Vatican Square, Rome (1 large photo)

Group Photo of Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Moore and Family, Fort Wayne, IN (1 large photo)

Individual Photos - Unidentified (4 large photos)

Wilson, James W. (4 large photos)

Rice, John B. (54 large prints)

Rice, Robert H. (45 large prints)

Lindbergh, Charles A. (1 large print)

Pero, Catherine L. (2 large photos)

Addenda

Sarah Wilson Rice

Introduction

Biographical Sketch

Scope and Content

Inventory

Transcription

Introduction

The letters of Dr. John B. and Sarah Elizabeth Wilson Rice were acquired by the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in 2004. Sarah Rice’s were digitized by Jacci Pensrose and edited by Laura Wonderly.

Biographical Sketch

Sarah Eliza “Lizzie” Wilson was born April 24, 1842, the oldest child of Dr. James Wilson and Nancy Justice Wilson. Both her father and mother were prominent citizens of early Fremont, Ohio, and Lizzie led a privileged life. She was well-educated, having attended Fremont public schools and the Young Ladies’ Seminary in Granville, Ohio. On December 12, 1862, she married Dr. John Birchard Rice, who was almost ten years her senior. The newlyweds had only two months together before John left on February 12, 1862 to take his position as regimental surgeon of the 72^nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Lizzie lived with her parents while her husband was away, but wrote him regularly, telling of all the happenings in Fremont. Lizzie and John had two children: Lizzie Wilson Rice, born September 18, 1865; and James Wilson Rice, born July 2, 1875. Sarah “Lizzie” Rice was a life-long member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in which she was very active. After suffering a stroke, she died June 15, 1928 at her home on Court Street in Fremont, Ohio.

Scope and Content

The bulk of this collection contains letters which John Rice wrote to his wife and letters she wrote to him during his service in the Civil War. His letters to her (numbering 16) date from November 28, 1863 to October 15, 1864. Her letters to him (numbering 36) date from January 17, 1863 to February 10, 1864. John writes to Lizzie about local soldiers from the 72^nd Ohio as well as their family members who may have been visiting in camp. After the death of Carrie Buckland, daughter of General Ralph P. Buckland, a noticeably grieving John describes the circumstances surrounding her death. He devotes several letters to the Battle of Guntown (Brice’s Crossroads), giving a particularly stirring account of its devastation and writing very strong words about the incompetence of Brigadier General Samuel D. Sturgis. Many of the letters deal with Lizzie and her social struggles in Fremont, Ohio. Lizzie reports the activities of their Sandusky County, Ohio, friends and neighbors, informing Dr. Rice of those who died, married, divorced, or gave birth. Lizzie Rice also tells of parties; fundraisers for the war effort; family activities; political disputes between local Copperheads and Union supporters; the townspeople’s celebration after the Union victory at Gettysburg; and local election results and the town’s reaction. Her letters give an interesting look at life on the Northwest Ohio home front during the Civil War. Also included in this collection are letters to John from his mother, brother, and friends, and letters to Lizzie from her brother and friend.

Inventory

Ac. 5650

John B. Rice Correspondence to wife Sarah Elizabeth Rice

1. La Grange, TN, Nov. 28, 1863

2. Germantown, TN, Dec. 21, 1863

3. Germantown, TN, Dec. 26, 1863

4. Camp near Memphis, Feb. 21, 1864

5. Memphis, May 22, 1864

6. Memphis, May 26, 1864

7. Memphis, Sunday, May 29, 1864

8. Memphis, June 7, 1864

9. Memphis, June 13, 1864

10. Memphis, June 17, 1864

11. Memphis, July 5, 1864

12. Memphis, August 12, 1864

13. Memphis, Sept. 7, 1864

14. Memphis, Oct. 2, 1864

15. Memphis, Oct. 13, 1864

16. Memphis, Oct. 15, 1864

Letters to John B. Rice

17. William Caldwell to J.B.R. dtd. Fremont, Ohio, Aug. 27, 1863

18. Eugene Rawson to J.B.R. dtd. Fremont, Ohio, Aug. 20, 1863

19. Alfred Rice to J.B.R. dtd. Fremont, June 21, 1863

20. E.A. Rice to J.B.R. dtd. Fremont, Nov. 20, 1863

Sarah Elizabeth Rice Correspondence to husband John B. Rice

1. Home, Jan. 17, 1863

2. Home, Jan 22, 1863

3. Home, Feb. 3, 1863

4. Home, Feb. 7, 1863

5. Feb. 8, 1863

6. Home, Feb. 12, 1863

7. Home, Feb. 13, 1863

8. Home, Feb. 14, 1863

9. Home, Feb. 22, 1863

10. March 4, 1863

11. Home, March 5, 1863

12. Home, March 21, 1863

13. Home, March 25, 1863

14. Home, Apr. 7, 1863

15. Fremont, June 21, 1863

16. Fremont, July 2, 1863

17. Home, July 12, 1863

18. Fremont, July 21, 1863

19. Fremont, Aug. 4, 1863

20. Fremont, Aug. 28, 1863

21. Fremont, Sept. 7, 1863

22. Home, Oct. 17, 1863

23. Home, Oct. 23, 1863

24. Home, Oct. 28, 1863

25. Home, Nov. 2, 1863

26. Home, Nov. 17, 1863

27. Home, Nov. 22, 1863

28. Thursday, Nov. 26, 1863

29. Home, Nov. 28, 1863

30. Home, Dec. 2, 1863

31. Home, Dec. 7, 1863

32. Home, Dec. 12, 1863

33. Home, Dec. 17, 1863

34. Home, Jan. 22, 1864

35. Home, Feb. 5, 1864

36. Home, Feb. 10, 1864

Letters to Sarah E. Rice

37. Charlie Wilson to S.E.R. dtd. Gambier, June 19

38. Lizzie E. Wheaton to S.E.R. dtd. Columbus, July 19, 1864

39. Lizzie E. Wheaton to S.E.R. dtd. Columbus, July 21, 1864

40. Lizzie E. Wheaton to S.E.R. dtd. Toledo, Oct. 29, 1864

41. Lizzie E. Wheaton to S.E.R. dtd. Columbus, Jan. 24, 1865

Transcription of Sarah Wilson Rice Correspondence

Home Jan. 17, 1863

My Own Darling Husband

I received yours of the 18^th and 4^th day before yesterday. They were the first I have had in four weeks and you may be certain that they were very welcome. I had just concluded to stop writing thinking it was a waste of time and paper (you know paper is dear now) knowing that you did not get my letter, but have made up my mind to keep on now. Do you think that you will have to go to Vicksburg? The papers seem to think so but guess they do not know much about it. Hope that you will not go any place where you cannot write. I used to think it was awful if I did not get a letter every week and it was almost beyond endurance when four weeks elapsed with out hearing a word. Mrs Buckland has not had one yet but she knows that Col. is well, Dr. Stilwell having a letter from him. Has he been promoted or is he only acting as Brigadier general? I heard that he had been but did not believe it. Should think if it was so that we would have seen it in some of the papers. If he is not promoted it will not be the fault of his friends for they are trying to have him hard enough. Dr. S. went to Cleveland to see some man there and have him use his influence to have him promoted. Do not saying anything about it however for I promised that I would not. Guess that the Col. is as anxious as any of them. Do not believe that there is one man in the regiment that if they had as good and as many opportunities to be promoted as you have had would let them pass. Why do you feel so indifferent about it my dear husband” Is the regt. any dearer to you than it is to the Col.? He would not hesitate one moment about leaving it. Do not think my darling that I am scolding for I am not. If it does sound like it I do not mean that it should and would not have you think so for the world. Would feel awful if I thought that you would. I must confess that I get out of patience about it. If I could only see you five minutes would soon convince you that I do not mean to be cross one bit—but let us change the subject.

The young folks are getting to have a sleigh-ride to Woodville on Monday evening. Suppose that will have a dance when they get there. This is the first sleighing we have had this Winter and almost every person is improving it. You hear nothing but sleigh-bells from morning until night. Have been wishing for a ride myself but it has ended in wishing. You said in one of your letters that Poe had resigned. Do you suppose he will call on me when he gets home? Has he ever said anything about that affair since the time you wrote me that he had? We heard here that Harkness had resigned also and that he was expected home any day. There will not be many of the old officers left if the Col. is promoted will there? Has Dr. Goodson returned to the regiment yet? I do not like him at all-- Mrs Rainard and Fred, Lida[1] and Mr. Brundage, Mr. Owen, Minerva[2] and I were all going up to Uncle Homer’s[3] to spend the evening last Tuesday but it was so stormy that we could not go. Uncle Homer appears as young and lively as a boy of sixteen. So found of company and is good company himself. Did you say that you and Gen. Raymond were not good friends. His wife has never been to see me since he returned home. She called on Mother while I was in Memphis. She and Mrs Canfield called here the other day and Mrs Canfield asked for me. Did not know whether Mrs Raymond was going to ask me to come and see her or not but she finally did. She asked mother to come and see her without saying a word to me and after she got out of doors turned around and said for both of us to come and see her-- Mrs Buckland and I are going out to Clyde this afternoon. Ralph is going to take us out in their sleigh. Will have to close. Write often my darling. All send a great deal of love.

Your affectionate wife

I wish you would burn my letters. Do not want the rebels to get them. Sarah E. Rice

Home Jan. 22^nd1863

Yours of the 6^th came to hand today. It was an awful short letter but a great deal better than none at all. Am very sorry indeed to learn that you have not received my picture yet. I sent it by mail and the letter was mailed the 26^th of Nov. I believe. At any-rate it was the day you left Memphis. You said you had found out the reason why Dr. Gordon deserted I had heard of his intimacy with that girl before. Mrs Easton was telling me about it on our way home from Memphis but had forgotten all about it. Do not see why that would make him desert. If I was his wife would let him take the hired girl and go where he pleased with her. Would not care where, only the farther away from me the better. Would like to hear that funny story. Is it anything like the story I could not see the “point” to? I agree with you in thinking that my symptoms are rather suspicious. Should not wonder if something was up. I never was as fat as I am now. Have had to let out some of my dresses. Shall I engage “Mrs Montgomery”? I believe you mentioned her last Winter as being a good one. You know she thinks a good deal of me too. Mrs Phelps was here this afternoon. She said she wanted your photograph. Mary Dillon wants it too and Minerva and Lida and I want one for my album. Guess you had better have a number taken for I suppose “Mrs Cloud” and “Mrs Deacon Raymond” will each want one. You had better not take any unless they are good, better than the Colonels. I suppose it is because you are so handsome that there is such a demand for your pictures.

Mrs Buckland and I went out to Clyde last Monday afternoon. Had a real nice ride. Started at three o’clock spent an hour and a half with Mrs Eaton and reached home about half past-five. Called on Mrs Harkness but she was not at home. Had gone to Monroeville to see her sister. The young folks had a sleigh ride to Woodville on Monday evening. Some of them did not get home until the next morning. Should think they must have had a pretty wet time of it for it commenced raining in the night. Dottie Strong went with Dave Long and Lou Hatfield took Mrs Hinman of course. Have not heard what kind of a time they had—Hoddy Brightwell[4] was buried day before yesterday. You remember my writing you that his sister[5] was buried about two weeks ago do you not? They both had diptheria. Jennie Fitch has been very sick with it but is getting better now. They thought she would not live last week and went down for her folks. Mr. and Mrs McLellan went up on Friday and Amelia and Mary on Saturday. Mary is sick with it now. Do not know whether she is at home or in Fostoria. Orin England’s father wanted me to write and have you ask Orin if he ever got a box or package they sent him sometime ago. Do not know which it was. They do not hear from him and so wanted me to write and find out about it. George Price had Sarah Amsden (Ella’s sister who is spending the Winter with her) to the lecture Monday evening. I heard he was paying his address to her and should not wonder if it would make a match. Sarah seems to be a favorite name of his dont you think so my darling? Mr. Winslow lectured last Monday evening. I did not go but heard it was a miserable affair. Mr. Fenifrock delivers the next one.

Should think from a remark made in your letter that you must consider Dr. St. Clair a “filthy bird”. You know what I allude to do you not? His visit to Pittsburg Landing. Am reading “Old Curiosity Shop” by Dickens. And so Dr. Kaull had some notion of resigning because he had not been promoted. Do not blame him I would too. Mrs Eaton asked Mrs Buckland if she thought the Col. would resign. She said it depended on circumstances and do not believe but what circumstances are whether he is promoted or not. They are all anxious for promotion but you. I wish so much that you would be promoted before you resign. Do not want it to be said that you was regimental Surgeon nearly two years and did not get any higher. I know you can be promoted if you want to be and would like you to be something more than regimental surgeon when you leave the service. Do not care what but the higher the better. You know how much I love you and how it would gratify me. Do not blame me for I cannot help feeling as I do. It always was a weakness of mine that wanting to be at the “top of the heap” as they say. I know you have a good deal of ambition and it has always been a mystery to me why you was so determined not to get any higher office than the one you now have. But let us talk about something else.

Mother said to tell you that she wants your picture and would like to have it now. Does not want you to wait until you get so old that you look like “Old Kline” before you have it taken. Al. promised to send me his picture from Columbus but it has not come along yet. Hal Haynes has resigned and come home. He brought his darkey with him. Joe Bartlett is home on furlough. He is Division Quartermaster. The Daugherty boys are expected home today and I heard that Mrs Tillotson was expecting George. They dont give furlough where you are do they. Are you going to bring Pete along when you come home? Where did you pick him up. Wish I had a chance to talk with him when I was there. Tell him I want he should take good care of you. Jimmie wants to know when are you coming after him? Creight Thompson is home. Charlie Fouke is at home. Has been mustered out of the service on account of ill health. Charlie Taylor was wounded at Fredricksburg and is now home. In a letter from Henry Buckland to his father which is in the Journal he said Crockett had been mustered out of the service, that Harkness had resigned and that he (Henry) had been promoted to Brigade Quartermaster. He says should Col. Buckland receive a Brigadier’s commission, Eaton would be Colonel; Snyder Lieut Colonel, and Neufer Major[6]. Where is Gene Rawson! Should think he would come before Snyder and Neufer. If they are all promoted you and Kaull and Gene will be the only ones that will keep your old offices. Hope to see your name in the paper as being promoted before long. You will please me in that respect if possible won’t you my own darling husband. No more this time. All send much love. Write very often and oblige your true and loving wife—Sarah E. Rice—

Do not be angry at anything I have written. You wont will you honey? S.E.R
Home February 3^rd 1863

My Own Darling husband

I received yours of the 15^th yesterday and one dated the 18^th today. Have not written any for over a week. Did not know whether to direct to Moscow, Corinth, or Memphis and so thought I would wait until I heard from you. Am glad to hear that you are not going back to Memphis. You had a hard time since you left there have you not? Wish you had that nice rubber-coat that is in your box at Memphis. Think you leaving there was such a foolish operation. It did not do any good that I can see. Think some of the officers act as if they were crazy a part of the time. Mr. Buckland in his last letter seemed to be very much discouraged about the way things are going on there. Said he has made up his mind that if his brigade was broken up they would not need his services any longer. Do not mention it for perhaps he would not like to have anything said about it. Gene Rawson wrote to Ralph Buckland and said he wished he would tell him whose division he was in for he did not know himself.

Gough lectured in Toledo last evening and Gottschalk and Patti gave a concert there this evening. I thought some of going out there yesterday morning but it was so very cold that I changed my mind and then too it is about time for Grandmother to come and perhaps she would not like it if I did not stay at home and visit with her. Minerva and Mr. Everett went out and I guess every person thought they were married. He took his carpet-bag down to Grandmother’s and had the Bus call there for them. A number of us went up to the depot with them. Had a good of sport over it. The Peak family gave a concert here on Monday evening. It was a miserable affair. The Hall was crowded. Wish Patti would come here. Would like to hear her so much-- You wanted to know what I have been reading lately. Have just finished “The Old Curiosity Shop” by Dickens and am now reading a book called “The Orpheus C. Kerr Papers.” How did you like Great Expectations? Pip was a great or rather a queer chap wasn’t he? Am going to get “David Copperfield” to read if I can. Have been reading some in Artemus Ward’s book. And so you really have got my picture at last. Am glad you like it. What do the Col. And Maj think of it? I got one of the pictures Al. sent home. I think they are excellent. Tell him I am much obliged to him for it. You think I look more motherly do you. I don’t believe that I will look motherly at all until I have a baby. Now if my husband had been as smart as Fitch[7] or Dr. Conger I might have had one by this time. Now own up did you feel bad when you got the letter saying that I was mistaken about that matter? I know you would have been almost crazy with joy if it had been true. Now wouldn’t you, that is if I had been perfectly willing to have it so. Abbie Haynes has a little daughter and Nat is almost tickled to death about it-- Fen. Dickinson[8] and the Doughterty boys are home on furlough. They are all looking well. Creight. Thompson is going to resign. Is Hen Buckland Brigade or Division Quartermaster? Poe brought Mrs Buckland a letter when he came home and the Col wrote that he should call on her. You did not ask him to call on me again did you? I heard that Mr Harkness had got home but he has not been here yet. Should think he would come see us. I saw Mrs Bruner up at the depot yesterday morning and he said she had a letter from Mr. Bruner about two weeks ago. Oakley Sotten is home. Have not seen him but heard that he was confined to his bed. Dr. Conger[9] is still at the Water Cure in Cleveland. He is improving fast. The last time I heard from him he had taken four steps. I guess Em[10] has gone to visit him. Charlie Norton was up to see me the other day. Has gone to Tiffin to see his girl. Will have to stop writing. Lida is here. Write often and oblige your loving wife.

All send love,

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Feb. 7^th 1863.

My Own Darling Husband

I wrote you a few days ago and although I have not received a letter from you since, am going to write you again this evening. Do not know as I can think of anything to write about but will try and scratch off something. Forgot to tell you in my last letter that I received a letter from Lue Cruttenden last week. Was very much surprised when I opened it as she was the last person I expected to hear from. She wrote a real good letter. If I did not want to keep it would sent it to you to read. She had heard that I was offended at her and was never going to forgive her. Said she had often thought of writing to me once more but feared she would meet with cold neglect but had finally determined to write and ask me to forgive her. She said she knew she did wrong but gave this as her reason for doing so had heard that I had gone East and did not know whether I had returned or not. Told me how much she had always loved me and how dearly she loved me now and wanted to know if I would refuse to receive her into my heart as of old. She says “You have cause to complain dear Lida, but if a fault be acknowledged can you not forgive.” She is at her fathers. Did not say anything about her husband but Al. said he was in the army. All she said about the baby was that her dear little Rice was crying and she would have to go to him. That is the way with all those squalling babies. I think it best not to be in too big a hurry about having them. Ought to wait until the war is over at least. What is your opinion on that subject my “gude man? Amelia Gelpin has another baby. Have not heard whether it is a boy or a girl. Mrs R. Amsden is very sick. Has been flowing the same as Mrs McCullough. They did not think she could live but I guess is getting a little better now, though she is still very sick. Mr. Morgan is sick with inflammatory rheumatism. Mr. Phelps has been quite sick. He is not able to go out any now—I went to hear the new Methodist minister last Sunday morning. Think he is a perfect drone. The worst one they have ever had here that I have heard preach. He is as conceited as can be and thinks he knows it all—Mother and I went up to Ballville this afternoon for a sleigh ride. Called at Mrs Vallette’s and Aunt Eliza’s[11]. It was pretty rough sleighing. The snow had melted a good deal and in some places there was nothing but bear ground—

Mary Dillon and I talk of going to Toledo to clerk in some fancy store. We are going to earn money to go to Europe with. We are crazy to go and think that will be quickest way for us to get there, to earn our own money. Suppose of course you have no objections to our doing so—Mother received yours of the 23^rd yesterday. Has not Al. got there yet with your new clothes? Am sorry that you have had to wait as long for them but they will be nice when you do get them. Sergt. Neason has been sick since he got home. Today is the first time he has been out. You know he came back to hunt up the deserters. Don’t believe you could get furlough my darling? I dreamed last night that you had got one and come home. I often dream it but somehow or other my dreams don’t come true. I see by the papers that Gen Denver and the Surgeon in Gen Lauman’s Division have both of them got furlough and have come north—The young folks had a dance the other night. Mrs Hinman and Lou Hatfield were on hand of course. Lida says if she was Mrs Hinman’s husband she would come home and “knock her up” so that she could not run around so much—think it would be a good idea myself—Am tired of writing and will close this miserable letter. Please excuse all mistakes and write often to your loving wife.

All send love— Lizzie S. Rice

Feb. 8^th 1863

There was a large fire in Toledo yesterday morning. A number of persons were killed by a building falling on them. The fire was first discovered about 7 o’clock in the morning in a coffee and spice mill. The Blade gives the names of all the killed and wounded that has been found when it was furnished—Levi Parish is dead. Wonder who will tend to the cannon now—Dr. Rawson is going to deliver a lecture to-morrow at the Presbyterian Church. His subject is “Vegetable life”. Every person thought he would back out and guess he did try to but could not get anyone to take his place—Wish I could tell you what Jimmie said to-day, but it is like your story, can tell it better than I can write it. Wish I could get a letter from you everyday. It would be so nice. I am not complaining because you do not write often for you do write as often as I would expect you to, but was just saying how nice it would be if I could get one everyday. You write very short letters lately it seems to me but will not complain for I am glad to get them if they are short—Mrs Hinman was at church last evening with Mr. Gardner (a little puppy from Cleveland). It seems that he has cut Lou Hatfield out. Had her to the concert last week. I told Mother the first time I saw him that I felt he was a mean little dog and I was not mistaken. He had about a dozen pictures of “fancy ladies” in Cleveland showing them to the boys in Austin’s Store the other evening. Doc was there and saw them and told Gardner he had seen two of them. He bet he had’nt but Doc told he had for they were over to Holliday and he doctored them. Gardner did not have anything more to say—Ada McCullough (one of my roommates at school) used to say that she could always “tell a mean man by the set of his breeches”. I always could tell them by the way they comb their hair. Their heads always look different to me from others. There is something about them but cannot tell what it is, but I can always see it and do not know that I have ever been mistaken. But no more of this. Write often— S.E.R

Home Feb. 12^th, 1863

My Dear Husband

Yours of the 1^st and 2^nd came along in due time. Cannot tell you how glad I was to hear that you had at last got your box and clothes. You have needed them for a long time and think you might have had the box before you left Memphis as well as not. It could have been sent a week sooner with out much trouble. I kept hurrying Will all the time but it did not seem to do any good. He let Kridler take his time to it when he was making the saddle and even after it was all done poked around nearly a week before he had it packed. Do not think you could have had the clothes before, for Will had to send to New York and get the cloth. How do they fit you? I hope better than the old ones—

Will[12] and Jule[13] have gone to New York so I heard. They started yesterday morning. Jule was in Monday afternoon but did not say anything about going. Think it was a real mean trick and we are all provoked about it. We are not going to mention New York to her when she gets back or let on that we know she had been there at all. Am not surprised at her not letting me but think she might have told the rest of the folks. I have done all I am going to towards making up with her. She does not treat me any better than she did before only she speaks to me once in a while. She will come here and never ask a word about me and if I come in the room she wont say more than two or three words to me all the time she is here. Do not believe she wanted to make up very bad or she would act different from what she does. She never had treated me very well since I have been married. Do not know what is the reason. Whether it is because I married you or not, but should think not, for Minerva said you would not have married me if Jule had not been willing. Do not say anything about it to Al. or any one else. She acts just like Aunt Harriet[14] (her mother) only not quite as bad but is getting more like her every day. Suppose they were afraid that if they told us we would want to send for something but they need not have troubled themselves about it for there are plenty of merchants going after while that we can send by if we want to. Do not want to say anything about your friends but you know Jule was my relation before she was yours—

And so you think I must have been in a terrible pickle about “something”. To tell the truth I was but did not let any person know it. Acted as if it was all right. Must tell you a good joke. You know the report is that I am going to have a baby. Mother and I were down street yesterday morning and were trading with Jake Garvin. Mother asked him if they had any “infant waists.” How he did laugh when he went back to get them—Suppose he thought I was looking for something and had got Mother to ask for me. Wasn’t he nicely fooled? Could not help but laugh to see how pleased he was about it—You wanted to know about “Uncle Homer and Uncle Gaw”. Do not know which will come out first best. Did you ever get the letter I sent by Uncle Gaw? It is a year to-day since you left home is it not? Did not think you would be gone that long without coming home when you left. Thought you would certainly be home before you left Columbus. Am so glad that I went to Memphis when I did for I would not have had any chance to go since—Saw Mrs. Kiser down town yesterday and she told me she had three letters from her husband since I wrote to you about it. Am looking everyday for that letter you said you was going to write in a day or two but it don’t come. Hope I will get it to-morrow—It is dinner time and will have to stop writing. Write often my darling—All send love—

Your Loving

Wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home February 13, 1863

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 2^nd yesterday and one dated the 28^th day before yesterday. Had not had any letters for a week and can assure you that they were welcome. You spoke of two of my letters having gone to Vicksburg and back again. I think it is a great wonder that you get them at all. You want to know if I had not better let you make the visit this time. I would be willing, if you would only make it. Of course would not want you to come home as “Tony Young” did.

Did I tell you how they escorted Tony up to the depot? The German Band was out and Messrs. Caples, Buckland and Owen made speeches at the Depot and “Tony” made a speech too. Guess they had the same carriage that they took the Col. up in and Tony and his wife set on the back seat and the speakers in front, just as they did when the Col. left. The little dutch tailor that works for Betts acted as Marshall. His horse ran away with him and he was almost scared to death, or at least looked as if he was. Do wish you could have seen him. He went up past here “John Gelpin” style exactly. Father thought that perhaps Tony would hear different kind of music when he got back to his regiment. Amos Wood was here to see me this afternoon for a long time. He has furlough of thirty days. He is Capt. now and on Gen. Negley’s staff. Was here this evening again, for me to go down to the dance, but did not go with him. We had a good long talk about old times, this afternoon. You know he used to be a beau of mine when we were children. Is going to give me his Photograph for my Album. He is the same Amos that he used to be.

And so you think that Ock. and Ella are trying to make that match. I do too and Mother, Lida and I have often spoke of it. Do not believe it works as well as they would like to have it for this reason; When the Masons had their supper Ock. wrote out for George to come in and go. Suppose he wanted him to take Sarah (you know he is a Mason) but he did not come and then when the Odd Fellows had their Supper the other night he did not stay, but went to Toledo in the morning after being here two or three days before the Supper. He is a member and should think they would have staid and taken her. They must be very anxious for her to get married if they tried to make a match between you and her. I would prefer to do my own courting, without any persons assistance and if I could not get a husband that way would do without one. She may (as you say) be an accomplished lady (am not well enough acquainted with her to judge), but do not think her good looking at all. Think she looks like Annie Shay and is real homely.

Should think that you and Orrin England must be confidential friends. I cannot write you a bit of news but what the first letter I get you say he told you all about it. Suppose Deed Norton[15] keeps him posted. You know they are engaged. She would not like it I guess if she knew that he told you as much for she is a great enemy of mine. What is your little darkey’s name? Are you going to bring him home with you when the war is over? Did Pete wear out or why didn’t you keep him any longer? M. Taylor left home this morning. He was presented with a very handsome sword at the Odd Fellows Supper the other night-- It seems that you and Maj. Eaton are determined that Mrs Eaton and I shall have a baby between us. You declare that she is going to have one and he declares that I am going to have one. She looked real poor and bad when I was out there and shouldn’t wonder but what there was something up. Suppose you will pick on the Col. now, or rather Gen. I see by the papers that he has received his commission. By the way you promised to send me Gen. Denvers photograph but have not heard anything about it lately. If you do not have a chance to see him, write and ask him for it. Wish you would have him write his name on it. Give my love to Al[16]. I received the secesh flag he sent and am very much obliged for it. You will please tell him. It is getting late and will have to stop writing. Please my darling write as often as you can find time. I remain as ever your true and loving wife—

S. “Lizzie” Rice

P.S. All send love. Did I even tell you that Mollie Cloud is going to have another baby? Jimmie[17] has a new box of paints and enclosed you will find the first picture he painted with them. He sends it to you for a present--- S.E.R

Home Feb. 14, 1863

My Dear Husband,

Have been looking ever day for that letter you said you was going to write in a day or two but it has not come yet. Thought I would certainly get one yesterday but was very much disappointed. I wrote you day before yesterday and forgot to tell you a piece of news that I intended to when I commenced writing. You remember that Henry Meads that used to live here, do you not? The one you told Doc and Lida the story about. You know they moved out west. Well a year or so ago he left his wife and run away with a mulatto girl. He then left her and reported his wife was dead and married another woman. She in the course of time had a baby. His wife hearing of all this has taken him up and suppose will send him to the Penitentiary where he ought to be. Should think now that the poor fellow was not to blame for what she scolded him so much about but rather that she was the one. It was too bad for the poor woman when she wanted one so bad wasn’t it? Isaac is as kind as “Pa” for Nellie is going to have another baby. The one they have is nothing but a baby. “Pa” will have to give him a few lessons in kindness. Emma Conger has gone to Cleveland to see Doc. He was bound to come home or have Em there and so they let her come and bring her baby.

I saw a notice in last evenings paper of the death of your cousin Robert Caldwell. You know he was wounded at Murfreesboro. Oakley Sotten is not able to go out any yet. Charlie Norton has got almost well. His furlough is out the last of this month. Joe Bartlett left last Monday. Jack Dickinson went with him. George Tillotson got home day before yesterday. What is the reason that every person can get furloughs but those that are in the 72^nd? Do not think it is fair at all. Aunt Eliza said that folks felt real hard about Al. being home so long and getting so much pay for doing nothing. I told her that he had been doing as much as any one in the regiment had done until lately and that he could not go back until he was ordered to. I was real provoked. Do not see what good it does them to abuse the officers all the time-- Mrs Hale has gone to Washington. Mr Hale telegraphed for her and they think he is sick. She had only been home a week or two. Had been to Washington to visit with him. Our crowd had a sleigh-ride to Tiffin last night and Charles camp had one to Bellvue. Guess it is not very good sleighing but suppose they thought anything for a sleigh-ride. Mrs Waggoner is coming here this afternoon to stay until tomorrow with us. This is Valentines day is’nt it? Do you expect to get any? Wonder if I will get as many as I did last year. That cage that was sent has not been filled yet and the worst of it is that there is not much prospect of its being filled very soon. Think it is too bad. You are not one bit smart as far as that is concerned. Here I went way to Memphis thinking that of course “something” would happen but I might as well have staid away for all the good it did me. All the girls have got babies but me. Lue, Emma, and Kate Pell have each of them a little darling. Have no occasion to scold. Can truly say in the words of “Ma” that “it was through the kindness &c.” What an old goose she is anyway. Wonder how her Sheney (as she calls her) gets along. Mrs Dillon’s girl told her that Annie was promised to Gus. Don’t tell him for Annie would be awful mad if she found out that she had told it. How does Gene’s calico get along? Does he say anything more about the “back rations” he used to talk so much about? I asked you in one of my letters if you knew what had become of Miss Gilbert and Mrs Phillips and you never answered it. Would like to hear something about them. Did I tell you that Mother had received your letter? Do not believe she will answer it but she may. Have not heard her say anything about it since she got it, but before, she said that you had waited so long that if you did not write now she would not answer it. Guess she will come around after while. Well this is a miserably written letter and full of nonsense. My writing in a hurry will be some excuse for the poor writing. The only one I have for the nonsense is that I could not think of anything else to say. Write often my darling and believe me truly your living wife, Lizzie S. Rice.

Home Feb. 22^nd, 1863

My Own Darling Husband

It storms so much to-day that I will not venture out to church and having nothing else to do will employ my time writing to you. I feel discouraged about writing. Have written so many letters and you say you do not receive them. I thought there would be no trouble about your getting them after you returned to Memphis. I mailed a letter yesterday letting you know how disappointed I was and how bad I felt because you did not come with Col. Buckland. Had no reason to think that you would but did think that perhaps you might come. Do not feel as bad as I did but am living in hopes that your furlough will come along next. It is only once in a while that I get real blue on the subject and then I can scold, cry and abuse almost any person but you. I told Col. Buckland that I had a notion to go back with him. He said he would take me but after his description of White’s Station think there would be no place to put me when I got there unless I would occupy one of the negro cabins he was telling about. Am ever so much obliged for the trinkets you sent me. Mary Dillon says she is sick and wishes you would send her a “dose of salts”-- They are going to have a sort of a war meeting at Birchard Hall to-morrow evening. The girls are going to sing and Col. Buckland is going to deliver an address so the bills say.

Who do you tent with since the Rev. Poe left? Your father told me the other day that Capt. Russel said he was going to call and see me. Wish he would for I like him first rate and that Mr. Waterson too. What made Maj. Eaton think that I was not all right? Did his wife write and tell him that I was not? I thought that she acted as if she thought something was the matter of me the day we were out there. Do not know what made her think so (if she did) unless it was because I am fleshier now than when she last saw me, but it is not baby fat. You said in one of your letters that you would try to get Gen. Denvers photograph and some others for me. Do not forget it please. And so Gen. Sherman does not like Gen. Denvers. I think Gen. Denvers is the best man of the two. I liked him but you said Lieut. Partridge had resigned and gone home, I remember him. Had an idea that he did not like me for some reason or other. I hardly remember Capt. Clark. Did he have sandy hair and whiskers? Guess he is the one that gave me that boquet the morning we called on the Gen’l—How does Roll. Edgerton get along?

Am so glad that you have plenty of clothes. They were a long time getting there but it could not be helped very well. Wish I could be with you to take care of you, while you are sick with that cold. Am not a very good nurse but guess I would do better than none at all. How I would like to drop in on you unexpectedly. You do not know how much I would like to see you my darling. If I did not love you so well would not care anything about it would I? Jule and Will have not returned from New York yet. Minerva has been sick with inflammation of the stomach. Is trying to get well enough to go to the Oyster Supper which comes off next Tuesday evening. Suppose you will wonder what Oyster Supper it is. The Masons are going to have a big time. Rev. Mr. Marks of Huron is going to deliver an address and Dr. St. Clair gives the Oyster Supper at his house. Uncle Homer is a Mason you know and that is the way Minerva gets her invitation. There is going to be an Oyster Supper next week for the benefit of the Aid Society. They are short of funds. Mrs Norton has written for Artemus Ward to come and lecture for their benefit too. He said that he would be very happy to “cum” Amelia Norton added in a postscript to the letter. When he wrote he said bring a single gentleman he was very anxious to meet the Presidents daughter. Mrs Flint is President now. Mrs Norton’s time was up a week or two ago. She would like it if she had been elected again. Said as much as that one day but did not do any good! She does like to have proven as Mrs Greene says. She don’t like it one bit because Mrs Hinman acts so. She is always so ready and willing to talk about other folks that it is coming home to her. Am glad of it for she acted so hateful about that car and talked so about our walking through the street that day. We thought she would get her pay one of these days—Doc. says “but Nat Haynes folks have got a nice baby”. My paper is giving out and my ideas too and so will stop writing. Write often to your loving wife—Lizzie S. Rice

P.S. All send a great deal of love. S.E.R

March 4, 1863

As Col Buckland leaves this evening will have to finish my letter today. There is nothing more to write than what I have already written. Do not know as I did tell you that the Catholics are going to have a “Fancy Fair” before long and are very busy selling tickets. Would you like to hear from your old friend “Mr Heller.” What is he doing & c. & c. Has quit the preaching and is now acting out “secesh” pretty strong. He ran for office a short time ago, was beat and is going to run again as soon as he has a chance. Guess he always was more of a “slink” than a preacher. Heard that there were only two or three to hear him when he preached his “farewell sermon”

Will you please accept the cigars I send by the Col? I wanted to send you something and did not know what else to get. Hope they will keep you and Al “out of mischief” a little while. Mr. Pass wants you to write and tell me how they suit. Whether they are as good as the other I sent or not and if not what is the trouble, if they are too strong or too mild or anything else about them that does not suit and then he will know next time just what will suit. He sends that match box and cigar lighter with his best respects-- Seems to be a great friend of yours. Think he is a real nice man and a perfect gentleman-- Wish I could see you. Won’t you try and come home soon and wont you love me again as you used to? I know I have many faults, but be a little more patient with me and I will try and overcome them as soon as possible. It can’t be done in a day you know. Enclosed you will find a picture that Jimmie drew and painted for you. Suppose you will recognize the “turkey tracks” below without anything said about them. Guess you will get tired of reading such a pack of nonsense and so will close. Have a miserable scratchy pen and my writing looks about as much like “turkey tracks” as Jimmie’s. No more this time. Please write soon and oblige your affectionate wife. Lizzie S. Rice.

P.S. I send a great deal of love—

George Tillotson had a congestion chill Saturday and was very low this morning. Dr’s Stilwell and Rawson were there this morning and said they thought it very doubtful if he recovered—Have heard since that he was dead--

Home Mar. 5^th 1863.

My Own Darling Husband

Your favor of the 22^nd was received in due time, and was very glad to hear that you were all in such good spirits. Have had no reason to complain about not getting letters lately, having had as many as four a week most of the time. I sent you quite a lengthy one by the Col. which I suppose you will have read before this reaches you—Was out to a party at Mrs Burdick’s yesterday afternoon and to a small one at Mr. Everetts in the evening. Had a real nice time at Mr. Everetts. It was a sort of “family party”. There was Minerva, Lida and Doc. Mrs Paine. Mrs Barnard. Mrs Burdick and Charlie Al. Tyler. Ralph Buckland. Al. Long. Mr. Brundage. Mr. Owen and your wife. We had a gay old time and did not get home until nearly twelve o’clock. Believe you are acquainted with all that were there but Mrs Paine. Mr. Brundage and Mr. Owen. Mrs Paine is Mrs Barnard’s sister. Mr. Brundage is the conceited gent that I told you I did not like and Mr. Owen is the gentleman I wrote you about and said if I was not married would pitch in for him. You know Mrs Dillon said to tell you she thought you had better come home and look after me and do not believe but what you will think it still more necessary when I tell you that he came home with me last night. Suppose I may as well look for you home on the first train after you receive this letter. How is it it [sic] “honey”? Mr. Owen really is a splendid fellow but what do I care, if he is or any person else either so long as I am blessed with such a darling good husband, so kind and true to me. Have always wondered how it was, that anyone with as much sense as you have, ever took a fancy to such a giddy chatter-box as I am. And so Charlie Norton wanted to get married and his mother wouldn’t let him. Guess your advice had a good effect on him. I plagued him a good deal about it when he was home. The young lady’s name is Miss Emma Pittinger. Should think Orrin England’s picture of Cordelia Norton must be exceedingly lovely if it looks anything like her. Gene is not very bashful about his love affair is he? I wondered how it was that Capt. Young got leave of absence but it turns out to be only “French leave” after all. Should think he would be afraid to go back—Had company for dinner today. Dr. Watson of Norwalk. He came over to tend George Sillotson’s funeral. Mr. and Mrs Phelps have not got home yet, but are expected this week or next. Emma Downs is expected home soon. You know she has been spending the winter in Chicago. Her folks sent her there to get her away from Mr. Taylor who does not amount to anything. Always looks as if he had just come out of a sand-box. A perfect little dandy. Such an one as Owen described in his lectures Em was dead in love with him or at least she acted very much as that was the case. Whenever she looked at him all the love imaginable would shoot out of her eyes. You couldn’t help but see it—

Did not have time to finish my letter last night and so will do so this morning. Was talking with Jimmie this morning about living with me and told him he would be my baby then. He said maybe you would bring a nigger baby home with you or might buy a white baby here, and then he wouldn’t be the baby. I want to know something about it. Are you going to buy a baby when you come home? If you do be sure to get a little girl. I saw Kate Fitch’s baby at Mrs Burdicks. Will leave you to imagine how pretty it is when I tell you it looks like Fitch. Am told that he thinks there never was such a baby which is perfectly natural. Have not seen Em Congers baby yet. You wanted to know if I wrote more than three letters in January. I wrote five. Not near as many as usual but you were traveling around so much that I did not think you would get what I did write. Will have to stop writing for I am going over to Mrs Ayer’s this afternoon to have Belle show me how to finish my slippers-- Write often as you can find time for you know how well I like to get letters. My love to Al. and tell him I would like his opinion on cigars as well as yours. No more this time. Please excuse the look of this letter. The children made such a fuss and that made me nervous and couldn’t write very well. Your loving wife Lizzie S. Rice

Home March 21, 1863

My Dear Husband

Yours of the 10^th written in answer to the one I sent by Gen. Buckland, reached here in due time and was gladly welcomed by me, as indeed are all your letters. I heard through Lieut. Fisher that you had really gone to Vicksburg. Dr. Stilwell came here, and he said that when he left, you were all on the boats ready to start. I did hope that you would go to Murfreesboro instead of Vicksburg, but as that is out of the question now, will have to make the best of it. Take the very best care of yourself my darling and perhaps you will get along without being sick at all.

I guess you will have pretty hard work to read this letter. Have got something in one of my eyes and it pains me so that I can hardly see to write. Why didn’t you tell me that story about Charley Norton and his lady before? You know I would not say anything about it. Have a mind to write and ask Phone about it. How did you hear of it? Suppose Orrin told you of course. The day I received your letter Mother and I visited at Mrs Vallettes. Had a real nice time. Father was invited too but did not go not having been very well for a week past. Is very busy at the Bank just now Mr. Miller having gone to Chicago. Mr. and Mrs Phelps got home yesterday morning. Emma Downs was expected last evening but did not come. Did I ever tell you that Dan McIntosh was studying with Dr. Failing? I almost forgot to tell you of the arrival of another baby in town. Sarah Canfield has a son a week or two old. Suppose they are very much pleased because it is a boy. It is just what they wanted.

You say in regard to your remarks about Doc and Minerva that you did not intend to offend me and hope that you did not. I never was offended at anything you said about them neither did I intend to offend you when I said what I did about Jule and was very sorry when I found that I had done so. You say Lida and I are good friends and want to know if I could enjoy her society as much if you would not speak with her, would not remain in the room where she was &c, &c, as I do now. Do not think you would be justified in acting that way as long as she treated you well. If she did not treat you well then I would feel the same towards her as if she did not treat me well and would act accordingly. Any person (do not care who it is) that offends you offends me also. I was friendly towards Jule just as long as she was so towards me, and when she has a mind to be friendly again I will be so too, but will not do more than my share towards it. Jule is a good deal older than I am and for that reason do not think that I ought to give up on her entirely. If she was a little younger thing that you could not expect to know any better I might pass it all by, but think she is old enough to know better. I am not going to say another word on the subject today, so here let it rest.

All that had taken in the “Catholic Lottery” drum night before last. George Price drew a “sett of chairs”. Now see what I missed by not taking him. Charlotte Halliday drew a washstand. Some had eight or nine tickets and did not get anything and others got nothing but a tin whistle. I did not try my luck this time. Do not suppose I would have got anything if I had. You know that Mr. Owen I wrote you about? He is one of those “Butternut Democrats”. It has lowered him in my estimation a good deal. Brundage is one of the same stripe. Owen had one of his butternut speeches printed in the “Enquirer.” They both take it. Wish they would be the first to be drafted and would have to go too. Uncle Homer gave me his Photograph the other day. I wish as much that you had had some taken before you left Memphis. Minerva has gone to Fostoria to visit Ann Foster. Have you written to Charlie lately? I have had only one letter this week and it seems so strange. I saw your cousin Juliette Caldwell go by here today with Emma Sharp. It looked very much like her and am certain that it was.

Beme Amsden[18] has bought that house of George Englers out by Nat Haynes. They moved out there a few weeks ago. It is a real nice place. Lida has me looking out the window every minute to see someone that is passing. Where did Al. get that flag he sent me? He said of a lady and that he promised to send it to me. Who did he promise? Was she a young lady or a married one, pretty or homely and what is her name? It is getting late and will close my letter. Please excuse this miserable letter. Write often and oblige your true and loving wife-- Lizzie S. Rice

P.S. All send love--My love to Al--

I must tell you what George Price said about me. He was going to get his brother Will’s wife a blue merino dress and got some samples to let Amelia Barnard see which was the nicest, and prettiest color. She was telling him who all had got them this Winter and among others mentioned my having got one but said that was not going to have it made up this Winter. She said he commenced to laugh as hard as he could and said “You said she was not going to have it made up this Winter”? “Is there any reason for her not having it made up”? Mel said she never saw a fellow laugh harder than he did. Suppose he has heard the report that was around about my going to have a baby and thinks that is the reason I am not going to have my dress made up. Won’t they get fooled nicely? Mel got one of my Photographs yesterday. Said she told George that she was going to put mine and his to-gether in her Album—His Photographs are the best I ever saw. Told Mel I would like one of them for my album but would be afraid to ask him for one for fear he would refuse me. The first time you write be sure and tell me that story about Charlie Norton—No more this time. Write often--

Yours with much love

Lizzie

Home Mar. 25^th 1863

My Dear Husband

I received yours of the 17^th today and really was very much surprised as I did not expect to hear from you very soon. At least not until after you had reached Vicksburg, if that was your destination. It seems that you have been meeting quite a number of old friends lately, which certainly must be very pleasant. You spoke of Lieut. Chittenden. Is his name Stearne? If it is I have seen him and think he is the homeliest person I ever saw.

Who do you tent with now? You said “they (Mr. and Mrs Higgins) came to our tent and took tea: Gen. Buckland was telling me all about their being old friends, when he was home. I told him that he probably would not have seen her if we had not scraped acquaintance with her husband. It seems strange that it would turn out so don’t it-- Your “old flame” Ella Watson in here visiting Amelia Norton. Am going to see her tomorrow if it does not rain—What other regiments besides the 72^nd and 95^th belong to Gen. Buckland’s brigade. Mrs Buckland was telling me the other day that the Gen’s staff presented him with a new uniform. You are on his staff are you not? Wish when you write that you would tell me the names of all that are on his staff—Had you applied for leave of absence before you received marching orders? I heard that Hen. Buckland and Gene Rawson had, and were very much disappointed because they could not come home—

I will be twenty-one years old next month. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could spend the day with me. If you cannot, perhaps you can spend your birthday with me—You spoke of seeing Mrs. Col. Canfield at Memphis. What is she doing there? Has she got over being crazy? You know we heard at one time that she was deranged. The scholars of the high school are going to have an exhibition next Friday evening and will then have a vacation of two weeks. We expect Charlie home in a few weeks to spend his vacation. Jimmie is not very well. Has a bad cold. Could not go to school today and had to send for Mary Miller to keep him company, and wait on him. She is just like a little wife to him or as Lida said to-day is better to him than some wives are to their husbands when they are sick—Israel Smith’s wife and her children do not get along very well together I guess. I heard that he wanted to back out before they were married but she would not let him. He told her that he did not think it was right that perhaps the children would not agree, but she made him stick to his bargain. The old goose ought to have thought of that before—Emma Downs got home this eve—“Fannie” Haynes or rather “Geary” is coming home on a visit. Some person said that Mary was coming too but do not believe it. She never comes home because she cannot come in style—If you go to Yazoo city you may see that little rebel we had such a time with on the boat. She said she had two hundred hogs in one pen and I have forgotten how many negros. You might make way with a few of her hogs—It is late and will have to close my letter. Do my darling write often and oblige your true and loving wife—Lizzie S. Rice

Thursday Mar. 26^th 1863

It was so late last evening when I commenced to write that I did not have time to fill out my paper and so thought I would write more this morning-- You spoke of having traded horses and said that you had a real nice one now. What is his name and is he as good as Billy? Libbie Morehouse brought up a letter for me to read the other day from Capt. Cate (a gentleman we got acquainted with when we were in New York) It was written on board the U.S. Bark. Pursuit at Tampa Bay. It is a long letter and very interesting. He gives an account of all that he has been doing during the past year. How many prizes they have taken their value &c. &c-- Jimmie says “ask John why don’t he write to me” He says he writes to you every day nearly and sends you pictures and you do not write to him at all-- Am glad to hear that you are feeling so well. Be sure and take good care of yourself-- You received the letter Father sent by Gen. Buckland did you not? I suppose you did but you never said anything about it. I must write to Charlie and will not have time to write you a long letter this time. Please excuse all mistakes and poor writing. Have written very rapidly All send love.

Yours with much love

S.E.R

Home April 7, 1863

My Dear Husband,

I received yours of the 26^th yesterday telling me that you expected to start for some point in the vicinity of Vicksburg. I feel bad to have you go so much farther away from home but glad that you are going to leave that miserable place. Am sorry to hear that you have not been feeling well and hope, as you say that it will not be anything serious. You must have had a nice time at that dinner on board the “Forest Queen”. I wonder if you did not eat too much. Guess that must have been what made you sick instead of the weather. How is it? Mrs Buckland said to tell you that we are all very anxious to know what you said in response to that toast you was telling about. You had better tell me the next time you write or we will have to ask Gen. Buckland. I had not heard anything of that story about Charley Norton before you wrote and told me, but have since heard something of it. They say that she accused several gentlemen of being the father of the youngster and Charley is one of them, but it seems that he went up to Tiffin when he was home this last time and made the young lady take back all she said about him. They say that she owned up that he was not the guilty one. She has gone to Maryland to visit some of her friends there. Should think it was kind of mixed affair. “Would not like to be in her shoes”.

Mollie Cloud really is doing a thriving business. Mother says we don’t want any little squallers around until the war is over. I wonder if George is afraid of the sex and especially those named Sarah? Do not think he need be afraid of that one. What is your opinion on the subject? She is going home soon and Ella is going along. Expects to spend the summer I believe. If they had her stay here so long to marry her off I am afraid they have come to the conclusion at last that it is no go. It may be that George will take her but I do not believe he will. Mother says for you to tell the Gen that Dr. Coles is married. I must tell you what new babies have come to town since I wrote last. Mrs John M. Smith has a daughter. Mrs Ed. Tindall a son and Mrs Thad. Ball a son. Nat Haynes was as drunk as a fool yesterday and had a fight with Hen Rusch. Suppose he got drunk over the election. The Union ticket carried the day. The Copperheads worked hard but were beat. Three of the trustees received the same number of votes and to decide it they put themselves in a hat, shook them up and Col. Brundage draw and he drew out two Union men. Wasn’t it good? I will send you two of the Copperhead tickets which I have so that you can see what a set they are. Would send you the Union tickets also if I had them. Enclosed you will find an article I cut from one of the Cleveland papers telling something about Stan Greens movements lately. Every person here thinks that he will be shot as he deserves to be. You know Rosecrans is pretty hard on such fellows. Gen McPherson sent Minerva his Photograph. I hope Vicksburg will soon fall if you will come home then and make a visit. In your last letter you spoke of having received two of my letters dated the 13^th and 15^th. Are they the first you have got since the one I sent by the Gen? I wrote one on the 5^th. You have not said anything about it did you receive it? I write a good many letters and don’t believe you get near all of them.

Minerva has got home from Fostoria and is sick with a cold. It does not agree with her to go visiting. She always comes home sick. Charley will be home next Tuesday. They have a vacation of two weeks. Mr. Fesselman has got home. I have not seen anything of him yet. Heard that he had gone to Cleveland. He was in to see Mrs Buckland and she says he looks as yellow as Maj Eaton did when we were at Memphis. How does he get along any way? Has he given up yet or does he still stick to it that I am going to have a baby? Jimmie says to tell you to come home. When you can get thirty days leave if you can instead of twenty. It is nearly dinner time and will have to close my letter. Do not forget my darling to take good care of yourself and to write often to your loving wife. All send love. Excuse looks, have a miserable scratchy pen.

My love to Al.—S.E.R Lizzie S. Rice

Fremont June 27 /63

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 15^th and 18^th last evening. Am so glad to hear that you have got almost well again. Be very careful of your health for my sake. I can hardly wait until Vicksburg is taken, want to see you so very much. Do not believe you are half as impatient about it as I am—Was both surprised and pleased to hear of your meeting with Capt. Youman. I remember him very well. Suppose you have met Hen. or rather Capt. Jones before this time. How do you like him? Lizzie Wheaton wrote me that he was in the Army and Alf. Moore (another of my gentlemen friends) also. I wrote and asked her what regiment they were in and where the regt. was stationed but have not received an answer to the letter yet. I intended if they were any place near you to have you hunt them up and get aquainted with them. Am glad I have a husband that I need not be ashamed but proud to have them meet. Lizzie Wheaton is very anxious to see you she says. Will not tell you all she said about you, for fear it might make you vain and you know it would not do to have the whole family vain. There ought to be, at least one sensible one in a family don’t you think so? Lizzie wrote me that Milt. Southard (another of my friends) was a copperhead. Was one of the delegates at the “Democratic Convention” a few weeks ago. Do you remember that “Burlesque Programme” I showed you one day? Gen. Jones name is on it. Wonder if he remembered it. It seems to me that they accused Youman and some others of getting them up. He used to have gay times at Granville.

And so you think that if I have ever had whooping-cough that I have not got it now. Father says there is such a think as having it twice and that I have got it now. Am a great deal better than when I last wrote. Do not vomit anymore nor cough very hard. Next week will be my seventh week. Mother and Mary[19] talk of going to Toledo to spend the fourth. They are going to have a grand celebration there and one at Tiffin also. Do not believe you will spend the 4^th at home as you expected unless you hurry up matters a little. I want to see you more and more everyday. Just think it is nearly nine months since I last saw you. You ought to come home in time to welcome the “little stranger” folks are expecting. Does Maj. Eaton ever say anything more about it? What was the reason Dr. Kaull resigned. Should think he would have waited, until Vicksburg was taken at any rate. Have you any person in his place and could you leave now as well as before he resigned? Mr. Bean has come home to stay. Do not know for what reason-- I remember Waterhouse’s Battery or rather the bugle well. Do not you remember how much I was charmed with it notes?

The “Presbyterian Sabbath School” had a picnic last Wednesday afternoon at “Birchard’s Grove”. I went out and we had a real nice time. While there I met a Mr. Chance who said he got well acquainted with you while you was in the 10^th regiment at Camp Dennison. Said he was there at the time your regiment had that fight you told me about—

Monday Morning

Lida is quite sick. Think she has inflammation of the bowels. Minerva has taken the baby home to take care of it. Lida has about decided to call her Minnie. She begins to laugh and is as cunning as can be—There is going to be a show here next Wednesday. Do you remember where I got acquainted with you? I did not think then that you would ever be my husband-- How does Gene Rawson get along? His mother has been quite sick but is better now. Has Roll. Edgerton got well yet? The German Band had a boat ride one day last week. They made three hundred dollars. Annie went. Said they had a very nice time. I see by the papers that her Gus has been promoted to Hospital Steward. Should thnk you would need some person that knew something about medicine for that position. Will have to close as I want to mail my letter this morning. Remember me to Capt’s Jones and Youman’s. My love to Al. am sorry to hear that he is not well. Hope he will soon be better—All send love no more this time. Write soon and oblige—Your loving wife. Lizzie S. Rice

Fremont July 2^nd 1863

My Own Darling Husband

Yours of the 21^st reached me night before last. Do not know why you do not get my letters. It must be the fault of the mails for I have written as often as I could find time to do so. I certainly am fortunate than you for I hear from you at least once, and very often twice a week. Cannot tell how glad I am to hear that your health has improved so much and that you are feeling real well again. Hope you will keep well now. Well! here is almost the fourth and you are not home yet. Guess I need not look for you before that time, as Vicksburg is not taken yet and there does not seem to be much prospect of its being taken for some time either. Every letter that comes from Vicksburg says “in a few days or two weeks at the farthest the city will be ours”. Think it is a very long two weeks. Will Kelly is at home. Do not know how long he is going to stay. Is not well at all. Believe that is the reason he came home. Mr. Bean was dismissed from the service. I heard that there were fourteen charges against him and afterwards they dwindled down to four. One was drunkeness, another sympathizing with the rebels and do not know that the other two were. To change the subject a little Mrs Oviatt has another little daughter a week old. Don’t you think she is doing a thriving business? The oldest one is not more than seventeen or eighteen months old. Mrs Morehouse, Linden, and Libbie have gone West to spend the summer with Mr. Graham’s folks. They are now in Chicago. Katie Golan is keep house for them. Emma Downs has a cousin here who is going to spend the summer with her.

My whooping-cough is a great deal better. Have got almost over it. Guess I shall go to the sociable to-morrow evening. Have not been for four or five weeks and to-morrow evening is the last one they are going to have. I heard that some of the Presbyterians made such a fuss about them that Mrs Flint (the President of the Aid Society) was going to stop them. Mother and Mary are going to Toledo tomorrow evening. Mrs Watson has been here three weeks visiting Mrs Close. She is going home in the morning. You never said a word about Ella. Didn’t you get the letters I wrote when she was here? She sent some word to you in several of them.

Sunday July 5^th 1863

I actually have not had any time since Thursday to finish this letter. Friday was just as busy as I could be all day helping Mother and Mary get ready to start and Saturday had as much work to do that I could not possibly finish it. I baked some cake yesterday and it was real nice, just as good as any one could wish so they all say and I think so too. Wish I could send you some of it to see how you would like it. You know that it was my fist attempt at anything of the kind and I feel real proud to think that I succeeded as well. Suppose that if Mother would stay away long enough I would get to be quite a cook and housekeeper. I received Al’s letter Friday evening. We had a real nice time. The folks in town have been just about crazy since noon over the news. They rung the bells all the afternoon, fired the cannon and a long procession carrying flags and headed by a band of music marched around town stopping every few minutes to give three cheers. This evening they have a large bonfire down on Main Street and they keep up a constant cheering. Suppose you will have heard the news before this reaches you but for fear that you may not will tell it you. Lee’s army has been defeated and cut up terribly, we, having killed, wounded and taken prisoners 40 thousand of them. The report was this afternoon that they were in full retreat but that Pleasanton’s cavalry was in their rear and would cut off their retreat. This evening the report is that the pontoon bridges they had left behind were destroyed and they could not get across the river and the probability is that this whole army will be captured. Good news if true isn’t it? Will have to close, excuse all mistakes and poor writing and write soon. In great haste, your true and loving wife--Lizzie S. Rice--

Home July 12^th 1863

Well, my darling when are you coming home now that Vicksburg is really taken at last? I want to see you so very much and think you have been gone long enough to come home and make me a good long visit. You will resign if they will not let you come won’t you my dear? It is seventeen months today since you left home and will be nine months to-morrow since I left Memphis. A long time isn’t it? You asked me in your letters what I thought about your resigning and coming home to stay? You know I would like to have you home so much, but do not think it would be hardly best to do so if you are well enough to remain in the army. Am afraid that you would not be contented to stay at home and then too there would be danger of your being drafted and I would not want a husband of mine drafted.

Thursday July 16^th 1863

Have not had time to finish this letter until this afternoon. I commenced it last Sunday and have been so busy ever since that I could not possibly find any time to write only in the evening and was too tired then to think of every thing. Annie went home last Saturday and wont get back until last evening and Mother and I put up five gallons of cherries while she was away—I wrote you, did I not that Lida was very sick? She is some better but is very weak yet. Cannot sit up at all. She has weaned the baby. Minerva has had it down home nearly three weeks. Leroy Moore’s brother Mandille[20] was wounded in that battle at Gettysburg and his father went to see him last week. They did not think that he was wounded bad enough to come home and was getting along so well that his father did not stay but a few days. He got home last evening and this morning they got a dispatch that he was dead—

You know I wrote you a few weeks ago that Miss Seals was married. Folks say now that she was a “grass widow”. They did not find it out until lately. She was married when she was only seventeen to some man in Calafornia she only lived with him three months when he forged a note and run off with another woman. Wasn’t he a scamp?

I went to the sociable last Friday evening and (wonder if I dare tell you) George Price came home with me. Now don’t get jealous and make a fuss about it please “Mi Lord”. We had a splendid time. It was the last one. They are not going to have any more until it gets cooler—I danced every time and was so tired I could hardly get home. Was out to a war meeting last evening. A captain in the 3^rd Ohio Cavalry spoke and it was real good. I wrote to Al. last week. Has he received the letter yet? I have not heard from you for nearly two weeks. Anna Buckland got a letter last evening from her father. It was written the 4^th of July. I have not seen anything of Dr. Kaull yet. Do not know whether he has been in town or not. I heard that he was homesick to get back and had offered his services again. I do wish you would come home or else let me come see you. Which will you do? I want you to make up your mind to say yes to one or the other the next time you write. Have you seen Captain Jones yet, and how does Capt. Youmans get along? I have not had that photograph taken yet. I want to wait until I get fat again. Am real poor since I had the whooping cough. Have got almost over it and the doctor-book says that the patient should leave home about that time, that a change of air is desirable. Now don’t you think a trip to Vicksburg would be good for me? If you should happen to see Mrs Jordan down there any place just give her my compliments and ask her who has Vicksburg now-- It is nearly tea-time and will have to close—Please excuse this miserable scrawl and write soon to your true and loving wife—

Lizzie S. Rice

P.S. All send a great deal of love. Shall expect you home soon or else a letter for me to come to Vicksburg—No more this time.

S.E.R

Home July 21^st 1863

My Dear Husband

It is over two weeks since I last heard from you. Have you got tired writing to me or what is the trouble? Gen. Buckland came home very unexpectedly last Saturday evening. Does not look near as bad as I thought he would from all accounts. Says that he improved every hour after leaving Vicksburg. I had great notion to give him a real good scolding for not keeping the promise he made me when he was home last winter—To send you home as soon as he went back—He wanted to know if it would not do me as much good to have him come home as to have you. Said if I would call after that he would try and console me. Told him I believed that I would send a letter by him to Gen. Grant, stating my case, and see if he would not take pity on me and send you home for a short time—Am so sorry you cannot come. Have been expecting you so long. I realize the full force of the old saying “Hope defend maketh the heart sick”—Lida Buckland got a letter from Henry one day last week saying he was coming home in a few days. There is no such good news for me. If any person asks me when you are coming home will tell them, when the war is over, for I have given up in despair of having you come home before that time—

We have been having very cold weather for the past week. Have had fire almost every day-- Lydia Morgan returned home last week. We expect Charlie home the first of next month. Do not think that he will go back to Painesville again but will go to Gambier in the Fall. Mary is still in Toledo. Do not know when she is coming home but presume the last of this week. The Phelps girls are home. Mrs Castle of Cleveland is here visiting. Mother expects to have her visit her to-morrow. Cora Downs was expected Saturday evening. She is coming here to be doctored. Has a tumor I believe. You know I suppose that Arthur is in the army-- Lida is getting better. She sat up day before yesterday for the first time in three weeks. The baby has been quite sick but is better too. Dottie Strong is visiting in Indiana or Michigan do not know which. They say she has gone to get a divorce. The report is that Dr. Paine is not going to live with his wife anymore. You know he is in the army. They say that no person in Elmore would board her and that she had to go to housekeeping. When she was boarding at the hotel I think it was there was a man seen coming out of her room at two o’clock in the morning. When her husband was home he found a package of letters that had been written her by some gentleman so they say. Vic. is the last person I would have thought of that would do such a thing—“There is no trusting the war widows-- Minerva says you can’t tell who will be getting a divorce next. Says that the next think you will be getting one from me but then she added afterwards “there is not much danger of it for you have been very prudent.” I think not either, especially on that account, for I am too proud of my good name to lose it by any imprudent conduct, so do not borrow trouble about it-- to change the subject a little I am reading “Les Miserables”. Have you ever read it? I think that I will like it very much. You never told me how you liked “Great Expectations”. Last Friday was Mother’s birthday. Doc made her a present of a very nice Photographic Album. It is the same size of mine and very much like it. When are you going to have some photographs taken? Father has some taken that are perfectly splendid. They could not be any better. Did I ever tell you that Mrs Ellinwood has a baby? She was married five years before she has any at all and her little girl is eight years old and now she has a son six weeks old. They are what I call smart folks—Mother says there is a report that George Loveland is dead. Manville Moore’s body is expected home every day. His father started for Baltimore a few days ago and last night they received a dispatch from him saying the body was sent day before yesterday and that he would start for home yesterday—It is nearly dinner time and must close—Please write soon and oblige your loving wife—

Lizzie S. Rice

P.S. All send a great deal of love--

Fremont Aug. 4^th 1863

My Darling Husband

I have not had time to write you any since the letter I sent by General Buckland. What do you think you will do about remaining in the army? I would not have you stay one day longer my dear if you think it will injure your health so much that you will never recover from it. Am afraid that you have not been as careful of yourself as you should be. How is it honey? When Gen. Buckland came home he said that you was as well and hearty as any person down there when he left, and was feeling so glad to think that you were so well, but when I received your letter found out my mistake. You know what is for the best and use your own judgment about it my darling only do not stay too long, until your health is permanently injured. If you could only come home and make a visit I know that it would do you good, but it seems as if it was impossible for you to do that. Hope that whatever you do will be for the best—

Lydia Morgan and Mr. Taylor were married last Thursday evening at Mr. Bushmills and are now boarding at Mrs Closes. Her Father and Mother were very much opposed to the match and feel dreadful about it. She has not been home since and they have not been to see her. There was no person at the wedding but Mary Kelly, Anna Buckland and Mr. Slater. Anna and Mr. Slater stood up with them. I was very much surprised for I always thought that if the Taylor run away with any persons daughter it would be Mr. Downs’. They were only engaged about six weeks or two months. Every person pities poor Roll. Wish you would watch him and see how he takes it. I feel sorry for him. Mr Morgan says now, that Lydia might have married Roll if she had wanted to that he had forty times rather had her marry him than Taylor. The night she was married Olan Meachem carried two letters up to her from Roll but did not get there until after she had left home. Hope that it will not make him reckless and ruin him. He thought so much of her. Hope she may never find out that she thinks more of Roll than her husband and repent this hasty marriage. Any person with half an eye could see that Hill Taylor thinks all the world of her-- Emma Downs[21] started for Washington yesterday morning— Mr. and Mrs Phelps are going East next Friday to be gone about two months-- Dr. Conger starts for Washington tomorrow morning to report for duty. He walks a little lame yet but does not use a cane. Charlie Norton and Pete Kessler are both at home. Have come to recruit so I heard. I forgot to tell you that Anna Buckland and I gave Lydia a very handsome silver syrup pitcher for a bridal present—You know that Lydia and I promised each other years ago when we were quite small that we would, when we got married and had children name our first girls after each other. Lydia says now, that she should not wonder but what she would have a chance to name a girl after me first if I was married nearly two years before she was. I would not be surprised either. Would not want her to name a seven months one like Marys after me but do not think there is any danger of that-- I must tell you what they said about them. You know they always have something to say-- Well they said that Ft. Morgan was taken the other night by Taylors Battery, that they (the battery) fired three times and then it surrendered. Taylor told some of them that were talking with him about it that he heard that it had not surrendered yet. They then said afterwards that Ft. Morgan had been reinforced with nine months men. Isn’t it mean for them to talk so? I went to the Panorama night before last with Will and Lydia-- I dont believe that I ever told you the joke they have on Milt Rawson—Mrs Quinn had a girl that they suspected of not being as virtuous as she should be and so they thought they would watch her one night. About three o’clock in the morning they heard her come down stairs and go out of doors. Mr and Mrs Quinn then go up and dressed and went out and found her & Milt Rawson in the candle shop hard at work. He run. Mrs Quinn told him that she was going to tell his wife and declares that she will do it. The girl told them that he gave her a few dollars that morning and she was to supply him and Gene King for a week. Guess they lost the money for Quinn’s sent her off on the first train—Milt did not show his face down town for several days and when he did they bored him almost to death. Do not know half the things they said but there are some of them. That Milt Rawson was going to receive a pension for going around waking the hired girls up so early. Whenever there is anything going on they say that lights will be furnished by M. E. Rawson. Then they say that they dont believe that we can have gas again for M.E. Rawson has started an oppsition [sic] candle factory and a lot more such stuff. Milt told Julia that morning that he believed he would get up early and go to market so that he would have the first chance—I think he did have the first chance—I think I have written nonsense enough to stop—Father went to Findlay this morning. Brough speaks there to-day Charlie[22] and Mary got home Saturday. No more this time—All send love—Write soon to—

Your loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Fremont Aug. 28^th 1863.

My Own Darling Husband

I received yours of the 7^th, 16^th, and 18^th day before yesterday. It was a real treat to get them for it had been so long since I had received anything from you of a late date. William Caldwell talks of going back next week and want to send this letter by him if he does. I do hope that you will come home when he goes back. Am so anxious to see you. A year is a great while to be separated. You say, “What if I cant stay more than ten days.—that will be pretty well, won’t it”? I think that ten days will be better than none at all. You know I only staid ten days at Memphis and what a nice visit we did have- but then you can stay longer if you wish. The day Gene Rawson called to see me he was telling me how it happened that he and Henry Buckland got so much longer leave of absence than the rest that come home. They had to lay over one train at Cairo and while there saw the Provost Marshall and he told them that he had orders to date officers papers over if they wished it so they had him date their papers and in that way they got twenty days leave from Cairo. He told them if they got back to Cairo by the 5^th of September they would be all right. Gene promised me that he would write and tell you all about it, but has gone to see his “calico” and presume has forgotten all about it. When he went away he told his mother that he was going to see his girl and if she had been playing Lydia Morgan he would be right back but if she hadn’t he would not be back as soon—

Last Monday was the day of the war meeting. They say that there was from 12,000 to 15,000 people here. The Ladies Aid Society gave a dinner for the benefit of the society and there was a dance in the evening for the benefit of the “Misses Aid society”. Monday morning I helped wait on the table at the engine house (where they had their dinner) and then went out to the Grove where the speaking was to be, (without having a mouthful of dinner myself) to tend Grocery. I had Anna Buckland, Lydia Taylor, Amelia Norton and Mary Dillon for company. We had pies, cake, ice cream and lemonade to sell and took in fifty dollars. Don’t you think we did well? In the evening I went to the dance with Doc and Lida. Had splendid time. I danced until two o’clock and then come home. Quite a number of the Tiffin folks came down to the dance & that Mr. Fairbanks I wrote you about was here—By the way they accused me of flirting with him—Dottie Strong Will were both at the dance but did not speak. Ill bet that if I was a grass widow folks would not see much of me. It is such a disgrace that I would not want to show my face out of doors. Some blame Dottie and some blame Will. I guess they are both to blame—Lida Buckland, Henry, Anna and I visited at Mrs Vallottes day before yesterday—Henry is very good indeed to me now. You know he was not very pleasant when I was at Memphis. Last night Mary Dillon and I started to go and see Libbie Morehouse. On the way we met Charlie Norton and he went with us. While we were at Libbie’s Mr. Meachem came in and we had a real nice time. After leaving Libbie’s we went to the Drug store and got some soda water and then Charlie and I went over to Anna Buckland and made a call. Emma Conger has gone to Wheeling to live. Do not know where Doc is. Our snow fall bush is all in bloom and Mother says that is a sign of an increase in the family. One of our plum trees blossomed the Fall before Charlie was born and last Fall one of Doc’s cherry trees blossomed. Now Dr. Rice if you are coming home with any such intentions you had better stay there for I don’t want you to come. Am not ready to have a baby yet. We have not taken our bridal trip yet and do not want to take it with a squaller. If you come home I want you to make up your mind to leave all your babies at Vicksburg or else not come—The copperheads are going to have a war meeting here on the 10^th of September—You will do all you can to get a leave of absense my dear won’t you? I want to see you so much It seems such a very, very long time since I last saw my darling husband. I know that did wrong to suspect for even a moment that you was neglectful or indifferent. Please forgive me this time and will not do so again. Will have to close. All send a great deal of love and are very anxious to see you. Write as often as you can find it convenient to do so—I remain as every your loving little wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Sept 3^rd 1863

Have been expecting to send this letter by William Caldwell every day but as he not gone yet and do not know when he will go will send it by Gen Buckland who starts this evening. Would write more but Mrs Sophie Fish (one of my school-mates) is visiting me and cannot very well. Gene Rawson got home night before last and brought a wife with him—Maria Lemmon was married a week ago last Monday evening—No more this time Lizzie

Fremont Sept. 7^th 1863

My Darling Husband

William Caldwell starts for Vicksburg this evening and will expect you home the last of this month or the first of next. But don’t I want to see you bad. I expected to go to Granville last week or this to make Sue a visit but Sophie Fish (one of my schoolmates) spent a part of last week with me and Saturday evening Carrie Waggonner and Nellie Hall--two young ladies from Toledo come to make us a visit so that it knocked my visit all in the head and have given it up for this summer—I must not forget to tell you what Charlie Norton told me to—It was this. Said he “did not wish you any harm but he did wish that I was not married. What do you think of that “Mister”—

Sunday Sept. 12^th

Have not had time to write any since last Monday. It is almost impossible to write letters when you have company. The girls are here yet. Do not know how much longer they will stay. There is a young lady visiting at Morehouses. Do not know her name or where she is from. Almost all the young gentlemen in town have called since the girls have been here and they gave us a splendid serenade last Wednesday evening. We are going to have company some evening next week—Mr and Mrs Phelps returned home last week. I called on Gene Rawson’s wife[23] the other day but did not find her at home—Mrs Eugene King[24] died last week-- Comp Buckland[25] and Charlie Stilwell are going to Hudson next week to attend school there. Do not know whether your brother Charlie has gone back to school or not. My brother Charlie was very anxious to have you come home while he was here and was very much disappointed that you did not do so. He likes Gambier very much indeed. Better than Painesville so he says—Do not know as it will be much use to send this letter for if you come home will not get it before you start. Capt. Moore starts for Vicksburg to-morrow and will send it by him if I see him before he leaves. Mothers Aunt Rachel Moore of Chillicothe is here visiting. Please excuse this short and miserable letter and write soon to

Your loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

P.S. All send a great deal of love—

Home Oct 17, 1863

My Own Darling Husband

You do not know how lonely and blue I have been since you went away. I miss you so much every day, but do not think I have missed you as much as I would have done if I had been at home more. The day after you left we went out nutting, and must tell you how near your little wife came to being killed. Mother, Mary and Jimmie went in our buggy and Mrs Andy McArdle, Mrs John McArdle, Minerva and I went in Grandfathers little wagon. We started about half after eight and went five miles down the river (on the other side). You know Minerva said that the nuts were so plenty down there, so we thought we would take enough things along and gather a good many nuts. Mother took three bags, three little tin pails and a market basket. Minerva took two bags and a basket and Mrs McArdle took two bags and a basket. We had seven bags, three pails and three baskets and did not, all of us together get more than enough to fill one bag. We would find one nut and then would have to walk as far as from our house down to Kessler’s before we would find another one. We left the woods about half past three and thought we would come up a mile or two and then stop and get some hazelnuts. When we got to George Harrison’s (Mr. Everett’s brother in law) which is about three miles from town. Mother had us stop on the top of a hill until she got down. You know there is a deep ravine just this side of Mr. Harrisons. Well we waited until she got down and when we wanted to start again the pony acted real ugly and commenced bucking so we all got out and went back to the house to see if we could get a man to drive down the hill for us. The man was not at home and we had to do our own driving. Hat McArdle took the lines and walked along the side of the wagon and Minerva and I held on behind as hard as we could to keep her from running away. She went very well until she came to the bridge at the foot of the hill and then she balked. We finally got her started again and she went along nicely until she got about half way up the hill when she commenced to go back. Minerva and I were behind the wagon and we pushed as hard as we could and Hat pulled as hard as she could but the pony was too strong for us and backed off of the hill where it was twenty feet high and very steep. She fell on the shafts and broke both of them all to pieces and got all tangled up in the lines so that she could not move. I ran after Mother and had her come back and she and Minerva unfastened the horse and got her up the hill again. By that time Mr. Harrison had got home and come down where we were. He said the wagon could not be fixed so that we could come home in it, and we did not know what to do. After talking about it awhile, we concluded to let Mr. Harrison take the horse home with him and have Mother come on home and send some person after us. Mother said just before starting that, by putting Jimmie in behind she could take me home too, so we put him in behind, I got in and home we came and left them sitting on the back watching their nuts. We got to town a little while before dark and I got out at the bridge and walked up to Grandfather’s to tell him about it. He said it was just as he expected. Would not hear one word against the horse. You know he thinks it is the greatest horse that ever was, or ever will be, I guess. I told Grandmother that I thought he ought not to get mad about it but that he ought to be thankful that we were not killed for if we had been in the wagon we certainly would have been. Well, to go on with my story, Milt and Doc started after them but before they got down there Mr. McArdle and two or three other men who had been down the river hauling came along in a buggy. I have made a mistake, only one of them came first, and then the next came up afterwards. This man and ladies “went to work” and got the wagon up the hill. He took hold in front, Hat behind, and Minerva and Mrs McArdle each took a wheel and in the way hauled it up the hill, nuts and all. He then got sticks and nailed on for shafts and got it fixed so that they could get it home. By that time the other men had come up and they all started home. Mr. McArdle drove the pony and the ladies rode in the buggy. They got home a little while after dark and thus ended our meeting expedition. We were all stiff as old stage horses for two or three days and Minerva declares that she has not got over it yet.

Thursday morning I went to Grandmothers to see how Minerva felt after our tramp, and stayed all the afternoon. Was at home all afternoon and got so blue that I could not stand it any longer so I went over to Mrs. Dillons and spent the evening. Friday morning Minerva and Lida and I took our horse and buggy and went up to Aunt Eliza’s and spent the day. Had a real nice time. In the evening they had a great time rejoicing over the election. They had an immense bonfire down street. The Croghan House, Kessler and all the buildings and houses on Main Street and up nearly as far as the railroad bridge were brilliantly illuminated. All the houses in that part of town where your folks live were also illuminated. The streets were crowded with men, women and children, even babies were out. There was also a torchlight processions which marched around town. Col. Lee of Tiffin spoke from a stand in front of the Bank, and after he had finished two ladies and two gentlemen who gave a concert here the night before got upon the stand and sung two patriotic pieces. After they got through the Band played and with the hurrahing of the people and firing of the cannon the meeting broke up. In one of the windows of McCulloch’s Drug Store there was a small stand covered with a black cloth on it was a white plate and on the plate a black bean. Above it was a card on which was printed “here lieth the remains of the Butternut Party of Sandusky County”. Under that “Rest in Peace” in Latin and then two letters M and P just above the bean. It was first rate. I asked Owen why he did not illuminate his office and he said because he thought it would be too much like having a wake at his own funeral, or like sitting up with his own corpse. Cute answer wasn’t it? Saturday was busy all day and in the evening went to the office in hopes of getting a letter but was very much disappointed.

I forgot to tell you when I was telling my nut story that Mrs Andy McArdle has been in the family way four months and a half. Don’t you think she was smart to be tramping around in that manner? I was down to Fitch’s yesterday and got one of your pictures, front view. Think they are very good. Much better than the first one you had taken. I saw the group too and think yours is perfectly horrid. You look as if you was just ready to jump, give a yell and frighten some person. Fitch was still talking about “toning pictures”. I must tell you a good joke on Brundage. A few evenings after you and Dr. Stillwell spoke out in the country the Copperheads had a meeting at the same place and Brundage and Bean were the speakers. Brundage was talking about the victory of the rebels at Chattanooga and abusing the officers for laying around here at home while the army was fighting. Someone called out for him to name them. He said Surgeon John Rice and Lieut Kessler. They then asked him if Surgeon John Rice belonged to that Army and the poor fellow did not know what to say. He had an idea that they were all so ignorant that he could tell them anything and they would not know any better. At the same meeting they proposed three cheers for Valandigham and the cheering was very faint. Some person there proposed to cheer for Brough and the Union and they gave three hearty cheers—

Do you know my darling that I forgot to cut off some of your hair before you went away, I was so very busy. Wont you please have some person cut off a lock for you and then send it to me. Have it cut from the top of your head, under and where it is the longest. They say that it only takes a little bit, so do please send me a little—Lydia is making Taylor some shirts like I made you. She is going to Painesville in a few weeks to make a visit. Anna Buckland has gone to Cleveland. I almost forgot to tell you that “Granny has come”—Taylor asked me yesterday if you had forbidden me to go to the sociables anymore (I did not go to the last one because I felt too bad and blue to go) I told him that you did not do that—that you never told me what I should do and what I shouldn’t do. Wasn’t I right? Lydia was over here the day I was up to Aunt Elizas. She brought her work. Told Mother she came over to compare notes and to tease me—John Kessler was at church today. Guess he came to show his new coat. Sam Snyder and wife were also out. She is not bad looking-- Have you got my pictures yet? Take good care of that ambrotype. Would not have you lose it for anything. Another thing I want you to do is not to be so careless about your talking. I have always prided myself on having a husband who spoke try correctly. You can if you will and you will won’t you my dear? Do you my darling really and truly love me as well now as you ever did? I cannot tell why I ask you such a foolish question when you have told me so many times that you do, but I can’t help it. It seems to me sometimes that you do not, and yet I cannot tell the reason why it seems so. If I really believed it to be so it would almost kill me. Can you tell me why I feel so sometimes? Gene Rawson’s wife left for home last Friday morning. Ask him as you said you would if he was in love with that French lady that Mrs Barnard said he was. Do not forget to find out whether Gen. Grant has a son married or not. Did you have a pleasant trip? Write and tell me all about it. Minerva wishes to be remembered to you—Write soon and very often darling. All send a great deal of love—It is getting late and I must go to bed—No more this time—Your true and loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Oct. 23^rd 1863.

My Darling Husband

Why have you not written to me? I have not had a single word from you since you left home, which has been almost two weeks. Have been to the office every night for over a week, and could not begin to tell you how I feel when I come away every night without a letter-- I do believe I will go crazy if I do not get one soon. To say that I am lonesome does not half express it. Why is it my dear that you do not love me anymore? What have I done? I know that I have many, many faults but will try and overcome them if that will do any good. Only tell me what to do, and I will do anything to win back your love. Have I been flirting around too much—Is that it? Don’t you know that you told me once in one of your letters to go when, where and with whom I pleased. I thought you had confidence in me when you told me that, and I never meant to do anything to betray that confidence, and if you think I have, let me assure you that it was not done intentionally. You have always been a good husband to me, such an one as any woman might be proud of, but I want you not only to be good to me but to love me. You must know how much I love you when I tell you that I have never seen another man that I would stoop to ask to love me, for I am very proud. Do not believe you (or any person else) know how much pride I have got—Don’t you know my darling how many letters you wrote me when you took the same trip (from Columbus to Memphis) nearly two years ago? You did love me then didn’t you my own darling?

I received a long letter from Lizzie Wheaton last evening, and enclose was a photograph of Johnnie’s which is an excellent one. Did you see anything of him when you was at Columbus? Lizzie writes me that since I last heard from her she has been very ill. Said that for three weeks it was thought barely possible that she might recover, but thinks that she feels better now than she has for months though she is still very weak at times—She said that Johnny saw Capt. Youmans in Columbus a few weeks ago. Said a friend of there, an officer in the 90^th does not speak very well of the Capt. In one of Lizzies letters she called Youmans “sweet cheese” and said she must tell me the story conducted with it if she ever saw me again. I wrote and asked her if she could not write it to me and she did in her last letter. It seems that Youmans took dinner this one day, but will tell it in Lizzies own words—“I made a cornstarch pudding for dinner, it did not mould and Johnny made all manner of fun of it and asked if it was “sweet cheese”. I was considerably mortified and not a little vexed, so replied “sweet cheese indeed”! Going up strict Capt. Youmans remarked—“Wheaton your sister gets up a might nice dinner, that sweet cheese was mighty nice, never ate any sweet cheese before”-- Moral. Never cry for spilt milk and don’t apologize”. Pretty good wasnt it?

She says “Did you know that the report reached Granville that responsibility might be the order of the day in Fremont Company now? I think however that Madame Rumor and some others were probably mistaken”. I think so myself. Don’t you think they had the report around that we carried on awfully at the depot the night you went away. I was so provoked when I heard it that I could hardly contain myself. Would not have cared so much if it had been true, but such an infamous lie. I would take a great deal of pleasure in choking the person who started it. There is a report that Libbie Morehouse and Meachem are to be married soon. Should not wonder but what it was true for it came from pretty good authority. Mrs St Clair told it, and you know she is intimate with the family and would probably know. I heard that some person got a letter from the 72^nd saying that Roll. Edgerton was very sick in the hospital, not expected to live I believe. Is it true? How is Gen. Buckland getting along? I heard that Gene Rawson’s wife did not like it one bit because Mrs Rawson and Estelle went off and left her there all alone, a perfect stranger. Do not blame her. If it had been me I would have felt very much insulted—I must stop writing. Now wont you write me soon and a good long letter? I sent you a long letter last Monday. Folks tell me that you have eloped but I don’t believe it—No more this time. Your loving wife—Lizzie S. Rice

Gen. Lytle was buried yesterday with great honors. The papers say that such a scene as the streets presented on that day was never before witnessed in Erie—

Home Oct 28^th 1863.

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 20^th last evening. You had been gone just two weeks and it was the first I had heard from you. The time seemed so very long. Have been to the office every evening since, the next Thursday after you left home and it did seem as if I would go crazy some evenings. I felt so bad because I did not hear from you. I had written you two letters and thought I would write two more if I did not hear soon. Told Mrs Dillon and Mary that I was obeying the Scriptures by “returning good for evil”. Do you think you have got yourself into trouble by failing to report at Cairo as soon as you should have done? I hope not.

And so you saw my friend Mr. Rea at Columbus and he told you he thought very much of me “as a friend”. Phone[26] used to declare that he was smitten and I at one time, without intending to do so overheard a conversation between him and Mr. Kinney, in which, I thought he praised me a little more than I really deserved. Am glad to hear that he was so attentive to you, even if it was on my account. It is real nice sometimes isn’t it to have a wife who has a good many friends? There is another good chance I missed by getting married so soon. Do not think you was mistaken about his being an acquaintance of the Mr. Taylor in Condits for they are acquainted. Do not know but what they are a good deal alike too, that is as far as dress is concerned. But Taylor is not quite as particular as he used to be. Has worn his old coat to church since he has been married, something that he never did before. He puts everything on Lydia now. Got her a new cloth dress, a new hat and she is going to get a new bonnet when she goes to Cleveland. He made her a present the other day of a beautiful set of combs which cost five dollars and a half. Made her a present of a very handsome pin not long ago, on her birthday. The price was thirteen dollars I believe, or else fifteen. Have forgotten which. She has had Mary Foulke sewing for her. Perry Close said that if he had a wife that had no more to do and was as able to do it as Lydia, she might do without dresses before he would have them made for her. Think myself that they are very extravagant for folks in their circumstances. There is only one virtue about it, and that is it shows that Taylor thinks a great deal of his wife and takes an interest in having her look nice. She is going to Painesville Saturday to be gone two or three weeks.

I received the photograph that you sent me of Dr. Muscroft. Is he an Englishman or a Dutchman? John Kessler and mother had quite a dispute about it today. John declared that he was a Dutchman and Mother stuck to it that he was an Englishman and to settle it I was to write and ask you about it—John gave me his photograph this afternoon. Mr. Meachem has promised to give me one of his and Cornelia Amsden said that she would give me one of Wills. Will take the best of care of Gen Lytle’s photographs when I receive them. Will send one of yours to Dr. Muscroft and one to Dr. Kaull also. You did not give me Dr. Muscroft’s address. Was much amused at the lecture he gave you, especially this moral part of it. Lida was down having the baby’s picture taken this afternoon. She did not get very good ones and is going again tomorrow. Fitch had a good deal to say about “toning”. Will send you one of yours from each negative as soon as I get them. Fitch is hard at work printing and “toning them”. And so you think that a little application of “bloom of youth” would be an improvement if he does not succeed in “toning” them to suit. I might see of what I have left on them. Would most certainly if I thought that I could make them look anymore “youthful”, especially those that I want to send away to my friends. I read what you said about it to Mary Dillon and she had a good laugh over it. I am going to have some photographs taken soon. Do you want one of them to lose? Don’t you believe that Sandy Ball will be home again? It seems that you are not the only officer who is behind time and they are all sorry that they went home. Would feel very bad indeed if I thought that you was sorry for having come home but know that you are not. Do not want you to stay in the army one more day

Home Nov. 2^nd 1863.

My Own Darling Husband

Yours of the 23^rd came along quite unexpectedly Saturday evening. Did not think that I would hear again until after you had reached Vicksburg. The Continental must be an exceedingly slow boat. Do not know but what my letters, some of them at least, will get there now, before you do. Think the photograph you sent of Sherman is a very good one. The verses you spoke of written by Gen. Lytle I had cut out of the Gazette and laid away. Also a description of his funeral in the same paper. The verses I liked very much indeed. Should think that it was time that Dr. Muscroft had send that photograph if he intends doing so at all—

I went to the sociable Thursday evening. We had the best time that we have had in so long a time. Everything passed off so pleasantly. There was a young lady there by the name of Miss Newell a reported heiress, who turned out to be “a fancy lady” that some gentleman in town worth fifty thousand dollars had brought here for his own use. Have not found out yet who the gentleman is except that he is a married man and has daughters. She came here last Tuesday and took board at the Croghan House. Said she was an heiress, that her brother was an agent of some kind in Ohio, that he liked Fremont and wanted her to come here and board. Had engaged to take music lessons of Miss Webster and had rented a Piano. They soon found out what she was at the Croghan House and turned her away. She then went to Mrs Haynes to board. Thursday evening Mr. Dodd took her and Hattie to the sociable and while they were away some gentleman went up to see Mrs Haynes, told her all about her and advised her not to keep her. She was so mad she did not know what to do and felt so bad because Hattie was off with her. Hat would not speak to her the next morning. Her Mother told “Miss Newell” what she had heard. She said that if there was such a report around about her she thought she had better leave. Mrs Haynes said she thought so too. She then went down street to let the gentleman know how matters had turned out. He engaged the bus for her and she went to Toledo where she said her brother was. She paid Mrs Haynes a dollar for every day that she was there. Was quite young but not very good looking. Did not look much if any older than Hattie—It would not be good for that married man if I was his wife-- several of us know all about her and so watched to see what young gentleman paid her any attention and am glad to say that non of the young gentlemen in town look any notice of her except Mr. Dodd and he was very attentive. She did not get to dance but very little. Mr. Dodd danced three or four times with her and set down and talked with her a great deal. The only ones that danced with her besides Todd were Captain Randall (could not expect anything better of him after his being around with that Bowlus thing) Mr. Bristol (a man that has bought out Mr. Ripley) and Doc Failing—I was just as mad at Doc as I could be for dancing with her. Lida told him before he went down not to dance with her and I told him that I would not own him for a relation if he did. He said that he would not for anything but the first thing I knew I saw him bringing her on the floor to dance. Should think he would have been ashamed of himself. Any person, I don’t care who it is, that would dance with her is no better than she is and any person that would not be ashamed to notice her in public would not be ashamed to notice her in private according to my opinion. If you would do such a thing I would never forgive you. I have a great deal of confidence in you but if I should ever find out that you had deceived me, even once, would not like to answer for the consequences. Would rather beg my bread from door to door than to run any such risk as Octave King did and many others do everyday. Could put up with almost anything but that. If I was Hattie would take it as an insult for Mr. Dodd to take me out with her if he knew what she was (and he could not help but know it when he boards at the Croghan House) and would treat him accordingly. But I say, enough about Miss Newell—

Mr. Buckland was just in here. Had been to Mrs St. Clair’s and was telling what a handsome Christmas present she has. Said it was a beauty, but suppose you want to know what it was. Well it was a little watch worth ninety-five dollars. Dr. sent to New York by the Morehouse for it and child-like could not wait until Christmas to give it to her. She went down this afternoon to get a chain. You know she had a watch and chain worth a hundred and fifty dollars stolen about a year ago. She sent to New York by Mrs Morehouse for a new silk dress and a set of “Point lace” collar and undersleeves. She dresses as much as if she was twenty instead of sixty. Mary Foulke is still at Morehouses and intends staying a year I believe. She is going out sewing. What did the great fool leave Frank for. She says because he could not support her and deceived her about it. Why did she not take in sewing as Mrs Foulke if he could not support her and help support herself as well as to take it in now and disgrace herself by leaving him. Why didn’t he tell her about his affairs so that she could not have that for an excuse. Why George Price told me all about his business affairs when he asked me to marry him and I never told what he told me or any person else either. Do not believe that she thought very much of him or she would not have left him for such a little thing as that. Why I could very easily get a divorce from you if I felt so disposed by just swearing that you did not support me and had not sent me any money for over a year couldn’t I? She wasn’t married by the ceremony that says “for richer or poorer” & c. Lana[27] had more reason to leave Mike Wegstein than Mary had to leave Frank. She said he was always good to her, but Mike was not always good to Lana. He would not speak to her for a week at a time and never told her anything. When he was raising his company he never told her a word about it, that he was going into the army or anything, but she heard it from others. Did not tell him though and declared that she would not say anything to him about it until he told her (if he ever did) and she didn’t. I admire her spunk. Would have done just as she did. Would be too proud to seek any persons confidence Mrs Brady (Mrs Flint’s sister) was married yesterday morning. Do not know the gentlemans name that she married or where he is from—

Mrs John M. Smith’s little Maggie[28] was buried a week ago yesterday. They had the new hearse. The next day one of Orland Curtis’s children[29] was buried and they had the new hearse too. Mr. Hatch was buried yesterday. Must tell you what a singular dream Mrs Zimmerman had the other night. She dreamed that she died and went to Heaven and it seemed as if all the different denominations were classed off together. She looked around and saw that Mr. Zimmerman had got in among the Methodists. She did not know what to do, whether to go with him or not. She finally told him that she wouldn’t go with the Methodists and went over and took a seat among the Presbyterians. He told her that she needn’t and went over to the Presbyterians with her. Wasn’t that a funny dream? Tute Tyler went over to Mrs Kridlers Saturday afternoon to spend the afternoon and was taken very sick in the evening so that they had to send for her Father and Mother and the Doctor. Her Father and Mother were up with her all night and Dr. Stilwell was there until three o’clock. She had a chill, was numb and did not know anything, but cried and screamed all the time. The Dr. said all she wanted was rest and to be kept quiet. Do not believe it was anything but hysterics—Mary Jane has hysteric fits quite often. Julia Rawson has a little daughter and she (Julia) is not expected to live[30]—

The Scrantons have changed their tune about you a little and rather praise you up. They said “Take you out of the Rice family and there is nothing left”. They said that I eat arsenic to make me white, that I fix it so that it will not hurt me and then eat it. Did you ever hear anything so ridiculous. You remember that we had a dispute one day about you spelling a word wrong in one of your letters and I could not think what it was then, but have since thought of it It was, described and you spelt it discribed. You owe me that bet now-- But my paper is giving out and is nearly tea time and so will close. Please write as often as you can—Affectionately you wife—Lizzie—

Jake Garvin had his best eye cut out in N.Y. last Saturday. He had lost the use of it entirely and they said if he did not have it taken out it would kill him. They think they can save the other one so that he can see a little bit but he may lose it too.

Enclosed you will find an example that I wish you would work out if you can and sent me the answer next time you write. Lizzie

A man died and left seventeen oxen to be divided between three sons. One was to have one half, another one third and the other one ninth. How could they divide them fairly, without killing any of the oxen and each have his full share—

O! I am so lonesome.

Home Nov 17^th 1863.

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 31^st this evening, Lieut. Lemmon having given it to a boy at the depot to bring to me. He went on to Clyde I believe. You say that you have not heard a word from me. I have written very frequently since you went away and did not know but some of my letters would get there before you did, you was so long on the road. Am glad to hear that the shirts are just the thing—

Must tell you what an encounter I had with Brundage the other night. I went down to the post-office to see if I would get a letter from you. Minerva was with me. We were early and the mail was not distributed, but the office was full of men, and some ladies waiting as we were. I saw Brundage standing a little ways from where I was and told Minerva to get him around there for I wanted to talk to him a little. She said something to him and he came across. I looked up and said Mr. Brundage you are just the man I have been wanting to see. He stuck out his hand to shake hands and was as smiling and pleasant as a basket of chips. No doubt he felt very much flattered to think that there was some person who wanted to see him, but do not believe he would have been so pleasant if he had known what was in store for him. I shook hands and could not help but think all this time that he was a real “Judas shake”. Do not remember all that I said for I was so mad, but this is as near as I can remember. I commenced by telling him that I had been wanting to see him to tell him that I received a letter from my husband a few days ago and when he wrote he had been “laying around” Memphis two or three days waiting for a boat. A good chance to slander him again isn’t it? Hadn’t you better go out in the country to-night and tell the folks? You are pretty bird aren’t you to talk in that way where he has been gone almost two years and you have not only been “laying around” all that time but doing all you could to aid the enemy. Do not know whether he was frightened or mad but he turned as pale, and the sweat stood out in great drops around his mouth. He declared upon his honor as a man that he never said it. I said “the man that told me was at the meeting and heard you say it and is one of your copperhead friends, a good reliable gentleman and I would as so ever believe him, as you. He said the only one he ever said anything about was Col. Gibson. Said he was talking about officers being at home while the army was fighting. They asked him to name them and he said Col. Gibson. They said wasn’t he sick? He said that might be—I said—“that is what I told you only you said Surgeon Rice and Lieut Kessler, can tell you when it was and who was with you. It was at Cookeson’s school-house and Bean was with you. Mr. Brundage my husband has lived here a little longer than you have and he has many, if not more friends than you have.” Harrison Zimmerman stood by tickled almost to death and when I got through flowing he slipped up to me and whispered good for you. He had heard the report-- You know what a thing Minerva is to make funny speeches. She said as earnest as could be, “Mr. Brundage have you been sick? He said no. She said I thought you had you look so pale. Told me afterwards that she was terribly frightened—Would not have dared to say what I did. Do not know who all heard me. Minerva said I talked pretty loud. Just as I had finished John Kessler came in. I told him what the fuss was and it made him mad in a minute and he said as stern as you please, Brundage did you say that? Brundage had to declare again that he did not. Taking all things together I guess he thought he had a pretty hard time of it. John thought at the time that he did not say it for if he had he would be man enough to own it up but Charlie Norton told him afterwards that some man told him about it that heard him say it. John told me the other day that he was going to have another talk with him. Mary Dillon has been feeling badly ever since because she was not along to see the fun. Said if I would only give Owen a blowing up now she would think that I had done my duty towards my country. Am as mad at him as I can be. Have really, cut the acquaintance of that firm. Amelia Norton and Mary Dillon accidentally said something the other day that made me think that Owen had been talking about me. They said he had, but would not tell me what he said. I tormented them until they did tell me. I was so indignant when they told me. I almost “busted” to use a not very elegant expression. Suppose you are anxious to know what it was that made me so wrathy. Well he said that summer (I am mad every time I think about their not telling me of it before) that he did not think that I would die of grief if you would die or get killed. Thought I would live two or three years anyway—The impudent puppy. I told the girls that, perhaps, he flatters himself that he could console me if I should be thus afflicted. He is a conceited fool to flatter himself so much just because I treated him decent when the other girls would not notice him. I believe all gentlemen are alike. You pay them any attention at all and they think you are crazy after them and wish your husband or some person else was dead and out of the way. What poor mistaken fools they are. I declare I have no patience with them. I went to church this morning and once, when they were singing, I looked up and caught Owen’s eye. Did not know that I could get so mad by just looking at him could hardly sit still felt as though I would feel a good deal better if I could walk up and down the aisle a little while and walk any anger off—Mr. Phelps preached about “loving our enemies and doing good to those that speak evil against us & c &c.” I wondered if it was for my benefit—

Was over to Mary’s[31] night before last and she was talking about wearing her straw bonnet all winter. Said it would be pretty hard to wear it when all the girls had new bonnets, but supposed she would have to for her Mother said she could not have a new one. The next morning she got a box by express and on opening it she found a nice velvet bonnet and a piece of paper on which was written “From your brother, C.M.D.” I assure you she was pleased and she and her Mother both very much surprised. Charlie is in Poughkeepsie attending college and sent it from there. Wasn’t he a good brother? Dr. Pierce was in to Mary’s that night and said he thought you did not use enough authority with me. I asked him why he did not speak to you about it when you was home. Said he intended to, but did not have a good chance. Mary suggested that he should write you, but as he did not like to do that told him I would write for him. Lydia has been very sick at Painesville. Taylor said she was taken in the night and they had to call in the doctor. He went down to see her Saturday evening and expected to come home today. Lydia is going to stay a week longer and then her friend Mary Linan is coming home with her. Lydia did not wait until she got to Cleveland to get her a bonnet, but got a nice velvet one here for thirteen dollars-- They say that Vic Payne is going to have a baby—Isn’t it too bad? I wish you would ask Snyder when he gets back who that man is that had “the heiress” here. He knows all about it. All the married women know but wont tell. I want to know so bad, but don’t tell him or maybe he won’t tell you. Tell him I wrote you about the heiress and said some man was keeping her did not say who, and ask him who it is and then tell me. You will won’t you? John Foulke is married. He married a lady from Erie Pa. Wonder what Annie thinks. You remember Mary Wood do you not? She is here visiting Belle Maxwell--- Was married last April to a lawyer by the name of Allen. Dr. Anderson’s wife has moved here from Toledo. You know they used to live here years ago-- there was a report the other day that the Shawhan House in Tiffin was burned to the ground. Do not know how true it is.

I was out walking with Amelia Norton the other day and was amused to hear her talk. She is getting to be more nice than wise. Suppose if she should get married would act like that girl from Sandusky did. Do not know that you have heard about her and so will tel you. She was relative of Mrs Rames. Have forgotten her name. She married a Charlie somebody who, by the way was a pretty queer sort of a chap. They started for Columbus when they left home on their bridal tour and expected to stay there all night. He put their trunks on board the cars and thought that when he got to Columbus would find them there. (Do not believe he had ever “traveled”) Of course when they changed cars the trunks were left behind and when he got to Columbus couldn’t see the trunks. They went to the Hotel and he engaged a room for himself and wife. She went up first to go to bed and when he went up found the door locked. After he had pounded awhile she said “Charlie you can’t come in to-night I haven’t any night dress”, but he would not be put off in that way and was bound to get in. She however kept the door locked tight and would not open it and the poor fellow was obliged to go down and get another room. It pleased the clerk so much that he told it and it finally got into the papers—Amelia said she thought it was so strange that girls were so particular about saying anything before gentleman but as soon as they got married would say the meanest kind of things before their husbands. Said she did not believe that she ever would, that she did not like to hear any one talk so, or tell her mean stories now, and did not believe she would if she was married. Said she heard that Hen Zeigler never would talk or tell her any mean stories that he heard down town and she could not help but think that he was real modest and good about it and wanted to know if I did not think so said yes, of course. Said she did not believe a man could love and respect his wife if he talked so to her. Said she had a friend by the name of Ellen Burn who was a real smart girl but who talked the meanest and wrote the meanest letters that ever was. (John Greene is going down “Milt” fashion.) A cousin of Amelia’s was going to be married and two or three days before, this girl wrote her a letter. Amelia read the letter and was perfectly disgusted. Said this was one thing that she wrote. Spoke of her approaching marriage and said, “I will be with you in spirit during the day and particularly during the night”. Did not tell me what else she said but presume it was something similar and that was the letter that shocked Amelia so much. Said that one time she was going some place with this same girl and the boat they were on was full and they gave them the bridal chamber. Amelia got ready for bed first and Ellen was fussing around so long that at last she got out of patience and said “do come to bed”. Ellen then commenced lecturing her about being so immodest the first night. Said “she talked so much about it and made it seem so real that I actually blushed”. Was telling Lida about it and she said, “Amelia Norton was the meanest talking little girl I ever knew. She was always spooking round trying to find out something”. The first she ever knew about babies Amelia told her and before F. I. was born she showed her all his clothes, one day when her mother was away from home. She had hunted around until she found them. Lida said Hen Zeigler talked just as mean to his wife as any man. Dottie Strong got home the other night. Will is here recruiting. Guess they thought it was no use to keep her hid any longer and that she might as well come home and fight it out-- Mrs Greene told Mother that Beck Simkins is going to be married this week. Frank sent her a diamond ring and the express on it was eight dollars. Mrs Greene think that is a Simkin’s lie-- It has been trying to snow here today. They had two inches of snow in Bellvue this morning and the ground was covered at Clyde. Will send you that book you forgot by Capt. Snyder—He expects to go this week—Have written you quite a lengthy letter and guess I will stop now. Please excuse looks. Have been writing with a gold pen and never could write with one fit to be seen. Write very often and oblige—

Your Loving Wife

Lizzie

Friday 20^th 1863

Have been expecting to send this letter by Capt Snyder any day, but he has not had orders yet and does not know when he will have concluded to send it by mail today. Will send your Iliad and photograph by him, and a letter if I have one written. I sent Dr. Muscroft one of your photographs yesterday. He has not yet sent me one of Gen. Lytle. Will send one of yours to Dr. Kaull soon. The 50^th regt. (Col. Haynes) came back from Sandusky yesterday. The most of them are looking well and say they had a grand time. Frank Edgerton tried to run past the “guard” and had a bayonet run through his arm and was hurt pretty badly. The Asst. Surgeon of the Regt. (Dr. Taylor) dressed his wounds. Another fellow had a bayonet run through his leg in the same way-- The “Gas Factory” is in operation and we are having full benefit of gas again—Have not been very well for a week past. My stomach has been a little out of order and cannot eat anything without it being filled with wind which is not a very pleasant feeling. Mother is enough to frighten the wits out of any person. I hardly ever tell her when I feel bad for as sure as I do she almost scares me to death. When I had rheumatism she frightened me so that I did not get over it for a long time by telling me that , that was just the way Eliza Phelps[32] commenced. Father could not convince me that it was nothing but rheumatism. It is a wonder that I did not worry myself into consumption. It was not the way Eliza Phelps commenced at all. Now she has frightened me terribly by telling me that maybe I am going to have cancer of the stomach like Grandfather Wilson did. She frightened Mary the other morning by telling her that she might have her neck gather and break. She has had a stiff neck—Mary says what do you want to scare me for?—Have not heard from you for nearly two weeks. No more Father is waiting—write soon—Lizzie

Home Nov. 22^nd 1863.

My Dear Husband

Why don’t you write to me if you are able to? The last letter I had from you was the one Lieut. Lemmon brought me. Mrs B—had one from Mr. Buckland telling her that they had come up to Memphis. I am not very well. Had not eat anything all day Friday and sit up in the evening until Father came home to see if he brought me a letter. He did not come up until after ten o’clock and was so tired I didn’t know what to do. The next morning was so weak and trembled so that I could hardly stand. Mother made me some beef broth and have been living on that ever since. Am very weak every morning when I get up but feel stronger in the afternoon. Have a notion to try “Hostellers Bitters”. What say you? Mr. Everett recommended them to Minerva when she was sick. She took one bottle and it cured her. Says she has not felt as well for years as she does now and her stomach has not bothered her any since and it has been seven months since she took the Bitters. I think I am getting as poor as a crow. Have such a bad taste in my mouth all the time and know my stomach must be very much out of order—

Lieut Lemmon expects to start for the regt next Friday and will send your Iliad and photographs by him instead of by Snyder as I intended to The Capt. has not yet received orders and don’t know when he will—Matha [sic] Tindall[33], Minerva and Lida were here and spent the afternoon with us yesterday. Doc come up to tea and we got him just as mad as he could be teasing him about the heiress. He went out to Toledo Friday and we told him that we bet he went out there to see her. He brought Lida a new beaver hat. I told her I wouldn’t be surprised if he got the heiress one too. He was just beginning to get hopping mad when Father come in and we had to stop. Jimmie was trying to tell Father something the other day at the dinner table. He could not make him understand and finally got discouraged, stopped and said in his odd way. O! I cant “undersplain” it to you— Charlie Dillion got home Friday evening. They did not expect him until next week. We Sunday school teachers have got a very handsome photographs album to give Mr. and Mrs Phelps for a Christmas present. It is quite large and holds four photographs on each page. Do not know the number that it will hold when it is filled but think it is nearly two hundred—Have you got any of the letters I have written since you left home? Will Strong is quite sick. Beck Simkins is not married yet but they say she is to be soon and I think it must be so for she does not wear any of her new clothes—Mrs Buckland expects Anna home this week. Do you remember Lucy Johnson (Mrs Emmerson it is now)? She has been spending a few weeks here. I called to see her Saturday. She says if she can get company she is going to see her husband and thinks she will spend the Winter with him. I think she said he was stationed at Newburn N.C.—There is particularly nothing to write about and have not time to write anymore if there was. Enclosed you will find a letter and picture from Jimmie. The notice about Mr. Chittenden is from Mother. I had a verse to send you but guess I have lost it. If I find it will send it next time I write. I asked Jimmie what I should tell you for him and he said “I told him all I had to say in my letter”. Now do write to me if it is but a short letter. No more this time. All send love. In haste—Don’t forget to write soon—

Yours lovingly

Lizzie

Thursday Nov. 26^th 1863.

When I come home from the party (instead of wedding) last night found a letter from you written the 18^th and containing a photograph of Gen Maltby, also a lock of your hair, for all of which I am very much obliged. There is plenty, and perhaps more hair than necessary in the lock you sent—You say you have promised several photographs. I would advise you to have some taken where Gen Buckland had his good ones taken, that you are going to send me one of. Do not think the ones Fitch took are good. Father does not like them at all. Thinks they are altogether too small. It is the style now to have a larger head. Do not think that Fitch with all his toning, has succeeded in making them look well. There is nothing rich about them. They have, like all his pictures a cheap look—What an old poke he is—Have had two dozen struck off and do not think I will have any more. Would rather pay more for good ones had not you? I guess a good many were fooled last night about the party. Lonne went real early to see the ceremony—You do not know how much I would like to spend this Winter or a part of the winter with you, if you are stationed any place. Gen Buckland wrote for Ralph and Anna to come down if he staid where he is long. I would be willing to put up with anything to be with you my own darling husband. I must thank you for writing so often and such good & long letters. I will have to hurry and take this down so good by till next time.

Ever your loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Nov 28^th 1863.

My Own Darling Husband

I received yours of the 19^th last evening. Must thank you again for writing so often. You want to know if I will not send you one of my pictures when I have some taken. Yes, half a dozen if you want them. You must not think I mean all I say. You know I like to tease you sometimes, and then didn’t you lose or think you had lost my photograph? Have not had any taken yet, but suppose I will have to before long because I have none to put in the album we are going to give Mr. and Mrs Phelps. Fitch is such an everlasting poke that I dread to go down. Suppose I will have to stay all day and hear him talk about “toning” and then perhaps will not get a picture fit to be seen. Has been knocking the whole side of the room out and getting a new sky-light. Expects to do wonders. I expected to find either Gen Grants or Gen Buckland’s photograph in your letter last evening but was disappointed. Suppose you forgot to send it.

I declare I could have pounded you when I read the later part of your letter, but of course you was not to blame any. Had forgotten all about writing you on the subject. Do not think the country you spoke of was ever inhabited, but if it was they left for parts unknown of their own accord long ago. Perhaps they did not like the soil. Was out to hear the “Star Sisters” sing last evening. It was perfectly grand. There has been nothing like it here for a long time. They were both just as pretty as they could be and were dressed so pretty. Miss Celestia was so sweet and cunning I would have been dead in love with her if I had been a man. Miss Juvinelia is married. Suppose I brought to have said Madame Juvinelia instead of Miss. They sing again this evening and think I will go if it is not too unpleasant. Do not like to miss such a treat. Have not been to the sociable for two weeks. Lou Hatfield said to me the other night at the party. “Sake I am going to take another lady in the sociable tomorrow evening and we will call for you will you go. Taking another lady will take the ones off of it”. I told him I had not been very well for two or three weeks and being up that night so late, did not think I ought to go out the next night but if I concluded to go would let him know. I of course did not let him know and did not intend to when I was telling him. Have had a dreadful backache since yesterday. If I had been dancing would think that was the cause, but as I have not do not know what to lay it to—Leve Bartlett was in a little while ago and said Mr. Woollard was telling her this morning that he had heard the best singers both in London and Paris but he never heard any that excelled Madame Juvinelia. I wished so much that you could hear them for I know you would have enjoyed it. Mack Lemmon started for Memphis yesterday morning. I sent your Iliad and a letter with two photographs enclosed, by him—Jimmie has been sick since last Sunday. He took cold and has had a high fever ever since. Does not sit up any. A great many children are sick in the same way. It seems to be a kind of epidemic going around. Mary Miller has come over to see him this afternoon--- He woke up the other evening and said, “O, I have had such a funny dream. I dreamed that I was married and that I made my wife shut down the stove”. We asked him who his wife was and he said “why Mary Miller”. She hates dreadfully to be plagued about Jimmie. You know she would not come near the house while you was home for fear you would say something to her about him. Wonder if she will always be so much afraid of the gentlemen. I used to be afraid to have one look at me when I first left school.

Mrs Phelps told Mother the other day that she thought Libbie and Meachem would be married about Christmas in the church and she is pretty good authority. Would not be at all surprised for Fannie Abby is going to stay until after Christmas. Do not say anything about it for Mrs Phelps did not want it told. You know she wanted us to be married in the church but thought I would rather be excused. Wish you would have seen the Phelps girls at the party the other night. They really looked frightful. Had their heads fixed up so they looked like nuns or stewed witches more than anything else. You could not see that Lydia had a bit of hair on her head in front—

Sunday Nov 29^th 1863.

Went again last evening to hear the “Star sisters”. The Hall was nearly full, almost every person being out that heard them Friday evening. Heard that they were going to try and get them to give another concert for the benefit of the “aid society”. Rev. Mc Collin lectures in Birchard Hall this evening. His subject is “the war”. I can now account for my terrible backache yesterday and day before. Old Granny came last night and just two weeks sooner than she should. Do not know what made her in such a hurry this time—Lida Buckland said Henry wrote for her to be ready and when he sent for she should come down to Memphis and spend the winter. Mrs Buckland told me yesterday that she had a letter from the General and he said they would stay in Memphis all winter. Is staying at a Mr. Smith’s out near the Fair ground. Suppose Ralph and Anna will go down to see him now- Went to hear the war speech last evening by Rev. Mr. Collier. It was splendid. He has fire in him and lets it out too when he talks. I did not hear him when he was here before. You know that it was about the time the “bloom” was taking effect and I was not visible then-- The “star sisters” opened and closed the meeting last evening by singing patriotic songs. The Methodist preacher (Rev. Mr. Wilson) was chairman of the meeting and such another “perke” (excuse the word) you ever saw. Thought I should go off when he said “The Miss Tinkers will now sing”. One of them is married & is not a Tinker now. I’ll bet they laughed in their sleeves—father is ready to go down street and will have to close—Please write soon and very often—No more this time—All send love—

Ever your loving wife—

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Dec. 2^nd 1863.

My Dear Husband

I received yours of the 23^rd day before yesterday and was sorry to learn that you had not heard from me for some time. I have written quite often and do not know why you do not get my letters. You know how badly I must have felt when I did not hear from you for several weeks, and yet it was not your fault for you had written. The photograph you send of Gen. Grant I think must be a good one. It looks very much like the other one I have, but is a better taken picture. The features stand out and it looks more life like. Will, if you have no objection, give the old one to Mother for her album—Every person pronounces Gen. Maltby to be a very fine looking man. Lieut. Johnson’s wife told Minerva that he was an old beau of hers. Your answer to the example I sent you is correct. Will tell you how the heirs divided them. They could not do it themselves so they went to the King and he divided them in this way. He brought another ox and put with their seventeen which made eighteen then he give the one that was to have ½ oxen, the one 1/3, six and the one 1/9, two. There added together make only seventeen, so he got his ox back again and each one of the heirs got really more than his share—I received the money you sent and am very much obliged to you for it---

The Rev. Mr. Colliers lecture was very good indeed. I tell you but he give it to the young men good and strong for not enlisting. I felt proud that I had a husband in the army and would have felt ashamed if I had had one at home here, who was able to go, but had not patriotism enough to go when he was needed. He told them that a few years from now their little sons would be coming in and saying Pa, I have been reading at school to-day about the “Great Rebellion” of 1861-2 and 3. Which battle was you in? They would say O! go way my son and don’t bother me. Have not time to tend to you—“But I just wanted to know which battle you was in. It won’t take you long to tell me that” “O! go away I am busy”. Said “by and by they would find out that they staid in Fremont all the time and he would not blame them if they would petition to have their names changed to Burnside, Hooker or some of them noble fellows”-- You do not know how much I would like to have you at home if you could be just as well as not, but if it is for the best for us to be separated will try to be as patient as I can, hoping that it will not be a good while longer—Rhoda Heller has another son. It was born last Sunday. Isn’t it too bad it wasn’t a girl? Minnie has two teeth nearly through. She is fat and cunning as can be, says dad, dad, dad—They say that is a sure sign that the next one will be a boy—

Mrs Caldwell is quite sick so I heard. Do not know what is the matter. Your Mother is well. Told me she had written to you the other day when I was down there—Jimmie still has fever and does not sit up but very little—Minerva expects Nerve Hoover here to make her a visit almost any day now. We had a slight fall of snow last Saturday night. It is the first one have had this winter—Monday and Tuesday it was very cold, but it is warmer to-day and looks as if it would storm again. Charlie will be home the last of this month to spend the winter vacation. He seems to like his school very much indeed—Jimmie wants you to answer his letter. Says you never write to him at all—Mary has been enjoying what little skating we have had—There is positively nothing to write about— Wish some person would get married or do something to get up an excitement—Perry Close fell in love with Miss Celestia of the “Star Sisters”. Would not go to the concert the second night for fear he would run off and leave his wife. Wonder if Miss Celestia would not feel very much flattered if she knew it-- But I must close. Please excuse this miserable letter and write often as you can. All send a great deal of love. No more this time. In great haste—

Your true and loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Dec. 7^th 1863.

My Darling husband

Yours of the 28^th reached me Saturday morning. You say you have written quite frequently but apprehend that I do not find your letters very interesting. Now you should not say so for I assure you that they are always very interesting to me and I like to get them so well. The advice you gave me in your last letter was very good, and will profit by it, but don’t you know that I told you I had made up my mind not to accept any gentlemans attentions after this. Have stuck to it this far and mean to. Do not know that I have been as prudent as I should be although I did not think anything about it at the time. You know I am naturally very fond of society and like, once in awhile, to flirt the least bit in the world, but guess it is best to be very careful “for people will talk” and don’t want to get them to talking about me—Do not think Charlie ever had any such thoughts as imagined he had for he knows me too well—but think as you do that it would be just as well not to give him a chance to think anything of the kind. I did not know that he avoided you and could not look you in the face when you was home. I certainly would not have gone with him at all if I had supposed that he thought I was doing wrong. I know that we did not see much of him while you was here but thought that it just happened so and plagued him about it the first time I saw him after you left. Told him I was going to send him word that you had gone so that he need not keep himself hid any longer. But enough of this. Have made up my mind to be careful and you know, when I make up my mind to do anything I generally do it. I went to the sociable last Thursday evening for the first time in three weeks. I expected Minnie would be there for me to come home with , but as she was not, had Doc. come up with me. Nerve Hoover came last Thursday evening and went away this morning. He had a real nice visit with her! She is so pleasant. Had the whole family together almost all the time she was here. Friday afternoon Grandmother, Minerva, Lida and Nerve were up here and in the evening we all went down to Grandmothers. Saturday morning we spent in running around town. They were at our house for dinner, then we all went to Grandmothers in the afternoon and to Lida’s in the evening. Sunday morning we went to church, after church all went up to Jule’s for dinner, staid there all the afternoon, went to church in the evening and after church was out to Grandmothers. Have got so that I can eat again. Guess the trouble was that I did not hear from you, for now that I have commenced to get letters again can eat as well as ever—

Thenie Sharp has a little daughter, it was last Friday I think. “Ma” received a dispatch from Brown telling her of the wonderful event. Said it weighed ten pounds and that the mother and child were doing as well as could be expected. Jim Vandercook and Jule Burdick were married last Friday morning. Jule has been very sick and Jim would be there all the time taking care of her so her folks thought they might as well be married. Charlie is coming home Saturday. Jimmie was dressed today for the first time in two weeks. Is real poor and looks pale and bad. Mary has been sick there for four days with a hard cold. I believe I told you in a former letter that I received the two hundred dollars you sent me and thanked you for it-- Was down to see your mother this afternoon. She is well. Had a letter from you a few days ago dated the 28^th—Enclosed you will find a letter for you from a friend of yours in Cincinnati, which I hope you will pardon me for opening. I saw that it was from Cincinnati and thought it must be the photographs Dr. Muscroft was to send you and so opened it and found out my mistake-- It is getting late and must close. Believe me my dear husband when I tell you that I love you with all my heart—Please write very often—All send love. No more this time—

Truly and lovingly your wife—

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Dec. 12^th 1863.

My Dear Husband

This being the anniversary of our wedding, thought I would write you a letter if it is but a short one. It hardly seems possible that we have been married two years, yet I would not have it otherwise even if we do have to separated so much. I do believe that I am a great deal happier than I could be without you my own darling husband. It is hard to be away from you, but must not complain. Our being separated so long will make us enjoy each others society more when we are together, wont it darling. We must have patience. I do try to be patient and cheerful as I can but sometimes my feelings get beyond my control. At such times I worry myself almost sick and get real cross to every-person, even to you, but am going to try and not do so again—

You do not know what a time I had visiting this week. Tuesday was invited to Mrs Miller’s for tea. Wednesday to Mrs Vallete’s for dinner, Thursday is Belle Ayer’s for tea, Friday to Grandmothers for dinner and today Minerva and Mrs Manors were to come here for dinner but Mrs M—went home on the noon train, so they did not come—Will Haynes come home a week ago to-night. Expects to stay until some time in January. We expect Charlie home to-night. Do not know how long a vacation he will have. Anna Buckland got home night before last. She and Ralph, Lida Buckland and Mrs Eugene Rawson start for Memphis Monday. Wonder if Gen B—is not bound to make a match if such a thing is possible. Col. Crockett died Thursday evening and was buried to-day—Judge Otis is in town. You remember him do you not? And so Lou Greene’s husband is fourty-five or fifty years old. Old enough to be her father. It must be the same Cruttenden for what Lieut. McGroarty told you agrees with what Lou told me perfectly with the exception of the age and she never said anything about that. I should think he ought to be in good circumstances at his age if he ever will be at all. And you do not despair yet of being a “happy father”. Suppose you think if he is not “dried up” at fifty you are not at thirty even if Scrantons do say so. I went into Mrs Dillon’s on my way home and read them that part of your letter. It was too rich to keep. How they did laugh. Mrs Dillon said I could have half a dozen or more in ten or fifteen years. If I had that many, guess you would complain a little more than you do now, about my not writing, for I would not get time to write more than our letter every two or three months. Would not be at all surprised if you would not come across Mr. Cruttenden himself some of these days—

I have got all over that trouble about my stomach and can eat as well as ever. You say your are astonished at Mother’s thinking it was anything serious. I am more astonished at her telling me of it, if she did think so, when she knows what a nervous creature I am. Do not think I would worry as much another time for I did not worry as much about my stomach as I did when I had rheumatism. Don’t you remember how I wrote that I wanted you to come home so much for I wanted to see you about something and you couldn’t guess what it was. Did I ever tell you that, that was it. I had a great notion to tease you to resign, but thought if there was nothing of it, how foolish you would think I was. Mrs Phelps told me that mother told her she guessed I was pretty badly frightened about my rheumatism I wonder who frightened me—How do you like the photographs I sent you? How does it happen that Gen. Buckland and Eugene Rawson are staying at Memphis while you will have to go to Germantown when you leave LaGrange? It is getting late and is time for me to be in bed, so will close. It is not necessary for me to tell you to write often for you are real good about writing. Am afraid that you do not get all my letters. I do write very frequently, but no no more this time except good night and many kisses.

Ever your true and loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

All send much love—

Sunday Dec. 12^th 1863.

I made a mistake about Ralph and Anna starting for Memphis to-morrow. They are not going until a week from to-morrow. Lida and Mrs Rawson are going tomorrow and Gene and Henry expect to meet them at Cairo. They would wait and go with Ralph and Anna but Gene’s wife does not want to stay here. She would not stop at Dr. Rawson’s but is staying at Joe’s. Suppose Mrs Rawson treated her so mean when she was before that she does not want to have any thing to do with her. Do not believe she ever treated her half as mean as Mrs Buckland has treated Lida and she (Lida) would lay down and let Mother Buckland walk over her anytime. They (Lida and Mother Buckland) were at church this evening and when Mother stood up Lida stood up when she sat down Lida sat down. They both got warm at the same time and both got cooled off at the same time. Mrs Green said Lida opened her book and was going to sing but Mother B—didn’t sing so she shut up her book and didn’t sing either. They say that is just the way she does at Presbyterian and coughs when she does &c. &c. What a silly fool. Mrs Greene wants to know if you ever heard of a Chaplain Wilson. He is the Methodist preacher now but was formerly a Chaplain in the army. At a meeting of the “Sandusky County Bible Society” they spoke of him, for President but Mr Smith the Agent of the Society got up and said that it was contrary to their rules to have a Minister for President and for them to appoint some person else. Mrs Greene says she is confident that he knew he had been a Chaplain and would not have him on that account—She thinks he must have become demoralized and wants to know very much if you ever heard of him—No more this time—

Lizzie—

Home Dec. 17^th 1863.

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 5^th day before yesterday. Suppose Lida and Mrs Rawson are Memphis by this time. O! how I would like to go down with Ralph and Anna next week. I don’t dare think of their going without me, for it makes me feel so bad. I read what you said about my coming, to Father and Mother. They did not say anything about it one way or the other and I didn’t either. Do not know whether they would be willing to have me go but suppose not. They have not said anything about the not going. If they were perfectly willing for me to go, could not on such short notice get ready to go with Anna, but will tell you what I have thought of. I suppose Capt. Snyder will be going back after this draft takes place and thought if you would go into Winter quarters there, would like to have me come and our folks did not make too much fuss. I could go down with him or any person else that is going. What do you think about it? But whatever you do think don’t say anything about my proposing it, for our folks would say that I had been teasing you to let me come. I haven’t have I? I do not want to go unless you think it best and want to have me, but I do want to see you as bad as I can. I think I would be perfectly happy if I could go down and spend the Winter with you.

Charlie came home Monday evening. He is going to stay three weeks—Annie went home to-day to be gone a week. Suppose I will have to work a little while she is gone. Mother and Father have gone to a party at Mrs Taylor’s to-night. Minerva has been real sick with a cold but is better now. She came near having inflammation of the lungs. You know I wrote you that “Grandmother” had come two weeks too soon. She did not stay at all only left a few cards and then disappeared. It is now nearly a week past her time and she has not come. I have tried to coax her with tea &c. but she won’t be coaxed. Do you believe there is anything up? Maybe you will have a chance to brag up little “Rice”, as well as Cruttenden. Becky Culp was confirmed in the Catholic Church one day last week and was married the same day, to some doctor who they say is a real nice looking fellow. The next day they went out riding, she was thrown out of the carriage and had both of her legs broken. Should think she should think that there was not much fun in getting married if it ended in broken legs. Her husband says they have talked pretty hard about her but he can forgive her if she behaves herself now. The Poor Supper comes off to-morrow evening. Do not think I will go, but may, cannot tell until to-morrow. There is a report here that the regt. has re-enlisted and that it is coming home the first of January. If the report is true and it should would you come too or would you stay with the Brigade? It commenced snowing yesterday and snowed all day and evening until the ground was pretty well covered. About eleven o’clock it commenced raining, rained all night and all day as hard as it could pour. Cleared off this evening and is growing colder. We have had remarkably warm weather for this time of year. Joe Bartlett is coming home to spend the Holidays. Ed Hulburt is coming next month and if they go into Winter quarters Will Kelly is coming too. Mary says he has gotten well and is as fat as he can be. I do not feel as if you had quite forgiven me for being so very ugly. Now that it has happened, I cannot do any more than I have done already say that I am very sorry indeed that I did so and will not let anything of the kind happen again. I assure you it makes me very unhappy when I think about it, but it cannot be undone now—Please write as often as you can, it does me so much good to get letters. I write you at least twice a week. All send love. No more this time—

Lovingly and faithfully your wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Jan. 22^nd 1864

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 14^th yesterday, Anna and Ralph having reached home this evening before. And so you have not heard from me for so long. I can sympathize with you. I had not heard from you for nearly two weeks when Anna come, and was feeling real blue about it. Have written, but not as often as I should have done if I had not been expecting you home every day. Cannot tell you how disappointed I am at your not coming home as soon as you expected. It is just like Gen. Sherman. It would not be anything surprising if he did not let you come home at all, just for ugliness. Will he let you stay anytime at all when you do come? Wish they would send him into the Potomac Army. Think that would be the best place for him. What do you think about it?

Was out to a party at Mr. Sheldon’s last evening. Had a very pleasant time. There is going to be a calico party next Thursday evening and a fancy dress party Friday evening for the benefit of the Aid Society. Every lady that does not wear a calico dress and every gentleman that does not carry a calico handkerchief (to be donated to the society) will be fined one dollar. Quite a number of us are talking of sending to Cleveland for our costumes for the fancy dress party. They intended having them two weeks ago but supposed the regiment would be home if they waited until this week. They were very anxious to have you here to take the character of “Napoleon”, but John Green has taken that character now, and they are wishing you would be here to act out “Uncle Jonathan”. Suppose you are glad that you will not be here. Guess I will represent some one of the “Queen’s”. Queen Elizabeth for instance—

I received the photographs you sent me for which you have my thanks. Think yours is good. Very much better than those Fitch took. Mary Dillon wants to know if you won’t exchange with her, give her one of those you had taken in Memphis for the one she now has. Suppose Fitch’s pictures will all be coming back. Have nearly a dozen on hand now, that I am ashamed to give any person. Mary Dillon says the picture you sent me is the only one she has seen that does you anything like justice. You say if I like them you will send me some more. If I thought you would not get any better ones, I would want at least a dozen of these, but I think you can. They are splendid what there is of them. The position is excellent, just enough side view to make it look well. The only fault I can find in them is this. They are a great deal too small and you hold your head down almost too much. You sent me eleven photographs and yours was the smallest one in the pack. You will have time before you come home to have another one taken and send to me won’t you? Take the same position only hold your head up a little more and have it taken a great deal larger. Perhaps you think I am hard to suit-- I want to send one to Lue Green and some more of my friends and want them to look as well as you do anyway. Don’t you believe you will have time to have another one taken and let me see how I like it before you start home? If I liked it better and you did not get any letters in time to get them you could get them just as well when you went back or if you did not go back there could write to the Artist or some of your friends and have them send them. Your coat looks well in the picture. Whose did you have on or have you got a new one? I noticed too that you have been letting your whiskers grow. It makes you look a great deal more like my husband. You won’t shave them off again to please me will you darling—Anna said you would not let her go out to Germantown because they had the smallpox there. Suppose you thought it would not do to have it before her market was made. You said you did not care if you did have it now that your market is made. You had better not. You know I am a great lover of beauty. If you are not coming home for some time tell me when you write what you think about Lieut Williamson and Anna and “some others” you mentioned—Suppose of course you asked Anna “How is the horses”-- I asked Anna if she knew what made Roll ask you that question. She said she did not, that she had not told him anything that would make him ask any such question, but must stop as it is nearly mail time. Write often

Your own loving Lizzie

I received the picture Gen Buckland sent me. Was very much pleased with it. You must thank him for me—Lizzie

Home Feb. 5^th 1864

My Own Darling Husband

I found on my return home from the wedding last night two letters from you dated the 27^th and 29^th. You still complain of not hearing from me. Am so sorry that you do not get my letters and do hope that you received at least one before starting out on your expedition. Have written once every week and should have written oftener but you don’t know how much there has been going on lately to keep me busy. I would have sent a letter by Capt. Snyder but did not know that he was going, soon enough to write one. I hope it may not be longer than two or three weeks before you start home. I dream every few nights of your being here. You know I told you that I dreamed you was here and acted so ugly. I dreamed again last night that you had got home and looked so good and so handsome but wouldn’t kiss me at all. I know that couldn’t be though, so will not worry about it—Suppose you would like to hear all about the wedding. I did wish so much that you was here to go with me but as you was not, your brother Charlie was kind enough to escort me there and back. It was very pleasant indeed. I enjoyed it ever so much. There was not any one there except the relations and a few of their young friends. Bette Clark, Martha Dickinson, Casey Westbrook and Jake Garvin were all I believe. O yes Lucinda Smith and Maggie Bowlus, but Maggie is a relation too. The bride looked pretty, as all brides do. Rev. Mr. Lunt married them. I suppose Jake and Maggie will be slipping off some of these days—

I received the photographs you sent. Think they are good with a few exceptions. You had not received the letter I wrote you on the subject it seems. I told you I thought them a great deal too small and asked you to have some larger ones taken and see if they would not look better—Your hair must have needed cutting badly. It looks almost long enough to do up, but then a picture cannot be perfect can it? I think there are the best you have had taken since that large one you had taken in Columbus two years ago—I wonder why Dr. Muscroft has never sent that picture of Gen Lytle as he promised and if he ever received the one I sent him of you—think Mack Lemmon’s picture is splendid--

Emma Conger is in Washington Doc. Conger is in command of Camp Baker and she is staying with him. How much more they have been together since they have been married than we have. Old Kelly has sold out. Do not know where he is going—Owen has gone to Bryan to live. Wonder if all their Copperheads won’t be leaving. Mr. Brundage is still here. He has never spoke to me since the time I scolded him so hard. Will Strong and Dottie had their trial yesterday. It was decided that she should have the child. Am so glad for it would almost kill Dottie to lose him. Will want him for ugliness and nothing else. Minerva says that if he wants a child so bad let him go round through the county and gather up some of his—

The Druids are going to have a “Masqurade Ball” next Tuesday evening. The boys are talking of having one the 22^nd of this month. If they do so, will have it very select. Will give out invitations and then will not let any person in but those that are invited. The “Leap Year Party” comes off to-night. Suppose it will be very pleasant. When they first talked about getting it up I thought some of going but gave it up-- But it is getting late and must close—Please don’t forget my darling to bring Mother one of those pictures—All send love— No more this time. Write as often as you can to your

Loving little wife

Lizzie S. Rice

Home Feb. 10^th 1864

My Darling Husband

I received yours of the 1^st last evening. Suppose it is the last one I will get until you will get back from your expedition, as you say you do not expect to write again—The Druids had a “Masqurade Ball” last night. I went down with Taylor Lydia and Mary Dillon to see then. Staid until nearly twelve o’clock. The young men are going to get up a “Ball” the 22^nd of this month. It will be very select. The number is limited to ninety I believe, and they will not let any person in only those that have invitations. It is to be a “full dress party”. At first they intended to have a Masquerade but gave it up—

They all keep up such a talking and noise around my ears that I can hardly write at all and my head aches too. You said sent me some photographs that you thought I would like better than the others. What others do you mean? The ones Fitch took or the five you sent me a short time ago? Have given those all away. One to Mary Dillon and the other four to Mother. Grandmother Wilson, Aunt Rachel and Lue Cruttenden. You ought to send one to Dr. Muscroft and ask him why he has not sent that one of Genl Lytle’s that he promised you. I did not send Dr. Kaull one of your pictures. I kept putting it off because they were so miserable and am glad not that I did not. I have almost all of that two dozen I got of Fitch, and these that I have given away are all in the family but two. What did you do with the two that I sent you? When we go to housekeeping can have them instead of a cat to keep mice away from the house-- Is Arthur Downs in Memphis now? Oscar and Ella are going to break up housekeeping in the Spring and board and Ella is going to clerk for him—Charlie Tylers body was brought home last week. Will and Dottie have had their trial and they are divorced and Dottie has the child. She has gone off where Will won’t find her nor Harry either. They are in hopes that he will soon be ordered back to the army and then they will be rid of him for a while at least. It would be a good thing for them both if the child would die. Jimmie wants to know what she married such a slink for. Captain Randall is here again. Is one of the “veterans” and has come home on leave of absence. The 49^th regiment was expected in Tiffin yesterday. Charlie Norton is going to re enlist. His Fannie Abbey is going home in a few days. Do not know what he will do without her. They say Charlie is a pretty hard fellow. He has not acted the same towards me since that affair I wrote you about. I thought he rather avoided me but perhaps I only imagined it. Do not know why he should unless my manner towards him has been different and had some effect on him. Have you found out what Roll. meant yet? Lida has not got well yet. Has to keep her eye tied up and does not dare go out of the room. She is in hopes that she will be able to go down to Cleveland to the Sanitary Fair, which comes off this month, but am afraid that she will not. Is having her brown silk made and getting ready. Did I tell you that Doc sent and got her a handsome brown silk for a New Years present? Minnie is as fat as can be. Looks like a great “dutch girl”-- It is almost dinner time and must stop writing—All send much love—

Your loving wife

Lizzie S. Rice

[1] Statira Eliza Justice Failings, sister of Lizzie’s mother, Nancy Justice Wilson. “Lida” was only four years older than Lizzie.

[2] Minerva Justice, another sister of Lizzie’s mother, and eight years older than Lizzie. She married Homer Everett in 1873.

[3] Presumably Homer Everett, who Lizzie’s aunt Minerva married in 1873. It seems that the pair were already an “item”, at least in Lizzie’s eyes.

[4] Herbert Cook Brightwell. He was ten years old.

[5] Frances Angeline Brightwell. She was 14 years old.

[7] M.W. Fitch, photographer and owner of “Fitch’s Gallery of Art”.

[9] Everton Judson Conger, a Fremont dentist, who later tracked down John Wilkes Booth after Lincoln’s assassination.

[11] Possibly Elizabeth J. Gilmore Moore, married to John Moore, brother of Lizzie’s maternal grandmother, Eliza Moore Justice

[13] Juliette Moore Rice, married to Will Rice.

[14] Harriet Patterson Moore, married to James Moore, brother of Lizzie’s maternal grandmother

[17] James Wilson, Jr, Lizzie’s youngest brother. Suffering from “temporary insanity caused by the heat and ill-health”, he shot himself in 1901 at the age of 44.

[21] Rollin Edgerton and Emma Downs were later married.

[26] Jonathan Harrington, Co. A. 72 Ohio. He was from Erie County, Ohio

[27] Magdalena Wegstein, Mike’s second wife. His first wife, Susan, died of consumption in 1858.

[28] Maggie Smith died October 24, 1863 at the age of three.

[29] Orlando E. Curtis, son of Orlando E. Curtis, died October 26, 1863 at the age of six.

[30] Julia Rawson did live. She died in 1916 at the age of 80.

[32] Eliza Phelps died November 12, 1862 at the age of eighteen.