Private William Smith enlisted in the Thirty-eighth Regiment, Mississippi Infantry, of the Confederate Army on March 25, 1862. Smith and his wife, Jane, apparently resided in Gainesville, Hancock County, Mississippi. While serving in the Thirty-eighth Regiment, Smith suffered from gastrointestinal problems. In September of 1862, Smith deserted his regiment at Baldwin, Mississippi, and by December of that same year, he was reported as being absent without leave.

This letter was written by Confederate private William Smith on April 17, 1862, while he was stationed in Grenada, Mississippi, the place where his regiment was mustered in earlier in the month. The letter details particular health ailments suffered by Smith and fellow soldiers, including friends Elias Miller and Levy (no other name given). Commentary on Smith’s surroundings and discussions of his love of country are also included. A typewritten transcription of the letter is available.

1. Letter. 1862. 0.10 cubic ft.