John Potter Collection

Letter from John S. Potter to his uncle, E. A. Brownell, dated February 20, 1863. In the letter, John finds it hard to write a letter due to his monotonous soldier life. He talks about deserted soldiers and about famous individuals from Lexington, Kentucky. He mentions that General Quincey Adams Filmore is in command of the department of Central Kentucky and his lack of trust in him. He ends his letter by describing life in Camp Ella Bishop.

Letter from John S. Potter to his father dated December 14, 1862. In the letter, John describes the route of a care package he received from his family and cites other food he woudl like sent. He describes how he buried a fellow soldier after being extremely sick and goes into great detail about the funeral service.

Letter from John S. Potter to his brother, Henry Potter, dated September 14, 1862. In the letter, John vivdly describes his regiments journey to meet up with the 10th Michigan Infantry on an island on the Tennessee River near Bridgeport, Alabama. He mentions how the Confederate troops have destroyed everything in the area, but provide a very descriptive image of the region. He also updates his brother on the progression of the war.

Letter from John S. Potter to his father, W.D. Potter, dated August 16, 1863. In the letter, John mentions that he is not in good health and his attempt to acquire a furlough. He describes the daily activities of a soldier while stationed in camp and gives advice about life in the amry to someone who is considering to enlist.

Letter from Rowland E. Trowbridge to the father of John S. Potter, W. D. Potter, dated January 18, 1869. In the letter, Rowland E. Trowbridge details the grave of John S. Potter at Richmond Cemetray for his father.

Letter from John S. Potter to his uncle, E. A. Brownell, dated January 21, 1863. In the letter, John references Queen Victoria of England, mentions the death of their Colonel and give shis opinion of him. Lt. Col. Heber LeFavour from the 5th Michigan Infantry will now be in command of his regiment. John discusses the populations view of Union soldiers in Lexington, Kentucky and gives his prospect of the war.

Letter from John S. Potter to his parents dated January 26, 1863. In the letter, John describes his uncertainty on when his regiment will be ordered to march. He mentions the spirit of the soldiers is improving due to victories in the west and there are rummors that the Army of the Potomac is involved in a great battle creating anxiety amongst troops. However, John doubts the accuracy of the rumors based on the numerous defeats the army has faced. He ends his letter by giving his opinion of the war.

Letter from John S. Potter to his mother dated July 18, 1863. In the letter, John has his letter written by a fellow soldier, John J. Snook because of his poor health. He mentions that he has not been well since he has arrived in Tennessee. Troops were inspected by General William Rosecrans but John was too sick to attend. He also mentions that there is a rumor that Charleston has fallen to the Union Army.