Captain S.G. Pryor letter to wife, dated 16 July 1863
Source: Brake Collection, USMHI- Carlisle;
Shepherd Green Pryor Collection, University of Georgia Library
File 7-GA1; Library, Gettysburg National Military Park
Darksville Va
July 16th 1863
My Dear Penelope:
I avail myself of the present opportunity to write you a few lines to let you know where we are. This place is about half way between Martinsburg (and) Burkesville. We crossed the Potomac at Williamsport on the 14th (;)now on Virginia side once more(.) Some of the soliders are rejoiced at the (thought) of being here again. It feels like they had got home again. I had rather have stayed if we cold have been successful. I hated the Idea of falling back again. I wanted them to feel the war more (and) have it at Their home(,) for the people where the army has been know something about it.
Dear I got two letters from you today, one of the 22nd of (June) the other the 4th of July. Little did you think on the 4th when you was writing that we were there engaged in the bloodest conflict at Gettyisburg Pa. That was an awful fight for Thursday. I dont think we gained anything there. They had the advantage in position the 2nd & 3rd day. The first we whiped them badly. Ewells Corps captured between seven & eight thousand. The first day we drove them two miles like chaff. They did not stand still until dark then they worked all knight and fortified on a small mound. (We) would have sacrificed two much to have taken it. Now we are here(.) I have no idea where we are going nor how long will stay at anyplace.
I was surprised to hear that the baby was so low but hope (he) had recover(ed). I am glad to hear that your prospects from crops is so good and stock in such a good condition. I dont think you can hardly make your (?) pay. You can get all the juice from your cow. Take care of your bags and when you go to saving your crops save all or a plenty of rough food such as (uninteligible) for your cattle and (some) for the horses. I (believe) I could get home once more and see you all and what you got there if I live. I think I (can) get home by near christmas. You ____ has gone on towards wincester(sic). He is doing finely also Darly. ... I cant write more now. My love to all.
I am yours truley
S.G. Pryor
Capt. Shepard G. Pryor
Co. A, 12th Georgia Inf.
(transcribed by Clarence W. Hollowell, Jr., May 7,1998. 281/ 1,193)