The original of the facsimile letter below was sent to Mrs Joseph Jones, announcing the unhappy news that she was a widow.   Her husband, Corporal Joseph Jones of Company A, 142d PV, died on 15 July 1863 at Seminary Hospital from wounds received during the battle at Gettysburg. 

Photograph and text of letter received from  Patrick J. Brennan, a descendant of Corporal Jones, and used with his kind permission. 
Corporal Joseph Jones
 

 

In Memoriam
HEADQUARTERS Co. A, 142D REG'T, P.V.,
Camp at Rappahannock Station
August 16th, 1863
 Mrs. Jones:  Before our regiment left camp at White Oak Church, Va,
your husband ordered for himself a company and regimental badge.  To-day it was received, but the one for whom it was intended had gone on to another and more peaceful world.  Our company, desirous of showing  their regard for their late comrade in arms, have purchased the badge and  through _________ forward it to you.  I as well as the company, testify to the manly and soldierly qualities of your late husband; kind in intercourse with his fellow soldiers; brave in action; he living and dead exemplified the noble traits of the American Soldier.  In your bereavements please except the heart felt sympathy of his comrades.

                                      On behalf of Co. A, 142d Reg't P.V.,

I subscribe myself respectfully your obedient servant,
                                         M.A. Gilson
                                         Lieutenant Com. Company