0162----1863 Col Alexander Taylor Civil War letter South Beaver New Brighton PA

0162----1863 COL ALEXANDER TAYLOR CIVIL WAR LETTER SOUTH BEAVER NEW BRIGHTON PA Original 1863 letter from 18 year old Sarah J. "Sadie" Taylor of South Beaver Twp., Beaver County PA, to friend Jemima Taylor of New Brighton PA.   Sadie was the brother of Lt. Colonel Alexander William Taylor, very well known citizen, teacher, clergyman, and member of the 101st PA Vols Co H.   He is referred to in the letter, as well as two other brothers also serving in the Civil War.   The letter was written on May 4, 1863 and contains the usual chit chat of the period, family, farming etc.  However, Sadie presents herself as being sick for the last month, and unable to write. Her doctor has described her bronchial tubes as being "very deranged."  While researching, we were shocked to discover that Sadie passed away only a month after writing this letter.   Records indicate she died June 6, 1863. Sadie writes that her brothers were in New Bern (NC) had been in small fights, and that Alex had "no notion" of coming home. She also mentions her mother and father, and younger brother Albert at home. This four-page letter has been completely transcribed below, and we have also presented a few research items, as well.  These items are NOT included with the sale of the letter, but the buyer is welcome to print them. The 1860 census reveals the Taylor family in South Beaver Twp and Jemima's family also in Beaver County.  It appears she was the daughter of James Thomas, a very well to do farmer.  She lived until 1940 to age 90. The letter is in good condition.  The original mailing envelope is included and also in pretty good condition considering it's age. South Beaver Pa Monday May 4th/ 63 Miss Jemima A. My dear friend.  After a long delay which could not be avoided, I find myself seated to tell you the reason why I have been so long about writing and I know you will forgive me when you hear the reason.  My health has been very, very poor for over a month.  I have not been able to write to my Brothers, every week I did try to write to them as often as I could though.  And now my dear friend this is the reason + the only way your letters were not answered sooner. (Page 2) My health is improving slowly I think.  Dr. Dutcher told me that my lungs were not affected but he says my "bronchial tubes" are very much deranged.  He says I  will get over it if I be very careful.  I am not taking very much medicine, I have to take "cod liver oil."  I have not yet commenced to take it yet however. Your very welcome letter of date --- was received in due time, and I assure you I was very glad to hear from you. (Page 3) I was truly glad to hear that you were all well.  I trust when this reaches your peaceful home that you will still be enjoying the best of health.  I do hope your kind good Mother is not afflicted so much with the Rheumatism as she used to be.  Mother has been very bad with it, she has to be on her feet so much, as I am not able to do any thing scarcely.  I hope I will soon be able to help her however. I would be very glad to see you all over here.  I have been at your house so much and none of you have been here.  I most think it is too bad for me to go again, till you come here. (Page 4) We did not hear from my Brother last week:  I think it rather strange that there was no letters from that department last week at all. When we heard last they were at "Newbern" had been in some small fights a short time before they wrote were both very well.  I do wish they would come home but Alex has no notion of coming I don't think.   But as it is getting late I must close.  Albert would like very much to go over to your place but he will not get over till after corn planting.  I will hear from you before that.  Give my kindest regards to your good Father, Mother + Amos. Now Jemima I want you to write very soon + I will try to answer sooner. Your true friend Sadie J. Taylor (writing continues along borders) Your cousin James Britton was here today. Jemima please look over all mistakes + oblige.  Sadie Father is going to Fallston tomorrow and I will send this with him (write soon) Sadie * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *