Introduction
Union Soldier, Ellis Hamilton, Writes Home to Family in Camden, NJ
Ellis Hamilton, of Camden New Jersey, served in the 15th Regiment New Jersey Volunteers. He entered in 1862, was made a Captain in November 1863, and died on May 16, 1864 as a result of a gun shot while fighting in the Battle of the Wilderness. Ellis Hamilton became Captain at the young age of seventeen. He was nineteen years and seven months when he died. During his service in the Union Army, he wrote many letters home. These letters are primary source documents that include descriptions of army life, battles and their horrors, perceptions of Stonewall Jackson, and what it means to be a moral young man.
Letters
Image
- Perceptions of Stonewall Jackson - September 8, 1862
Ellis writes to his grandmother and explains his daily jobs and views of the "old villain" Stonewall Jackson. - Fredericksburg: Horrors of War - December 14, 1862
Ellis writes to his father and depicts the horrors of a skirmish near Fredericksburg, Virginia. - Gettysburg: Horrors of War - July 9, 1863
Ellis writes to his mother and graphically describes his views of the Battle of Gettysburg, Pickett's Charge, and battle carnage. - A Moral Young Man in the 1860s - August 22, 1863
Ellis writes to his Aunt. He describes his responsibilities as a Captain and explores what it means to be a moral young man. - Hamilton's Last Letter Home - May 13, 1864
Ellis writes his last letter home to his father. His letter reassures his father of his return home. - Hamilton's Last Thoughts and Words As Recorded by His Aunt Fanny - May 13, 1864
Ellis Hamilton's Aunt Fanny writes a detailed account of Ellis' last feelings, hopes, and words.