Monday, December 20, 2010

June 3rd 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout MD

June 3d 1864

Dear Sarah, I have at last received the pictures they came yesterday post marked 31^st I was not expecting them so soon. it was indeed a pleasure to look upon the faces of the dear loved ones not seen for so long a time. I think you said in your last, that Lucy’s was good but yours and Ida’s was taken badly and you would have them taken over. I think Lucy’s taken with the white dress is the best although Ida’s is very good also but yours is the best I think on the other plate did you notice Lucy’s hand and arm on that plate there is a deformity about it caused by her moving it before the impression was taken. Ida’s I think shows to a little better advantage with the dark dress she has not altered any I do not think. the same features do I recognize but something larger although I have not seen her for over two years. I must say Dear Sallie, I was surprised to see you looking so well I must say Mr. Hobday has not flattered you a bit, although I am very well satisfied and delighted to have it good or bad. I look at both and do not know which is the best if the hand was good Lucy’s I mean. I would much prefer all three on that plate. I wish you had kept one of the plates and then I could devote my time looking at one aloe I think you will soon be as large as Miss Maville. I answered your last of 28^th you spoke of sending me money do not do it, the box has not come yet it may come in tomorrow. kiss Ida & Lucy and tell them Pa has seen their sweet faces once more. my love to all, from your affectionate Harrie

June 1st 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout MD.

June 1^st 1864

Dear Sarah,

Yesterday I received two letters from you one dated the 21^st with two -2- dollars enclosed from Mrs Anne Dougan and the other dated 28^th which was in answer to my last of the 22d. at the same time I received one from Mary enclosing two -2- dollars also which I have answered. you must imagine Dear Sarah the pleasure it gives me to hear from you all and to know you are all enjoying the blessing of health. I am well at present but was quite unwell for two or three days last week being taken with rush of blood to the head and fell, but recovered as soon as I was taken up. but as I before stated I am quite well now. you must return my kind thanks to Miss Ann for her kindness to you since I have been away also for what she sent me. the box I have not yet received but it is probable I will this week. I will write to the Captain Mr Bowers mentioned although I do not believe he sent the money, one of his name is here and I have seen him but not to speak to him. Gus and Joe I have not heard from for a long time. if when this reaches you you have not sent the pictures and you intend or have them ready to send you had better send them through the Post office if they are Photographs you can send them in letter if in a case, seal them and direct them several have come in that way. I am glad they are not sent in box. Dear Sallie you say in both your letters if you had the means you would not stay there. what is your reason for saying so I wish you to tell me in your next I judge something has transpired at home that causes you to speak thus. I shall certainly do as you desire when I see your Pa whether he wishes me to do so or not. I here enclose to gutta percha rings if they do not fit the children give them to Miss Ann’s children. as soon as I can get some needles I will have a necklace made for Ida & Lucy each. we have beautiful one made here George Smith has been kind when you see him give him my kindest regards I wrote to him the other day. I have not heard from Brother since, my love to all home also to all relatives & friends kiss my little girls trusting soon to hear from you I remain your Affectionate Husband

May 22nd 1864

Officers Camp. Point Lookout Md.

May 22d 1864

Dear Sarah

Yours of the 13^th ult. Has come to hand and gave me much pleasure to know you all were well, as you say many a loving heart has been made sad many a fond wife will wait anxiously for the dear one who will never return, many the dear little ones who will be left father[le]ss by this civil war. God grant it may soon come to a close and peace smile on us once again. I have received no letter from Bowers yet, and trust it will not turn out as the other did. The box would be very acceptable at this time and hope to see it soon, the pictures would be a delightful present to me as I would like much to look upon the dear faces of those I love best on earth once again. I do sincerely hope I will not be disappointed. you spoke of sending me money do not send it because I know it cannot be spared. I can make out very well. Gus offered to send me some but I have not heard from him for some time I wrote to him one month ago to day. he probaly did not get it. I was glad to learn Ma and Aunt Mary were improving my love to them. did Ma get my last letter. remember me to Mary H also to Louisa, Mollie, Mela, Mrs Foster, & Laura, and to all my friends. my love to your Ma and the children. Kiss Ida & Lucy for me I have not heard form Joe for some time. yours in love

H.A. Allen

from your Affectionate Husband,

I mailed a letter to you yesterday before I received yours

May 12th 1864

Officers camp Point lookout Md.

May 21^st 1864

Dear Sallie,

The last from you was dated 9^th which was answered and as I have not received one later I thought it best to pen you a few lines. I cannot imagine why it is that I have not heard from you lately. I received a letter from Geo Smith a few days ago I think I told you of having written to him to send a suit of clothes he says he has the article ready to send but having heard that I had been removed thought it best to write one first saying I must answer immediately which I did. Mary Griffith sent me a pr shoes, two shirts, two prs drawers, and several other little articles, which I received yesterday. I am sorry to say the shirts & drawers were too small but they will come in for some of my smaller comrades. she sends much love to you and all friends I wrote to her today. the box you sent to the Island has been distributed among my comrades there by my order as I might have lost it if they had sent it to me. one of the boys wore my coat here form the Island, and it reminded me of home. brother has been transferred to another Battery, and I am sorry to say has been badly wounded and had to have his leg taken off. I was told by one of the officers who has been taken prisoner lately he was doing well and is in Richmond. he is among the many who if he lives will be crippled for life. it will be sad news for his Ma, let her know it yourself. strange I do not hear from Gus. I wrote to him on the 22^nd April. give my love to your Ma, and the children, also to all relatives & friends kiss my dear little girls for me and accept the sincere love of your affectionate Husband

Henry A Allen

Friday, December 17, 2010

May 12th 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout

Md. May 12^th 64

Dear Sarah

Yours bearing the date 9^th I received yesterday. I have been waiting anxiously for a letter having received one from you dated 1^st on the 6^th, and expected to get an answer from one written after answering those two of yours which o received together. I am truly glad to hear that Aunt Mary is getting better and trust she will regain her former good health. Joe told me he had been to see you and you were looking well and as pretty as ever. dont you feel complimented you should not have said anything to Mr Bowers about me. I shall not trouble him again. who is the Capt Reed he spoke about. I have not heard from Gus since 21^st April. I have written to Geo Smith to send me a suit of clothes he may do so if not I do not care. I accepted Mary Griffith’s offer and told her to send me some underclothing and pr shoes. she told me she had sent some things to Kit Gayle, who is here. we are not allowed to write but one side of a half sheet letter paper and cannot receive any more so any one writing to me you can tell them over that will not come, you had better send the money to your pa, if possible, give my love to your Ma, Joe, Fannie, & Ella. also to all my dear relatives & friends. remember me to Mrs Foster and Laura, kiss my dear little girls, yours affectionate Husband HAA

May 5th 1864

Officers Prison Camp, Point Lookout Md

May 5^th 1864

Dear Sarah

your letter bearing the date 1^st I received yesterday in which you say you had received mine of April 27^th I was much pleased to hear of the kind offer made you by Mr and Mrs Dungan. Ii was indeed kind and I thank them much. I do not believe that Shell will ever do better I feel sorry for Louisa Bowers no doubt looks out for No 1 I wrote to Mary G and received her reply yesterday. she wrote me a very pretty letter telling me if I needed anything to let her know. I ans her letter to day and sent your love to her. Dear Sallie the last time you spoke about sending the pictures I told you it was the last time I should speak on that subject, but thinking over the matter I will again mention it I wish to ask you one question why did you not oblige me by having them taken you have promised repeatedly but I find that it has never been done, because you have never had it taken it is no excuse at this time. if not convenient for the children you could have sent yours. you have sent me money enough to have twenty taken and I have told you not to do so . do you suppose I would much rather have the pleasure of looking at the faces of my dear wife & children than to have money when so many chances are against my ever seeing their dear faces again God only knows whether I shall ever be allowed that pleasure again. if I thought you had been so situated that you could not have done so I would have mentioned it but sending the money proves to the contrary. but I do not wish you because I have made these remarks to trouble yourself now about the matter it is too late and I would rather be deprived of them than for you to deprive yourself at this time. do not think Dear Sarah I am angry or that I wish to censure you. far from it. but I must say when I see others around me with the faces of their loved ones to look upon that I sometimes feel a little fretted and think I might have had mine also. I received a letter from Joe the other day he say he will send the Tobacco. I am glad to learn Uncle Joe is at home. my love to all at home and to all who may ask often of me. Kiss my little darlings for me yours affectionately Henry.

Monday, December 13, 2010

April 15th 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout Md
April 15th 1864

Dear Dear Sallie,
Yours of the 12th I received yesterday in which you state that mine of the 2d has been received. almost every letter conveys to me the intelligence of the death of some of our Portsmouth folks. it pains me much to hear of so much sickness there. I am truly sorry to know the small pox is so close to you. did Aunt Mary get my last letter written when I wrote to Mary Dodd. give my love to her. Aunt Lou & Mary Ann also to Aunt Hager. I answered yours of the 3d in which I stated that I had made application for twenty (20) days parole to visit home which I trust you have gotten ere this. no news with us exchange seems to be at a stand still. it seems strange that Mr Dongan has not received either of my letters having written to him. give my regards to him & family. tell Mary I found out a Mrs Cordelia Allen at this place and wrote to her several days ago but have not received as answer. I would be pleased to pay you all a visit but I am fearful I shall be disappointed. I am expecting to hear from Genl Butler daily. give my love to all home to Ma, Mollie, and the Owens family also to Louisa. I trust those ladies will succeed in getting the remains of their Sons kiss my little girls for me yours in love
Henry

April 10th 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout Maryland
April 10th 1864
Dear Dear Sallie
Yours bearing the date 3d acknoledging receipt of mine Mch 29th came to hand yesterday. I was again pained to learn that the hand of death had visited Mollie’s family they have indeed been sorely afflicted Mother and Brother taken form them in so short a time. and you think your Ma will have to leave as everything is so very high what then will my dear Wife and little ones do can you go with her to your Pa. Would you all were with him now. it may be that I will see you before a great while not that I expect to be exchanged that does not give me much trouble but this morning or rather yesterday I wrote to Genl. Butler asking for a parole of (20) days to visit my family whom I had not seen for two (2) years stating that they were in his Dept. and giving the names of Dr L.A. Bilisely, John C. Maville, & Captain Sam Watts as vouchers for me if he required it as they had taken the oath of allegiance to the Fedl Government. he may grant it but I cannot loose anything by trying. I trust Emma will not act as others have. Capt Cocker I left in the Island. I wrote to Gus informing him of what I had done relative to the above parole. give my love to all home to Shell, Louisa, and to the Owens family all, also to Ma, Aunt Mary Puss Owens and Mary Dodd, kiss the little ones for me yours with much love Henry
do not think of sending me more money I know you need it do as I say.

April 2nd 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout Md April 2d 1864
Dear Sallie
Your much welcomed letter was handed me yesterday. you cannot imagine dear Sarah what a source of pleasure it is to me receiving a letter from you letting me know how you and my little dear ones are, it is the only pleasure I see here in prison would that I could come to you all never to be parted again, but rather than come as some have I would sooner die and I know you feel as I do on that subject. yester\day I received a letter from Mary and have replied to it. she tells me I will hardly see Aunt Mary again in this world. oh! what a feeling passed over me when I read that. she is all the Mother I have ever known and I know loves me as her own child. God in his mercy may grant she may be spared to us all. I was much pained to hear of the death of Mollies Ma. I sympathize with them deeply in their affliction. I do not think Tucker is in the Point. I have written to Bob Braten (?) to know you shall hear in my next. I wrote to Aunt Mary to day go and see her as often as you can and carry the children with you I know she loves them. my love to her and tell her my prayer is that we may meet again. my love to Ma and the Owens family tell Mollie I feel for her deeply in her distress, I wrote to Jim yesterday if you should see Gus tell him I suppose he has forgotten me he owes me a letter, my love to all home yours Henry

Sunday, December 12, 2010

March 29th 1864

Officers Camp Point Lookout Md
March 29th 1864
Dear Sarah
Yours bearing date 26th came to hand yesterday acknoledging the receipt of mine of the 19th. I suppose ere this you have received mine in answer to yours of the 20th which I received in the 25th. we are still in camp waiting patiently to hear from the matter of exchange no box yet and if my friend does not think it prudent to send it to me he certainly will not send it to Portsmouth if I should be so fortunate as to be exchanged I hardly think I would be allowed time to send for you as it is very likely I should have to go to the army although it would be a great pleasure to see you all but if you should leave P. you must recolect you cannot return again if you should wish to do so. all my boys here are well Brooks sent me a lot of good things the other day and another Wallace Williams sent some money. he will send me some clothes also, they have plenty; all have stopped writing me from Portsmouth but you. give my love to all home and to all who ask about me yours with much love
Henry
Officers Camp
Tent No 33

March 25th 1864

Officers Camp Pt Lookout
Md. Mch 25th 64
Dear Sarah
Yours bearing date 20th has come to hand, we are now in camp we moved last Tuesday evening and had a heavy snow storm that night which was not very comfortable. it is now raining and will end with quite a storm I think. the change was not very agreable having been in houses so long I heard form one of my men the other day that Jim Campbell had married Mrs Henry White is it the druggist you did not mention it in your letter. also that Joe Moore & Lizzie Hadgins, & Major Stewart & Carrie Peters were married. I do not wish you or Mary to trouble yourselves about the box again and si not send anything else without I write for it. three parties have left here from City Point. I have not heard from the last it is doubtful about us being sent away yet a while. I am glad to learn that Lucy is well. I received yours of the 4th with $1,50 enclosed also six stamps it was long coming. I am sorry to hear of the sickness of those mentioned remember me to them, and to all at home kiss my little girls my love to all relations who enquire of me. good night dear Sallie, from your Henry

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

March 19th 1864

Point Lookout Md
Saturday evening Mch 19th 64
Dear Sallie
I received to day the letter from you bearing date 4th yours of the 5th & 12th I received some time back and promptly answered them. yours of the 4th contained one dollar and fifty cts (1.50) also six stamps, always in writing give me the date of my letter you receive. I have often told you not to send money to me because I know you need it and you must also consider it would be some help to your Ma it seems you are all determined not to send those pictures which you could have done easily but it is now too late as they might share the fate of the box which I have never received I got a letter from the Island to day it may come but I expect to be away when it dies. I thought Lou Tabb (?) was at Charlotte. I suppose Mr Gaskins is now happy. tell dear little Ida Pa would like to see his little darling. Tell her to keep a good heart he may see her before a great while. three lots of officers and men have left here to be exchanged the last left on Thursday. I hope to be among the next. did Mary get my letter, give me love to all friends & relatives kiss my little darlings for me good night and may the good Lord watch over you all is the prayer of your
Henry
Ward II

Monday, December 6, 2010

March 8th 1864

Point Lookout, Md Mch 8th 64
Dear Sarah,
I have just received your kind letter bearing date of the 5th and now must answer it in haste so as to get it in the next mail. I am well with the exception of a slight cold, and I trust this will find you and my dear children well also. I was very sorry to hear of the imprisonment of Mr. Bain & Uncle Joe. Mr. Bain had been spoken of through the papers tell May I have tried to find out her relative at this place but could not succed. I have received another letter from A.C.H. sending me one (1) dollar saying he would have sent more but he heard that it was all allowed at one time. I have answered his letter. tell Mary not to trouble herself farther about the box as I have written for it and I think it will come, and Mary thinks he is quite close. well I shall not trouble him again. I have not seen any of my boys but hear from them through letters regularly. They are all well. I got a letter form Bob Daughtry yesterday, give my love to your Ma, and all the children home, also to Aunt Mary, Ma, Mary D, Tho Owen’s family and to all friends & relatives. my respect to Bowers if you should see him I must now close kiss the dear little ones for me Good Bye from your affectionate Husband
Henry Ward II
Mr Grant is here and I have sent the money to him e is well

March 1st 1864

Point Lookout, Md.
Mch 1st 1864
Dear Dear Sallie
I have just received you letter written to the Island dated Feb 10th the day after I left that place. it is the one with my darling little girls hair in it. may God in his infinite mercy bless my dear ones at home and spare us all to meet again. Lucy’s I could norm any idea of as I have not seen her since she was nine months old it is hardly as dark as I expected to see I know she must look sweet if you curl it. this reminds me of your I think you spoke in one of your letters a long time ago that your hair was coming out and you compelled to have it cut has it grown out. you state in your letter Mary will send the box tomorrow that was two days after I left, leaving on the 9th. Marion I hear has been exchanged. Mrs Allen I have not found out yet, I received A.C. Moon’s letter yesterday directed in your handwrite, in which he says mine did not reach him until Feb 6th he speaks of being wholly unable to send me the article, but will do so as soon as able. I have written to him since coming here but wish now I had not done so. I should like to get your letter with the stamps it may not come to hand. I shall write to Mary Soon, Stamps are something I need as much almost as money. I asked Bowers to send me some but have not heard from him. I must now close my love to all home, Aunt Mary, Mary Dodd and all who inquire of me kiss the little one, yours in love
Henry,
Hammond Genl Hospital
Ward No 11

February 23 1864

Point Lookout Md.
Feb 23d 1864
Dear Sallie
Yours of the 19th I have just received. I have been waiting very patiently for an answer to my letter and I assure you it was a source of much pleasure to me to get a letter from you. although I was much disappointed when I heard that the box had gone to the Island for me. when I left that place I told Whitehead what to do if letters or a box should come there for me. I think the box was in Sandusky when we passed through that place as their was a quantity of Express baggage their that could not be sent to the Island on account of the ice not being strong enough to bear travel. I reckon it will be sent to me, give my best love to Mary and tell her I am deeply indebted to her and I trust God may bless her for her kindness. ask Aunt Mary if she received my last, tell Mollie to write me, give my love to all my dear friends & relatives, my love to your Ma & all home. kiss my little ones, does Ida grow fast. has Laura H. gone to Dixie remember me to her and her Mother. Love to you and your Ma, manage to get along – Good Bye from your Affectionate Husband
Henry A Allen

Friday, December 3, 2010

February 14th 1864

Point Lookout Md.
Feb 14th 1864
Dear Sarah
You will no doubt as this reaches you have heard of the removal of some officers from Johnsons Island to this place, you will see from the above that I am one of that number. we arrived at this place last night after a very tedious travel being on the road nearly four days without sleep the cars being too much crowded. we are now in good quarters better than those we left. we are at present occupying buildings formally used for Hospital purposes. I was expecting a letter from you the day we left the Island but we had to leave before the mail was opened but I suppose our letters will be sent to us at this place. I have not seen any of my boys yet as we are quartered some distance from them but will see them if I possibly can they are all well. I received a letter from Bowers a few days before leaving the Island and answered it if he has not written again you can tell him where I am. Tell Mollie Owens she must not get married as Ann Eskridge did but wait awhile longer. give my love to all home and to all who may enquire about me write soon from your Affectionate Husband
Henry A. Allen
Kiss my little ones for me

February 3rd 1864

Johnsons Island, Sandusky Ohio
Feb 3d 1864
Dear Sarah
Your kind letter of the 29th Jan. came to hand, you of course can imagine the pleasure It affords me on receiving a letter from you. you spoke in your letter of receiving mine of the 30th Dec also one of Jan 20th. I am sorry to learn that the small pox is in Portsmouth you must be careful with the children and do not let them run out. you spoke of Augustine Mo having lost a child was it from that disease. I have given up all hopes of getting the box and shall not trouble myself about the matter again as for Mr. Brown I shall not write to him or trouble him and more, he has received two letters from me and has not answered either of them. he told Gus that he had sent money to me twice and had not heard from me. the last time I do not believe he sent it. I am sorry to learn that Aunt Mary is in such bad health. give my love to her. there is some talk of sending us from this place, where I do not know, send me a few stamps if you can get them. give my love to your Ma and all home, kiss my darling children for me would that I could see you all remember

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

January 27th 1864

Johnsons Island Sandusky

Ohio. Jan 27^th 1864

Dear Sarah,

You kind favor of the 20^th was received to day in which you state that the last received from me was dated the 9^th. but I suppose ere this mine in answer to yours of the 9^th & 14^th have come to hand. I was truly sorry to hear of the death of Jordan. many more will meet with the same fate. it is a hard life in any prison. I have not heard from and of my boys for some time the last heard from them they are at Pt Lookout, Walker, Dashield,[1] Wallace Williams, Bob Daughtrey, & Eugene Brooks are there, and I hope are well. find out when Daughteys Father heard from him. I have written to them but have received no answer to my last. you spoke of Ann Eskridge I am not surpprised at hardly anything I hear these times. you spoke of Sarah White also whom do you mean Henry White’s widow. I am glad to learn you are well and want for nothing. I must use your own words in this respect do not deceive me, if I am sick I shall certainly let you know and do not buoy me up with the hope that you are doing well. I was not aware that Mary had a relative by that name it must have been a relative of her husband. how long has Marion been at Pt Lookout I suppose every body are taking the oath in Portsmouth. give my love to your Ma and all home, and to all who may enquire of me, kiss Ida & Lucy for me from your affectionate Husband Henry

[1] Thomas Dashiell (captured at G’burg)

January 9th 1864

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Saturday Jan. 9^th 1864

Dear Sarah.

Your kind favor of the 5^th came to hand to day in which you say you received mine of Dec 24^th on Saturday last. you say all would be well with you is you could be certain that I was well and not suffering. I am quite well and completely situated although we have had since very cold weather here and now it is quite cold. I have plenty of bed clothing and sleep warm, and have no need of exposing myself to the weather during the day. we also have plenty of fire wood. in my last to you I spoke of my health and stated that I thought I would be a better man when released from prison I alluded to my health. I trust I am a better man otherwise, I do not wish you to trouble yourself any farther in regard to the box, if they will not allow it, do not let your mind be upset about it. I can do without it. you have again sent me money as I told you before you have sent more than double enough to pay for those pictures and I would much rather have them than the money, if it is not convenient to get the childrens you can send yours you can send it through the Post Office as Mrs Lewis did. I shall not speak farther on the subject. I wrote to you on the 30^th Dec. also on the 5^th this month. It has been rumored here that we would be sent to Pt Lookout doubtful I guess. my love to your ma, and all home kiss the children for me my love to all relatives and friends from your affectionate Husband

Henry

January 5th 1864

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Tuesday Jan. 5^th 1864

Dear Dear Sarah

Your kind and affectionate letter dated 1^st came to hand this afternoon I was indeed pleased to hear from you all. you ask how I spent Christmas. I must answer as well as could be expected situated as I am. Jno Vermillion received a box with something good in the christmas line and we had a very good dinner. but it was not spent as I would have wished it. and so Ida wishes often to see her Pa. bless her dear little heart tell her her Pa often wishes to see his little girl, but cannot yet. it was a sad christmas to us all dear Sarah but I trust the next will be better. I suppose you did not know whither Augustine Moore had received my letter as you did not make mention of it in yours I hope Mary Dodd will be able to do as she told you. it may be that out of all I will be able to get one after a while. I would like to have a little smoking tobacco if it could be sent. try and find out if Augustine Mo received my letter. Emmanona is kinder than I expected she would be, I believe she thinks much of the children. what is Bowers doing remember me to him and family also to Aunt Mary. I must write to her my thanks to Mary D. for the good wishes, Ma & Shell both owe me a letter my love to them all, I heard through John Lewis by a letter from his wife Laura Russ was going to Richmond remember me to her and her Ma. thank you for the money you will not do as I ask you my love to your Ma, and all home good bye dear Sarah from your Affectionate Husband Henry

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

December 30 1863

Johnsons Island

Sandusky Ohio

Dec 30^th 1863

Dear Sarah,

Your kind favor of the 24^th came to hand on yesterday 29^th. I was delighted to again hear from you and all at home. in you letter I found enclosed one envelope & five stamps for which accept my thanks. I wrote to you a few days ago in which I stated that I was quite unwell. I am now nearly recovered again it was the longest spell of sore throat I have ever had I think my throat is slightly affected but I am not certain. in that letter and I think it was written a day or two after writing to Gus, I stated that I wished you to see Bowers and tell him to send the box if he would, as I thought it was a false rumor as clothing continued to arrive here, so if you did not receive that letter you may now do so. Dear Sallie I know you are all placed in an unenviable position and as regards your having to leave, I do not think it will be as bad for you fear it will. but if your Ma should be turned out and should leave you of course must go with her. I hardly think it advisable to leave too soon would that I was in Richmond I would certainly send for you and my dear children and place you in some place more pleasant than where you are now. I see no possible chance of exchange. When you receive this I shall have been a prisinor six months. how much longer God knows would I be of some help to you all, give my love to your Ma and all home kiss my little girls, remember me to all who may enquire good bye from your affectionate Husband

Henry

see Bowers directly

December 24th 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Dec 24^th 1863

Dear Sarah,

Your favor of the 17^th came to hand last evening I was glad to hear from you but quite sorry to hear that you all were in so much trouble but I trust it will not be as bad as you think. it is strange they will not allow you to send me a box of clothing but if Bowers can send me that will be sufficient I have written to Cousin Augustine Moore requesting him to send me some money or clothing if Bowers should send me a pr of shoes tell him to send eights or nines. Tomorrow is Christmas day no doubt you will spend a lonely one. I certainly shall how many more shall come and go and we separated God grant this may be the last. I am suffering with sore throat again and have been for five or six days also with fever having high fever all night. The doctor burnt my throat this morning and I hope soon to be well again. I have not been well many days since I have been a prisinor and fear I shall not be entirely well for a long time sometimes I think my constitution is not as good as when I left home but I shall be a better man when released from prison give my love to your Ma, Joe, Fannie, & Ebby. kiss my little girls for me remember me to all who may inquire of me good bye from your affectionate Husband Henry

do not trouble yourself about the pictures you will need the money

Monday, November 29, 2010

December 15th 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Tuesday evening Dec 15^th 1863

Dear Sallie,

Yours of the 10^th I received this afternoon and hasten to reply. Thanks to the good Lord I am again enjoying good health and trust it may continue so. I wrote to you on Sunday last not in answer to any letter of yours, but because I wished to let you know how I was getting on. yours of the 1^st I answered, you can tell Bowers I have received no letter from him and feel sorry that it should have been miscarried but that I appreciate the kindness as much as if I had received the money, tell him to send me some smoking tobacco if he can possibly get it. any kind as I expect it is hard to get and I will be obliged to him and so Shell has received the money well I expect he needed it much. I stated in my answer to yours of the 1^st to send me some stamps occasonaly do not forget it. I am glad t learn your Pa is looking so well it is strange I do not hear form him as Bowers has spoken about sending me clothing I will try him, as I want an overcoat. you need not mention it to him in fact do not say anything to him about the tobacco either, as I will write to him. I will write and send it by the same mail, if when you receive this he has not heard from me tell him I have written give my love to your Ma and all home kiss Ida & Lucy for me Yours Henry

go and see Mrs Lewis

October 27 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Oct 14^th 1863

Dear Sarah,

Your last received was dated Spt 23^dand I could not imagine why it was that I have not heard from you since, but yesterday I received a letter from Aunt Mary, and she stated you were sick and had been confined to your bed but was the time she wrote much better, I was indeed sorry to hear of your sickness, but trust as this reaches you that you will be quite well again, she stated in her letter that you were sorry that I had intimated when writing to others, that you had an idea of going to your Uncles without I could send you the means as you had not, and your Ma expected you to go if you should go by flag of truce to Richmond I did not suppose it would be but a trifle and I thought you had Confederate funds on hand or would get it from your Pa. you must know I am unable to assist you at this time. I received a letter from you Pa yesterday, and he says he has advised you what course to pursue. ___ Corker has received the box but nothing for me I was disappointed much but after hearing of your sickness expected that was the cause I repeat again if you have not the means do not send anything to me if the pictures are not taken let it alone I have been sick but I am now well again I remain you affectionate Husband Henry A. Allen

Septmeber 29 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Sept 29^th 1863

Dear Sarah,

Your last letter date 23^d I received this morning. I began to think your Ma will not leave home, but for yourself & children I would fell better satisfied of you were at your Uncles, but no doubt it would be a tedious and fatiguing journey, as you say I suppose all will be governd by the lady in Richmond if your Ma remains I leave it to yourself what to do, but if you also remain and any remark should be made at home intended for you, go directly to your Father and bear to him my request. I also feel sorry for Leon is it possible they have anything to do with that person, such is life. is Joe Lennon on Ports. I have written to him try and let him know it. tell Mr. Dorgan I will write to him my respects to him & family. I do not want any clothing more than one or two prs socks and neck tie. I was with Capt Corker this morning and will let him know of Emma’s intention, my money has run out but I can get along very well I thought Bowers would have sent me some before this but it may be he has not the wherewith. he might have answered my letter. if I should want more clothing I can easily let you know. I have written four times to your Pa, but have never received an answer men receive letters from Richmond regularly. I am indeed paind to hear such sad news about Mrs Ordian, dear good Soul may God bless her, give my love to Mr and Mrs Green, my love to all who may inquire no doubt dear Sallie, you think my letters are cold and formal but I know others will read them before they reach you and I do not wish remarks to be made from your Affectionate Husband

Henry A Allen

I am well

Friday, November 26, 2010

Septmeber 23 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Sept 23^d 1863

Dear Sallie,

Yours of the 16^th I received this morning and was much delighted on receiving it as I was not looking for it so soon I could not think eleven days had rolled around since I wrote you, how are my dear little girls how I would like to see their sweet faces, and your Ma has not gone to Richmond yet but is waiting to hear from Frances. I cannot see how she will be benefited by going everything being so very high at that place, but of course she knows best what to do. as for you, I would give much if you were now at your Uncles, I think it is the best place for you and the children do you know what county he resides in. as I told you before you must exercise you own judgement in regard to this matter. you spoke of consulting Mr Bain, no doubt his advice would be good I would write to your Ma to day but as there is some doubt of her being in P. when this reaches you I thought it best to defer it. give my love to her and tell her I am truly thankful to her for her kindness to you, and the children, and will always remember her for it. tell her I am sorry it has been out of my power to aid her, as I have been unable to render any assistance since our money has become worthless with you all. but trust I shall yet be able to help her, if she goes to Richmond, she can tell your Pa you never received that money from Mr Turner. I had answered Aunt Mary’s letter give my love to all home. ask Mollie if she would like to see Charlie, my love to Ma and all the Owens family Shells also remember me to Mr Bain and family, my love to the children, do not speak of exchange God knows when we will get away from here, good bye and God bless you my own dear wife, Henry

Capt H.A. Allen 9^th Va Regt

September 16 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Sept 16^th 1863

Dear Sarah

Yours of the 12^th I received this morning is was quite unexpected as I did not look for your letter for some days in your last you wished of me to give you my advice whither you should leave with your Ma or not. I must tell you the same now if your Ma should make up her mind to leave you had better go with her and you can then consult your Pa on the subject. you will not be able to remain in Richmond, I do not think, you could get your Pa to go with you to your Uncle John’s, and I will pay his expenses. if you should have to leave I would like for you to be with him and you could get along very well. I do not see how you could remain in Portsmouth if your Ma leaves, but you must exercise your best judgement also in regard to the matter I have written to your Pa three times but have never received an answer. I shall write to him again to day I think, I am glad to hear the children are improving. Ma has not written to me neither has Bowers Shell has written. I cannot see how your Ma & Frances will manage in Richmond, there is no telling when I will be exchanged, give my love to Ida kiss them both for me my love to Aunt Mary, and all, from your Affectionate Husband

Capt Henry A Allen

9^th Va Rgt

if it is not convenient do not have Ida’s picture taken I would like much to have all

September 9 1863

Johnsons Island Sandusky Ohio

Sept 9^th 1863

Dear Dear Sarah

Your long lookd for letter I received to day you acknowledge the receipt of my letter dated 20^th & 29^th which pleased me much. you speak of passing through many trials. I have always thought you kept them from me I am indeed troubled to hear it, up to this time I have felt easy as regarded your welfare and comfort but I fear my mind will be at ease no more. I did not think your Ma intended or thought of going to Richmond to remain. I can hardly think she will be satisfied that I do not know what to advise you to do, she tells you you can go to your Uncles, well I wish you were with him, you must act as you think best if when this reaches you your Ma has not gone and you make up your mind to leave you might try to go with her to Richmond and consult your pa about going to your Uncles. you would have to go that route any how, if you remain you are the best judge and of course must judge for yourself whither you can get along there, or not. I suppose you have Confederate money and your Pa has money of mine. there is no prospect of my getting away from here for some time, tell Lucy, Pa will send her a little ring. dear Sarah, do not send money to me I can get along very well and I know you need all you can get. I am indeed sorry you all will be compelled to leave home but as I before stated it is I think best for you to go to your Pa and he might go with you to your Uncles. I would pay all expenses, give my love to all relatives & friends kiss my children for me God bless you dear Sarah and may we soon meet in the prayer of your Henry Capt Henry A Allen 9^th Va infantry

August 4th 1863

Johnsons Island

Near Sandusky Ohio

August 4^th 1863

My Dear Wife,

This will make three letters I have written to you and no answer have I received. but I hope to hear from you on the receipt of this I am quite well also all the boys with me from home. I wrote last relative to your sending me money also to see Bowers, and ask him to let me have some but you need not do so now as I have received enough to last me some time do not trouble yourself about it. you will see the Old Man George, and tell him to return my thanks to his son George, & his Brother David, for their kindness in sending me the $100.00 I received a check for the amount through Messers Brown, Brother & Co. Baltimore, and acknowledged the receipt by letter. my respect to them & tell them I feel under many obligations to them I shall share it with the Portsmouth Boys. Col. Hodges, Col Owens, John Jenkins, Tom Owens, William Barnett, Samuel Williams, & John Sundendale are dead how many more I am not able to say, tell Ma, Rob is not hurt but a prisoner, I have written to your Pa, twice but have received no answer, give my love to all at home, also to Aunt May, and all my friends, kiss my dear children. I must now close Good Bye from your Affectionate Husband,

Henry A. Allen

Capt 9^th Va Regt Prisoner of War Johnsons Island near Sandusky Ohio