November 12, 1860: Letter from H.D. Laflin to Elmer Ellsworth

Col. Elmer Ellsworth was a lawyer and soldier and friend of Abraham Lincoln who would become one of the first casualties of the Civil War. As a colonel of the Chicago National Guard Cadets before the war, Ellsworth introduced French-inspired Zouave uniforms and drills to the unit. He worked in Lincoln’s law office in August 1860 and assisted him during the fall campaign. After Lincoln’s election he helped organize troops, including the 11th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He was shot and killed on May 24, 1861 while removing a large Confederate flag from a tavern in Alexandria, Virginia.

Transcript:

Col E E Ellsworth

Springfield, Ill

Dear Col

I have written you twice since I have been here— but I know you have been busy- ever since you quit Chicago—and see by the New York papers that you still have enquiries in regard to the Zouaves—and have been stumping it for our President—and I am very glad he is elected—I had no vote—but I never went in for the Fusion. I enclose you a slip of paper— I do not believe that they will be the best company there—if you have a mind to say the word—for I will be on hand—to do what I can—and if there is to be any sport why I think the Zouaves should be in and I hope things will turn up so our company can go to Washington and do honour to our President. I drill every day with the beautifull musket you gave me—and would give anything I have got to see you once more—I wish you could come down here and make me a visit I will see you well entertained. My Father is as strong Lincoln man as there is in the state- and he says he hopes our company will go to Washington- and I think we can raise the funds, at any rate count me in for I will convince you I have not forgot all you taught me about a musket—give my best respects—to Capt Cook—and Bunn—and the rest of the Boys. I hope to be out and see you soon—my best respects to all— and believe me as ever

Your Friend

H. D. Laflin
Citation: H. D.  Laflin, autograph letter signed to Elmer Ellsworth. Springfield, Illinois, 12 November 1860. AMs 811/2.5