Letters from the Civil War: Hamilton Wetherby

Born on February 13, 1847, Hamilton Wetherby was just 15 years old when he mustered into the US army on August 20, 1862, and became a drummer boy for the 111 Regiment, New York State Volunteers, Company C. Like many other young boys who seek to join the army, Hamilton lied about his age so he can serve with his brothers and cousins. Hamilton was promoted to private before he was killed in action on May 6, 1864 at the Battle of the Wilderness, Virginia. He was originally buried at Cook’s farm, Spotsylvania, and then re-interred on the heights above Fredericksburg, now the national cemetery.

Below is a letter written to Hamilton’s sister Ellen on Feb. 25, 1863.

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