Description
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.
Background
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.
Extent
475 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.