Inscribed Soldier’s Bible / SOLD

Inscribed Soldier’s Bible - Inventory Number: HIS 186 / SOLD

“F.C. Williams / Co. A 42nd Mass. Vols. / July 14, 1864”

New Testament New York Bible Society 1863

Particularly good condition example with wallet style leather flap.  The edges have ornamental gold edges. Very nice example of the most personal of soldier’s items.

Frederick C. Williams - Residence Nantucket MA; an 18-year-old Clerk. Enlisted on 7/7/1864 as a Private. On 7/14/1864 he mustered into "A" Co. MA 42nd Infantry. He was Mustered Out on 11/11/1864.

The 42d Regiment preserved its identity as a militia unit after the close of its nine months' service, and in July, 1864, was reorganized with some changes in companies and mustered into the service for one hundred days.  It was used for guard and garrison duty during the late summer and fall, in order that the older and more experienced troops which had been performing this duty might be relieved and sent to the front.

The companies which were to constitute the 42d Regiment began to assemble at Camp Meigs, Readville, early in July, and were mustered into the service between the 14th and 22d of the month. On the 24th the command set out for Washington under Lieut. Col. Joseph Stedman.  About this time Col. Burrell was released from captivity, returned and rejoined his regiment at Alexandria, and resumed command.

The regiment did guard and patrol duty, one detachment being sent to Great Falls, Md., while others were employed in guarding supply trains moving to and from the Shenandoah Valley. After completing its term of enlistment the regiment was mustered out of the service Nov. 11, 1864.

Inventory Number: HIS 186 / SOLD