This collection contains correspondence between Illinois farmer and Civil war soldier James Alvin Bell (1834-1863) and his fiancee about their private life. A few letters written by other soldiers after Bell's death, depict hardships of a Civil War soldier's life.

Born c. 1834, James Alvin Bell was a farmer in Kaneville, Illinois until he enlisted in the 8th Illinois Cavalry in May, 1861 where he served until his death at Stanton Army Hospital (Washington, D.C.) in October 1863. His long engagement to Augusta Anna (Hallock) Elliott, a school teacher in rural New York, is the most prominent matter of this collection.

475 pieces in 3 boxes

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