(CIVIL WAR MAP) [Ordway Moses M] Three letters by a Massach

Sale 2391 - Lot 106

Unsold

Estimate: $ 1,200 - $ 1,800

(CIVIL WAR--MAP.) [Ordway, Moses M.] Three letters by a Massachusetts soldier, including his map of the Siege of Suffolk. Autograph Letters (two signed as M.M. Ordway) to his brother Francis M. Ordway of West Amesbury, MA. Various sizes; minor foxing. With the three original mailing envelopes, one stamped, two franked by the regimental chaplain, and two postmarked (Norfolk and Washington). Virginia, 7 April to 15 May 1863

Set Alert for Similar Items

Additional Details

Moses M. Ordway (1843-1892) served in the 40th Massachusetts Infantry, and was part of the force surrounded by Longstreet's Confederate army in the Siege of Suffolk, VA from 11 April to 4 May 1863. Ordway discusses the siege on 28 April: "Longstreet sent word yesterday to Gen. Peck that if he did not evacuate before two o'clock he would shell the town, but all such stuff is played out. Whenever they want to take this place they can just wade in. If they don't have a good time, then I am mistaken. . . . We have nothing to do, and but very little to eat." He concludes the letter with a 3 x 5 inch pencil map of the siege, showing the roads and railroads to Suffolk, the Nansemond River, several buildings, and the location of "gunboat fight of April 14th." Outside of the Union lines, "Rebel forces surrounding us are in these woods."