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Assistant surgeon in the US Navy during the Civil War (1837–1918). ALS signed “Oberly,” six pages on three sheets, 7.75 x 9.75, August 22, 1862. Handwritten letter to Maria A. Woodford from "U.S. Gunboat Kineo off New Orleans," describing events around the Battle of Baton Rouge. In part: "As the army was going to bid farewell to Baton Rouge I thought it might be well to take a stroll ashore…in company of our chief engineer I went ashore and walked some through the deserted town…the long roll commenced to be beaten and all hands ran to their quarters…It was not until I got aboard the vessel that I learned the cause of my companion's making so good time. No sooner did I arrive at the ship's side than all the vessels opened fire and kept up the action quite lively for about an hour…the bank of the river was crowded with individuals in white dress, who turned out to be all the state prison convicts. The managers of the penitentiary, hearing our shell…opened the gates and told all hands to run…I expect many will enter our ranks while others will take liberty and live perhaps on their previous profession…
Unfortunately one of our percussion shells exploded prematurely between us and the steamboat…one negro was killed outright ashore while engaged in carrying his bed, and two more mortally wounded aboard the boat. Of the wounded one was a little girl between the age of four and five years of age who was severely wounded and died an hour after the injury. The other individual was a soldier of the Conn. 9th… The parents of the girl were most distracted—especially the mother and the way they pleaded for me to do all I could for here recovery was almost heartrending. I was oblidged to inform them from the outset that there was no hope for recovery as the injury was too extensive. The little girl was rational all the while and in sweet tones would frequently ask for water…the soldier required amputation in order to arrest hemmorage, but the shock of the injury…was too great for him and he likewise expired…the contrabands which were employed in working on the fortifications took passage on the steamboat diana, and so thickly was she crowded that the guards of the boat were on a level with the water. Both male and female determined on going, and as the latter were encumbered with a great deal of luggage some of it had to be thrown overboard to make place and lighten the vessel." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
The Collection of Dr. Joseph Matheu.
