Nevada Gun Auctions, LLC
Timed Auction

ONLINE FIREARMS, EDGED WEAPONS AND MILITARIA AUCTION

Fri, Jul 24, 2026 01:00PM EDT - Sun, Aug 9, 2026 04:00PM EDT
Lot 250

Civil War Letter from Edwin Barlow Describing Post–Pea Ridge Operations in Arkansas, April 14, 1862

Estimate: $250 - $500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $20
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$5,000 $200
$10,000 $500
$50,000 $1,000

Informative Civil War soldier’s letter written by Edwin Barlow, a Union volunteer in the 2nd Brigade, 4th Division under General Samuel R. Curtis, dated “Camp at Bear Creek near Forsyth, April 14th 1862,” shortly after the Battle of Pea Ridge; the letter provides a firsthand account of troop movements through Missouri into northern Arkansas during the consolidation of Union control following the March 1862 campaign; Barlow references the aftermath of Pea Ridge, noting comrades who participated and survived, as well as ongoing uncertainty regarding future movements toward Little Rock; the narrative offers valuable insight into camp conditions, including shortages of proper food, reliance on basic rations such as flour and pork, and the prevalence of illness within the regiment; he further comments on the regional environment, guerrilla threats, and the availability of livestock such as ponies and mules, reflecting the challenges of operating in contested territory; a strong Western Theater letter tied directly to one of the war’s pivotal Trans-Mississippi engagements. Pickup & Shipping: Free pickup in Gardnerville, NV. FedEx Ground/Home Delivery within the continental U.S.: $30 + 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing). Combined shipping available

Condition

Good with moderate toning and visible fold lines consistent with period mailing; some light staining and minor edge wear present, with a few areas of softness to the paper; handwriting remains legible throughout, and the letter retains solid integrity for display and study.

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The Estate of Professor Ronald H. Limbaugh (University of the Pacific) Director of the Holt-Atherton Pacific Center for Western Studies and Director of the John Muir Center for Regional Studies