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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC08914.025 |
| From Archive Folder | Collection of Peter E. Rifenburgh and Louis Brooks |
| Title | Peter E. Rifenburgh to his sister discussing the "privilege" of killing rebel prisoners and an encounter with Native Americans |
| Date | 19 May 1863 |
| Author | Rifenburgh, Peter E. (1843-1863) |
| Document Type | Correspondence |
| Content Description | Received her letter today. Just returned from an expedition started on May 12th up the Mississippi River. Went 32 miles by foot and by boat through Lake Pontchartrain. After a few days' march, formed a line of battle. Marched about half a mile in battle formation, and then engaged the rebels. "They fired one volley and then they skedaddled like hell." Took about 100 prisoners. Also encountered some Indians. Took 19 prisoners personally back to New Orleans and had the "privilege" of killing them. Now has marching orders back to the Mississippi River. Will send $20 home once he gets paid. Hopes these lines find her well. |
| Subjects | Civil War Military History Soldier's Letter Union Soldier's Letter Union Forces Battle Death Confederate States of America Prisoner of War American Indian History Death Penalty Military Law Soldier's Pay |
| People | Rifenburgh, Peter E. (1843-1863) |
| Place written | Camp Parapet, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana |
| Theme | The American Civil War; Native Americans |
| Sub-collection | Papers and Images of the American Civil War |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Civil War, Reconstruction and the Modern Era: 1860-1945 |
| Civil War: Recipient Relationship | Sister |
| Civil War: Theater of War | Main Western Theater |
| Civil War: Unit | 128th New York Infantry, K Company |