William Gillis letter

United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865.

Letter from William Gillis of Astoria, NY to the wife of Charles A. Gorton informing of the death of her husband while both were held as prisoners of war at Salisbury, NC.

Records of the RI Adjutant General – Reports of Activity, Alterations, Casualties & Discharged, 2nd Rhode Island Cavalry – Box 314

Rhode Island State Archives

1865 March 21

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eng

Astoria Long Island
New York
March 21, 1865
Madam
It is with feelings of
regret that I have to announce
to you the death of your husband
who was a 1st Sergt. In the 4th
Rhode Island Inf. And captured in
July he was a Comrade of mine
while in prison, and their being none
of his Regt. Present where he died
I think it my duty to let you know
so that you may not be expecting to
see those that you can never see
in this world. I visited him in Hospl.
the day before he died and he had
give up all hope of recovery and then
he began to speak of his family
which he said he would like to behold
once more but alas he died on
the following day the 22 of Nov.
last. I have no more to say but hope
this will find you and family enjoying
good health as it leave me enjoying
that blessing
I have the honor to be
Your husband comrade
Wm. Gillis
Astoria, L. Island
N. York

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