This page presents transcripts of letters written by Sergeant John Gross Helfrich during the American Civil War. To read more about his life, read his biographical sketch here.

1864

5 May 1864 

New York City
May 5th 1864

Dear Parents,

We arrived here save [sic] on Monday last, and I do not know, as to how long we are going to stop here, as there is at present no sign of getting transportation very soon.

The city is overflowed with strangers from all parts of the country, and it is almost impossible to get lodging in any of the “hotels” unless asked for, a day or two ahead. Places of amusement are crowded to their utmost capacity.

I have learned additional news of the late fight our boys of the “Nineteenth Corps” have been engaged: The casualties of our boys amounted to a great deal more than at first reported. The Lt. Col. Of our the [sic] Forty-seventh Regt. is missing, and supposed he is wounded or perhaps killed. Lt. Swoyer is dead. Our company as far a [sic] I have been able to learn has met with no casualties.

Must now close, Soon more, and also more definite.

Yours truly &c.

John G. Helfrich

To P. Helfrich & Family