[Civil War]. [Texas]

[Manuscript Letter by a Maine Soldier Stationed in Texas During then Midst of the Civil War]

Brazos Island, Tx. November 6, 1863. [1]p. Autograph letter, signed. Minor wear and old folds. Very good. Item #6444

During the Civil War, Union operations along the Texas coast aimed less at major military engagements than at controlling trade routes and securing the Rio Grande frontier, particularly in relation to cross-border commerce through Mexico. Maine regiments, including the 13th Maine, formed part of the Union expedition that seized Brazos Island in November 1863 and established control over the lower Rio Grande, operating alongside U.S. Colored Troops and contraband laborers tasked with constructing the coastal defenses.

The present work comprises a lively and descriptive letter from a Maine soldier stationed on Brazos Island, his origins made clear both by his comparison of the climate to “the first of Sept. in Maine” and his remark on the irony that “men from the North Eastern Boundary should go to protect the South West Boundary.” Writing from what he calls “the land of rogues and rowdies”, he contradictorally notes that there is “no prospect of any fighting at present” and that he does not expect to “smell any powder.” Life on the island is rendered with humor: “We are on a sandy island perfectly desolate and happy as clams […] you would laugh if you could see us tumbling about in the sand.”

At the same time, the letter offers a telling glimpse into the labor structure of Union occupation. The writer remarks that his regiment will likely remain on guard duty “while the [Black troops] build some Sand Batteries,” indicating that the physical work of constructing coastal defenses—here, improvised sand fortifications—was being carried out by U.S. Colored Troops and contraband laborers, while white Union soldiers performed supervisory and defensive roles. The casual phrasing underscores how such divisions of labor were normalized in the field.

The letter situates the writer within the broader coastal campaign, anticipating movement inland following the likely securing of Brownsville, “about 25 miles up the Rio Grande […] opposite Matamoros in Mexico”, while describing the surrounding country as largely barren. He describes opportunities created by Union occupation, remarking that goods such as “potatoes, onions […] butter & cheese […] boots and shoes […] camp kettles” could be profitably brought in, since “money can be made if there is not a great rush here.” The tone throughout is relaxed and confident, with repeated assurances that he expects to return home in the spring and that the post is healthier than New Orleans. He hints at a possible early departure from service, asking his wife not to mention it. The letter concludes with affectionate messages to family and small domestic details, including a request for “a piece of cream pie.” An engaging account from a little-documented front of the war that offers a convivial characterization of Union service along the Texas coast.

Price: $750.00