Camp Near Harper's Ferry M^d

Sept 29^th 1862

 

Dear Friends at Home

                        Perhaps you think I have been negligent about writing to you but the truth is I have been quite unwell and would not write untill I I had somewhat recovered. I am now reasonably well but am getting tired of camp life and I am longing for peace and home.

 

We are now encamped about 4 miles from Sharpsburg and 7 from Harpers Ferry in Washington County Maryland. The enemy are within four miles of us across the river. But their main force is at Winchester Va where I think the next main battle may be expected. You have undoubtedly / learned the particulars of the Great Battle of Antietam Creek in which we took an active part, and many of our brave boys sleep that sleep that knows no waking. But we repulsed the enemy at evry point and drove them back with great loss. Our Ohio Division has gained honors that can never die. Gen^l Cox who had command of our Kanawha Division has been promoted and is in command of an Army Corps. Capt Skiles of my old company has had his arm amputated and our Lieut has lost his leg. Only 1 in 4 escaped being wounded in our Regiment. I am in the Medical Department where I shall endeavor to remain as long as I remain a soldier 

 

I have not heard from Bainbridge since I have been in Eastern Virginia but have written two or three times to them. Hope they will be more punctual in the future. I cannot tell when I shall be able to come home but think not untill the close of this Rebellion. Write often for I have not heard a word from home for 6 weeks, and if some of you dont be more punctual I shall quit entirely. Tell Ma not to worry about me for I shall come out all right. Give my love to all enquiring friends and tell Hattie Shoalter that Joseph Delong was wounded in the hand (only slightly) Bruce ought to write oftener and he will receive more / letters from me.

 

Give my

love to all enquiring friends and Remember                                         

Your Boy & Brother

J. C. Barton

Co C 23^d Regt OVI

Genl Cox's Division

9^th Army Corps

Via Washington

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