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Edward L. Chatfield letters
mssCHT  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
The American Civil War letters of Union soldier Edward L. Chatfield.
Background
Edward Livingston Chatfield was born to Nathan Chatfield and Margaret Chatfield in Middleton, Ohio, in 1842. He was the eldest of seven children: David A. Chatfield (1845-1864); William Chatfield (1847-1925); Isaac Newton Chatfield (1849-1926); James Chatfield (1851-1919); Charles Chatfield (1855-1891); and Mary Chatfield (1859-1925). In 1860 the family moved to Kankakee, Illinois, where Nathan Chatfield had purchased a large farm. Edward Chatfield enlisted in August 1862 and was sent to Camp Hancock in Chicago. In October 1862, Chatfield was mustered into Company “B” of the 113th Illinois Infantry. They were ordered to Cairo, Illinois, November 6, 1862. During his time in the army, Chatfield traveled through and saw action in the Western Theater of the war including Memphis, Holly Springs, Chicasaw Bayou, Vicksburg, Corinth and others. Chatfield was taken prisoner in June 1864 and was sent to Andersonville prison. He was later sent to the prison at Camp Lawton and the Florence Stockade. Chatfield escaped while being transported on February 21st. He arrived in Annapolis, Maryland in early March and by early April he was with his Grandmother in Ohio. Chatfield was mustered out June 20, 1865 in Memphis.
Extent
Approximately 130 pieces in 3 boxes.
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.