy letter. 2) Second letter: foul mouth Virginia dated March 12th 18633 pages ink with cover, C. D. S. March 15th Washington DC. Due 3, I. D. on cover w/regiment and signed by adjt. to father and mother. “There is considerable excitement this morning originating from the report that the rebels had congregated quite a force opposite United States Ford. It is supposed with intention of crossing. I guess that if they do they will go back lively. You can bet that Joe Hooker has got his eyes open for them. Expect to hear of a move in the Army of the Potomac and when it does move it will do something. Even now we are all ready to move in light marching order. In the words of Patrick Henry they cry peace.. peace.. but there is no peace. This war must be carried on until either side or the other side is beaten. Colonel Hincks is promoted to Brig. Gen… he will command this brigade.. he is a worthy officer and a brave man. We had a grand review by Major General Hooker.” This letter was written weeks before the battle of Chancellorsville.