July 2nd, 1863

Dear Elizabeth,

We are still at the battle of Gettysburg and the South won’t give in. It is sad to say that by now, there are possibly around 20,000 men that are either injured or dead. I don’t know how much longer we can last. There is blood everywhere and I can’t bear to see so many soldiers from the Union die. A few hours ago, my best friend Jonah, was shot with a rifle in his right leg. I had to perform surgery so that he could last a little longer until they took him to the medic. I am terrified that I may lose him and many more from infections that are caused from the lack of proper medical care. 

I can’t wait to come back home and see you and our daughter, Ellen. Looking at the photo of all of us together, enjoying coffee around the fire, is the only thing that keeps me alive. Now more than ever, I want to win this war. Losing is my biggest fear. I will become miserable if, after putting all of our souls and blood into this war, it is all for nothing. If we win this war, we will bring slavery to it’s end. It is heartbreaking that many black people were born as slaves without the option of being free. This war will prove the Confederates’s stance on slavery wrong, which should make slavery history. I just pray that I will return back home safe and with victory on our side. 

Always have in mind that I miss you and Ellen with all my heart. I love you both and I want you to know that I’m doing this to give a brighter future to our daughter. I hope that you can write to me back soon. I hope you are well and I will see you when this tragic story ends.

Love, 

Your husband Caleb