Camp Near Richmond 

Dearest Aunt,

A long time has elapsed since I have heard from you and as an opportunity presents itself I will improve by writing you a few lines to let you know that I still enjoying good health and can class myself among those who have passed through many dangers unharmed for which l feel very thankful.

I have occassionaly heard from Mr Trimbles people and I was very much pleased to hear that you were in good health. Our Regt are at present encamped within about two hundred yards of the late Battle ground [Battle of Fair Oaks or Seven Pines, May 31. 1862]. The Accounts of this Battle you have probably seen in full long ere this so I will not attempt to describe the particulars to you. Suffice it to say that it was an awful affair. Our noble Colonel was killed after leading us until our ammunition was gone and two Bayonet charges had been made and we had rallied for a third. Our Company have been detached to the Ammunition Train for the past few days but we are now relieved and have again taken our accustomed place in our Regiment.

The weather is fine although pretty warm which makes it rather sickly on account of numerous swamps from which bad air arises causing fever, Dysentary etc. Another Battle is expected daily. Genl McClellan is almost ready I think to make the final stroke which will cause the Annihilation of Richmond (to say the least). We have some strong fortifications thrown up here for our time has been diligently employed for the last two weeks in digging entrenchments and throwing up Rifle Pitts and Earthworks and we have a permanent line of Battle established which never can be broken. A great quantity of fruit abounds such as Strawberries, Cherries, Apples, Peaches, and fine crops of growing Wheat, Corn etc. are to be seen which the rebels have left to go to waste. 

Dear Aunt, Please excuse this poor writing for I am writing on my Cartridge Box and it is not a very handy desk. 

Write soon, give my love to all and find me as ever yours truly, 

In haste,

A.C. Woods

Co. E. 62d Regt. Anderson Zouaves

Fortress Monroe, Virginia

To follow the Regt 

Letters of Alfred Covell Woods. 

Contributed by J. Tierney