Compelling handwritten Civil War letter dated December 16, 1862, written from Hammond Hospital at Point Lookout, Maryland by a Massachusetts soldier, likely of the 15th Massachusetts Regiment, addressed to his parents. The letter provides a striking firsthand account of the delayed and fragmented flow of information following the Battle of Fredericksburg, capturing the dramatic shift in perception as news reaches soldiers far from the front. Initially repeating optimistic reports that Burnside “is whipping the rebels good,” the writer’s tone abruptly changes after the arrival of wounded soldiers, noting “two boat loads of wounded from the battle field” numbering over one thousand men and concluding that “we shall have a hard time to whip the rebels out there.” He expresses anxiety over the fate of his regiment, requests newspapers for reliable accounts, and reflects the dependence of soldiers on secondhand information during the war. The letter also contains commentary on camp health, personal condition, and daily concerns, offering a layered and human perspective on the aftermath of one of the war’s most devastating Union defeats. Letters illustrating the immediate emotional and informational impact of Fredericksburg, particularly from hospital settings such as Point Lookout, are highly desirable to collectors for their narrative depth and historical context. 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

Good. Fold lines consistent with period use, scattered staining including darker areas at fold intersections, and minor edge wear. Ink remains legible throughout.