Leander Harris Letters, 1852-1912

Collection number: MC 193
Size: 1 boxes (0.33 cu.ft.)

About Leander Harris (1833-1912)

Leander Harris was born March 12, 1833, in Fairlee township, Orange County, Vermont, the third of eight children of Stephen Harris and Mary Jane Colby. Leander married Emily S. Hunt (1835-1866), daughter of Jacob E. and Anna Hunt, and they had two daughters: Annie M. in June 1857, and Clara Josephine in September 1858. Although essentially a shoemaker by trade, in 1861 Leander was elected to the office of town clerk in Hampstead, Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

Later in the year Leander resigned this civil position and at the beginning of the Civil War he enlisted on the 1st of September for three years service in the Union army. On the 18th of September he was mustered in as a private into Company I of the Fourth New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiment at Manchester, New Hampshire. Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Louis Bell, his regiment was sent south on September 27 to Washington, District of Columbia, then on to Annapolis, Maryland, to join in General Thomas West Sherman’s Expedition to Port Royal, South Carolina. There they saw the destruction of Forts Walker and Beauregard along with the capture of Hilton Head. The regiment camped in Hilton Head for the winter until January 1862 when they were sent to Florida to aid in the capture of the towns of Fernandina, Jacksonville and St. Augustine. By September 1862, the regiment was returned to Beaufort, South Carolina, for the winter. In the spring of 1863, as part of a brigade commanded by Colonel Bell, they began the long battle to capture the South Carolina Forts Wagner and Gregg on Morris Island, and Fort Sumter in Charleston. From June to December 1864, a detachment of the 4th New Hampshire was sent to the Army of the James and took part in the long siege of Petersburg, Virginia. In January 1865, they also took part in the assault and capture of Fort Fisher, North Carolina.

Leander’s usual position was an aid at the military base hospital which included the duties of cutting wood and bringing water to the cooks. For a short time he filled in the vacant position of steward at the hospital and later in the war, he was sent to the trenches to bring water to the soldiers. Toward the end of the war, he was assigned the duty of mail messenger.

Leander’s strong patriotism combined with the handsome bounty and furlough offered to the veteran soldiers persuaded him to re-enlist for another three years duty and on February 29, 1864, he was mustered again into the service. At the end of the war, he was mustered out at Raleigh, North Carolina, on August 23, 1865. Leander’s brothers, Elmer, George and Joseph Harris, also volunteered and served throughout their terms in the Union Army with the exception of George who died in 1864.

Following the war, Leander and his family went to live in Bradford, Essex County, Massachusetts. He worked and eventually became foreman in a shoe factory in Hampstead, NH, as did his brothers, Elmer and Joseph. Six months after his return from the war, in February 1866, Emily died from diphtheria, and ca. 1875 Leander married his cousin, Elizabeth D. Colby (they did not have children). Before the turn of the century, Leander and his wife moved to a farm on Crank road in Hampton Falls, Rockingham County, New Hampshire, near his daughter. There he took up farming and spent his remaining days until his death on August 25, 1912. Leander and Elizabeth Harris are buried in the Westview Cemetery on Nason road in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire.

About the Leander Harris Letters

The collection consists of 233 items arranged in five series, dating between 1852 and 1912. The bulk of the letters are from 1861-1865. They contain original personal letters, military papers, a few photographs and other miscellaneous items. The first series consists mainly of personal letters written during the Civil War years 1861-1865, from Leander Harris to his wife Emily. These letters mention details of events that took place during his service, carry news of family members and friends, describe the weather and places, and include personal notes and political opinions. The second series contains various items related to the war itself. The third series consists of Emily’s letters to her husband and mainly focus on her worries, family news and events, town gossip and political opinions. The fourth series contains personal letters from family members and friends to either Leander or Emily. They range in content from personal events and opinions to religious advice. The fifth and last series contains a few visual items – photographs, an ambrotype, and a sketch.

Letters that have an asterisk (*) after the date are transcriptions only. The Archive does not possess the originals of these and cannot copy them for patrons.

Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

This collection is open.

Copyright Notice

Contents of this collection are governed by U.S. copyright law. For questions about publication or reproduction rights, contact Special Collections staff.

Preferred Citation

[Identification of item], [Folder], [Box], Leander Harris Letters, 1852-1912, MC 193, Milne Special Collections and Archives, University of New Hampshire Library, Durham, NH, USA.

Acquisitions Information

Purchase, August 25, 2005 (Accession number: 2005.03)

Collection Contents

Series 1: Letters from Leander to “Emmy” [Emily] Harris, 1861-1865

Box 1
Box 1, Folder 1		October - December, 1861. Contains seven letters. October 8, 1861: Addressed from Camp Sherman on weather, camp life, correspondence and regiment schedule. November 1, 1861: An incomplete, un-addressed letter, second page of a two paged letter. On the death count of the Port Royal Expedition. The ships Union (captured), Governor (foundered), and Peerless (foundered) when caught in a storm. Business with Mr. Ordway. On family issues, Annie’s broken sled and Thanksgiving day. November 1-2, 1861: An incomplete, un-addressed letter, on family issues: Nichols, Josie and chicken-pox, Annie, Elmer, Nelson and Hattie Lewis, Ruth and Andrew Johnson. * November 21, [1861]: On the bombardment of Forts Walker and Beauregard, work at the hospital, Dr. Josiah Eastman, Dr. George Greely, patients Leavy and Andrew Johnson. November 27, 1861: An incomplete letter written aboard the “Baltic” on the fleet of gunboats, capture of Fort Pulaski, death of John Kelley, Brewster, Dr. Eastman, Dr. Craven, Dr. Greeley and Dr. Dearborn, and his safety. November 28, 1861: From Hilton Head Island, SC, on camp meals, Captain Goodrich of CT attached to General Wright’s staff on “Baltic”, political views, regiment drilling, accident in a PA regiment, Andrew [Johnson], Elmer in 14th NH Regiment near Fort Albany, Noyes, William, Nelson, Hattie, Lewis and Ruth, Annie, Hall and Clara’s folk. Undated: An incomplete, un-addressed letter on camp life, hospital duties, Beman, rebels, photos, Nelson and Hattie Lewis, Ruth, Annie, and Clara’s folk.
Box 1, Folder 2		January - March, 1862. Contains six letters. January, [1862]: On camp life, Allen’s Point, Mrs. and James Hall. January 1, 1862: From Hilton Head on letters, ship Vanderbilt, health of regiment, Brewster, Nelson, Hattie, Lewis and the doctor. January 2, 1862: From Beaufort S.C. on New Years holiday, Dr. Eastman, his views of Blacks, and working in the hospital. March 11, [1862]: On transfer to Fort Fisher, Dr. Dearborn, Dr. Mitchel, Julia, Emma and Henry. March 13, 1862: Written at Fernandina describing Jacksonville, company detachments sent to Fernandina, Mayport, the gunboats “Huron” and “Ottawa” at Jacksonville and rebels burning native’s property. March 19 [1862]: From Jacksonville, on his birthday, correspondence, miniatures, mockingbirds and area, rumors of army successes and war to be over soon, orders to St. Augustine, Annie and Brewster.
Box 1, Folder 3		April - June, 1962. Contains eight letters. April 13, 1862: From St. Augustine on his orders, companies in Jacksonville, Fernandina, 97th PA sent to Hilton Head, widow Sawyer, St. Augustine, men lost, consumption, and family news including Josie and the measles, sister Ruth, the boys, Hattie and parents. April 17-19, 1862: From St. Augustine on correspondence, weather and surroundings. May 9-11, 1862: From St. Augustine, about books, regimental band, battles, correspondence, Clara, Emmy, Elmer, Mr. Howe, Hall, Nelson and Hattie. May 16, 1862: On letter correspondence, George and his enlistment, health of regiment, Mr. Bragdon, Brewster, weather and camp surroundings. May 25-June 1, 1862: On regimental health, weather, regimental band, Port Royal, Dr. Eastman and his wife, Charleston, Henry and correspondence. June 5, 1862: From the Army of the Potomac, on duty in rifle trench, Elmer’s regiment, Haynes since Bermuda Hundred. June 8-18, 1862: Addressed from St. Augustine on Emmy’s birthday, death of Mr. Taylor, steward position promised by Dr. Eastman, clothing to be sent, and William. June 19, 1862: From St. Augustine on cholera morbus (Acute gastroenteritis), Wilson’s house and war progress.
Box 1, Folder 4		July - September, 1862. Contains eleven letters. July 13-21, 1862: From St. Augustine on love notes, assurance of his safety, new position as hospital steward, his new quarters and duties as acting steward, military band, imminent guerrilla attack, visits with the Doctor and wife, Mrs. Morse and Mrs. Sawyer, on love notes and their years of marriage, alarms for calling troops in the night to fight guerrillas, pickets, the black Doctor, Colonel Bell’s determination, and the “Florida Crackers.” July 22-25, 1862: On his disappointment in the mail and lack of war news, rumors of McClelland army being defeated near Richmond, France recognizing the United States government, and steward position. August 1-2, 1862: Incomplete, un-addressed letter. On boys going home, plants native to the area: red and white oleanders, and crape myrtle. August 3-7, 1862: From St. Augustine on steamer departures, “Darlington”, Commissary Cole, miniatures, love notes and his safety. August 8-11, 1862: From St. Augustine on the mosquitoes, their letters, the Doctor’s leave of absence, court martial of officers for drunkenness and disorderly conduct, Benj. Wheeler’s commission as 2d Lieutenant, arrival of new chaplain, lack of mail, Ruth, Hattie and spouses and Clara and family. August 17, 1862: From St. Augustine on steamer from Key West leaving for Port Royal, lack of mail, his and regiment’s health. August 25, 1862: From St. Augustine on their anniversary, dreams, Doctor’s leave of absence, Brewster serving in rebel ranks, and Elmer’s Colonel. September 6-7, 1862: From St. Augustine, on his preparations to leave after being in St. Augustine for five months, Joseph in the 7th New Hampshire regiment staying with him, Brewster desertion and joining with the Confederacy. September 14, 1862: From St. Augustine on his safety, Joseph in the 7th NH regiment, departure for Beaufort, and nurse John Dow of Atkinson. September 16-17, 1862: From Beaufort, SC, describing camp life and area, Virginia troops, discusses politics, arrival of Assistant Surgeon, Dr. Cumming’s daughter, Mary, vacant Steward position, arrival of General Mitchell at Hilton Head replacing Hunter, military band, Ruth, Hattie and Dorothy. September 24, 1862: From Beaufort on Emmy’s political views, Dr. Eastman’s daughter Mary, Dr. Greeley, the new Doctor, Mrs. Eastman, Richard Petty’s death, and insects.
Box 1, Folder 5		October - December, 1862. Contains nine letters. October 5, 1862: From Beaufort on their correspondence, Doctor’s arrival, Ruth, Emmy, his safety, battles, reports of disbandment, Colonel Bell at Hilton Head, General Mitchell, Brigadier General Terry at Augustine, Governor Berry, Captain Ben DeFord and 1st Brigadier General Knight. October 13, 1862: From Beaufort on the Doctor’s discharge, Brewster’s desertion for rebel service, hopes for Steward’s position, the Colonel’s dislike for Dr. Eastman, the impending expedition, medical supplies needed, 4th Regiment not disbanded, Dr. Eastman’s advice for Colonel Whipple. * October 25, 1862: From Beaufort S.C. on battle at the Pocotaligo bridge and retreat, Jim Haynes, Mrs. Sawyer, Dr. Eastman still in St. Augustine. October 29-30, 1862: From Beaufort on his return, length of the war, his Regiment charging the rebel batteries, the Doctor’s departure for Hilton Head, Lieutenant Cole’s Hampstead visit, Lincoln’s Proclamation, death of General Mitchell, Nelson, Lewis and Emily. November 18, 1862: From Beaufort on Mrs. Sawyer, Haynes, Dr. Eastman’s discharge, political views, Steward position, his safety, children’s miniatures, books at Dr. Eastman’s and Uncle Tappan’s. December 4-12, 1862: From Beaufort on their correspondence and family. Unknown date: An incomplete letter on his political views, his mother’s health, Joseph, daughters Josie, Annie and Emmy’s sickness. December 17, 1862: From Beaufort on return to Florida and General Mitchell’s death. December 21, 1862: From Beaufort on Dr. Cumming, his “bilious attack,” Haynes and Hart, the Ward Master position, Captain Brown’s resignation, the new steward, Dr. Greeley, Dr. Eastman, Mr. Howe, Regiment at Port Royal.
Box 1, Folder 6		January - March, 1863. Contains six letters. January 19-24, 1863: From Beaufort on his safety, Charlie Shannon’s death, Joseph, Emily’s picture, possible regiment movement, Burly Mason, and Dr. Cummings. Fragment letter: Men from the regiment escort deserters to General Meade’s headquarters in Sulpher Springs. A request for more men to escort deserters to Sulpher Springs raises the sore question of company idleness. February 5-8, 1863: From Beaufort on letters, political views, Lieutenant Colonel, Mrs. Sleeper, Hattie’s baby and Mrs. Coming. February 11, 1863: From Beaufort on their correspondence, his mother, Margaret, Haynes’ health, orders to move, pay situation and Emmy’s letters. March 26, 1863: From Beaufort on his last letter, leaving Beaufort, General Laxton’s objection, General Hunter’s change of orders, picket duty at Port Royal ferry, Mrs. Sawyer, Jim, Hilton Head, little Ettie’s death, rumors about war ending, Dr. Cummings at Hilton Head. March 29, 1863: From Beaufort on the regiment picket and Hilton Head.
Box 1, Folder 7		April - June, 1863. Contains four letters. May 3, 1863: From Folly Island, SC, on encampment near Fort Sumter and the rebels. May 13, 1863: From Folly Island, on the season, seashore, Mrs. Sawyer, Elmer, Hattie’s baby, his father, mother, and Clara. May 19, 1863: Addressed from “in Camp” on details of picket duty, the trenches, letters to Fort Monroe, defeat and accomplishment of his regiment, and Elmer at Fort Cass. June 30-July 2, 1863: From Camp Howell on Folly Island, birthdays of Emmy and Annie, 7th Regiment encampment, political views, burning letters for their safety, English streamer in Charleston, J.C. Dickerman, Emma’s grandmother at Landown
Box 1, Folder 8		July - September, 1863. Contains three letters. July 8, 1863: From Camp Howell, Folly Island, on Emmy’s accident, preparing for attack, General Vodges’ compliments, regiments in reserve, sister Ruth and baby. August 31, 1863: From Morris Island on siege of Charleston, the near demolish of Fort Sumter by General Gilmore, and patriotism. September 6, 1863: From Morris Island on the mail, Elmer, Joseph, and money issues.
Box 1, Folder 9		October - December, 1863. Contains six letters. October 3, 1863: From Morris Island, SC, on the war and the country. October 6, 1863: From Morris Island, on correspondence, the soldiers and the work on fortifications, the rebels, report of fleet passing batteries, 15-inch guns, blame on the Admiral, General Gilmore and mail boat Arago. November 8, 1863: From Morris Island, on love notes, Lincoln’s policy, their disagreement on politics, Martha Griffin’s marriage to George Bailey, Brewster and the rebels, Nelson, Hattie and Ruth. November 23, 1863: From Morris Island, on letters and Emmy’s political views on the enemy, shoemaking, weather and the new chaplain. November 28-December 6, 1863: From Morris Island on their letters, the batteries, mounting mortars on Sullivan’s Island, ironclad ships and Fort Sumter. December 12, 1863: From Morris Island, on letters, the weather and William.
Box 1, Folder 10		January - March, 1864. Contains five letters. January 6, 1864: From Morris Island, on camp life, bounty and furlough offers to re-enlistments. January 12, 1864: From Morris Island, on Emmy’s health, letters and diary, weather, the children, Annie, Joe and Dr. Eastman January 22, 1864: From Morris Island, on his health, rumors of departing for Beaufort, influence of the NH “democratic papers”, political differences, and Nelson. February 7, 1864: From Morris Island, on bounty and furlough offers, bounty allowing to get away from shoemaking, Emmy’s views on re-enlistment, a possible expedition for the 7th Regiment, daily duties and Lewis. February 14, 1864: From Beaufort, SC, on little Jo, regiment orders and departure for Beaufort, Morris Island, General Laxton’s influence.
Box 1, Folder 11		April - June, 1864. Contains fifteen letters. * April 11, 1864: From Concord on returning after being home on a furlough waiting to return to his regt, train from Windham, promise to abstain from alcohol, on Henry. April 20, 1864: From Arlington Heights, VA, on the Potomac near Fort Cass, Elmer, Joseph as prisoner, and Fred Shannon. April 22, 1864: From Arlington Heights, on love notes, his patriotism, Annie and Josie. April 23-25, 1864: From Arlington Heights, on drill practice, weather, General Casey’s division, the move towards Alexandria, Washington City, troops and Brigades and troops, Henry, the Chaplain, Brigades of the 9th and 11th Maine, 3rd and 4th NH Regiments, steamers to Fortress Monroe, Elmer, Henry. * April 28-29, 1864: From Yorktown, VA on camp life, soldiers receiving mail, move towards Williamsburg, Henry, Frank. May 3-8, 1864: From Gloucester Point, Yorktown, VA, on an imminent move, picket near Petersburg, VA, Emmy’s letter, his safety, burning letters for safety reasons, sharp fighting. May 11, 1864: From Near City Point, VA, views on the war, relief from picket duty, march back to camp, and Petersburg. May 20-23, 1864: An incomplete letter addressed from “On picket”, on a hard fight, discussion on war; relief from picket duty, Butler’s Army, Grant to Richmond, enemy communication broken, and skirmishes. * May 27, 1864: From near Bermuda Hundred on Henry in the hospital, moving to unknown location, fear of Emmy or family sick, dream about Emmy, General Grant, General Lee. May 31, 1864: From White House Landing, VA, on health concerns, departure from Bermuda Hundred for York River. June [erroneously dated as May] 6, 1864: From the Army of the Potomac, on trench duty, good “breastworks”, enemy attacked but repulsed and Elmer’s regiment. June 8, 1864: From near Coal Harbor, VA, on Emmy’s birthday, orders to report to Brigadier Head-Quarters for position as Post Master, town bounty, William, Allen Martin, Elmer, Frank Jackman killed and Charles Ayer. * June 10, 1864: From near Coal Harbor, VA, on comfort of recieving letters, General Hancock, General Smith, Bottoms Bridge, Elmer, Charles Grover, Henry Little, Col. Bell, Hattie, Ruth, Henry’s injury, and on his abstaining from alcohol. * June 18, 1864: From near Bermuda Hundred, on their change of location, fighting at Whitehill near Petersburg, response to Emmy’s letter June 29, 1864: From near Petersburg, on Elmer, artillery firing, General Grant, Leander’s health, lower prices at home, letters.
Box 1, Folder 12		July - September, 1864. Contains ten letters. July 4, 1864: From near Petersburg, on Elmer, Mother, an imminent fight. July 9, 1864: From near Petersburg, on Elmer as prisoner, rebel attack, prisoners from Birney’s Division and General Grant’s picture. July 13, 1864: From near Petersburg, on his apologies, his weight, pictures of Lieutenant Jewett and Colonel Bell, Captain Clough, Frank and Charlie Colby. August 3, 1864: From Bermuda Hundred, VA, on fight near Petersburg leaving killed and wounded, Corporal Young, Captain J. M. Clough, Henry Mann, an American flag and Elmer. August 7, 1864: From Bermuda Hundred, on the Division, the flies, Mother, William, Elmer, Leander’s pay. * August 9, 1864: From Bermuda Hundred, on weather, Gen. Grant, William, his Mother, Annie, Josie, his health. August 11, 1864: An incomplete letter from Bermuda Hundred, on Emmy’s letters, weather conditions. August 19, 1864: From Jones Landing, VA, on Bermuda Hundred departure, loss of men, Henry wounded, Ed McNeil killed, weather conditions, Brigadier Colonel Bell’s leave of absence and reputation, marching orders, heavy firing around Petersburg, camp life, Elmer. * August 23, 1864: From Bermuda Hundred, VA, on his return to Bermuda Hundred, Emmy and his love, the current campaign and the loss of men, his health, visit to Point of rocks to see Haynes, and on the weather. September 1, 1864: From near Petersburg, on his departure, knapsack lost, letter burning for safety reasons, Josie’s birthday, Emmy’s dream, Mother, 4th NH Regiment soldier David Runnels, duty in the trenches, his safety, Haynes’ departure, Elmer. September 7, 1864: From the Tenth A.C. Hospital, on his departure from the Brigadier Head-Quarters, George, Mother, Lt. Wheeler, E. P. Hall, Henry, Sgt. John T. Walcott. September 24, 1864: From the Base Hospital 10″ A.C., near Broadway Landing, VA, on General McClelland, opposing political views, Elmer at West Amesbury, Josie, Annie, confidence in General Grant, General Sheridan.
Box 1, Folder 13		October - December, 1864. Contains four letters. October 23, 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, VA, about re-enlistment, Joseph’s escape from the Andersonville rebels, Georgia, Bushbee’s death, Mother, Hattie’s baby. * November 5, 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, VA, on response to Emmy’s letter, passing on a furlough to go home and vote, and on his health. * November 15, 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, VA, on Emmy’s unhappiness and his love for her. * November 20 , 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, VA, on his new place built for the winter, his leisure time, and on his health. December 4, 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, on white and colored troops consolidation, the hospital, departure for Point of Rocks on Appomattox River, coming home, Mother, Elmer, Mr. Buck, Haynes. * December 10 , 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, VA, on staying with sick patients while everyone else moves to new location, Regt. to meet Gen. Sherman, snow storm and current weather, fighting on the front, waiting for his furlough, letter from Mrs. Haynes. December 15, 1864: From Base Hospital 10th A.C. Jones Landing, on moving, the furlough, Joseph, Billy Norton as Lieutenant, Mr. Brown. December 31, 1864: From U.S. General Hospital, Point of Rocks, VA, on his new location, town bounty.
Box 1, Folder 14		January - March 1865. Contains four letters. * January 12, 1865: From U.S. General Hospital, Point of Rocks, on his new location, lack of work, waiting for furlough, his health, General Butler’s removal. * January 16, 1865: From U.S. General Hospital, Point of Rocks, on Emmy not recieving his letters, the weather, Capt. John Smith, view of Appomattox, Jackey (Mrs. Dr. Storr’s servant), Jackey’s letter, Elmer, Joseph, rumors of war ending. January 23, 1865: From U.S. General Hospital, Point of Rocks, on letters, Elmer and Joseph, coming home. January 29, 1865: From U.S. General Hospital, Point of Rocks, on his furlough, Division in NC, General Sherman’s army, and duty details. * February 9, 1865: From Camp of the 4th Regt. N.H. Vols, near Fort Fisher, N.C., on leaving the hospital, Fort Monroe, the weather, Emmy’s letter, Henry, death of Col. Bell. February 22, 1865: From Federal Point near Fort Fisher, on duty at Dispensary, Dr. Dearborn, camp life, surrender of Fort Anderson, forces to Wilmington, Sherman taking Charleston, money issues, and Emmy’s health. * February 24-25, 1865: From near Fort Fisher, on Union forces taking Wilmington, Dr. Dearborn, Jim McDermot, Ed. Hall, ordered to report to the Post Hospital, Dr. trying to get permission for him to stay. March 10, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, NC, on family political influence, Julia’s letter. * March 19, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, NC, on getting paid, Mr. Buck, Elmer to send clothing, having no money, his penmanship. * March 26, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, NC, on the Regt. at Goldborough 80 miles from him at the hospital, clothing received from Elmer, work is light, the theatre, description of the town.
Box 1, Folder 15		April - June 1865. Contains six letters. April 2-3, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, on letters; continues with regiment sickness, prisoners, camp conditions, death of several Doctors and two Captains as well as most nurses, his health, Dickens, controlling homesickness. April 9, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, on war news, his health, money, Confederate note, photo of Rebel General Whiting, late Commander of Fort Fisher. * April 15, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, on not recieving letters, getting paid. * April 18, 1865: From General Hospital, Camp Jackson, Wilmington, on steamer arriving, wives in the army, Sweet Williams and Magnolia flowers, Mrs. Thomas, women and children using tobacco. * May 3, 1865: From U.S. Marine Hospital, Wilmington, on Camp Jackson Hospital broken up, light work, description on new hospital, Jo’s photograph. * May 8, 1865: From U.S. Marine Hospital, Wilmington, on war coming to an end, waiting to go home, homesick, sending money home. * May 14 , 1865: From U.S. Marine Hospital, Wilmington, troops beginning to be mustered out, weather, Sethe Man. * May 18, 1865: From U.S. Marine Hospital, Wilmington, leaving for Raleigh. Dates letter May 8. May 22, 1865: From Raleigh N.C. On his arrival at Raleigh and rumors of being mustered out. May 26, 1865: From Raleigh, NC, on his discharge and returning home. June 3, 1865: From Raleigh N.C. On his discharge and coming home. June 25, 1865: From Raleigh N.C. On his discharge being pushed back.
Box 1, Folder 16		July - September 1865. Contains two letters. July 26, 1865: On furlough delay and hopes for discharge, duties at Post Hospital, Dr. Dearborn’s request, duty at Department Head-Quarters as special messenger, money issues, Mr. Buck. August 6, 1865: From Raleigh, NC, on mail messenger duties, money issues.

Series 2: Miscellaneous Military Items, 1862-1912

Box 1, Folder 17

1862-1912. Contains nine items. August 5, 1862: A letter from Theodore Ward at Hilton Head, SC, on Beeman, Reynolds, Dr. Eastman returning home via Arago, Mr. Woods, Captain Kelley sailing on the Star of the South, Captain Kelley, Lt. Col. Sleeper, Hunt, Colonel Bell at General Hospital, Colonel under arrest, 4th NH Regiment, Mr. Parker, General Wright, Government Drug Store, Beaufort, Mrs. Sawyer, Mrs. Morse, Fort Sumter, Tom Week’s girl, St. Augustine. August 12, 1863: A note from Colonel Louis Bell at Morris Island, SC, granting permission to proceed to Folly Island, Colonel H. R. Guss, Brigadier General A. H. Terry, Captain George Metcalf, Brigadier Gen. Q.A. Gillmore. August 14, 1863: A note from Colonel Louis Bell, 4th NH Volunteers at Morris Island, SC, granting permission to go to Folly Island, Colonel H. R. Guss and Brigadier General Gillmore. June 12, 1864: A note by Leander Harris appointing Emily S. Harris as power of attorney for bounty from Hampstead, Colonel Louis Bell near Chickahowie River, Georgia, W. Le Simon. July 17, 1865. Special orders from Headquarters Dept. of NC, Army of the Ohio, for Privates Patrick Broderick of Co. G and Leander Harris of Co. I, as clerks in charge of mail, Assistant Adjutant General Alley. July 17, 1865: Special orders from Headquarters Dept. of North Carolina, Army of the Ohio, for Privates Patrick Broderick of Co. G and Leander Harris of Co. I, as clerks in charge of mail, Assistant Adjutant General Alley. August 1, 1865: A note addressed from Headquarters Dept. of NC, on the Quarter Master Dept. furnishing transportation to City Point, signed by Maj. General Ruger, Ass’t Adjt. General S.H. Stilson and Captain Justin Hodges. August 23, 1865: Official discharge certificate for Leander Harris at Raleigh, NC, Benjamin Seaward, Captain Geo. F. Quinly, claim no. 181,654. March 23-October 21, 1908: Official pension certificate no. 948.114, T. Pierce, V. Warner. January 8, 1912: A deed note from Leander Harris from Hampton Falls, NH, conveying his farm possessions to Alphonso Ladd and witnessed by Robert F. Metcalf.

Series 3: Letters from Emily, in Hampstead, New Hampshire, to Leander Harris, 1861-1865

Box 1, Folder 18		October - December 1861. Contains two letters. October 13, 1861: On love notes, town money, Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Brewster, Mr. Ordway, Leander’s enlistment, Capt. Brown, Sarah Bricket, Mrs. McNeil’s dress, Mrs. Sawyer, Mrs. Shannon, John Willson, death of Jacob Little, Leander’s picture. December 15, 1861: On money issues, Augusta’s note, Nelson’s leg, Hale’s mill, Dr. Hovey, Woodman, John Ordway, James Hall, Reufus, letters, Julia, William, Emerson, Nelson Morgan, Emily at Julia’s, Elmer, Capt. Sleeper, Addison Nogs.
Box 1, Folder 19		January - April 1862. Contains six letters. January 1, 1862: On love notes, Josie, Annie, Lewis’ folks, Johnson’s wife, Mother, Nelson, Mr. Smith’s store, Mrs. Bachelder, Mrs. J. Hall, William. January 4, 1862: On weather, Mother, Nelson’s leg, Eastman, love notes, Augusta and Alva, letters, death of Dr.’s wife’s grandfather, Mr. Folsom, Leander’s position, and Julia’s singing. January 10, 1862: On Ben Sargent’s choir meeting, William and Julia, Ida’s lessons with Mary Kelley, Laura Stickney’s death from diptheria, Nelson to pay for Leander’s gun, Elmer’s comrades, political issues. January 16, 1862: On miniatures, Nelson’s leg, Hattie, Ruth, Emmy’s dream, Mr. Garland, letters to William and Julia. February 1, 1862: On her dream, her viewpoints on war, Ben Smith’s marriage, Luther Austin out of prison and marriage to Priscilla Collins, Mother, Annie’s singing. February 17, 1862: Dr. Morse, money issues, administration spending money, political views, paper money versus silver, Mr. and Mrs. Haynes, Benjamin Smith, Jim Hall, Mother, Father, Joseph. March 16, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. on family news, Annie had and Josie has the measles. Annie is learning mathematics in school. Sending essays one by Hale and another by Johnson, along with a banner. Julia’s visit. Jacob Beckford’s funeral. Nelson, Lewis, Ruth. Seeing Emily Page’s fatherless baby, Josie’s singing, Emmy’s dream.
Box 1, Folder 20		April - June 1862. Contains fifteen letters. April 5, 1862: On letters, Dr. Eastman, Leander and the steward position, Dan Nichols, Reufus, singing with Julia and Helen Frost, Mr. Welch and Mrs. Carson. April 7, 1862: Mr. Bragdon, letters, Mr. Nichols’ returned, Leander’s position, Col. Whipple, shoe making for money, Joseph, Dickens’ Great Expectations, Joseph’s Regiment and small pox, Charles Richards, Mr. W. of Hampstead, mocking birds, Stephan Shannon on “John Brown,” Berry. April 20, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. On the mumps, Lewis’ letters, 7th New Hampshire volunteers, Dr. Morse, David Currier, Capt. George, Richard Welch, the war and her fears, rumors in town about soldiers being “taken in,” Mr. Bragdon, Brewster, Dickens “Tale of Two Cities” and “Great Expectations,” Beauregard and the Pittsburg Battle. their reunion, battle of Pittsburg, Dr. home on furlough, Methodist Society, Mr. Rogers, N. Salem, love notes. Undated: An incomplete letter on their political differences, the NH Democratic newspapers, Know-Nothing Party, Republican party, abolitionists, Julia, Greeley, Phillips, an excellent portrayal of Emmy’s sentiments regarding the war. Undated An incomplete letter on politics, the war, Lincoln’s words on war, Daniel Webster quotes, Mrs. Currier’s paper on “The Free South,” New Year’s Celebration, Mrs. Gage’s speech. April 26-27, 1862: From Atkinson, [NH], on Leander’s enlistment and safety, Clara, Mr. Taylor, Simeon, N.C. Smith, Rufus Smith, money issues, Lewis’ folks, Lavinia Noyes. Undated: An incomplete letter on politics, enlistment conditions, Mrs. Hayes’ death, Hiram Nichols, George Merril’s children, John Kimbel. April 26, 1862: From Hampstead, on his return, Haynes, Dr. Comings, Mary Eastman marries, Ella, shoe making. May, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. On family news, the children have the mumps and Emmy’s mother sick, school is starting for Annie. Stephan Shannon’s Wife and Johnathan Taylor have died. Response to Leander’s description of St. Augustine. May 11, 1862: Leander’s move to Charleston, singing with Julia, William, George Hyde, Susan. May 18, 1862: On “shaker business,” shoes for John Tabor, Mr. Tolson’s old home, Julie’s baby, Meeting House, Annie, Ettie Sargent, burial of William Griffon’s wife, Leander’s Mother, Maggie’s letters, Bradford. May 25, 1862: On Leander’s letter, Clara, Emmy, Lewis and Ruth, shoemaking, shaker work, Father’s cane, Nathan Johnson’s family, Alice. June 8, 1862: Her birthday, summer clothes from Haverhill, making hats and shakers, singing, letters, African American individuals, Illinois law, Hunter’s Regiment, political views, President’s Proclamation, Gov. Andrew’s to Secretary of War on more troops, Sumner, Wendel Phillips, rebels, P. Nichols, Ralph Bricket. June 22, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. On Emmy’s worries that she has not received any letters from Leander in over a month. Received money and books. Julia made a visit, saw Margaret, and sent letter to Joseph. Josie and Annie in school. June 29, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. On reports of departure from St. Augustine for Port Royal, Union defeat, his safety, soldiers killed at Charleston, General arrested, 3rd New Hampshire Regiment, Pen, Dickens, books, Jonny Bull, Ben Butler, Richmond, McClelland, General Pope, Washington, Richmond, armies of Fremont, Bank and McDowell, Reufus King, pig weed tea, nurse Mrs. Willson, Annie, Emma and Jan, Mrs. B., Josie, Dr. E., Mrs. Emerson, Leander.
Box 1, Folder 21		July - September 1862. Contains eleven letters. July 7, 1862: Shopping in Haverhill, newly born niece, Father’s rheumatism, sending clothes. July 25, 1862 On Josie, Annie, William, Julia, McClelland superseding Ranton. August 3, 1862: Nelson and Lewis’ folks, Clara, Leander’s safety, Josie and Annie, Mrs. Mary Eastman, his enlistment, the war, Mrs. Brewster, a drowning, the farms and weather conditions. August 10, 1862: Josie’s accident, England and France interfering with war, Mrs. Brewster and her husband, town to decide bounty, enlistments of Ezekiel Bartlet, Layrus and Henry Little. August 16, 1862: Jefferson Davis’ proclamation, town vote for bounty. August 24, 1862: Mr. Brewster’s desertion, Horace Sawyer’s marriage and enlistment, Evender Corson, Ezekial Bartlet, the steward position, Mr. Pratt, Mr. Garland, W. Buck, the draft, political views, Emmy’s earlier sickness, dealing with her fears. August 31, 1862: Political views, rebels taking Washington, Dorothy Page, Eastman and the steward position. September 7, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. on the new Assistant Surgeon, George Johnson’s death from diptheria, discouragement about the war and her political views on the Confederacy. September 16-18, 1862: Laws restricting soldiers from writing, Hasen Hoyt, Mr. Courier’s enlistment. September 19, 1862: Letter writing to soldiers. September 28, 1862: Rumor from Mr. Brown of 4th NH disbandment, his safety, “Banner” reports, Horace Sawyer and the bounty, Ed’s enlistment, Brewster back in regiment.
Box 1, Folder 22		October - December 1862. Contains nine letters. October 3-5, 1862: An incomplete letter on Hampstead and Emmy’s views on war, patriotism, NY Tribune blame on Government, Emmy’s sickness with her throat and “scrofula humor”. [Note: date "Sep. 5" in letter in error.] October 12, 1862: On Ed’s enlistment to avoid draft, Leander’s patriotism as viewed by townspeople, Judge Abbot speech at Faneuil Hall, Emmy’s throat, Dr. Eastman and Governor B. on regiment disbandment, Charles Richards, George Jackman. October 16, 1862: On her fears, blame on Abraham Lincoln’s control of commanders. November 2, 1862: An incomplete letter on Dr. Eastman’s resignation and popularity, Leander’s dislike for him early on at Manchester, Dr. Eastman on Col. Bell, Lincoln’s Proclamation to emancipate slavery. November 9, 1862: From Hampstead, N.H. On the weather, her feeling ill, her political opinions on Sumner and of those not fighting in the war, M.F. Johnson and wife coming for a visit. November 23, 1862: From Hampstead, NH. On chores, Haverhill, pictures taken of Josie and Annie, letter received from Leander’s mother, Eastman’s arrival, death of General Mitchell from yellow fever, Mrs. Sawyer, Charles Woodman’s death, her dream of Leander, Annie’s painting, character of Josie and Annie, and her exasperation on waiting for his news. December 9, 1862: On Mrs. S.’s health, Haynes and Leander, Dr. Eastman, Nelson’s baby Lola Hannah, Mrs. Bailey’s (Susan Griffin’s) baby, Louie Glen, articles from NH Patriot, President’s message, ‘negro on the brain’, Horace Greeley, Sumner. December 14, 1862: An incomplete letter on Father, Mr. Smith, Dr. Eastman’s remarks and discharge, fears for Leander, Emmy’s throat. December 25, 1862: On love notes, jealousy, friend killed, “colored [African American] friend”, Mother’s health, Mrs. Haynes, Charles Richards’ death on picket line, blacks.
Box 1, Folder 23		January - March 1863. Contains five letters. January 7, 1863: On Dr. Eastman’s remarks, Leander’s stories about Dr. Eastman and the steward position, Charlie Shannon’s body. January 24, 1863: On Leander’s re-enlisting or not and his keeping a journal. February 8, 1863: On Leander’s safety, Charlie Shannon’s death, James Hall’s visit, singing school, William, Julia, Evender Corson, Mrs. Corson, J.W. Garland, Dr. Eastman working on diptheria cases. February 20, 1863: An incomplete letter on money issues, Major Smith, Leander’s debt, Jim Hayes, Lt. Col. Sleeper, Dorothy Page, Emmy’s views on war, agreeing with J. Marshall. March 8, 1863: An incomplete letter on “abolition” views, Maria Pett, Richard Pett’s death, town meeting, M.H. Johnson visits to Copp, Emerson, Buck, Moulton, Republications getting votes. March 12, 1863: An incomplete letter apologizing for her last letters, Ettie Eastman’s death, Leander’s return.
Box 1, Folder 24		April - June 1863. Contains three letters. May 14, 1863: (Letter barely legible) on their opposing viewpoints, hopes for his return, new minister, Mr. Tilton, rumors about discharging NH infantry (rest of letter illegible). May 29, 1863: From Hampstead, N.H. On the weather, flowering plants, dreams of Leander’s return, Grandmother Eastman’s death, Mary’s marriage, Ettie, Mrs. Batchelder, sisters Julia and Margaret, Mrs. Sawyer, rebel forces to Port Royal, Lt. Edgerly. June 29, 1863: On her arm, singing at school, Henry similar to Leander, Josie, Annie, “Banner” statements on 4th and 7th NH coming North, Henry and Nelson, Hattie’s baby, Isabel.
Box 1, Folder 25		July - September 1863. Contains eight letters. July 13, 1863: On drafting, political views, the children and school, Margaret, Neddy, his return, George Dow’s death. July 26, 1863: On Ruth’s sickness, Leander’s regiment taking Morris Island, Fort Sumter, views of William Emerson and others on “conscript law”, Hamilton Hoyet’s remarks of another election, Vallandigham’s arrest, W. Phillips and amalgamation, Greely on the South, Seymour’s July 4th speech, Clara, Emmie, singing, Ruth, Hattie, Joseph. August 6, 1863: On J. H. Harris wounded, George Grenough, furlough for Leander’s regiment, Father’s paper on “Copperheads”, political views, children. August 16, 1863: An incomplete letter on the NH and Hampstead draft, brother Lewis drafted, 15th Regiment returned, Mr. Currier, Mr. Hutchins, Olsen Nichols, Nat Frost, Moss Griffin, 15th MA Regiment, James Hall drafted, Jason Noyes, Mr. Pratt, Frank Sawyer, Job Tabor, Charles Randlet, Elmer’s letter. September 11, 1863: On Mr. Badger’s remarks on Charleston, Lewis and the draft, Fred Kent, Dr. Eastman and James Hall, Mr. Page, Aunt Susan, Emma Haseltine and Margaret, dysentery. September 20, 1863: From Hampstead, N.H. On their letters, Julia, Lewis and the draft substitute, Caleb Moulton, “Copperheads” and constitution. Hazen Hoyet, Hiram Nichols, George Merril, and John Kimbol. Price of clothing. September 26, 1863: From Hampstead, N.H. on their letters, Julia, Lewis and the draft substitute, Caleb Moulton, “Copperheads” and constitution. Hazen Hoyet, Hiram Nichols, George Merril, and John Kimbol. Price of clothing. September 27, 1863: An incomplete letter on a singing meet at new minister’s house, Jim Dow, Sr.’s abolition preaching, Frank Sawyer inquiry.
Box 1, Folder 26		October - December 1863. Contains five letters. October 11, 1863: On paper on “Free South”, preacher Daniel Griffin, Mr. Badger, Mrs. Sargent, Josie and Annie, Lola, Laura Corson, Mr. Tabor’s folks, Emily Becford’s scandal with Salem minister, death of Emily’s baby, being thankful. November 1, 1863: On Methodist Society, Dr. Eastman, Ella, Mary Emerson, Helen Frost, Lissie Sawyer, Julie, singing, money issues, shoemaking, children’s clothes. November 22, 1863: From Hampstead, N.H. On thankful for his letters and safety, love notes. On town gossip, George Bailey, Martha, Augusta. Undated: An incomplete letter on Josie’s sickness. December 6, 1863: On his reaction to an article she sent, general events at home, Thanksgiving at Julia’s.
Box 1, Folder 27		January - December 1864. Contains seven letters. January 1-3, 1864: On sickness around town, Christmas and the children, Clara’s sickness. January 10, 1864: From Hampstead, N.H.On Ben Sargent’s choir meeting, William and Julia, Ida’s lessons with Mary Kelley, Laura Stickney’s death from diphtheria, Nelson to pay for Leander’s gun, Elmer’s comrades, political issues. * January 18, 1864: From Hampstead, on singing rehearsal and choir meeting, on her thoughts of him reenlisting, Julia, Margaret, Annie learning to spell. January 24, [1864] (mis-dated 1863): From Hampstead, N.H. On Leander’s re-enlistment, Annie’s remark, Joseph’s letter to Julia on soldiering. * February 7, 1864: Fragment letter, From Hampstead, on Josie has worms, Annie made a rag doll, diphtheria outbreak believed over since John Strickland’s wife and two oldest girls died of it, Lottie, Ruth. February 23, 1864: On General Gilmore’s Brigade to Jacksonville, rumors about George Bailey and wife Martha, money issues. April 17-19, 1864: On Regiment leaving Concord, letters, Mrs. Sawyer, Mary Smith, her agony on missing Leander, Julia, Ruth, Hattie, Mr. Clark, Lewis, diphtheria, Joseph as prisoner Margaret, William, attempt to take Richmond, regiment to Annapolis, Mrs. Corson, Annie, Mr. Hydes children and diphtheria, Susan, Joseph, Haverill with father, money, Mr. Ordway, Nelson, army defeat in Texas, love notes.
Box 1, Folder 28		January - December 1865. Contains nine letters. March 5, 1865: On her sickness, letters, Annie, the children. April 3, 1865: On money issues, her work and being alone. April 16, 1865: An incomplete letter on his re-enlistment, rumors around town, death of Lincoln, views on Lincoln. April 16, 1865: A typescript letter of the original of the same date. April 23, 1865: From Hampstead, N.H. on church news, wanting a new story to read, and father unable to work. July 17, 1865: On money issues, her health, church meeting house, children. July 23, 1865: Hampstead, N.H. on Mother’s accident, chores, rumors of the 4th being discharged, selling berries. July 27-29, 1865: On berry picking mishap, toothache, children’s sickness, weather, Mrs. Deacon Kent’s death. August 13, 1865: Hampstead, N.H. on Father better and Mother ill, her not feeling well, Nelson Hattie and family come for a visit.
Box 1, Folder 29		Unknown dates. Contains six incomplete letters. Undated: Beginning with “I dreamend [sic] a…” from Emmy to Leander on silly dreams, Julia, Clara, Leander’s mother, John Johnston’s enlistment, Annie’s dream. Undated: Beginning with “walking is so bad…” from Emily to Leander on singing school, Emily Ann, Mrs. George Corson, children, sewing shoes with father, Hattie’s baby, Horace Sawyer, Nat Corson wounded, Allen Martin on furlough, Mr. Haynes, Seymour’s speech. Undated [late summer]: Beginning with “and there is but one…” from Emmy to Leander on Josie and Annie, harvest season. Undated [winter]: Beginning with “was here he would…” from Emmy to Leander on Annie, weather, love notes, Jim. Undated: Beginning with ” I write kind of curious…” from Emmy to Leander on Josie, Annie. Undated: Beginning with “Sabbath to-day and…” from Emmy to Leander on prisoners at Richmond, rations, General Gilmore’s army, Charleston, Fort Sumter, Mr. Moulton, M. H. Johnson, Mr. Badger, Bible, singing school, death of Elbridge Woods’ wife and child, soldiers in battle, disease, Annie. * Undated: Beginning with "But I must tell you… " from Emmy to Leander on Dr. Eastman’s son and grandsons, Leander not receiving letters.

Series 4: Miscellaneous Correspondence and Items, 1852-1866

Subseries A: Various papers and letters from family and friends to Emily and/or Leander Harris

Box 1, Folder 30		January - December 1852. Contains two items. February 27, 1852: A letter addressed from [Pett] in Lawrence to Milly on Leander, Millie, Mary, Georgie, Em., Elida, Mr. Cook’s folks, Mr. Hoget, Mother, Moors Brilley’s daughters, Tom, Mr.Merrill, Leander, Mr. Spaulding, Mrs. Stimpson, Don, Mary Ann. April 14, 1852: An essay entitled “Alfred the Great” by Emily S. Hunt for Atkinson Academy.
Box 1, Folder 31		January - December 1853. Contains one item. April 1853: A school paper entitled “The Past and the Future” by Emily for Atkinson Academy.
Box 1, Folder 32		January - December 1862. Contains three letters. February 3-4, 1862: An unaddressed letter from Emmy to Leander on Josie, diphtheria, Annie, Dr. June 20, 1862: A letter from Mother in E. Plainfield to Emily on “soldier boys,” Leander, Josie, Elmer. October 22, 1862: A letter from Mrs. J. A. Sawyer in Beaufort, SC, Hospital Matron in 4th NH Regt., to Mrs. Harris on behalf of Leander on Regimental orders preparing for battle, surgeons, Charleston, Savannah, rebels, safety of Mr. Harris, soldiers.
Box 1, Folder 33		January - December 1863. Contains two letters. May 2, 1863: A letter from James O. Haynes at the Ordinance Department in Hilton Head, SC, to Mrs. Harris on Leander and his family. December 11, 1863: A letter from James O. Haynes at the Ordinance Department in Hilton Head, SC, on Leander, Charleston, fighting, weather.
Box 1, Folder 34		January - December 1864. Contains two letters. April 23, 1864: A letter from [Mrs.] J.A. Sawyer at Washington St, Boston, MA, to Mrs. Harris on Leander Harris, Mr. Colston, soldier’s wives, Colonel Bell, brother’s death, matrons in the field, General Hospital, Regiment, Brother at the South, rebellion, blockade, malaria, S.N. Gant’s Store, Beaufort, Mr. and Mrs. Haynes. October 23, 1864: An incomplete letter [probably from Emily's mother] in E. Plainfield to Emily on Georgie’s death, Julia, letters from Leander, Josie, religious views.

Subseries B: Letters to Leander from his mother

Box 1, Folder 35

January 1862 - December 1866. Contains sixteen letters. March 1, 1862: Addressed from E. Plainfield on Maggie, Hospital, welfare of her three sons, Joseph, Elmer, Margaret, Father Buzzel. April 11, 1862: Addressed from E. Plainfield on Banner of Prince Imanuel, Margaret, Warsaw Island, Ga., Mr. Stowe, Father Buzzel, Port Jefferson, Fla., small pox vaccination, Co. 7th NH Volunteer Regiment, Elmer, Emily, sugar season. June 9, 1862: Addressed from E. Plainfield on Josy, letters, Joe Harris, her blessings, Elmer, Julia. July 27, 1862: Addressed from E. Plainfield on letters from Elmer and Joseph, Port Royal, words of old Simeon, Mr. E., Josy, aunt [Jos] sons in army, Stephen and Henry Fitts, Emily, Father, making cheese. January 7, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on pictures of Emily, Margaret and Julia, Josy, Elmer. January 18, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on letters, winter, Josy, St. Augustine, Chaplin [sic], slavery, prayer, “Southern Sympathizers”, Emily, Margaret, Ed, Philadelphia, H & G, father and tobacco. * February 23,1863: From E. Plainfield, on his brother Josy, his father quite using tobacco for now, inquiries about his health, Jim Colstan. March 9, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on pictures, Josy, Elmer, Julia, Margaret, weather, Emily and the children, new Chaplin [sic], maple sugar, her prayers. March 30, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on letters, Emily, Bible study, weather and sugar making, H & G, prices of meat, farming, Josy and Elmer, Diphtheria, George. April 28, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on sugar making, Elmer, Josy, Charleston attack, Christian prayer, Hampstead, their health, farm life, Emily [Harris], Emily Greenough, H & G. October 5, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on letters, steward position, Mr. Smith, Josy, George Farnum, copperhead, Ed and M, African-Americans, Emily and children, H & G, harvesting and farm life, [her] birthday. November 6, 1863: Addressed from E. Plainfield on letters, her blessings, Dr. Eastman, Captain House, Josy, farm harvest and prices, Elmer, Margaret, Hampstead, H & G, George. January 13, 1864: Addressed from E. Plainfield, on letter writing, Sabbath at Lebanon, advice on re-enlisting, Chaplain, Josy, Elmer, farm life, death of uncle Thomas’ son. February 12, 1866: Addressed from Hanover on Emily’s death, his enlistment, prayer and salvation. Undated: Beginning with “Since writing the…”. An incomplete letter on Josy and fighting, Henry, farming. Undated: Beginning with “…would’nt [sic] your own conscience….” An incomplete letter on religion.

Subseries C: Letters to Emily Harris from her mother-in-law in East Plainfield, NH

Box 1, Folder 36

January 1861 - December 1863. Contains eight letters. April 24, 1861: An incomplete letter about sugar-making, church meetings and the preacher, George, religious views, Joseph, money issues, Leander, Julia. November 17, 1861: About Julia, Leander, religious views, Elmer, Margaret. April 7, 1862: On letters, Leander, Joseph, small pox, Co. G, her sickness, maple sugar, Leander’s enlistment, the snow season, religious views, Teacher’s library in Hampstead, Dr. Nelson, acts of the Apostles, Margaret, Mr. Fulsome, universalism and her faith. May 11, 1862: On Leander, novels versus the Bible, religion and prayer, Margaret, Julia. November 16, 1862: Letters, Leander, religious words, her visit with friends and relatives, Jose, William, Emily, Josy, Elmer, winter season, George and the thrashing machine accident. March 30, 1863: On Leander, letters, war, “negro trouble”, oppression and the Bible, slavery, Sabbath school, pictures, Albany, snow and sugar tapping, Edward at New Orleans, Co. F, 50th Mass. Regt., Bank’s Expedition, Capt. Duncan. August 31 [year unknown]: On her boy’s death, Town of Hampstead paying Leander. December 13 [year unknown]: On Leander, letters, money, Elmer, religious views, Joseph, Manchester.

Subseries D: Letters to Leander from his sisters

Box 1, Folder 37

January 1862 - December 1865. Contains five letters. August 10, 1862: A letter from Margaretta in Bradford on letter exchanges, Jane Colby, George Huckings, Emmie, William, Warren Bickum, Harris Boynton, 14th Regt., Elmer, Josy, Fort Jefferson, furlough, the war, Southerners, Haverill & Bradford enlistments, volunteer’s pay, Newburyport, Methuen, bounties, patriotism and enlistment reasons, Massachusetts and the draft, Boston Journal, Haverill enlistments and voters, Bradford voters, marriage of Warren Bickum, Julia, Emmie, Annie and Josy, Neddie, Edward. December 14, 1862: A letter from Margaretta in Bradford, letters, Josy, Elmer, weather, Edward, Ed cooking for the company, drills, Capt. Duncan, Bank’s Expedition, Co. F 50th Regt. Mass. Vol., N.Y. City, Emmie and the children, Josy, Annie, war and her patriotism, soldier’s pay, donations to soldiers. January 25, 1863: A letter from “Mag” on pictures, Emmie, William, Edward’s enlistment and sailing from Fortress Monroe for New Orleans, Hilton Head, New York steamer “Niagara”, Charlotte Dock, details on the purchase and story of the “Niagara”from New York, Delaware Bay and Philadelphia, Provost Guard, Jenny Lind, Montebello, Edward. February 26, 1865: A letter from sister Julia in Hampstead, on Emily, Father gone to Albany, sister Margaret’s boy named George Harris, Joseph working at William’s, Elmer now Capt. Harris, Henry stitching shoes of sister Emily, details on Joseph’s new wife Clara, family gathering, George, Henry, Joseph and prison experience, winter sleigh rides to Lowell, Mrs. Page formerly Rebecca Plummer and her brothers Samuel and Charles. January 12 [year unknown]: A letter from “Mag” in East Plainfield, on letters, Emily, money issues, Edward and unemployment and enlistment, England and the war, missing her brothers, Mother, Albany, Addison Fellow’s death in Virginia of typhoid fever, Aunt Susan, Warren, Harris Boynton, Charles, Elmer, Uncle Phillip’s shop burned, Grandmother’s health, Susan Bickum in Haverill and California, Jerry Saul, Leander and farming, Emmie.

Subseries E: Letters to Leander from his brother, brother-in-law, and friends

Box 1, Folder 38		January 1862 - December 1864. Contains nine letters. July 29, 1862: An incomplete letter addressed from Hampstead, on correspondence, weather and hay crops, produce and prices, “shinplasters”, postal stamps, President’s call for troops, patriotism in Sandown and Hampstead, James Brickett, Mass. 17th, Haverill bounty, Militia Laws. August 14, 1862: From brother Joe in Beaufort, SC, on letter exchanges, Elmer, life at Fort Jefferson, fight at James’ Island, Hilton Head, Manchester, regimental health, “niggers”, rebels, “Hunter’s nigger brigade”, Yankee, “Hunter’s black lambs”, gunboats, pickets, Mr. Beman, Dr. Eastman, paper by soldiers at San Augustine. September 28, 1862: A letter from Wm. C. Little at Hampstead, on Edward [Tosier] enlisting in Mass. 50th Regt. at Camp Boxford and Col. Messer, formerly Capt. Of Hale Guards in Haverill, Dr. regarding the 12th and 4th Regiments, Port Royal, Presidential views on slavery, Boston Tribune and Boston Journal article on rebel invasion, emancipation, abolitionist pressure, foreign intervention, worst civil war in world history, Julia, weather, crops, prices, shoe business, Haverill Company loss, Brewster. February 15, 1863: From W. C. in Hampstead on singing schools, winter weather, accomplishment of army, Army of the Potomac, the Dr., George O. Jenness in rebel army, battle of Fredericksburg, soldiers C. J. Hoyt, F. S. Eastman and Heeser taken prisoner, Abby Shannon’s baby girl, Julia, Elmer. August 9, 1863: From Wm. C. Little at Hampstead on Fort Wagner, Corporal J. [Joseph] H. Harris wounded, Capt. [Houde], Lt. N. G. Parker in 1st SC Regt. Formerly Sgt. In MA Cavalry at Port Royal, draft, Provost Marshall Gen., Gov. Gilmore, draft in Concord and Portsmouth, 15th Regt., Avender Corson. August 31, 1863: From friend H. [? Coleston] at East Plainfield, on death of Dr. Commins, G.P. Greeley at Nashua, Fort Wagner, Joseph Harris wounded, James Haynes, Surgeon in charge of Gen. Hospital at Hilton Head, Beaufort, traveling expenses. January 2, 1864: From Joe at St. Helena Island, SC, on Morris Island, his watch duty and drills, Spencer & Springfield rifles, bayonet and rammer, copper cartridges, Col. Hawley of 7th Conn., Florida guerillas, 7th Conn. Reenlisted and bounty, Julia, Elmer, Emily. Undated: An unaddressed letter beginning with…”snow was gone and…” from Wm. Little, on weather, shoe business, new Church, Mr. Noyes, wounded NH 2nd soldier from battle of Williamsburg, hospital wounded, battle at Richmond, McClellan, Fremont, rebels,Corinth evacuation, contradictory sentiments on war, Col. Whipple as Brig, Gen., Lt. Col. Bell, writing. July 30 [year unknown]: An incomplete letter from Wm. C. Little, on New York Tribune on Congressional acts, Ben Butler notoriety, Chandler speech, McClellan, Jackson’s rebel troops in Richmond, Julia, Joseph, Port Royal, Charleston fight, Elmer, Pope’s Division, Elisa Noyes and shoe making, Joshua F. Noyes, Anson L. Ring, Mr. Curland, aid for families of soldiers.
Box 1, Folder 39		January 1862 - December 1863. Contains three letters. July 30, 1862: Addressed from friend, I. T. U. at Rome, New York, on Chuck in Philadelphia, St. Augustine and land of “Gallinippers”, Gen. Burnside at Hilton Head, Fernandina, McClellan’s defeat before Richmond, Steven’s Brigade to Fort Monroe, 28th Mass. and 79th NY on steamship Mississippi, Continental Hotel, visits in Philadelphia, New York, and Albany, Stanwix Hall Hotel, Trenton Falls’ continental burn, Saratoga and Niagara, Dr. Greeley and boys. August 5, 1862: From J. G. Hunt at Niagara Falls, NY on visit to Niagara, Goat Island, American Falls and “Horseshoe” Falls, Gen. Scott, Gen. Brock, Blondin, Cataract House, Saratoga, Mrs. Sawyer, Mrs. Morse. June 28, 1863: From J. E. Haynes at Hilton Head, SC, on letters, Col. Whipple, George Cook.

Series 5: Miscellaneous Visual Items, 1861-1876

Box 1, Folder 40		c. 1861-1876. Contains three items. Date unknown: Cardboard photograph of James R. Miller taken, taken by J.L. Kimball of Concord, NH. Date unknown: Cardboard photograph of President Lincoln by Brady’s National Portrait Gallery and published by E. & H.T. Anthony, NY. 1876: A sketch drawn by Professor Walter Colby of Haverhill, MA.
Box 1, Folder 41		c. 1863. Contains one item. Circa 1863: A framed ambrotype of Emily Harris. (featured at the top of this finding aid)