Click here for this soldier’s biography:
https://micivilwar.com/authors/benton-thomas-h/
Regiment: 19th Indiana Infantry
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures: George Washington, Irvin McDowell
Fredericksburg, Va. May 13, 1862
Dear Father:
We are now camped on the banks of the Rappahannock
exactly opposite Fredericksburg. We came here last Saturday
evening, and at the same time some of McDowell’s forces
crossed the river. We were brought here to reinforce them
in case they are attacked. Saturday night we laid in line
of battle all night expecting every moment to be called up.
Monday we pitched our tents, and there is no telling how
long we will stay here. Day before yesterday we had a
fine view of a skirmish between our pickets and the
enemy’s. It was soon stopped by our cavalry going out and
driving them back, capturing 12 of their cavalry.
Fredericksburg is on low ground, on a level with the river.
The bank on this side is about two hundred feet above the
level of the river, giving us a fine view of the city and
country for two or three miles around the city. We are
camped on what is called the Washington farm; formerly
owned by Gen. Washington’s father. Give my love to all, I
have not time to write more now. I will write again in a
few days. Your son,
T. H. Benton
