Manuscript Database
Creator/Title
Patton family. Papers, 1859-1894. .66 cu. ft.
Call No.
Mss. A P322 3,4,9
Content
Pvt. Samuel Patton, 1st Ill. Light Artillery Regt., in a letter to his wife, dated 21 March 1864, states his views on Kentucky politics during the Civil War. Although the state initially declared neutrality then consented to loyalty to the Union, "they have always felt that they deserved special treatment and favors. If Kentucky had seceded, it would have been just about as well for the government." The recent condemnation of the Federal enlistment of African Americans by Col. Wolford "will bring down on them a stinging rebuke such as they deserve". His letters dated Nov. 1862 to Jan. 1863 also contain observations of the populace and cities and activities of his regiment.